Wabi-sabi philosophy, meditation, traditional arts… japanese zen lifestyle derives from Buddhism and its precepts. Introduced to the archipelago around the 5th century through China and Korea, the religion is divided into several schools. Zen, from the branch mahayana it remains the best-known form of Buddhism in the West.
In addition, its influence is found in the daily life of the Japanese: the Zen movement is reflected in Japanese culture and arts throughout the centuries, whether through meditation, calligraphy, Zen gardens or even the sleeve.
Do you dream of a serene and stress-free life? Discover the Japanese Zen lifestyle in 5 steps!
1. Focus on the essentials ?
In Japan, we don’t bother with the useless. This state of mind comes under the concept of wabi-sabi, a japanese philosophy of life that advocates a return to basics, natural beauty in its most simple and imperfect. In art, wabi-sabi can be translated as unfinished lines with the search for simplification and impermanence.
Pour apply this Japanese philosophy on a daily basisJust focus on the essentials. Thus, negative thoughts and parasitic objects that only scatter vital energy are excluded. By adopting this concept, you will free yourself from stress and learn to enjoy life better. wabi sabi is rediscover the joy of simple things : the scent of a flower, a pleasant novel to read, a good time spent with the family or even the sight of a beautiful landscape.
The wabi-sabi aspires to a way of life detached from material goods sources of pollution for the environment and the mind. In fact, the latter create the illusion of artificial happiness and distract us from true fulfillment. Likewise, Japanese Zen people are not connected to the internet, but to nature, which they deeply respect.
In a inner zen, the furniture is minimal, the decoration is sober and without frills: no trinkets to collect dust! And if you decide today to buy only what is necessary; this avoids consuming in excess and cluttering your home. Furthermore, certain store method called ” KonMari », has become very popular in Japan and even in Europe. East minimalist method recommends keeping only the essentials to establish well-being in the home. Would you be willing to try?
two. apply mindfulness ?
Pay attention to what you feel, what you see, what you eat… full attention it is an art of living of Zen Buddhism. It is not just about practicing zazen meditation, but also about changing the way of apprehending the world, the link with the cosmos.
After emptying your house and clearing your mind of everything unnecessary, it’s time to awaken your consciousness. Zen is above everything. the art of focusing.
To do this, be fully present in each moment, here and now. Focus on what you feel inside; Observe your perceptions and emotions without judging. Boring and recurring activities such as tidying your house or washing the dishes may seem uninteresting and yet, according to Zen philosophy, it is in the simplest things that you awaken your conscience and your inner peaceif we live them fully.
3. find your purpose ?
As you know, spirituality is central to the Japanese Zen lifestyle. Now that you are beginning to live fully in the present moment, you may feel this need to give meaning to your life ?
L’ikigai which can be translated as the reason for being, is an inner search that is very present in the Land of the Rising Sun. The Japanese, driven by a strong collective consciousness, believe that everyone should contribute something to the community. Between vocation, passion, profession and mission, ikigai answers existential questions.
Whether you’re in the process of retraining or just wanting to thrive, this spiritual quest will make you want to wake up in the morning with a smile.
Four. Practice a traditional Japanese art ✍️
Did you know that many traditional Japanese arts are inspired by Zen Buddhism? Thus, Ikebana or “way of flowers” takes up the concept of wabi sabi representing the cycle of life through refined and ephemeral compositions. This Zen practice will give you a moment of well-being, while you develop your creativity. Also, this is an opportunity to create a magnificent zen decoration at home!
In Japan, incense has been used for centuries to purify the environment, focus and relax. The code or “incense road” is a ceremony of recognition and appreciation of the perfumes. You want to improve your concentration, this highly refined Japanese art will sharpen your senses.
Calligraphy, or way of writing is also a Zen art that is based on harmony, balance, the present moment and the energy created by breathing. Practicing calligraphy will reveal your life force.
Finally, the traditional art of Kintsugi who repairs broken objects, aspires to true healing power. In this Japanese restoration technique, asymmetry, irregularities and natural wear sublimate the objects. Getting into kintsugi is a great way to make yourself more zen.
5. Create your zen ritual to relax ?
Reading this article behind your screen, you wonder “How to apply a Japanese Zen lifestyle while living in Europe and without looking like a wacko? Well it’s easy, just set up a bit it was a ritual in the evening when you get home after a long day at work. What if you forgot your smartphone for a moment and got into the habit of focusing on the present moment? The idea is to relax, slow down the hectic pace that characterizes modern society and find yourself.
- Begin with calm down put on a kimono and geta before settling down in a quiet place.
- Turn off your cell phone. Be aware of everything around you and how you feel inside.
- Walk slowly and slow down your movements. You can light incense or you make matcha tea for instance. Take the time to enjoy the present moment.
- sit comfortably and take deep breaths to release stress before meditating.
- Breathe deeply and calmly in the lotus position if you are flexible enough 😉 or another position that you find comfortable.
- try empty your mind and focus on your feelings.
- After You zen meditation sessionYou can also practice calligraphy or other traditional Japanese art, bringing concentration and wisdom.
By adopting a Japanese Zen lifestyle, or simply some relaxing rituals, to evacuate the stress of everyday life, you will gain serenity. It’s time toenjoy life as you deserve. It is a true gift that you are giving to yourself!
