5/1 - Mindfulness and Dreamcatchers, Part 1 of 5

If a quick definition is helpful for new readers...
Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing awareness on the present, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's thoughts, feelings, and sensations.  Mindfulness is used as a spiritual and/or therapeutic technique, aimed at enhancing peace and general wellbeing.


Speaking of mindfulness, dreamcatchers... and wineries...
          Well, why NOT speak of them?
          This is a winery in New Jersey.  They have the most wonderful activities.  Here's an example.  I'd love to visit them someday.
https://lauritawinery.com/events/mindful-wineful-meditation-dreamcatcher-crafting/
"This workshop will begin with a guided meditation to encourage participants to release the inner critics that block them from manifesting their true potential.    Native Americans believed long ago in the healing power of intention and manifestation. Research shows that crafting has a lot in common with meditation and can improve problem-solving skills, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall quality of life. It’s important in the midst of our busy lives to take a moment for reflection and relaxation. Dreamcatchers are, in essence, a symbol of acceptance, mindfulness, and healing.  In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to mindfully awaken your creativity to design & weave your very own dreamcatcher."
          For a bit more formal history of the origin and meaning of dreamcatchers, I like this reference.
http://www.shermanindianmuseum.org/dream-catchers.html
          In lieu of a trip to New Jersey, here's my tiny dreamcatcher on the porch of Gail Street's Galeria Gila Art Gallery.  The dreamcatcher was just drawn with colored pencils on typing paper, cut out, accented with some tiny fibers and glue dots, and mounted.   I didn't try to think about anything in particular, and there is no deliberate symbolism or theme, although that would be a great added element of a mindfulness exercise here.  I just  focused on the tiny gathering of colors and shapes.  I felt very serene, calm, and... mindful...  as I was making it.  I really did.  :)

          Interested in making your own?  Miniature or full-size?  I like ths site...
https://www.gaia.com/article/how-make-traditional-dreamcatcher
          Or you could always just WING THE WHOLE THING.  Gather stuff from around the house... experiment... have fun.   As you work, think on a current issue, or... don't... just work.   See what happens.  Keep, modify, or discard the result... try again, or don't. 
          Be present with the experience, whatever it may be.