Not chess, not sudoku: why Mery’s Moment boxes care for your mind better than a pastime

"Not chess, not pastimes" — that was the headline of a recent report about the activity the Montessori method recommends for people over 65 to improve cognitive function. The answer was not a board game or a crossword, but something far simpler: a basket of everyday objects, textures and aromas to touch, smell and recognise. When I read it, I thought: that is exactly what we do with our Mery’s Moment boxes — and then some.

What the Montessori method reminds us:

Multisensory experiences support the development of the following cognitive mechanisms:

• Neuroplasticity: the brain retains, at any age, the capacity to create new connections. Processing varied stimuli works like mental gymnastics.
• Memory through scent: who doesn’t associate the smell of bread with childhood? The sense of smell is the only sense directly connected to the system that regulates emotions and long-term memory, helping to recover moments that seemed forgotten.
• Working memory: following each stitch step by step keeps you focused on a specific activity.
• Social connection: sharing the experience with someone you love — or finishing a piece to give as a gift — is a wonderful way to create with purpose.

From sensory basket to creative box: one step further

The sensory basket invites you to explore. The Mery’s Moment Creative Box invites you to create from that exploration — and that is the difference. It is not just about touching the elements and recognising them; it is about transforming them according to your own taste. It is about making something with your hands. To sensory stimulation, we add the satisfaction of producing your own work — something the research itself identifies as key to wellbeing.

Each element of the box activates one of the mechanisms described:

• Touch — the natural linen, DMC threads and embroidery hoop offer constant tactile exploration for hours, not just a few minutes.
• Smell — the included aromatic candle activates that direct “highway” between scent and emotional memory, just as the study describes.
• Taste and smell — the selected herbal teas turn the session into a complete sensory ritual.
• Hearing — the exclusive Mery’s Moment playlist sets the mood and encourages a state of relaxed concentration.
• Sight and fine motor skills — following the motifs and the step-by-step guide requires hand-eye coordination and working memory, just like naming and sequencing objects in a sensory basket.
• Social bond — embroidering in company, or receiving the box as a gift, creates the same conversation and connection that research identifies as protective against isolation.

A benefit for the mind, at any age

Although the study focuses on people over 65, multisensory stimulation knows no age: it helps you disconnect from digital noise, reduce stress and keep the mind active at any stage of life.

That is why a Mery’s Moment box works equally well as a solo activity or as something to share with the people you love.

These boxes are a playful, sensory activity for everyday life; they do not replace any professional evaluation or treatment in cases of cognitive decline. If in doubt, always consult a specialist.

How to make the most of your Mery’s Moment sensory experience

• Enjoy the box itself — handmade, perfectly imperfect, designed to last. Light the candle (each experience includes a candle with a different scent to help you relax). Brew the herbal tea slowly, before you begin. Turn the activity into a small ritual, your pause — not an obligation or a task, but your moment.
• Connect the Mery’s Moment playlist and let yourself be carried by the music we have chosen to create this unique experience.
• Hum along if you know the song — it will help your concentration.
• If you are doing it with someone else, let the conversation flow: it is part of the benefit, not a distraction.

Frequently asked questions

Is it suitable for older people with no crafting experience?

Absolutely. Our boxes are designed for all levels. A step-by-step guide and explanatory video are included — very easy to follow.

Can I share the experience with other people?

Of course! Doing the activities together increases the benefits of the experience.

Does it replace cognitive therapy?

No. Our boxes are a creative activity designed to bring you back to making things with your hands and quieting mental noise. They are in no way a medical treatment or a substitute for any professional guidance. They are a creative and sensory complement for everyday wellbeing.

Unplug. Create. Reconnect.

Science confirms it: you don’t need a chessboard to keep your mind active. All it takes is a complete sensory experience and hands busy with something meaningful.