Mindfulness Kit
2017
The 3 objects aim is to introduce mindfulness to soldiers and veterans, battling with PTSD.
The idea is about evoking a sense of relaxation, peace and tranquillity reminiscent of a soldiers brewing routine when on training exercises.
From the sensation of a warm brew after a long day training to staring mindfully at the burning Hexi flame under the night sky.
The objects have been styled to mimic an Army issued canteen. A tribute to what kept us in physical shape, now used as a tool to help a soldier/veteran suffering with PTSD &/ or other mental health issues, stay in good mental shape.
The three material used; concrete, ceramic and cork, gives varying degrees of texture to enhance the sense of touch.
Being mindful is about engaging with the senses and being in the now:
Experiencing the full taste of the tea as you take a sip, whilst listening to music/meditation.
Paying attention to texture as you feel the different materials.
Focusing on the colours and flickering of the Hexi flame as you sit back and watch it burn away.
Symbolic Narrative
The complete assembly represents the soldier at his finest.
The sturdy and steadfast concrete Hexi candle acts as the bodies foundation that symbolises toughness and strength. It can withstand a lot of heat and heavy knocks but is not impenetrable and can crumble overtime.
The ceramic cup symbolises the fragile exterior of the body and the first line of defence. It is clean, honest and untarnished. Majestically it stands out, proudly prominent upon its concrete fortress.
The cork phone stand joins the concrete Hexi candle and ceramic cup together. It protects the fragile cup, cushioning it from scratching and chipping. It keeps the assembly from falling apart. Stable, rigid and together in body, spirit and mind, the epitome of a perfect soldier.
Alongside the assembly lies the distorted cup and broken fragments. The internal strength of the concrete has all but crumbled away exposing a deteriorated and withered face of the distorted ceramic cup. Despite its awkward exterior and imperfections it is capable of holding a hot cup of tea. It symbolises how mental health is the unseen enemy and invisible to the outside world. Though the individual looks tired, unkempt and weak they are still burdened and will be used to the point of breaking, unless they speak up.
The distorted cup is a reminder that before you break you must confront your issues and seek help, before its too late. The broken fragments are a reminder that mental health issues should never get that far.
