As our world has become increasingly dependent on technology, and our Western societies have become woefully “Crackberried”— to use the title of a recent documentary on the emotional and social pitfalls of our too-wired ways—an intriguing phenomenon is occurring: There is an increasing amount of interest in returning to some of the simpler arts that were neglected or left behind with the onslaught of technology. Artisans and everyday crafters are finding a renewed satisfaction in making something with their own hands; some are even communicating about the inherent physical- and mental-health benefits found in handwork—and, even more than that, they are framing their handwork as meditation or spiritual practice. In today’s sophisticated and pluralistic society, people are more aware than ever that spiritual practice can be defined more expansively—and the popularity of books focusing on alternative spiritual practices demonstrate that readers are hungry for new (or ancient) ways of enhancing their inner lives. In Crafting Calm the author will explore these new forms of creative spiritual practice and the benefits they provide. The format of With Shannon's book will itself be creative, a rich “potpourri approach” that weaves together interviews, historical facts, projects for readers to do themselves, quotations, and suggested resources. Crafting Calm will serve as an inspirational resource guide to a broad assortment of spiritual practices gathered from the global arts-and-crafts communities, as well as from people who don’t consider themselves artists but who have adopted creatively expressive forms of spiritual practice. While there have been a few books published focusing on a particular form of creative spiritual practice (Skylight Paths, for example, has published books on beading as a spiritual practice; painting as a spiritual practice; and using clay as a spiritual practice), no one has yet explored the breadth of possibilities for creative spiritual practices contained in Crafting Calm.

Mindfulness is a powerful practice to help kids find calm in the midst of everyday stress--but how to make it accessible and fun? In Crafting Calm: Art and Activities for Mindful Kids, kids engage in and practice mindfulness through fun and easy exercises, quizzes, crafts, and activities, with the goal of learning a deeper sense of calm, peace, joy, and connection to the world around them, all while improving emotional intelligence, boosting self-esteem, and reducing anxiety. Perfect for kids to do alone or with the help of an adult, the activities in Crafting Calm will have kids playing, tinkering, creating, and doodling their way to peaceful, balanced minds.

Named one of the Best Spiritual Books of 2017 by Spirituality & Practice! We live in a fast-paced world where we are pestered from all sides with siren calls to constantly strive for something more, something better, something new, rather than find ways to stay grateful for the abundance and blessings already present in our own lives. In Crafting Gratitude, Rev. Maggie Oman Shannon believes that crafting for us and those we love can be used as a meditative practice to appreciate the incredible, overflowing richness of life. Each meditative craft, from novice to expert, is infused with stories like how Gratitude Bundles can represent prosperity and physical health, Spirit Houses from Southeast Asia can be a symbol of a happy home, a Values Bracelet can help you reinforce your best professional traits, or Flower Mandalas can be an affirmation of nature. With other crafts involving aromatherapy, journaling, dream catchers, and a variety of household items, anyone can invigorate their own lives with Crafting Gratitude for family, health, prosperity, the Divine, and much more. Accompanied by a carefully curated list of recommended reading, helpful websites, and how-to guides, these forty practices will resonate with and prompt you to begin, or continue, exploring gratitude.

“It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.” –Vincent Van Gogh As the future unfolds before us, it seems people are getting busier, more distracted, and less connected to the physical and spiritual world. This can be especially problematic for our relationships, as love is something that just does not magically exist on its own. Love must be cultured, tended, and cared for as if it were a special garden unlike any other. Whether you desire to foster, encourage remembrance, or express gratitude for the love you feel toward the known and unknown in your life, it can be done through the practice of mindfulness and crafting. Crafting Love is filled with thematic chapters meant to inspire your own journey in your expression of love, whether you build an “I Love You…” notebook for your partner, Anytime Valentines for your friends and mentors, a Conversation Starter Table Cloth for your family, Portable Place Shrines for natural places and animals, an “I Am” Affirmation Mandala for yourself, or a Rhythm Painting for the Divine. With the help of a few uplifting friends along the way, Maggie Oman Shannon will help launch your exploration for your love of materials, love of the process, and love of everything and everyone around you through creating transcendent, one-of-a-kind projects with your own hands and heart.

