Date published: 8 April 2026
It seems simple – a sheet of paper and a few careful folds – yet origami’s effect on mental wellbeing can be profound.
We watch this unfold at a workshop on the traditional Japanese art at Hartley Hospital.
The room is filled with quiet concentration as origami tutor and arts facilitator Zulay Sayalero leads a session. Surrounded by paper birds for inspiration, it is almost impossible to imagine the group will create anything so intricate.
Hands tremble at first but inspired by Zulay’s warmth and reassurance, confidence builds and precision improves. Gasps of delight erupt as a delicate butterfly rests in each pair of hands.
You can feel the sense of achievement as uncertainty gives way to confidence and calm.
Science based artist Dr Lizzie Burns describes origami as a mindful activity that helps you take control at the same time as creating something beautiful.
“Stress is released into the paper with each fold. The focus required keeps us in the moment. We stop worrying about the past or what might happen in the future.”
Formerly a chemical engineer, Zulay discovered the therapeutic value of origami when she experienced acute postnatal depression 17 years ago. The simple act of folding paper brought back cherished memories of her childhood in Venezuela and became an essential part of her recovery. Today, her stunning installations welcome patients at Hartley Hospital, offering moments of stillness, colour and hope.
“When everything felt chaotic, origami gave me a focus,” she says. “You must be patient and present. That was a lifeline for me. My hands were occupied, and my mind was freed from spiralling thoughts. Slowly, those small, repeated movements created moments of calm and clarity.”
Despite the precision involved, Zulay emphasises there is no pressure for perfection. “Creating something beautiful and organic, while accepting that perfection isn’t possible, is incredibly liberating.”
Around the table, members of the group encourage one another, swap tips and celebrate each other’s progress. “I never thought I’d be able to make something like this,” says Steven. “I feel elated – I see myself differently.”
As Zulay puts it, “A folded butterfly is a tiny treasure but the act of creating it also brings focus, conversation and a sense of belonging.”
Crafting connections
Long days in hospital can be boring. After postdoctoral research in cancer biology at the University of Oxford, Dr Burns worked as a science communicator and saw that origami as a shared activity could benefit everyone by sparking conversation, creativity and focus.
“We provide toys and activities for children in hospital but little is available for adults to keep their minds occupied and emotions balanced.”
Like hunger or loneliness, boredom can alert us to a need to act.
“Ideally, it prompts us to find something engaging or meaningful to do. But when people’s choices or movement are limited – particularly in hospital - boredom can bring feelings of hopelessness, frustration and isolation. This can have a significant impact on health.
“Origami encourages patients to connect with others. They focus on a shared task, learn from one another and create small gifts filled with meaning - a welcome and joyful distraction during difficult times.”
Occupational therapy assistant Alicia Collings has benefited from online wellbeing sessions with Dr Burns, run for Mersey Care staff and funded by the National Lottery.
“We all start literally on the same page together and I feel such a sense of connection and community with the other people in the group. It’s such a powerful way to bringing relaxation, joy and a sense of achievement into your life.”