that everything you do is sacred." - Hafiz
Early in the morning I built a fire to welcome the girls...
and marked the path to the studio with a giant paper snowflake.
We warmed up with hot cocoa and got acquainted with new tribe members and reacquainted with familiars. The ceremonial sipping of cacao (or hot chocolate in our case) can be traced back to 1900 BC and was offered in sacred ceremonies by the Mayan and Aztec people. Chocolate comes from the seeds of the cacao, a sacred plant in some ancient cultures. Chocolate increases the release of dopamine, endorphins, and anandamide ( a neurotransmitter that promotes a blissful feeling).
The girls opened the little holiday treat bags that awaited them.
We went on a invigorating nature walk in our magical forest and looked for sticks for roasting marshmallows later.
We returned refreshed and ready to begin our gift making for the day...
Our first project of the day was chalkboard style Gratitude Journals. A recent study has shown that practicing gratitude has both psychological and physical health benefits. Gratitude increases positive emotions such as optimism, joy and enthusiasm while decreasing feelings of anxiety. A recents study by Emmons suggests that gratitude strengthens our immune system and promotes restful sleep. Gratitude also fosters compassion and connection.
The most effective way of cultivating gratitude is with a Gratitude Journal. Simply write one thing that you are grateful for each day...if you want to, write three? It can be first thing in the morning or before you go to bed. Some tips for keeping a gratitude journal can be found here.
Our second project of the day was Knotted Necklaces. I love the texture and structure of knotted fabric necklaces and when I saw this one on the Alabama Chanin site, I was completely smitten.
We closed this week's workshop as we always do...with S'mores around the campfire.
Girls, here is a check list for the weeks ahead:
- For Week 2: Take a few minutes to research hand painted pottery and think about a design for your cup. We will be painting them on week 2. For inspiration, click here. Repetitive patterns look great for this. For inspiration, see zendoodles. We will also be working on another wearable...a soft sculpture inspired by nature.
- For Week 3: Think of a short, but powerful word that you would like to use for the talisman necklaces. We will be making them on week 3. Also print a small b/w photo of your house or favorite place to use for our wood transfer. Size approx 2" x 3".
- For Week 4: Research ideas for your holiday card design. Think about simple shapes and line drawings. We will begin print making. For inspiration, click here and here and here.
Made so & rooted by love,
W
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Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind. - Henry James