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A Little History of Japanese Sweets
Classbento Team
A Little History of Japanese Sweets
Classbento TeamPreview
A typical Japanese bakery will have wagashi. In fact, they won’t just have wagashi. Most likely, they will have many, many<p>A typical Japanese bakery will have wagashi. In fact, they won’t just <em>have</em> wagashi. Most likely, they will have many, many types of the bite-sized sweet Japanese treats. As you peruse your options, it will be difficult to pinpoint just one tantalizing option: there are small, soft green balls, dense, chocolate-like squares, intricately molded hard candies, and more, all delicious and delicate and exciting.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After deliberating for a long time between the wide selection, you may just have to sample more than one. Don’t worry if you don’t find your favourite treat on your first pass. Japanese sweets are available at virtually every Japanese establishment in Australia, including restaurants, department stores, food carts, and convenience stores (1). Make sure that you have an open mind and a cup of green tea with you as you begin your wagashi journey.</p>
<p><img alt="japanese wagashi sweets" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b93806bea68.jpg" style="height:1000px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p>To understand wagashi, you must first learn the ancient art of tea ceremony.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You’ve probably heard of Japanese Tea Ceremony, a practice that automatically conjures up images of delicate tea sets, the precise and talented movements of a tea master, and the serene greenery of a tea garden. Historians have written a great deal about this highly structured and difficult-to-learn cultural practice, from its introduction to Japan in the 700’s to today’s tea ceremony revival in younger generations. Everyone can agree that tea ceremony holds a special place in Japan’s national identity, invoking pride in citizens and absolute awe in tourists.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What you may not have heard, but will be excited to learn, is that tea ceremony has a sweet secret: Wagashi, or Japanese sweets.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This facet of tea culture deals specifically with the sweet accompaniments to green tea, made up mostly of sweet bean pastes and rice flour. They come in an endless variety of colors, shapes, tastes and textures, and have become a cultural staple in their own right.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dessert-lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike are anxious to sign up for Japanese confectionery classes, in which students learn the preparation method and serving technique of the tasty morsels. A course previously offered on by Classbento, for instance, offers the teachings of Wagashi-expert, Yukiko Hirano, who has perfected her teaching method for ten years at Japanese schools as well as ryokan (country-side inns that specialize in keeping traditional Japanese culture alive.)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Once you’ve signed up for your beginner’s course, you may want to brush up on your Japanese tea history before your first class. Here are a few key things to remember about this special practice:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• In the 14th century, tea ceremony was created by Zen Buddhists as a religious practice emphasizing the four integral notions of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility (2). Because of this, tea ceremony is a fundamentally spiritual practice and has retained sacred status for seven centuries.</p>
<p>• The most important name associated with tea ceremony is Sen Rikyu (3), a tea master who set the standard for tea ceremony by codifying the entire process, from the technical process, to the utensils, to the setting. He is credited with developing the notions of <em>wabi</em> (a commitment to simple, everyday living) and <em>sabi</em> (an aesthetic tendency towards the old and worn.) The overall intention is to find beauty in ordinary objects.</p>
<p>• Tea masters dedicate their entire lives to perfecting their craft, and a full tea ceremony can last up for four hours, with multiple renditions of green tea, a meal, sake tasting, and wagashi (4).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now that you have a foundational knowledge of the main show, let’s pivot to one of the key players of the ceremony: wagashi.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wagashi can be broken down into three separate categories - <em>togashi</em>, <em>tenjin</em> and <em>nanban</em>-<em>gashi</em> - each with its own taste and cultural history(5).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <em>Togashi </em>is the rarest form of Japanese confectionery and is made from the kneading of wheat flour or bean paste into various shapes. It is then deep-fried and has a long tradition of being served at aristocratic banquets.</p>
<p>• <em>Tenjin</em> is the type most closely associated with tea ceremony as it was introduced with by the zen buddhists who popularized the custom. It is characterized by jellied and bun-like sweets, although traditional versions were more savory than sweet.</p>
<p>• <em>Nanban-gashi </em>was radically different from other forms of wagashi when it was introduced by Portuguese immigrants in 1543. Unlike its savory relatives, this unique form<em> </em>utilized sweet ingredients and eggs, which were previously uncommon on the islands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If such distinctions are not enough, wagashi gets <em>more</em> complicated - and more exciting! For, the creation of Japanese sweets are not simply shaping sweetened bean paste into random shapes. Instead, each wagashi creates a balance of the senses which enhances its role as part of the Zen Buddhist’s tea ceremony(6):</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• Sight - each wagashi is perfectly crafted to be aesthetically pleasing and thought provoking</p>
