1. Kintsugi
A centuries-old tradition, Kintsugi or the ‘art of golden repair’ describes the method of repairing broken pottery with a special, golden or silver lacquer. The seams of the broken pieces are reconnected, and the result is a beautiful object that wears its unique ‘scars’ with pride.
Why practice this beautiful tradition in our daily life?
It is a reminder that instead of hiding our history and scars, let’s emphasize and celebrate them as a part of us. The lesson we can learn from this practice is clear: embrace the unique and enriching experiences you go through in life, regardless of whether they’re good or bad, and treasure your mistakes as you age. Every time you make a mistake, tell yourself ‘My actions don’t translate into who I am.’
2. Ikigai
The term ‘ikigai‘ has recently become one of the most popular Japanese concepts worldwide. It loosely translates into ‘a reason for being’ and revolves around the art of defining your own meaning in life. Usually, this inward journey requires a lot of patience and time before you find this sense of ‘purpose’ within yourself. It’s about establishing a balance between the things you are passionate about, something the world needs (no matter how small or big), the things you are good at, as well as the feasibility of financial scenarios.
Why include this awe inspiring philosophy in our life?
It is very hard for us as humans to live without knowing our purpose in life. The thought that our existence means nothing is both frightening and unacceptable. Hence, going on a self-discovery journey and finding your ‘ikigai’ or simply put, your reason for getting out of bed, can help us lead a more fulfilling life in all respects. Click here to understand how you can become more self-aware.
3. Yuugen
There are three ideals that form the traditional understanding of Japanese aesthetics: ‘wabi’ (temporary and intense beauty), ‘sabi’ (the beauty of aging and slow transformation), and ‘yuugen‘: the beauty of subtlety and elusiveness. This concept essentially describes the art of noticing the little things that often go unseen, or usually don’t catch your eye. Playwright Zeami described it as the “subtle shadows of bamboo on bamboo”, but it could be so many types of moments. Another example is when you see birds fly away and disappear behind a cloud. You can still treasure the fact that you know they are still somewhere in the sky.
What can we learn from this simple tradition?
We can learn the art of observing the beauty within. We can learn to understand love and care behind small acts of kindness or sweet words of encouragement. So often we overlook the little things in life which really matter the most! Let’s recognize and acknowledge these little things with gratitude.
4. Oubaitori
Oubaitori is the art of never comparing yourself to others. The term includes the kanji characters from the four iconic trees that all flower in the spring season: the cherry, plum, peach and apricot. They bloom alongside each other, but all in such different manners. That’s why the concept of oubaitori is also so complimentary to ikigai: it’s all about taking the time to assess your own unique character traits and capabilities. Comparing your own endeavors and skills to someone else is pointless.
What can we learn from this blossoming concept?
This concept teaches us that finding your own value is all about spending time on your own unique story, while still understanding your connection to others. We are all running a race, but the only person competing with you is your past self. When our goals, dreams, aspirations are different, how can our race be the same?
2 Comments
Keep up the good work!!!:)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the encouraging words!
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