The search for balance , the connection with spirituality and the entire process of personal improvement is internal and independent of the physical. However, creating a zen space in your home or work environment with decor that inspires relaxation and contemplation not only favors the flow of energy but also makes your everyday life brighter and more purposeful.
Those who enjoy Buddhism will find in the iconographic representations of Buddha , Bodhisattvas , symbols or Buddhist monks grandiose sources of possibilities to integrate the style and essence of Zen in interior design , such as, for example, simplicity and minimalist philosophy.
Depictions of Buddhas and monks promote energy flow and inspire balance.
In the absence of the image of Gautama Buddha or Maitreya (5th Buddha in the eschatology of Buddhism or Buddha of the future ), the figure of the Zen monk is portrayed with the classic Buddhist clothes and physical characteristics that express his Buddha nature to emphasize that he is in everything what exists in and in all beings who follow the middle path to access enlightenment .
Sometimes the monginhos exhibit the curly hair, the ushnisha (protuberance on the top of the head), the bindhu (sign on the frontal chakra ) and the elongated lobes of Siddhartha Gautama , the Historical Buddha , sometimes they present the countenance of his successor Maitreya according to the aesthetics of Chinese art , such as Hotei or Budai , being bald, smiling, with a protruding belly and accompanied by beads (pearls of wisdom) or japamala (Buddhist rosary).
Zen monk depicted with Buddha iconography to exalt enlightened nature.
In the Feng Shui philosophy, each environment activates a type of energy in the elements that make up the decor . Likewise, each visual aspect of Buddha sculptures integrates the environment with the virtues associated with each auspicious symbol that constitutes its image, whether of happiness, benevolence and abundance like the Fat Buddha , or wisdom and balance like the Thai Buddha .
The presence of the monks' tunic with a minimalist style and accessories such as japamala, in turn , illuminate the human side focused on devotion and detached from materiality and reinforces the Buddhist precept that nothing is permanent, everything is in constant transformation. In other words, that balance is fluid, resulting from daily Zen practice.
Buddhist monks teach that selflessness and devotion are paths to Buddha-nature.
although the zen space is an environment for disconnection with the outside world, it is not designed to escape reality, but to go against it and place its own shadows in the light of truth in order to transform them. In this context, it is important to define a calm and illuminated place that makes meditative practices more profitable.
In the absence of natural light, lighting with candles can enhance the environment with warmth. Colorful lanterns and rechaud candle holders next to sculptures of Buddhist monks they contribute by adding color and beauty, increasing the mystical essence without stealing the characteristic simplicity of zen .
Decoration with monks and candles promotes peace and relaxation in the Zen environment.
In addition to light, other natural elements such as stones , plants and wooden furniture reinforce the relaxation and well-being provided by the space, relieving tension. Stones with cold colors like amethyst, for example, emanate tranquility and make the zen decoration more powerful, meaningful and serene.
If you prefer, stimulate other senses to maintain spiritual focus , either by lighting incense , ringing a Tibetan bell , or inserting an Indian pillow . However, bear in mind that any intervention in this environment must be designed to provide centering and harmony - in you and in the entire space. And even though it is visually simple, the set will be essentially transformative according to the constancy of Zen practice in everyday life.
Sculptures, candles and stones form a simple and powerful set to harmonize Zen practice.
You can already see that you don't need many elements to create your own zen space and enjoy self-care with meditation . In our virtual store there are numerous decorative arts options to help you find balance; be present to notice the one that best tunes with your energy and your home. After all, just like the Buddhas , it is the little monks who choose us.
Namaste!
Milene Sousa - Art & Tune
