For Mental Health Awareness Week, from 12 – 18 May, the RSN is celebrating the therapeutic power of hand embroidery. In a fast-paced, digital world, stitching offers a calming, mindful escape with remarkable effects on the mind.

The simple, repetitive motion of needle and thread helps quiet racing thoughts, reduce anxiety, and encourage focus.

Hand Embroidery is..

Read the stories of some of the RSN’s supporters and how embroidery has supported their mental health:

“I am autistic, and the beneficial effects of embroidery are more than I can put into words. The rhythm brings me peace, calms anxiety and drains negativity. It is such a calming activity as well as being beautifully creative. I have stitched in one form or another all my life (I am now 72). I do not exaggerate in saying it has been—and still is—a lifesaver. It is my absolute favourite pursuit.” – Lynn

“Embroidery has woven itself into the fabric of my life. It’s a grounding force amidst chaos, a way to express creativity, and a source of both solitary reflection and community connection. Whether it’s a cup of tea in the autumn sun or a few stitches after a busy day, each moment brings me peace. The most satisfying part? Watching my skills blossom over time.” – Sonya

“When I was at one of my lowest points, I found an embroidery kit under my bed. I picked it up and started playing around with it. At first it was cross-stitch, but then I moved to embroidery and loved it even more. It gave me something to do with my hands and took my mind off everything. It gave me a creative outlet to express emotions. That’s why I’ll always credit embroidery with saving my life.” – Colby

Join the RSN at the Hampton Court Palace ‘Feel Good Festival’, 16 – 18 May

As part of the Hampton Court Palace ‘Feel Good Festival’, the RSN will be running daily 90 min embroidery workshops, where visitors can stitch a Colourful Peacock motif and experience the calming, creative benefits of embroidery. These sessions offer a space to unwind, reconnect, and discover the mental wellbeing that can be found in every stitch.

Book your place here

Relax your mind and step into the serene surroundings of Hampton Court Palace for a day of hand embroidery, or learn online in the tranquility of home. Explore RSN Onsite and Online Day & Evening Classes or join our summer festival at the International Summer School, online and at Hampton Court Palace.

Work featured by:

• RSN Japan Certificate student Li Jue
• RSN Hampton Court Palace Certificate student Angela Anderson
• RSN Online Certificate student Chinami Aso
• RSN Hampton Court Palace Certificate student Susan Ghosh