Hello from Musubism! Today, let's delve into why furoshiki is more than just a wrapping cloth—it's a heartfelt gift that carries profound meaning. We'll also explore the healing effects of using your hands, backed by scientific evidence, and invite you to a fun and enriching workshop.
Why Furoshiki is a Gift that Wraps the Heart
1. A Personal Touch:
Using furoshiki to wrap a gift shows the time and thoughtfulness put into the preparation. It conveys a powerful message of personal involvement and gratitude, unlike simply buying and giving something.
2. Symbol of Tradition and Culture:
Furoshiki embodies the rich traditions of Japanese culture, carrying deep significance. Wrapping a gift in furoshiki shares these cultural values and makes the gift even more special for the recipient.
3. A Sustainable Gift:
Furoshiki is reusable and eco-friendly, promoting a sustainable lifestyle. Choosing environmentally conscious options sends a positive message to the recipient, emphasizing care for our planet.
The Healing Effects of Using Your Hands
1. Focus and Flow Experience:
Engaging in handcrafting activities enhances concentration and induces a flow state, a deep focus that reduces stress and increases happiness. This concept, introduced by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, highlights the joy of being immersed in an activity.
2. Mindfulness:
Using your hands promotes mindfulness, the practice of being present in the moment. Studies show that mindfulness reduces stress and brings mental peace. Wrapping with furoshiki is a simple way to incorporate mindfulness into daily life.
3. Increased Serotonin Production:
Handcrafting stimulates the production of serotonin, the "happiness hormone," in the brain. Serotonin stabilizes mood and promotes relaxation, making hand activities beneficial for mental health.
4. Tactile Connection:
Touch is closely linked to emotions. Handling materials with your hands creates a calming effect, bringing a sense of comfort and tranquility. The soft fabric of furoshiki can evoke feelings of safety and peace.
Research and Examples
Research shows that activities like knitting and crafting reduce stress and improve mental well-being. A 2013 study found that knitters reported decreased stress, increased happiness, and reduced anxiety (Riley, J., et al. (2013). The benefits of knitting for personal and social well-being in adulthood: findings from an international survey. *British Journal of Occupational Therapy*).
Art therapy also illustrates the stabilizing effect of handcrafting. This therapeutic approach uses creative activities to express emotions and relieve stress and trauma.
Workshop Invitation: Tanabata Decorations and Furoshiki Wrapping
Join us for an exciting workshop where you'll experience the charm of furoshiki through making Tanabata decorations. You'll learn to create auspicious knots using Edo kumihimo and make wish-granting charms to hang on bamboo leaves.
We will also teach you how to wrap gifts inspired by the beautiful hydrangea flower, such as the flower knot for gift wrapping and wine bottle wrapping. These methods infuse your gifts with heartfelt intentions, making them truly special.
Date and Time: Saturday, June 29, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: (tefu) jiyugaoka
〒152-0035 Tokyo, Setagaya-ku, Okusawa 5-42-3
2 minutes walk from "Jiyugaoka" Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Oimachi Line
Price: ¥4,500 (tax included)
Limited Seats Available: Save your spot now!
Infused with Romantic Tales
As you wrap your gifts, let your mind wander to the romantic stories behind the hydrangea flower, like the love story of Siebold and O’Taki, or the star-crossed romance of Orihime and Hikoboshi from the Star Festival legend. This workshop will help you craft gifts filled with love and wishes.
We invite you to join our Musubism workshop to experience the beauty of furoshiki and the healing power of handcrafting. Let’s create gifts that wrap and tie the world with kindness and joy!
We look forward to seeing you there.
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