The Lifestyle & Design of Japanese Minimalism
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Dive into the calming world of Japanese minimalism!
Experience furniture with clean lines, gentle natural wood finishes, and pure white shades that blend in harmony. If youβre ready to give up the excess and embrace a simpler lifestyle, donβt be afraid to embrace organization, understand common mistakes, and ask questions to learn more about this simple lifestyle.
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And donβt forget to take a break from time to time to bask in beautiful nature β an integral part of this trendβs lifestyle. Embracing the principles of Japanese minimalism is an everyday life change, and one that youβll be eternally thankful for.
Now, you can turn your life into an art form with Japandi β fusing Japanese architecture and philosophies emphasis on essentialism with minimalistic living and embracing the wabi-sabi spirit. Donβt forget to get some tips from Fumio Sasaki, author of Goodbye Things on how to lead the ultimate no-frills existence to make the most of Japanese Minimalism in your home.
Your Guide to Japanese Minimalism
Meet Fumio Sasaki
Minimalism and Japanese Idiosyncrasy
In this culture, getting by with less is embraced. Japanese people lean towards a simpler lifestyle and lead happier lives with less. The Japanese concept of tea ceremonies is a prime example of this. At that moment, all else fades away as one delights in a cup of hot tea and blissful conversation. Itβs an epitome of minimalism many centuries before becoming a trend!
In the wake of Japanβs catastrophic 2011 earthquake, many Japanese citizens began looking to minimalism as a way to break away from an increasingly excessive consumption culture. According to Sasaki, one should focus on getting only what is necessary and important for their life instead of giving in to excess. This includes furniture that may be used infrequently or seasonally.
Minimalism encourages individuals to truly prioritize themselves above all else! These aspects of Japanese culture further prove just how important minimalism is in this culture.
Japanese Minimalism and Nature
Japanese minimalism is rooted in nature, from the natural textures of wood and stone to its palette of earthy tones. Tapping into traditional culture allows us to create spaces that donβt feel synthetic β with cozy whites contrasting against hues inspired by plants like browns, beiges, greys, and greens. Japanese art also embraces all of these design principles.
If youβre looking to create a relaxed, tranquil oasis in your home, there are two minimalist approaches that could do the trick and spark joy! Nordic minimalism uses whites and blues for an idyllic cabin-like interior design theme, while Japanese style brings nature into play with natural materials and furnishings.
Marie Kondoβs philosophy of βtidying upβ might make your home look put together. But for Sasaki, minimalism is the true goal.
This Japanese approach shifts focus away from what joy an item brings you and instead challenges one to question what they truly need in life β only keeping that which is essential!
What Defines Japanese Minimalist Design?
These rooms are all about simplicity. A soft palette of colors creates a calm atmosphere and open feel, with nothing more than is absolutely necessary for the space to fulfill its purpose β no frills or distractions here! Itβs all about calmness, softness, and creating a nice space that invites in nature.
Furniture and Decoration
Furniture with a low profile is steeped in tradition β believed to date back thousands of years, it has been stylishly adapted throughout history and now continues as part of the latest trend. Taking things one step further: even futon beds can be neatly tucked away in closets when not needed; ensuring space-saving elegance within any Japanese home.
For a stylish Western look, go for pieces with clean lines and classic hues. After all, you donβt have to be OTT when it comes to decorating! Keeping everything low profile and chilled out can do just as much, if not more, than when youβre over the top.
The Role of Nature
Bring a touch of the outdoors in and let natural light be your guide to creating an atmosphere thatβs both inviting and warm. This is one of the very best ways to embrace a minimalist lifestyle, as itβs all about nature and being as natural as possible.
Donβt forget to get some indoor plants, as they will make your space feel alive and bright. Very similar to Zen Buddhism, minimalism is about being able to connect with nature and embrace it in every aspect.
If tending to plants isnβt really on top of your list, use interior greens instead β as this article showcases some great ideas for minimalist homes! Not all green has to come from plants, or even real plants. You can include some faux plants too if thatβs more suitable for your lifestyle.
Some Recommendations to Adopt This Lifestyle
Now, Iβd like to show you some of my favorite tips for adopting a minimalistic lifestyle. These tips will help to ensure that you know exactly what youβre doing when embracing the lifestyle and design of Japanese minimalism. Here are some tips that are given by Fumio Sasaki in his book Goodbye Things.
- Start by giving away, selling, or donating everything thatβs junk.
- Cut down on all your repeat business and get rid of everything you havenβt used in a year.
- Discard anything that produces visual noise.
- Throw away anything you have to make it seem like youβre someone youβre not.
- Clear your mind that you donβt want to leave something behind because it was expensive when you bought it.
- Donβt buy something because itβs cheap or take it away because itβs free.
If you enjoyed this blog post, here are some more minimalist lifestyle posts you might find interesting:
- 10 Ways To Save Money
- A Minimalist Is Not A Cheapskate
- Reasons To Take Your Shoes Off Before Entering Your Home
If you enjoyed this content, donβt forget to like and share it and subscribe to my blog at the footer of the page for updates and future plans Iβm working on. I canβt wait to have you on this journey with me.
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