Entrepreneurs blend mindfulness with creativity in new workshop venture

A new initiative is bringing mental health awareness to creative spaces across the region. De Hidden Nook, established by Lynnette Chai and Lau Yun Shiuan, offers workshops that combine artistic expression with mindfulness techniques, positioning mental well-being as an integral part of the creative process rather than something confined to clinical environments.

The venture reflects a growing recognition that mental wellness extends beyond formal therapy sessions. By embedding mindful practices into workshops focused on various creative disciplines, De Hidden Nook aims to make mental health support more accessible and normalised among participants who may not otherwise seek traditional counselling.

The founders' approach targets individuals seeking holistic approaches to their well-being. The integration of mindfulness into creative activities allows participants to engage in stress-relief and self-reflection through mediums such as art, crafts, and other hands-on activities, creating an alternative pathway to mental wellness.

This model addresses a gap in the regional wellness landscape, where demand for mental health services continues to rise. By situating mindfulness work within creative spaces, De Hidden Nook contributes to destigmatising discussions around mental well-being while offering practical tools for emotional regulation and self-awareness.

The venture represents a broader shift toward preventative and holistic mental health approaches in South and Southeast Asia, where traditional therapy services often face capacity constraints and cultural barriers to access.