<p>• Taste - wagashi is a showcase of its natural ingredients, allowing the person tasting the treat to admire traditional Japanese crops such as beans and grains</p>
<p>• Texture – the sweets come in a vast variety of textures, from soft to crispy to light to dense</p>
<p>• Scent - a key aspect is subtlety - in fragrance, especially. Each morsel compliments the other scents of the ceremony, like the all-important green tea</p>
<p>• Sound - wagashi invoke an auditory response as a result of its unique and significant labels. Many refer to natural elements or traditional poetic works</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When sifting through all of the information, you may feel a little bit overwhelmed. This is normal; tea ceremony and Japanese sweets boast of long and meaningful histories that are difficult for foreigners to understand.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But wagashi can be a beautiful and accessible hobby, in which students learn about and gain an appreciation for an incredibly complex culture while also exploring the creative process of wagashi-making.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As a student of wagashi, you can benefit just by learning the basics, or you can fully lean into the practice, tapping into an extensive and well-established tradition of sweet-making.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>References:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) japan-guide.com</p>
<p>(2) mightyleaf.com</p>
<p>(3) britannica.com</p>
<p>(4) shibuiswords.com</p>
<p>(5) kikkoman.com</p>
<p>(6) toraya-group.co.jp</p>
...
Preview
A typical Japanese bakery will have wagashi. In fact, they won’t just have<p>A typical Japanese bakery will have wagashi. In fact, they won’t just <em>have</em> wagashi. Most likely, they will have many, many types of the bite-sized sweet Japanese treats. As you peruse your options, it will be difficult to pinpoint just one tantalizing option: there are small, soft green balls, dense, chocolate-like squares, intricately molded hard candies, and more, all delicious and delicate and exciting.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After deliberating for a long time between the wide selection, you may just have to sample more than one. Don’t worry if you don’t find your favourite treat on your first pass. Japanese sweets are available at virtually every Japanese establishment in Australia, including restaurants, department stores, food carts, and convenience stores (1). Make sure that you have an open mind and a cup of green tea with you as you begin your wagashi journey.</p>
<p><img alt="japanese wagashi sweets" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b93806bea68.jpg" style="height:1000px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p>To understand wagashi, you must first learn the ancient art of tea ceremony.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You’ve probably heard of Japanese Tea Ceremony, a practice that automatically conjures up images of delicate tea sets, the precise and talented movements of a tea master, and the serene greenery of a tea garden. Historians have written a great deal about this highly structured and difficult-to-learn cultural practice, from its introduction to Japan in the 700’s to today’s tea ceremony revival in younger generations. Everyone can agree that tea ceremony holds a special place in Japan’s national identity, invoking pride in citizens and absolute awe in tourists.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What you may not have heard, but will be excited to learn, is that tea ceremony has a sweet secret: Wagashi, or Japanese sweets.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This facet of tea culture deals specifically with the sweet accompaniments to green tea, made up mostly of sweet bean pastes and rice flour. They come in an endless variety of colors, shapes, tastes and textures, and have become a cultural staple in their own right.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dessert-lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike are anxious to sign up for Japanese confectionery classes, in which students learn the preparation method and serving technique of the tasty morsels. A course previously offered on by Classbento, for instance, offers the teachings of Wagashi-expert, Yukiko Hirano, who has perfected her teaching method for ten years at Japanese schools as well as ryokan (country-side inns that specialize in keeping traditional Japanese culture alive.)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Once you’ve signed up for your beginner’s course, you may want to brush up on your Japanese tea history before your first class. Here are a few key things to remember about this special practice:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• In the 14th century, tea ceremony was created by Zen Buddhists as a religious practice emphasizing the four integral notions of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility (2). Because of this, tea ceremony is a fundamentally spiritual practice and has retained sacred status for seven centuries.</p>
<p>• The most important name associated with tea ceremony is Sen Rikyu (3), a tea master who set the standard for tea ceremony by codifying the entire process, from the technical process, to the utensils, to the setting. He is credited with developing the notions of <em>wabi</em> (a commitment to simple, everyday living) and <em>sabi</em> (an aesthetic tendency towards the old and worn.) The overall intention is to find beauty in ordinary objects.</p>
