Welcome to the Quiltblox 12 Days of Christmas! Each day until December 9th, I’ll share a word of the day that has meaning for me during this holiday season. Today’s word is: Breathe.
“Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths.” — Etty Hillesum
I chose this word because:
I so often forget to do it. I know that sounds a little strange, but think about it: do you ever find yourself holding your breath when you push to get things done? I sure do, and it’s not particularly healthy.
“Breathe” begins in stillness. It’s the pause between stitches, the deep inhale before cutting into a favorite fabric, the quiet moment when we step back and see our progress. This word reminds us that life, like quilting, needs rhythm — movement and rest, focus and flow.
Between the holiday busyness and the endless to-do lists, it’s easy to forget to simply breathe. Sometimes that means stepping away from the sewing machine, curling up with a cup of tea, and just admiring the sparkle of the season. A deep breath reminds us that creativity isn’t a race—it’s a rhythm. And when we give ourselves space to breathe, our next stitch always feels a little lighter.
What’s your favorite way to slow things down and remind yourself that breathing deeply, and often, is good for the body and the soul? For me, it’s some very quiet music, and some slow stitching, a good book, or a puzzle. All three of those things help me pause and lose myself in what I’m doing – pushing the “noise” of the day away.
Ideas for taking some time to breathe this holiday season:
I thought it would be fun to share some quilty goodies that might encourage you to take some time for yourself this holiday season. An afternoon spent with a puzzle or a good book, planning some changes to your creative space, a little slow stitching, or thinking about creative adventures in the new year – it’s all good!
Follow Along
Each day, I’ll be sharing a new word of the day in the newsletter and here on the blog. I’m also sharing some other fun goodies in the Holiday Edition of the Quiltblox Newsletter – each day through December 9th. Be sure to subscribe today so you see it first.