Original Sewing & Quilt Expo Boosts Benefits

WESTLAKE, Ohio, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Original Sewing & Quilt Expo returns to the Tampa Convention Center February 18, 19 & 20, and to Atlanta at the Gwinnett Center, March 11, 12 & 13, filled with more of everything sewing, embroidery and quilting enthusiasts crave.  When you attend, you may leave with something unexpected:  improved mental, emotional and even physical well-being.

Study after study demonstrates the benefits of leading a well-balanced lifestyle, with time to pursue personally satisfying hobbies like sewing, quiltmaking and other needle arts. Similar to yoga, creating with needle and thread allows the mind to focus on the task at hand, clearing away distractions and problems.  When put to the scientific test, sewing lowered blood pressure and respiration more than other hobbies.  Psychologist and biofeedback experts conducting a recent clinical study feel the benefits of a hobby like sewing cannot be over-stated.  

And they are not alone.  "As unbelievable as it sounds," says Tina, avid gift-maker and regular Expo attendee, "by the time I've finished my stitching for the evening, I'm relaxed and feeling totally de-stressed.  It's like magic, (my brain is) working in the background, resolving issues while I'm enjoying quiet, creative, productive time at my machine."  

Whether you've been an enthusiast for years, are a rookie just testing the waters or want to re-acquaint yourself with all things creative, these three days at Original Sewing & Quilt Expo offer lifelong benefits.  Find a year's worth of healthy activity and fulfillment when you:

• Take one of 200 classes and workshops brought to life by more than 35 of the nation's best instructors;
• Shop for the latest tools, supplies, equipment, techniques and ideas at more than 120 retail booths;  
• See runway fashion shows, quilt and home decor trunk shows, new-product demos on two stages;
• Try your hand at the many Make-it Take-It projects;
• Walk through the Display Galleries filled with award-winning quilts, whimsical dolls, couture garments and more . . .

Tickets are available on-line or by phone.   Advance Class Registration open through February 9 (Tampa) and March 2 (Atlanta).  For more information visit www.sewingexpo.com or call 1-800-699-6309.  

SOURCE Original Sewing & Quilt Expo