<p>• Tea masters dedicate their entire lives to perfecting their craft, and a full tea ceremony can last up for four hours, with multiple renditions of green tea, a meal, sake tasting, and wagashi (4).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now that you have a foundational knowledge of the main show, let’s pivot to one of the key players of the ceremony: wagashi.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wagashi can be broken down into three separate categories - <em>togashi</em>, <em>tenjin</em> and <em>nanban</em>-<em>gashi</em> - each with its own taste and cultural history(5).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <em>Togashi </em>is the rarest form of Japanese confectionery and is made from the kneading of wheat flour or bean paste into various shapes. It is then deep-fried and has a long tradition of being served at aristocratic banquets.</p>
<p>• <em>Tenjin</em> is the type most closely associated with tea ceremony as it was introduced with by the zen buddhists who popularized the custom. It is characterized by jellied and bun-like sweets, although traditional versions were more savory than sweet.</p>
<p>• <em>Nanban-gashi </em>was radically different from other forms of wagashi when it was introduced by Portuguese immigrants in 1543. Unlike its savory relatives, this unique form<em> </em>utilized sweet ingredients and eggs, which were previously uncommon on the islands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If such distinctions are not enough, wagashi gets <em>more</em> complicated - and more exciting! For, the creation of Japanese sweets are not simply shaping sweetened bean paste into random shapes. Instead, each wagashi creates a balance of the senses which enhances its role as part of the Zen Buddhist’s tea ceremony(6):</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• Sight - each wagashi is perfectly crafted to be aesthetically pleasing and thought provoking</p>
<p>• Taste - wagashi is a showcase of its natural ingredients, allowing the person tasting the treat to admire traditional Japanese crops such as beans and grains</p>
<p>• Texture – the sweets come in a vast variety of textures, from soft to crispy to light to dense</p>
<p>• Scent - a key aspect is subtlety - in fragrance, especially. Each morsel compliments the other scents of the ceremony, like the all-important green tea</p>
<p>• Sound - wagashi invoke an auditory response as a result of its unique and significant labels. Many refer to natural elements or traditional poetic works</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When sifting through all of the information, you may feel a little bit overwhelmed. This is normal; tea ceremony and Japanese sweets boast of long and meaningful histories that are difficult for foreigners to understand.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But wagashi can be a beautiful and accessible hobby, in which students learn about and gain an appreciation for an incredibly complex culture while also exploring the creative process of wagashi-making.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As a student of wagashi, you can benefit just by learning the basics, or you can fully lean into the practice, tapping into an extensive and well-established tradition of sweet-making.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>References:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) japan-guide.com</p>
<p>(2) mightyleaf.com</p>
<p>(3) britannica.com</p>
<p>(4) shibuiswords.com</p>
<p>(5) kikkoman.com</p>
<p>(6) toraya-group.co.jp</p>
...
Japanese Calligraphy Gets Your Focus Back
Classbento Team
Japanese Calligraphy Gets Your Focus Back
Classbento TeamPreview
Whenever I see the Japanese calligraphy, shodo, I am astounded. I have trouble enough writing legibly with a pencil, let alone<p>Whenever I see the <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/shodo-japanese-calligraphy">Japanese calligraphy</a>, <strong><em>shodo</em></strong>, I am astounded. I have trouble enough writing legibly with a pencil, let alone create a work of art with something as permanent as black ink. Even games of Pictionary are a disaster for my shaky and untrained hand.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But I shouldn’t be discouraged; <strong><em>shodo</em> </strong>is learned practice. Anyone with the patience and commitment to study the art form can gain the skills necessary to become a calligraphy artist. Plus, there is much more to <em>shodo</em> than the artistic creation, and even students without so-called natural talent can enjoy a range of benefits associated with the learning process.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>One of the most intriguing aspects of pursuing <em>shodo</em>, for instance, is learning about the rich history of Japanese calligraphy.</p>
