Shoji Screens and the Traditional Zen Style
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How much Zen does your home have? The Zen style of decorating is not only popular in Japan, but also in the West. Yet what exactly is "Zen style"? This type of "style" is difficult to define. That's because it's not technically a philosophy, religion, or even a style. It would be more accurate to define Zen as a state of being.
When we think of Zen style, we typically think of Japan. But in fact, Zen originated in India. It's essentially one of the branches of Buddhism. Meditation is used as a way to obtain enlightenment. While it's difficult to define Zen, you can use objects such as Shoji screens to create a "Zen style." Here are some ways that this type of Japanese screen promotes a Zen style:
1. Look
A Shoji screen not only helps to provide an authentic Japanese look in a room, but its look also creates an environment that promotes the Zen style. They create a light look that will promote the Zen theme of meditation. Even if you don't meditate, this type of room divider can help to "lighten" your mind, allowing your daily stress to melt away.
2. Flow
One essence of Zen style is creating an aura of free-flowing energy within your home. A way you can create more Zen "flow" in your home, is by using a Shoji folding screens. Firstly, there's the fact that these screens are foldable and movable. This creates a look and feel of a mobility, which will allow energy (and the screen itself) to appear more flexible. Another way that Zen flow is promoted, is through the use of rice paper on the screen. This also creates a light, airy atmosphere in which energy (and air) can move freely throughout a room.
3. Natural
This is another way that shoji screens can help to promote a Zen style in your home. These screens are very basic and natural. They typically include a wood frame. The frame is covered by a material that originates from natural fibers. That can include rice paper, thick paper, and other types of natural papers. Nature has an important role in Zen Buddhism, so using décor in your home that's 100% natural can certainly help to create an atmosphere that promotes the Zen style.
4. Privacy
Yet another way that shoji screens promote the Zen style, is by providing more privacy in your home. Meditation is a crucial element in Zen Buddhism. Even if you don't meditate per se, the privacy that these screens provide can create an aura of the privacy linked to meditation.
5. Simplicity
Simplicity is yet another component of the Shoji screen. The screens' simplicity and lack of clutter will allow energy to flow more freely throughout your home. And as an added bonus, they'll cause the rooms in your home to look "lighter."
If you want to use the Zen decorating style in your home, then consider adding Shoji screens. Even if you never meditate, the screen can create a light, simple aura that can ease your mind.
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