Shinrin-yoku, literally meaning “forest bathing,” is good for body relaxation. You can create the impression of a little forest by placing these pretty origami trees in a corner of your room. Spray on some tree-scented aroma oil, and help relax your body and mind.
You will need:
1 sheet of 6in (15cm) origami paper (if you are using colouring paper, colour it in before you start folding)
Scissors
1. With the coloured side down, fold the paper in half from side to side both ways, opening out each time, then turn the paper over and fold from corner to corner both ways, again opening out each time. Lifting the paper up, fold it into a diamond shape using the creases just made.
2. Fold in the upper flap from the righthand side so that the diagonal edge runs down the central crease, then lift and open the flap, refolding it flat into a diamond shape.
3. Turn the left-hand side of the diamond just formed to the right, then fold the left-hand flap into the centre before opening it again and refolding it flat into a diamond. Turn the paper over and repeat Steps 2 and 3 on the other side.
4. Use the scissors to cut approximately ¾in (2cm) into the paper along the line where the edge of the green paper meets the white paper. Make a second cut upward to form one side of the trunk. Make short angled snips down one side of the long green edges. Repeat these cuts to the trunk and the green edge on the other side of the model. Cut off the bottom point of the trunk to form a straight edge for the tree to stand on.
5. Open out the flaps and turn over the edges below each slice to give the impression of a fir tree.
This project is from Mindful Japanese Origami by Mari Ono. To get more free projects like this one - direct to your inbox - sign up to our mailing list here.