The Loom of Belonging: A Journey through Motif & Thread

In this workshop, we move beyond the surface of "making" to the depth of "being." We use the rhythmic nature of textile arts to weave a kinder, more resilient relationship with ourselves.

Join us!

• Discover: Uncover the hidden meanings behind centuries-old Anatolian symbols—motifs representing protection, strength, fertility, and love.
• Reflect: Through guided self-compassion practices, we’ll share stories of belonging and identify the symbols that mirror your unique inner landscape.
• Create: Bring your personal narrative to life. Whether through the meditative flow of crochet or the vibrant exploration of color, you will create a tangible reminder of your own strength.

• Arrival & Grounding: Creating a safe space for shared presence.
• The Heart of Self-Compassion: Understanding how to build a kind relationship with our inner selves.
• Ancestral Wisdom: A brief history of traditional Turkish motifs and the emotions they represent.
• Guided Practice: A mindful self-compassion meditation to connect with your current emotional landscape.
• Creative Weaving: Expressing your emotions through motifs using crochet or drawing.
• Closing Circle: One stitch for everyone. Contributing to our collective sense of belonging

This workshop is open to all. Whether you are picking up a crochet hook for the first time or are a seasoned fiber artist, you are welcome here.

Beginners: No prior "artistic talent" is necessary. We provide a gentle, supportive environment to learn.

Experienced Creators: Find new depth and symbolic meaning in your existing practice.

This workshop is in English, therefore communicating and understanding English is necessary for participation.

The location is called Lapinlahden Lähde and is situated within the historic Lapinlahti hospital area near Hietaniemi. You can find us at Lapinlahdenpolku 8, specifically in the Tallipääty (Stable Wing) section of the building. The space is easily accessible by walking or cycling through the park, and once you arrive at the Mitti office entrance, there are clear paths leading to our designated area.

Please not that this space is not wheel chair accessible.

All of our activities are organized with safer space principles. Please check out our safer space guidelines here.

MIELI Without Borders is grassroots, migrant-led organization that is dedicated to promoting and supporting migrant mental health in Finland.
Check us out --> mieliwithoutborders.fi

MIITTI organizes groups, workshops, courses, and events to support mental health and well-being. Our community loves music, dance, food, conversations, languages, stories, art, movement, culture, and different opinions. We work for equality, diversity, and human commonness, and believe that connection is a key for overcoming prejudice. Check out MIITTI --> https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti/, https://www.meetup.com/miitti1/

Gizem Aktaş Zara is a social impact strategist and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) teacher who weaves inner resilience with collective transformation. Drawing on trauma-sensitive practices and cultural storytelling, she creates spaces where people reconnect with themselves, their histories, and a deeper sense of belonging.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Tallipääty 1krs. Lapinlahden Lähde, 8 Lapinlahdenpolku, Helsinki, Finland

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