For the last two years I’ve been sewing Sashiko - Japanese embroidery - literally translated at little stabs. It originated in Japan about 400 years ago as a means of preserving clothing and keeping warm. It involved putting two layers of cheaply indigo dyed cloth and sewing them together with patterns of running stitches to create pockets of air.
There is something beautiful about the repetitive geometric patterns that are easy to sew. I’ve made so many sashiko projects I’ve given most of them away as gifts. My favourites are made from old jeans and white sashiko thread.
But sashiko is also a good symbol of a wabi sabi life. It brings to life the beauty of the everyday. A simple cloth, a simple pattern of thread, time simply spent. And yet so beautiful as a result. There is a beauty in its repetition.
So much of life is repetitive. How do we bring an awareness to this which brings out the beauty? Sashiko can be a guide for this.
Bring an awareness to body and breath as you go about your repetitive activity.
Relax and be present with it.
Notice the pattern, the repetition and recognise the beauty as it unfolds.
Your state of mind will affect whether your activity is boring or holds wonder.
Use your senses and immerse yourself in your activity.
Use the right effort, not forceful, not lazy.
At the end smile at a simple task done well.
Maybe your repetitive task is in service to others - the washing up or mowing the lawn - know that other people will be appreciative and grateful for your work. They would notice if you had not done it.
Doing repetitive tasks in this way means we do not hold resentment or tension as we do them, but find the simple joy in awareness and can be humble in the beauty of the everyday.
If you are interested in learning more about Sashiko here are a few places: