Above: Karen Erickson Earrings
A message from the Wellness Team, Office of the Chief Medical Officer.
Beading, quilting, and knitting are just a few of the crafty ways many of us have been nurturing our spirits and keeping ourselves occupied while staying home safely during the pandemic.
This increased creativity is a very good thing – not just because it has resulted in so many personalized and unique fashions and keepsakes, but because it has so many health benefits! The act of creating increases your calmness, strengthens your focus, unleashes your artistic abilities, connects you with your culture if you choose traditional activities, and builds your self-esteem with the sense of accomplishment you get when you finish your project.
We'd love to see what you've been up to! Please post a photo of something/s you've made lately, using the hashtag #GoodMedicineFNHA. Include some information, such as:
- How long it took to complete your project.
- What your process or method was.
- Who your mentor or teacher was.
- How it felt to complete your project.
- How working on the project nurtured your spirit.
- Where you are from.
Carla Joseph, Cree-Metis artist: Starting a project is hard during these COVID-19 times. But once I get going, then actually finish a piece, it brings happiness to me. Especially if I create something that makes others happy or even smile.
Sarah Lalonde, Saulteau First Nations: This is my ongoing project. I followed the process my Grandma Virginia taught me. She is an amazing beader and moccasin maker. Working on this nurtures my spirit by helping me feel connected to my Grandma and her teachings.
Karen Erickson, Cree-Metis artist: I'm a self-taught artist. It takes roughly 3 to 4 hrs to complete a project, whether it's a painting or a set of earrings. I enjoy the process, and it's been great to have something to do while staying at home.
