The Healing Power of Paper: An Adventurous Journey

Everyone faces challenging moments in their lives. In early 2004, I was overwhelmed by a cascade of struggles—sickness, financial loss, natural disasters, civil unrest, and recession. This turmoil spiraled me into a serious anxiety disorder, and despite countless doctors and tests, no relief was in sight.

Then, an acquaintance suggested something simple yet profound—keeping a journal. Hesitant at first, I opened the journal and was immediately drawn to its rustic look and the natural feel of the paper. Slowly, I began to write, pouring my feelings onto the pages. Venting my emotions and pressing petals from my walks into the journal brought me a sense of calm, though my healing was gradual. No wonder they say, sometimes only paper listens.

Inspired by this experience, I decided to explore the paper-making process mentioned in the journal’s insert. I needed to escape the city, and soon I found myself in a beautiful village where the magic of handmade Lokta paper unfolded before my eyes. Watching the artisans work, I was deeply moved by their dedication, turning sustainable materials into something so meaningful.

Inspired by this journey, I penned a poem:

Wise One told me to

write down my feelings

This would help me

organize my thoughts

In a short span of time

I spilled the venom of my pain

Across more than one hundred pages

Such was my eagerness

To release the emotions.

O! mighty paper

I wish I were sturdy like thee

You do not bleed a bit

Even when I stain you

With a fountain of my pain.

They cut the plant

Extracted the fibers

Beat them up with wooden mallets

Steamed the fibers in boiling water

Ground them with rusted blades

Spread the pulp in broken frames

Lined the sheets in the burning sun.

The paper came into being 

After suffering days of torment

No wonder it can embrace

The worst of all pains.

The creation of this handmade paper mirrors our own journeys—born out of struggle, strengthened through process, and finally, emerging beautiful and resilient. This experience became a healing adventure for me, reminding me that even through pain, something powerful and lasting can emerge.

Join me in discovering the artistry behind this tree-free handmade paper and supporting the sustainability that uplifts not just the environment, but the artisans and communities who craft it. Learn more about Lokta paper at Handmade Happiness.