<p><img alt="shodo japanese calligraphy" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b93c9c4083b.jpg" style="height:666px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p><strong>Calligraphy Roots across the sea</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>It may surprise you to learn that Japanese calligraphy actually calls China its birthplace, where historians have found early pictograms on animal bones and stones dating back to 3,500 years ago (1). With revolutions to the practice around 100 CE, such as the invention of papyrus-like material and brushes made from animal hair, calligraphy as we know it today was born.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Shodo </em>was introduced in Japan as early as 600 CE, when Japanese aristocracy made learning the intricate discipline part of the education of young royal members. As the art form developed on the island, characteristics unique to Japanese culture surfaced and replaced some of the traditional Chinese elements.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Between 1185–1333 CE, another drastic change occurred in the field of calligraphy, namely the influence of Zen Buddhism on the practice. This period saw a flourishing of artistic refinery across the archipelago, with the introduction of cultural traditions such as tea ceremony, flower arranging, and landscape painting. Calligraphy was an integral part of this process, and continues to be an important part of Japanese tradition.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The fundamentals</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>As an artist of any discipline will tell you, quality tools are the most important part of the process. Without an understanding of and respect for your materials, you cannot advance in your craft. So here’s a foundational review (2) of the tools most important to <em>shodo:</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong>First, the brush, or <em>fude.</em></strong><em> </em>Made from various types and blends of animal hair, the brushes used in <em>shodo</em> come in many different forms but usually have a handle of wood or bamboo. Depending on the character, broad-stroke or fine-line brushes must be used. It is very important to take diligent care of the <em>fude. </em></p>
<p>• <strong>Next, the ink stick and ink stone, or<em> </em>sumi<em> </em>and<em> suzuri</em></strong><em>. </em>The black ink used in <em>shodo </em>is created by rubbing the <em>sumi</em> (made from the soot of burned woods) on the <em>suzuri</em> (a heavy stone prepared with a few drops of water.) This creates a thick black ink in which to dip the <em>fude.</em></p>
<p>• <strong><em>Shodo Paper, or Hanshi. </em></strong>Though there are multiple ways to create paper for <em>shodo</em>, the most common method is <em>washi, </em>or hand-molded Japanese paper. Unlike paper used for Chinese calligraphy, this type of <em>hanshi</em> is very thin and does not soak up as much ink.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The practice, itself</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>After gaining an appreciation for the tools necessary in <em>shodo</em>, it is also helpful to review the unique skills required of practicing calligraphy. You may find that as you gain access to this skill set, you will also enjoy a range of cognitive and emotional benefits as well.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong><em>Self-discipline: </em></strong>a key strength taught through the art of <em>shodo </em>is self-discipline. The art of Japanese calligraphy calls for a demanding amount of repetition, attention to detail and long-term commitment. Only by finding an internal well of strength and discipline, can you hope to improve as an artist. For those that find this strength, studies show that self-discipline is an incredible skill that can be translated to a variety of settings outside of your calligraphy class. Self-discipline not only accounts for 80% of the goal attainment process, but also paves the way for mentally beneficial practices of self-love and respect (3).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong><em>Perseverance: </em></strong>anyone who has failed at something knows how difficult perseverance can be. And <em>shodo </em>requires quite a bit of the skill because of the stringent technique necessary to create the beautiful works of art. Yet, because of the difficulty in attaining perfection in <em>shodo</em>, perseverance can amplify feelings of fulfillment and achievement, and this payoff can make other challenges in your life seem attainable as well.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong><em>Focus: </em></strong>at the core of Zen Buddhism is a life-changing concept: mindfulness. Mindfulness is awareness of the present state of existence, an invitation to see things how they are and appreciate them without judgement or prescription. In other words, it is an attempt to focus the mind away from irrelevant thoughts and onto the task at hand. With as technical a craft as <em>shodo,</em> which forces its students to pay extreme attention to detail and form, mindfulness is easily attainable. And this is great for students interested in the wellness benefits of <em>shodo; </em>effective practice of mindfulness has been linked to a long list of health benefits, including reduced inflammation, better sleep, and higher immunity (4).</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em>Take up Shodo and reap the benefits</em></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Whether you’re interested in learning a little bit about Japanese cultural traditions or you’re looking for a challenging creative outlet, a beginner’s class in <em>shodo</em> will intrigue and engage you. You will learn about each integral part of the artistic process, from picking out the best materials to exploring the expressive Japanese characters. Along the way, you will also pick up skills that can not only be translated into other areas of your life, but will contribute to your overall mental wellbeing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Don’t worry. Even if you’ve got shaky handwriting or haven’t explored your artistic skills before, your <em>shodo </em>instructor will introduce you to a world much larger than simply putting brush strokes on a piece of paper. There’s no reason to be intimidated, and plenty to explore.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) fishpond.com.au</p>
<p>(2) sites.google.com</p>
<p>(3) huffingtonpost.com</p>
<p>(4) abc.net.au</p>
...