Mindfulness in Knitting casts fresh light on this famously calming craft and reveals how the simple repetition of plain and purl can nurture wellbeing. Through personal anecdote and mindfulness exercises, this book explores how everyone can experience the joys of making and looks at the numerous benefits of taking up one of the simplest and most useful of crafts.

**Crafting Tranquility Your Gateway to Relaxation and Mindfulness through Creativity** Immerse yourself in a world of serenity and mastery with "Crafting Tranquility." This comprehensive guide offers you the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, guiding you through the peaceful practice of various crafts including knitting, crochet, embroidery, quilting, and more. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned artisan, you'll find chapters designed to meet your needs and expand your skillset at a comfortable pace. Begin your journey in Chapter 1 with an eye-opening exploration of the science behind why crafting brings relaxation. Discover how knitting, crochet, and other crafts can serve as powerful mindfulness practices. Set realistic goals and gather your essential supplies with confidence in Chapter 2, before diving into basic techniques that will pave the way for your creative journey. Explore the foundational skills of knitting and crochet in Chapters 3 and 4, complete with easy-to-follow instructions on stitches and simple patterns. Elevate your crafting routine by integrating your new skills into everyday life, creating a peaceful crafting space, and weaving crafting into your self-care regime in Chapter 5. For those ready to take their skills to the next level, Chapters 6 and 7 delve into advanced knitting and crochet techniques, featuring complex patterns, texture, dimension, and intricate projects like amigurumi and lace patterns. Discover the calming art of embroidery in Chapter 8 and quilt your way to peace with Chapter 9’s step-by-step guide. Continue to cultivate mindfulness with crafting-specific techniques and breathing exercises in Chapter 10, while Chapter 11 reveals the joys of crafting in social settings and sharing your passion with others. Strike a balance between ambition and relaxation and avoid burnout with practical advice in Chapter 12. Dive into eco-friendly crafting in Chapter 13 and enjoy the seasonal inspirations of Chapter 14. Document your progress and reflect on your growth with tips in Chapter 15, and overcome challenges with resilience by following guidance in Chapter 16. Understand how crafting can support mental balance in Chapter 17, and explore the heartfelt joy of gifting handmade creations in Chapter 18. Finally, enrich your crafting experience with retreats and getaways in Chapter 19, and pass down your new-found wisdom, preserving and innovating traditional crafts for future generations in Chapter 20. "Crafting Tranquility" is not just a guide; it's your ultimate companion for a handcrafted life filled with mindfulness, joy, and artistic expression. Let the pages of this book be your portal to a more peaceful, balanced, and creatively fulfilled existence.

From the bestselling author of Start Where You Are, a beautifully illustrated journal for easing the everyday anxieties we all carry. Feeling anxious, uncertain, overwhelmed? You're not alone. In this empowering new tool for self-care, popular artist and author Meera Lee Patel presents a fresh approach to feeling better. Designed to help us better understand ourselves and dial down the everyday worries getting in our way, these thoughtful and beautifully illustrated journal pages are a safe space for reflection, self-acceptance, and the freedom to move forward with more clarity and joy. Bringing together inspiring quotes from great thinkers and writers throughout history and engaging journal prompts and plenty of room to capture your thoughts, the book is a calming breath of fresh air and a quiet space to reflect and recharge in a hectic and uncertain world.

