My one thousand paper cranes

From Julie, Edinburgh Citizen

Knowing my love and need for mindful activity to support my mental wellbeing, my parents bought me a book on origami. It is a small square book, the first half filled with step-by-step instructions on how to fold some truly intricate shapes; stars, flowers, boxes, and butterflies. The other half filled with page after page of beautiful, colourful, swirling patterns. Each sheet scored with a perforated line to allow the page to be gently taken out: pulled with that soul-satisfying ripping sound.

And so began my journey to fold one thousand paper cranes.

On my recovery journey, I have wished for many things; an end to the sadness and the anxiety, a return to my old self with joy and happiness.

An ancient Japanese legend promises that the gods will grant anyone who folds one thousand paper cranes a wish.

But guess what…

I may not fold one thousand paper cranes, but with each fold I make, I gain a moment’s calm, peace, mindfulness, and a glimmer of understanding that with regular moments like these, I may not need that wish granted after all.

By sharing our stories and the different way we stay well, we can learn from each other and inspire one another to take positive steps to look after our mental health and wellbeing. If you would like to share your wellbeing story on iThrive Edinburgh, email us at ithrive@health-in-mind.org.uk.