Preview
Whenever I see the Japanese calligraphy, shodo, I am astounded. I have trouble enough<p>Whenever I see the <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/shodo-japanese-calligraphy">Japanese calligraphy</a>, <strong><em>shodo</em></strong>, I am astounded. I have trouble enough writing legibly with a pencil, let alone create a work of art with something as permanent as black ink. Even games of Pictionary are a disaster for my shaky and untrained hand.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But I shouldn’t be discouraged; <strong><em>shodo</em> </strong>is learned practice. Anyone with the patience and commitment to study the art form can gain the skills necessary to become a calligraphy artist. Plus, there is much more to <em>shodo</em> than the artistic creation, and even students without so-called natural talent can enjoy a range of benefits associated with the learning process.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>One of the most intriguing aspects of pursuing <em>shodo</em>, for instance, is learning about the rich history of Japanese calligraphy.</p>
<p><img alt="shodo japanese calligraphy" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b93c9c4083b.jpg" style="height:666px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p><strong>Calligraphy Roots across the sea</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>It may surprise you to learn that Japanese calligraphy actually calls China its birthplace, where historians have found early pictograms on animal bones and stones dating back to 3,500 years ago (1). With revolutions to the practice around 100 CE, such as the invention of papyrus-like material and brushes made from animal hair, calligraphy as we know it today was born.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Shodo </em>was introduced in Japan as early as 600 CE, when Japanese aristocracy made learning the intricate discipline part of the education of young royal members. As the art form developed on the island, characteristics unique to Japanese culture surfaced and replaced some of the traditional Chinese elements.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Between 1185–1333 CE, another drastic change occurred in the field of calligraphy, namely the influence of Zen Buddhism on the practice. This period saw a flourishing of artistic refinery across the archipelago, with the introduction of cultural traditions such as tea ceremony, flower arranging, and landscape painting. Calligraphy was an integral part of this process, and continues to be an important part of Japanese tradition.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The fundamentals</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>As an artist of any discipline will tell you, quality tools are the most important part of the process. Without an understanding of and respect for your materials, you cannot advance in your craft. So here’s a foundational review (2) of the tools most important to <em>shodo:</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong>First, the brush, or <em>fude.</em></strong><em> </em>Made from various types and blends of animal hair, the brushes used in <em>shodo</em> come in many different forms but usually have a handle of wood or bamboo. Depending on the character, broad-stroke or fine-line brushes must be used. It is very important to take diligent care of the <em>fude. </em></p>
<p>• <strong>Next, the ink stick and ink stone, or<em> </em>sumi<em> </em>and<em> suzuri</em></strong><em>. </em>The black ink used in <em>shodo </em>is created by rubbing the <em>sumi</em> (made from the soot of burned woods) on the <em>suzuri</em> (a heavy stone prepared with a few drops of water.) This creates a thick black ink in which to dip the <em>fude.</em></p>
<p>• <strong><em>Shodo Paper, or Hanshi. </em></strong>Though there are multiple ways to create paper for <em>shodo</em>, the most common method is <em>washi, </em>or hand-molded Japanese paper. Unlike paper used for Chinese calligraphy, this type of <em>hanshi</em> is very thin and does not soak up as much ink.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The practice, itself</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>After gaining an appreciation for the tools necessary in <em>shodo</em>, it is also helpful to review the unique skills required of practicing calligraphy. You may find that as you gain access to this skill set, you will also enjoy a range of cognitive and emotional benefits as well.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong><em>Self-discipline: </em></strong>a key strength taught through the art of <em>shodo </em>is self-discipline. The art of Japanese calligraphy calls for a demanding amount of repetition, attention to detail and long-term commitment. Only by finding an internal well of strength and discipline, can you hope to improve as an artist. For those that find this strength, studies show that self-discipline is an incredible skill that can be translated to a variety of settings outside of your calligraphy class. Self-discipline not only accounts for 80% of the goal attainment process, but also paves the way for mentally beneficial practices of self-love and respect (3).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong><em>Perseverance: </em></strong>anyone who has failed at something knows how difficult perseverance can be. And <em>shodo </em>requires quite a bit of the skill because of the stringent technique necessary to create the beautiful works of art. Yet, because of the difficulty in attaining perfection in <em>shodo</em>, perseverance can amplify feelings of fulfillment and achievement, and this payoff can make other challenges in your life seem attainable as well.