Find Mindful Moments Making Origami Paper Cranes

By September 17, 2020Uncategorized
Paper Crane

Every year has their defining moments, but 2020 has certainly brought its fair share big changes and life-altering events, from devastating bushfires, droughts, and now COVID-19. Dealing with these natural disasters for many has heightened feelings of stress, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future.

With busy lives, being mindful is often overlooked, but it’s important to acknowledge the challenging times we’ve all been through.  We need to remember to take time to check in with ourselves, get some quality me time, and recognise if those around us need more support.

Michelle Giles, director of operations for Mental Health and Specialised Services at West Moreton Health, said “Dealing with natural disasters like these can cause anxiety and depression, but everyone can make a difference in someone else’s life”.

According to Ms Giles suicide was the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44. So the Hospital Foundation has teamed up with West Moreton Health on a special mindfulness project, as a gentle reminder that together, suicide can be prevented.

The power to manage stress is at your fingertips, quite literally

Engaging in activities that stimulate both the mind and body can have a powerful calming effect and “a wonderful way to reduce stress and anxiety” said Ms Giles.

Origami is the ancient Japanese art of folding paper that has been used for centuries as a relaxation and mindfulness tool. The beauty of Origami is that is can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere for people of all ages.  It’s delicate stuff so you’ll be in the zone in no time.

Practicing Origami can help us to:

  • Shift negative thoughts by focusing on the present.
  • Focus on one thing that brings meaning to life.
  • Take moments to slow down and find peace.
  • Bring feelings of content and satisfaction.

Ms Giles explained that Cranes were chosen because “they are a symbol of hope and healing during challenging times, which will resonate with the West Moreton community”. I think we can all agree that’s the spirit we need right now!

Get involved and make your paper cranes at home – for FREE

To register for your FREE origami pack, head to Paper Crane Project and we will send you a package with your origami paper and instructions on how to make your crane. You can also download instructions or watch a video tutorial online.

The only rules: Don’t hold back & have fun!  

We will be awarding prizes for the BIGGEST, the BEST, most COLOURFUL, most CREATIVE.

Take a picture or send it back to be hung

Be proud and take a picture of your finished masterpiece and send it to us at info@ihfoundation.org.au. Or you can use the return addressed envelope in your package to send your crane back to us for it to be hung outside the Acute Mental Health Unit at Ipswich Hospital.

“You don’t have to be a psychologist to check in with someone who is struggling with depression. It all starts with that one question: Are you OK? To be a good friend, you need to be a great listener”

Remember it’s okay not to be okay. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help.

If you think you need more support or just need to talk:

  • Call your GP for an appointment
  • Or call the West Moreton confidential hotline 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255). It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Stay healthy, stay safe

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