The Courtyard Apr 2027: a Handcraft Wellness Retreat

*Have you ever noticed how time spent stitching quiets your mind? *Are you curious about why stitching and making things by hand feels so deeply restorative - and wondered how to access more of that? * Do you long for a full day to slow down, stitch, and be in the company of people who love making as much as you do? I've been delighted to watch the growing body of research that is exploring the links between wellness and handcraft, and how the rhythmic, repetitive motion of making something with our hands activates the same neurological pathways as meditation, quieting mental noise and returning us to ourselves in ways that are genuinely good for our bodies and minds. This retreat is a day built around that idea. My goal is to inspire you with the new research, encourage you in your creative journey, and share the joy of communal crafting! We'll gather on Sun Apr 10, 2027 in the Forest Room at the Hanai Foundation in Bend, starting out with an opening presentation on the science of handcraft and wellness. As we enjoy time handcrafting together throughout the remainder of the day, we'll intersperse three short sessions of guided meditative stitching (20 min each). We'll share a gluten-free Mediterranean lunch at midday. Partcipants will bring their own projects to work on (a goody bag will be involved because you know how I love a goody bag!). All makers are welcome: knitters, crocheters, embroiderers, and anyone whose craft travels with them and can fit on a table. When: 9am - 3:30p Sunday April 10 2027 As soon as you register, you'll receive a PDF with additional information about the day, including a guide to lodging in Central Oregon.