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>• <strong><em>Focus: </em></strong>at the core of Zen Buddhism is a life-changing concept: mindfulness. Mindfulness is awareness of the present state of existence, an invitation to see things how they are and appreciate them without judgement or prescription. In other words, it is an attempt to focus the mind away from irrelevant thoughts and onto the task at hand. With as technical a craft as <em>shodo,</em> which forces its students to pay extreme attention to detail and form, mindfulness is easily attainable. And this is great for students interested in the wellness benefits of <em>shodo; </em>effective practice of mindfulness has been linked to a long list of health benefits, including reduced inflammation, better sleep, and higher immunity (4).</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em>Take up Shodo and reap the benefits</em></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Whether you’re interested in learning a little bit about Japanese cultural traditions or you’re looking for a challenging creative outlet, a beginner’s class in <em>shodo</em> will intrigue and engage you. You will learn about each integral part of the artistic process, from picking out the best materials to exploring the expressive Japanese characters. Along the way, you will also pick up skills that can not only be translated into other areas of your life, but will contribute to your overall mental wellbeing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Don’t worry. Even if you’ve got shaky handwriting or haven’t explored your artistic skills before, your <em>shodo </em>instructor will introduce you to a world much larger than simply putting brush strokes on a piece of paper. There’s no reason to be intimidated, and plenty to explore.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) fishpond.com.au</p>
<p>(2) sites.google.com</p>
<p>(3) huffingtonpost.com</p>
<p>(4) abc.net.au</p>
...
Find Balance with Ikebana Flower Arranging
Classbento Team
Find Balance with Ikebana Flower Arranging
Classbento TeamPreview
To the untrained eye, ikebana may seem like just a few flowers in a bowl. The translation of the name doesn’t shed much<p>To the untrained eye, <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class"><em>ikebana</em></a> may seem like just a few flowers in a bowl. The translation of the name doesn’t shed much light, with <em>ike </em>meaning “arrange” or “alive” and <em>bana </em>meaning “flower (1).” <em>Ikebana </em>is also sometimes referred to in relation to <em>kado</em> or “the way of the flower (2).” But this etymology doesn’t get us any closer to understanding what <em>ikebana</em> is, why it is so popular, or where it came from.</p>
<p><img alt="ikebana flower arrangment" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b942590bdce.jpg" style="height:858px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p>So to paint the picture, let’s consider the following scene:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Image that the year is 1403 and you are in Kyoto, Japan. You are approaching a Zen Buddhist temple, which is perched on the edge of a tranquil lake. Everywhere you look, you see twisting pines and thick green foliage. Pink and white cherry blossoms seem to be falling delicately from the sky. This is a sacred place, and as such it is quiet and calm.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The square building in front of you is three stories tall, each level separated by an ornate, sweeping roof and wrap-around walkway. The siding is yellowish-gold color which sets the temple in stark contrast with the soft greenery surrounding it. As you walk closer, you notice there is a doorway on the side of the temple facing the water, and you enter with bated breath.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Inside, simplicity governs the space. Natural light filters through panes of thin-paper windows and the wood flooring is bright and open. The room is free of all furniture, except for an alter at the center, directly in front of you.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The mantle is arranged on three tiers: at the top is an ornate carving of the Buddha in black stone. The two lower levels house four different floral arrangements, each seeming to defy gravity with their sprawling stems and drooping flowers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You are surprised by the array of colors: deep violet tulips are placed with bright red buds and wide pink water lilies. Interspersed with the flowers are precariously arranged leafless sticks and pine tree branches, which reach up and lean gracefully over to the side or curl around the outside of the arrangement as if holding everything in.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Each <em>ikebana</em> is its own world of balance, playfulness, and tranquility. You could look at each one for hours, focusing on each individual blade of grass, stem, stick, or flower petal, and never tire of its design. Incredibly, each <em>ikebana</em> also adds to the balance of the alter as a whole. The effect is a kind of visual relaxation that is at once satisfying and mystifying.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You realize, as you continue to appreciate the earthly beauty in front of you, that you are unconsciously practicing a fundamental Zen Buddhist tradition: the practice of mindfulness, of allowing the mind to exist in the present moment, and to bask in the calmness and serenity of the body (3).</p>
