Harmony. Peace. Unity. Meditation. Enlightenment. Freedom.
Those are just a few of the teachings related to the ancient Zen culture. It is actually a way of letting the mind wonder to reach a place where it will find true serenity. Nowadays, accomplishing any of these things seems practically impossible. People are too focused on their careers, responsibilities, tight schedules and everyday stress. This is exactly why people should strive and focus their minds on reaching the ultimate bliss and putting their minds at ease. These are some useful tips on how to rearrange a house space so it would create a Zen and peaceful ambient.
Eliminating the Non-Essential
One of the main focuses of the Zen teachings is eliminating everything that is not necessary and of crucial value. This teaching does not apply only on the mind and on the spiritual stuff but on the material things as well. This said it is of great importance to rid the space intended for harmony, of all the redundant and superfluous items. Choosing only the fundamental things will surely contribute to the complete ambient of the Zen room. Opting for a few pieces of furniture and some plant life will surely be enough for creating the ultimate Zen space.
Empty Space
Another thing which is quite connected to the former one is creating an empty space for enjoyment and peacefulness. This is not something that should be taken literally. It is not the main intention to sit in an empty room surrounded with only four white walls. The intention is to avoid cluttering the space and creating a spacious room where the energy can be transferred easily and with no troubles. This means focusing attention on acquiring only the essential stuff and furniture that will aid in future practices.
Simplicity
Keeping things simple, clean and neat is one of the most important things when it comes to Zen. A minimalistic approach is something that is quite valued in Zen interior decoration. Clean and bold lines, furniture placed in geometrical shapes; freeing the space of all the excess ornaments and decorations. When it comes to Zen teachings, the expression less is more has some definite meaning here. Simplicity and minimalism is something that should be the main objective here. Because of this, neutral and earthly colors should be a focus of the whole room. Black, white, brown and beige always get a job done properly.
Elegance
Not many people will be able to connect Zen to elegance. This is because many cultures believe that by ridding yourself of material items, you lose the ability to achieve a glamorous and elegant appearance. This is a common misconception. Elegance is something that is a clear focus of a Zen space. This means carefully choosing the materials and fabrics, like opting for a Zado rug made from wool, linen or even hemp. Incorporating high-quality wooden furniture is also one of the main characteristics of this space. Elegance can be achieved even with a proper set of lighting. Moderate lighting is a good choice, but the best option is trying to introduce as much of natural light to the room as possible.
Subtlety
How to achieve a subtle look in a place of peace and serenity? This can be easily accomplished by adding small details that are associated to the Zen culture. This means experimenting with water, like adding a small fountain or even a fireplace to mark the element of fire. Other than this, wooden furniture and earthly colors are a crucial aspect of a Zen space. Metal is also one of the main elements that represent this teaching and adding details made from metal will surely be a nice and subtle touch.
Everyday routines, chores, tasks and responsibilities have known to take its toll after some period of time. Things like these can be quite overwhelming and distressing on both the body and the mind. Because of this, it is a great idea creating a small haven of peace and solitude where all the worries will disappear and the mind will cleanse itself from all the troubles. To free the mind is all that matter in the Zen culture.