I'm a great fan of origami, the Japanese art of paper folding. The intricate designs formed by folding a flat sheet of paper into a finished figure or structure are a marvel to look at, demanding concentration and precision. Origami is the perfect art form to learn and practice mindfulness, the act of focusing on the present moment and having an awareness of ones thoughts and feelings. While Im learning new origami techniques, I am also learning to enjoy the process without getting frustrated. It helps me to remain focused on the present moment and appreciate the beauty of each fold. The practice of origami also serves as a wonderful outlet for creativity. After a few failed attempts at mastering a certain design, I find that I am not so afraid of trying something new. With origami, I have the freedom to come up with my own designs. I have even made up some of my own characters when practicing origami. I am constantly discovering the joy of creating from nothing and the satisfaction of making something physical out of thin air. Whether its a simple fold or a complex design, I look forward to every new opportunity to practice origami.