"The Art of Minimalism" invites readers into a world where less truly means more. This book explores how embracing simplicity can lead to a more prosperous, more fulfilling life through compelling narratives and insightful reflections. It delves into the philosophy of minimalism, revealing how intentional choices and the elimination of excess can create space for what truly matters. Each chapter uncovers the beauty of simplicity, illustrating how minimalism transcends mere aesthetics and transforms lives. In a society driven by consumerism and constant busyness, "The Art of Minimalism" offers a refreshing perspective on reclaiming our time, space, and mental clarity. The book presents practical strategies for decluttering physical spaces, simplifying routines, and fostering mindfulness. By sharing real-life examples and personal anecdotes, it highlights the profound impact of minimalism on mental health and overall well-being. Readers are encouraged to reflect on their lives and identify areas where they can simplify and find joy in the essentials. The journey towards minimalism is portrayed as a deeply personal and transformative process. "The Art of Minimalism" emphasizes that minimalism is not about living with nothing but about living with intention. It encourages readers to assess their values and make conscious decisions that align with their true selves. The book shows how one can achieve greater freedom, reduce stress, and build a life centered around purpose and connection through minimalism. Each story within its pages serves as an inspiration to embrace change and seek fulfillment beyond material possessions. "The Art of Minimalism" celebrates the elegance and power of simplicity. It minimally captures the essence of living, where each object, relationship, and activity is chosen with care and thoughtfulness. The book is not just a guide to decluttering but a manifesto for intentional living. It invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering the art of living with less and finding true abundance in the process. Through its engaging prose and profound insights, it transforms the concept of minimalism into a way of life that is both attainable and deeply rewarding.

Calm from Within: A Holistic Guide to Stress Management by Activating the Parasympathetic Nervous System By Luke Cross Discover the Power of Inner Peace with Calm from Within Are you struggling to manage the daily pressures of life? Do you feel overwhelmed by stress and anxiety? In Calm from Within, author Luke Cross reveals a holistic approach to stress management by tapping into the body's natural ability to restore balance and tranquility—through the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system. This groundbreaking guide offers practical techniques rooted in science, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes to help you regain control of your life. Whether you're dealing with chronic stress, burnout, or simply looking for ways to bring more calm into your daily routine, this book offers solutions that anyone can integrate into their lives. What You'll Learn in This Book: The Science Behind Stress: Understand the biological mechanisms of stress and how your nervous system responds to it. Activating the Parasympathetic Nervous System: Learn easy-to-follow techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and gentle movement to trigger your body's relaxation response. Mind-Body Connection: Explore the profound connection between your thoughts, emotions, and physical health, and how you can harness this connection for stress relief. Holistic Stress Management: Discover a wide range of tools including nutrition, exercise, sleep habits, and natural therapies designed to reduce stress holistically. Everyday Practices for Lasting Calm: From mindful breathing exercises to lifestyle adjustments, find out how to make peace a daily habit. Why This Book Stands Out: Rooted in Science: Unlike many self-help books, Calm from Within is grounded in neuroscience, offering evidence-based techniques for long-term stress relief. Easy-to-Follow: Luke Cross simplifies complex concepts, making this book accessible to everyone—whether you're new to stress management or looking to deepen your practice. Holistic Approach: Covering everything from nutrition and physical activity to mindfulness and breathwork, this guide addresses stress from all angles, ensuring a comprehensive path to wellness. Who Is This Book For? Busy Professionals: Manage work-related stress and regain balance in your life. Students & Parents: Learn simple techniques to stay calm and focused during challenging times. Anyone Seeking Wellness: Discover how to cultivate peace and reduce anxiety naturally, without the need for medication or expensive therapies. About the Author Luke Cross is a wellness coach, meditation practitioner, and expert in holistic health. With years of experience helping individuals manage stress and anxiety, Luke is passionate about sharing the tools and strategies that promote a balanced, peaceful life. His unique approach combines science-backed methods with mindfulness practices to help people unlock their body's natural healing potential. Take Control of Your Stress Today! Start your journey toward inner calm and lasting wellness. With Calm from Within, you'll learn how to harness the power of your parasympathetic nervous system to restore balance, reduce stress, and live a more peaceful life. Buy Now and experience calm from the inside out!