The constant stimulation of modern life can make us crave peace and Zen in design has become an emerging trend in home interiors as it is a Japanese philosophy that emphasizes simplicity, nature and mindfulness. While traditional Zen gardens are vast landscapes, their basic principles can be translated into home decor, creating an atmosphere of peace in one’s everyday space.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rahul Chandhok, principal consultant, mental health and behavioral sciences at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, shared, “Our busy lives keep us constantly busy and leave no time for rest and rejuvenation. This stress and anxiety takes a toll on our overall health. Many people seek solace and relaxation through a variety of methods, including meditation, yoga, and mindfulness practices. Mini Zen gardens have emerged as another tool in this quest for inner peace. These miniature landscapes, usually consisting of sand, rocks and small decorative objects, are meant to promote peace and tranquility. But the question arises that how effective are they in reducing anxiety?”
He replied, “The concept of Zen gardens originated in Japan, where they are often found in Buddhist temples. They are designed to create a feeling of harmony and balance, reflecting the principles of Zen philosophy. Shaping sand into patterns is believed to clear the mind and focus attention, creating a meditative state. Additionally, arranging rocks and other elements can provide a creative outlet and a sense of accomplishment. Research evidence on the therapeutic effects of mini-Zen gardens is limited, but there is some evidence to suggest that they may actually help reduce anxiety. It is believed that interacting with a Zen garden, even for a short period of time, can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, in participants. Additionally, it is believed that viewing the natural scenery found in Zen gardens can have a calming effect on the mind.
The act of creating and maintaining a mini-Zen garden is also a type of mindfulness practice, encouraging individuals to focus on the present moment and let go of worries about the past or future. Dr. Rahul Chandhok explains, “This type of mindfulness-based stress reduction has proven effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It is important to understand that the effectiveness of a mini-Zen garden in reducing anxiety will vary from person to person. Some people may find the repetitive motions of scraping sand soothing, while others may find looking at the arrangement of rocks and plants very calming. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the garden and its surroundings may play a role in its ability to promote relaxation. While more research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic effects of mini-Zen gardens, some evidence suggests that they may actually help reduce anxiety. So, for those looking for a way to move from pebbles to peace, a mini-Zen garden may be worth exploring.”
Bringing her expertise to the table, Dr. Preeta Ravishree, Associate Dean of the Department of Interior Design at Pearl Academy, reveals, “In today’s fast-paced world, finding peace is more important than ever. Miniature Zen gardens provide a way to achieve inner peace. These gardens have been a part of Japanese culture since the Muromachi period (1336–1573). “Zen” comes from “chan”, which translates to meditation, a Sanskrit word meaning “meditation”. Carefully crafted for meditation and relaxation, they provide an escape from modern stresses. Zen gardens are miniature landscapes created from rocks, water features, moss and clipped vegetation. Enclosed and small, they are not just for viewing pleasure, but for introspection. They symbolize simplicity amidst complexity, symbolizing profound Zen principles beyond visual aesthetics. Each element of a Zen garden has deep symbolic meaning, reflecting the fundamental principles of Zen philosophy.
“For example, the carefully arranged rocks, or “ishi,” symbolize not only the mountains, but also the enduring power of nature and the figure of the Buddha,” he elaborated. Similarly, water features, or “mizu”, represent both physical purity and the passage of time, poignant reminders of the impermanence of life. Plantings, or “shokubutsu”, such as cherry trees and bamboo, are chosen not only for their aesthetic qualities, but also for their symbolic significance, reflecting the principles of resilience and resilience. Even seemingly mundane elements such as lanterns and bridges, known as “tenkeibutsu”, hold deep meaning, representing wisdom and unity with the universe.
Dr. Preeta Ravishree highlights, “An important aspect of Zen garden design is the principle of “shakki” or borrowed views, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all existence. By incorporating the surrounding landscape into the garden, the designers create a harmonious dialogue between nature and human intervention, promoting contemplation of universal interconnectedness. Zen gardens offer more than aesthetics; They are havens of mindfulness. Contemplating these landscapes develops a state of focused awareness, which provides respite from the complexities of modern life. Whether through the rhythmic raking of sand or quiet reflection on symbolic elements, individuals find solace and harmony in these tranquil environments.
So, whether you seek a momentary escape from the chaos of daily life or strive to cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace, consider incorporating a miniature Zen garden into your daily routine. After all, the simple act of arranging pebbles holds the potential for profound change – from chaos to peace, and from pebbles to peace.
