Bath textile and design specialist Annie Lywood has started a business to produce a collection of decorative and cuddly cushions that harness the calming sense of touch.
Bonnie Binary, which is backed by Crowdfund and NatWest’s Back Her Business programme, has been launched as ‘touch deprivation’ becomes a major issue due to a lack of social interaction and loneliness for many people because of Covid-19 related restrictions.
Annie, pictured below, has developed the product range following research and consultation with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals into the positive power and crucial need for touch in human wellbeing.
She said the range of Cosy Comforters will dispense the much-needed experience of warmth, comfort and joy at a time of worry and separation.
Annie has spent her career in electronic-textile technology, with her projects focussed on the potential of this emerging technology in healthcare and the support of people living with physical and cognitive disabilities.
The Comfort Collection was inspired by her insight into the importance of sensory textiles and the value of touch.
She said: “Research shows that touch plays a huge and vital part in our wellbeing. Right now, so many more people are being affected by touch hunger than ever before.
“Our feelgood cushions are designed to nurture and sooth with therapeutic qualities that support the wellbeing of people living with anxiety, stress or loneliness.
“When we are feeling anxious or even just a little low, hugging or simply holding someone or something, can really lift our mood and make us feel better.
“I set up Bonnie Binary to make a positive difference, with products that bring playful delight and comfort to people’s lives, particularly those with sensory, emotional and cognitive needs and disabilities.
“We are on an exciting journey into the tangible benefits of texture, colour, shape, weight and ‘the cuddle factor’ in order to help soothe the senses.
“Touching and hugging sensory cushions and comforters, like ours, really can act as the catalyst to take time out, self-mange anxiety and promote wellbeing. Everyone needs a hug at the moment.”
The products feature tactile fabrics, uplifting colours and comforting huggable shapes and are handmade by artisan makers in Somerset.
The Comforter Collection includes:
- Jollie, a heart-shaped comforter featuring a hand-warming pocket,
- Purr-dee The Cat and Patch The Dog, with friendly faces and furry tails,
- Hop The Frog, a smaller friend who can be taken on travels.
For an extra relaxing effect the comforting cushions can be used in conjunction with a calming scent, a heated internal wheat bag to add warmth, and incorporated as part of a well-being routine with favourite soothing music and meditative practice.
