Sometimes, it’s the simplest acts that gently remind us of who we are and what brings us joy.

A few weeks ago, while attending a mental health conference, I joined a creative session and chose to make a felt heart. As I stitched, the rhythm of the needle and the texture of the felt quietly transported me back to childhood afternoons spent embroidering with my Grandma. I could almost feel her presence — her patience, her gentle encouragement, and the quiet love woven into those moments. Tears came to my eyes as the memories surfaced.

Creating that felt heart grounded me completely in the present. My busy mind slowed, my breathing softened, and joy returned in a way I hadn’t expected. That simple act of reconnecting with a childhood passion reminded me just how powerful creativity can be for our mental and emotional wellbeing.

In the month since, I’ve made over 100 felt hearts. Recently, my granddaughter included them in the goody bags at her fourth birthday party, giving one to each of her friends. Watching her excitement — and knowing those small handmade gifts were received with care — filled me with pride. It was a beautiful reminder that self-care doesn’t exist in isolation; it ripples outward, touching others in meaningful ways.

What struck me most was how naturally this creative practice aligned with other forms of self-care in my life. Like grounding exercises or cooking, making felt hearts draws me fully into the moment. The colours, textures, and steady rhythm engage my senses and quiet my thoughts. In the kitchen, I lose myself in preparing a meal; with needle and thread, I lose myself in the flow of creation. Both offer the same gift — presence.

These hearts are also part of the 1000 Hearts Project, an initiative that promotes kindness, self-compassion, and connection through handmade hearts. Each stitch carries intention — a small, tangible act of care that nurtures both the maker and the receiver.

Reconnecting with a childhood passion has reminded me that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes it’s as simple as a piece of felt and a length of thread. Sometimes it’s kneading dough, noticing your breath, or allowing yourself to slow down without guilt. What matters most is showing up for yourself, fully present, and allowing moments of joy and creativity to nourish your mind, body, and spirit.

In a world that moves so fast, returning to the things that once made us happy is more than nostalgia — it’s an act of self-care, resilience, and love. One felt heart, one mindful breath, one thoughtful meal at a time, we gently reconnect with ourselves and the life unfolding around us.