Introduction
Wabi Sabi, a Japanese philosophy, basically means ‘imperfect beauty’. It is a way of thought that focuses on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. People in Japan attribute Wabi Sabi to practically every aspect of their lives — from their clothing to their food, and even architecture. However, Wabi Sabi isn’t just applicable to a single culture or people. Rather, it’s a universal philosophy that can be embraced to see the beauty in the imperfect things around us. In this article, we’ll be discussing how one can adopt the Wabi Sabi philosophy in welcoming imperfection.
What is Wabi-Sabi?
The literal translation of Wabi Sabi is ‘to find beauty in the imperfect’. It encourages people to accept and appreciate the natural and simplistic state of things instead of constantly striving for perfection. Wabi Sabi can be found in nature, where things change and evolve, and where nothing is ever perfect.
Examples of Wabi Sabi
The Wabi Sabi philosophy can be applied to various aspects of daily life, from the way we perceive ourselves to the objects that surround us. Here are a few examples:
- Wrinkles and age lines on human skin
- Cracks in a bowl or vase that add character
- Peeling paint on an old building
- The changing colors and imperfections of flowers while they bloom and wilt
Welcoming Imperfection
In most cultures, perfection is seen as an ideal. But, often, the pursuit of perfection only leads to dissatisfaction and frustration. Wabi Sabi provides an alternative mindset — the acceptance of imperfection. In a world where everyone’s trying their best to be perfect, Wabi Sabi teaches us to embrace our flaws and see the beauty in them.
Appreciating the Present Moment
When we focus on the imperfect details, we shift our attention from our anxieties about the future or regrets about the past. Instead, we start appreciating the present moment. By appreciating the present moment, we can find joy in life’s simple pleasures — a soothing sunset, a hot cup of tea, or even the sound of birds chirping outside our window. By embracing the present moment, we learn to be more mindful and present in our lives.
Gratitude and Mindfulness
When we learn to appreciate the world’s imperfections, we also become more grateful for the things we have. We start to see them as a unique and precious part of our lives. Additionally, Wabi Sabi encourages mindfulness, which allows us to be self-aware and present in the moment. By being mindful, we can let go of negative thoughts and emotions that may interfere with our well-being.