This weekend, my mother and I traveled from the Rogue Valley to see 1,200 quilts in the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show. Jean Wells, founder of the show and owner of The Stichin' Post in Sisters said in the paper "even after 32 years, the quilt show is still magical to me." I found it magical also with 15,000 to 20,000 people walking, looking and discussing the quilts. Quilts are an art form and can contribute to stress management.

Our brains are hard-wired to connect. As we wandered and looked, we shared our responses to the quilts. I could sense my calming-feel-good hormone (oxytocin) increasing. This is the same hormone that stressed women feel calming them after reaching out to "tend and befriend" others. The health benefit is enormous.

Seeing many people interacting at a community activity is exciting in the connection benefit. The "neuroplasticity" of the brain means that our brain can adapt and change over time---be "rewired". I envision women who have suffered past abuse, trauma or current betrayals being "rewired". (Internet use, affairs or emotional straying are often topics in the couples counseling I provide.)  Women can experience another contribution to their healing process as they look at and discuss quilts.

When women return to their partner or spouse, they can be calmer and connect more. Less stress is brought into the home. The women at the show came from across the United States and England. I envision a ripple effect throughout towns and cities, the feeling of connection in that small town moving onto many other areas. 

We need to feel connected---and bring that connection home to thrive and reduce stress. Build such experiences in your life, find a way to share your passion or art. And if you did not attend this year and are interested in quilts, check out www.SistersOutdoorQuiltShow.com long before the second weekend in July '08.

Barbara Massey M.A., Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Medford Oregon