Since December 25, the first zone in Ukraine for the emotional recovery of Ukrainians, “Vukhastyki-Pukhnastyki” has been operating in the “Epicenter” on Polyarnaya Street in Kyiv.
“Epicenter” together with the project partner – the brand “Vukhastyk” – have equipped an anti-stress zone, which will be available to absolutely everyone. Visitors will be able to dive into a bath with fluffy artificial fur rabbits, which are extremely pleasant to the touch. As well as lie on the largest toy rabbits in Ukraine, stand under the rabbit rain and take a selfie on the stairs surrounded by the fluffy ones.
The companies explain that tactile contact with soft fur, according to psychologists, relaxes a person, reduces cortisol level, and gives a sense of security. The project is aimed at supporting the psychological health of Ukrainians in the difficult conditions of a full-scale war.
“Tactile contact is a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving psycho-emotional state. It helps activate the production of “happiness hormones” – oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins. It reduces anxiety levels, calms and increases emotional comfort, and also allows us to feel needed and safe even in the most difficult moments of life.”, – notes psychologist, founder of the psychological center “Dali” (Further) Valeria Kvasha.
The “Vukhastyki-Pukhnastyki ” project is a logical continuation of the “Antistress Hub” initiative launched by “Epicenter” in 2023. Within the framework of this hub, lectures on overcoming stress, trainings and consultations with psychologists were held, who helped to adapt to the challenges of wartime. The new hug zone will be part of a large-scale support program that “Epicenter” plans to implement throughout the country to create safe spaces for emotional recovery.
Visitors can choose the next location of “Ear-Fluffy” near their home. To do this, you need to take a photo in the antistress zone on Polyarna in Kyiv, post it on your social networks, tagging the “Epicenter” page and indicating the desired location (city or district).