<p>Put simply, i<em>kebana </em>is not just a few flowers in a bowl. It is an art form. A spiritual journey. An integral piece of Japanese tradition.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even to the untrained eye, this is something sacred and special.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>And now, it is open to individuals all over the world. Classes range from beginner’s design to advanced floral arrangement. Classbento’s Setsuko Yanagisawa leads an exciting <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class">introductory course</a> which covers the basics of <em>ikebana</em> like layering flowers and building up an arrangement from the base. You will even learn the different types of Japanese flora and fauna in order to make a beautiful and authentic work of art.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As with any creative pursuit, <em>ikebana </em>also offers a range of mental health benefits as well. The most, obvious benefit, probably is the meditative element of Japanese flower arrangement.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The benefits of meditation are well-documented (4), and have been shown to have a positive impact on people dealing with anxiety, depression and even physical pain. <em>Ikebana </em>can invite you to meditate by focusing your awareness on the technical and creative task at hand. You’ll find yourself so immersed in the beauty of your work, that you may not even realize that you’re meditating until you leave the session relaxed and serene.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Another advantage of practicing <em>ikebana</em>: self-expression. According to the Government of Western Australia Mental Health Commission (6), self-expression is a key factor in improving mental health and wellbeing. Luckily, <em>ikebana </em>is fundamentally a practice of self-expression, in which each arrangement speaks to the emotions and visual aesthetic of the individual creator. Furthermore, it can lead to a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, and because there are more than 3,000 schools of <em>ikebana</em> today(5), you will never run out of ways to express your creativity.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you’re interested in incorporating your newfound skills in Japanese flower arrangements into your home, here’s some more great news for you. <em>Ikebana </em>can greatly improve your everyday mood by changing the ambiance of your living space. At its core, <em>ikebana</em> is about simplicity, balance, and an appreciation for the imperfect beauty of the natural world. These elements create a calm and relaxing atmosphere, which will naturally lower stress and rejuvenate you.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In addition to tranquility, the emphasis on appreciation offers its own set of advantages for those looking to take care of their mental wellbeing. According to prominent voices in the field of gratitude like Hugh van Cuylenburg (7), research clearly indicates that showing gratitude, for something as small as a glass of water to something as meaningful as a loving family, can greatly increase feelings of happiness and satisfaction. <em>Ikebana</em> teaches this practice of gratitude powerfully by asking its students to appreciate and be thankful for everything from the beautiful glazed vase to the fragile stems to the striking blooms of color and fragrance.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Overall, <em>ikebana </em>is not simply the act of arranging flowers. It goes far beyond its vague etymology into the realm of art, spirituality, and mental wellbeing. By signing up for a beginner’s class in <em>ikebana, </em>you are embarking on a meaningful and beautiful cultural journey.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Enjoy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>References:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) ftd.com</p>
<p>(2) livingnow.com.au</p>
<p>(3) zen-buddhism.net</p>
<p>(4) mindaustralia.org.au</p>
<p>(5) ikebanabyjunko.com</p>
<p>(6) mentalhealth.wa.gov.au</p>
<p>(7) smh.com.au</p>
...
Preview
To the untrained eye, ikebana may seem like just a few flowers in a bowl. The translation<p>To the untrained eye, <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class"><em>ikebana</em></a> may seem like just a few flowers in a bowl. The translation of the name doesn’t shed much light, with <em>ike </em>meaning “arrange” or “alive” and <em>bana </em>meaning “flower (1).” <em>Ikebana </em>is also sometimes referred to in relation to <em>kado</em> or “the way of the flower (2).” But this etymology doesn’t get us any closer to understanding what <em>ikebana</em> is, why it is so popular, or where it came from.</p>
<p><img alt="ikebana flower arrangment" src="/images/ckeditor/182/57b942590bdce.jpg" style="height:858px; width:1000px" /></p>
<p>So to paint the picture, let’s consider the following scene:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Image that the year is 1403 and you are in Kyoto, Japan. You are approaching a Zen Buddhist temple, which is perched on the edge of a tranquil lake. Everywhere you look, you see twisting pines and thick green foliage. Pink and white cherry blossoms seem to be falling delicately from the sky. This is a sacred place, and as such it is quiet and calm.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The square building in front of you is three stories tall, each level separated by an ornate, sweeping roof and wrap-around walkway. The siding is yellowish-gold color which sets the temple in stark contrast with the soft greenery surrounding it. As you walk closer, you notice there is a doorway on the side of the temple facing the water, and you enter with bated breath.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Inside, simplicity governs the space. Natural light filters through panes of thin-paper windows and the wood flooring is bright and open. The room is free of all furniture, except for an alter at the center, directly in front of you.