The Psychomotor Theory of Sewing

Adorable dresses Mom made for me and
my sister, Carol.

I have been sewing since I was 5 years old. OMG! I just did the math and that's been almost 50 years! I remember sitting on the floor in the sewing room with my mom's old machine and operating the foot peddle with my knee as she made clothes on her new Singer. I have always loved to sew and by the time I was in 5th grade I could make clothing without a pattern. I attended 10 schools in 12 years in four different states. (I know, right?) When I was older I always found comfort in the Home ec class. That is where I could show my talents in sewing and cooking as the teachers asked me to help other students. So, it was only natural that I would become a home ec teacher.
I believe that creativity can have a  psychological impact on a person. I remember the only time I could hear a pin drop in the 9th grade comprehensive class was during the sewing unit when I taught counted cross stitch. All of the boys and girls enjoyed creating their very own project. They got lost in the rhythm of counting  stitches and the push and pull of the needle. They would beg me to let them take their project to study hall and often students would come back to class during the day to get more floss.
I once wrote a grant and included this about the psychomotor theory:

Since stress is stored in the senses, one method of stress management can be achieved 

through the psychomotor processes of creative, hands-on activities. Professionals have recently 

identified the craft of scrapbooking as therapeutic as it offers a way to cope with hardships.  

I do believe that sewing and other craft activities provide a way to get your mind off your worries and decompress. If you can be mindful during any activity that brings you peace and contentment then you should find time to repeat the activity as often as possible. It's good for you!

Recession Fabulous

Lost Art of Sewing Comes Back

Soaring Sales of Sewing Machines

Altered by a Sewing Machine