Origami is the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. It has been practiced for centuries and has gained popularity all over the world due to its simplicity and beauty. I mean, how cool is it to take a plain piece of paper, fold it, bend it, crease it -- and then have something new and beautiful? Sounds like the creative process to me. And there's nothing easier to employ on your wellness journey than a simple creative process. Here are 7 reasons why you should pick up an origami project today.
+ Provides Stress Relief
We all need this one! Better bulk order some paper! One of the primary benefits of making origami is its ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Origami requires concentration and focus, which helps to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. The repetitive folding of paper can also be meditative, so go fold something!
+ Stabilizes your Nervous System
Oh the nervous system -- so widely talked about and still so elusive. Our nervous systems are fluid creatures and ebb and flow each minute of the day. Really they just need some TLC and creative attention is a perfect way to bring you down from fight or flight.
+ Builds Confidence
We all need to express ourselves creatively, it's a primary need of all human beings. And we've been shamed, embarrassed, harassed and bullied which leaves us with low self esteem and low confidence. Who wants to express themselves when they got made fun of for doing it before? Origami gives you an outlet for expression and then the boost of confidence when you see what you made and can say, "I made that!"
+ Develops Problem Solving Skills
Origami requires a lot of patience and persistence. Some designs can be quite complex and require multiple folds and creases. By practicing origami, you can develop these qualities and apply them to other areas of your life, such as work or relationships. Patience and persistence can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
+ Boosts Motor Skills
Origami requires a lot of precision and attention to detail, which can help improve hand-eye coordination, dexterity and motor skills, making it easier to perform other tasks that require manual skills. We all need some off screen practice using our hands to create IRL.
+ Enhances Creativity
Origami is an excellent way to boost your creativity. As you learn to fold different designs, you will develop a better sense of spatial relationships and design principles. This can help you become more creative in other areas of your life, such as problem-solving and decision-making.
+ Increases Connection
When you start mastering your folding skills, everyone in your life benefits! You'll be leaving cute birds on your co-workers desk and slipping hearts into your kids lunchboxes in no time. You'll have a sweet and simple way to show the people in your life that you're thinking of them and that you care.
Go forth and fold! We can't wait to see all the projects you try. Tag us on Insta @growcreative.studio and if you need some beautiful origami papers, try our illustrated kit. You can find it here!
For a simple project on how to fold an Origami Picture Frame, check out this blog post and to fold the envelope pictured above, click here.