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The mantle is arranged on three tiers: at the top is an ornate carving of the Buddha in black stone. The two lower levels house four different floral arrangements, each seeming to defy gravity with their sprawling stems and drooping flowers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You are surprised by the array of colors: deep violet tulips are placed with bright red buds and wide pink water lilies. Interspersed with the flowers are precariously arranged leafless sticks and pine tree branches, which reach up and lean gracefully over to the side or curl around the outside of the arrangement as if holding everything in.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Each <em>ikebana</em> is its own world of balance, playfulness, and tranquility. You could look at each one for hours, focusing on each individual blade of grass, stem, stick, or flower petal, and never tire of its design. Incredibly, each <em>ikebana</em> also adds to the balance of the alter as a whole. The effect is a kind of visual relaxation that is at once satisfying and mystifying.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You realize, as you continue to appreciate the earthly beauty in front of you, that you are unconsciously practicing a fundamental Zen Buddhist tradition: the practice of mindfulness, of allowing the mind to exist in the present moment, and to bask in the calmness and serenity of the body (3).</p>
<p>Put simply, i<em>kebana </em>is not just a few flowers in a bowl. It is an art form. A spiritual journey. An integral piece of Japanese tradition.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even to the untrained eye, this is something sacred and special.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>And now, it is open to individuals all over the world. Classes range from beginner’s design to advanced floral arrangement. Classbento’s Setsuko Yanagisawa leads an exciting <a href="https://www.classbento.com.au/ikebana-flower-arrangement-class">introductory course</a> which covers the basics of <em>ikebana</em> like layering flowers and building up an arrangement from the base. You will even learn the different types of Japanese flora and fauna in order to make a beautiful and authentic work of art.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As with any creative pursuit, <em>ikebana </em>also offers a range of mental health benefits as well. The most, obvious benefit, probably is the meditative element of Japanese flower arrangement.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The benefits of meditation are well-documented (4), and have been shown to have a positive impact on people dealing with anxiety, depression and even physical pain. <em>Ikebana </em>can invite you to meditate by focusing your awareness on the technical and creative task at hand. You’ll find yourself so immersed in the beauty of your work, that you may not even realize that you’re meditating until you leave the session relaxed and serene.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Another advantage of practicing <em>ikebana</em>: self-expression. According to the Government of Western Australia Mental Health Commission (6), self-expression is a key factor in improving mental health and wellbeing. Luckily, <em>ikebana </em>is fundamentally a practice of self-expression, in which each arrangement speaks to the emotions and visual aesthetic of the individual creator. Furthermore, it can lead to a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, and because there are more than 3,000 schools of <em>ikebana</em> today(5), you will never run out of ways to express your creativity.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you’re interested in incorporating your newfound skills in Japanese flower arrangements into your home, here’s some more great news for you. <em>Ikebana </em>can greatly improve your everyday mood by changing the ambiance of your living space. At its core, <em>ikebana</em> is about simplicity, balance, and an appreciation for the imperfect beauty of the natural world. These elements create a calm and relaxing atmosphere, which will naturally lower stress and rejuvenate you.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In addition to tranquility, the emphasis on appreciation offers its own set of advantages for those looking to take care of their mental wellbeing. According to prominent voices in the field of gratitude like Hugh van Cuylenburg (7), research clearly indicates that showing gratitude, for something as small as a glass of water to something as meaningful as a loving family, can greatly increase feelings of happiness and satisfaction. <em>Ikebana</em> teaches this practice of gratitude powerfully by asking its students to appreciate and be thankful for everything from the beautiful glazed vase to the fragile stems to the striking blooms of color and fragrance.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Overall, <em>ikebana </em>is not simply the act of arranging flowers. It goes far beyond its vague etymology into the realm of art, spirituality, and mental wellbeing. By signing up for a beginner’s class in <em>ikebana, </em>you are embarking on a meaningful and beautiful cultural journey.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Enjoy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>References:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) ftd.com</p>
<p>(2) livingnow.com.au</p>
<p>(3) zen-buddhism.net</p>
<p>(4) mindaustralia.org.au</p>
<p>(5) ikebanabyjunko.com</p>
<p>(6) mentalhealth.wa.gov.au</p>
<p>(7) smh.com.au</p>
...
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