Discovering sustainability through Wabi Sabi: A Japanese Philosophy

In a society dominated by continual change and innovation, we need to try remind ourselves of the impact of our actions and build a mindset that maintains sustainability within our daily lives. The Japanese concept of “Wabi Sabi” provides a new take on sustainability for us. Wabi Sabi, a philosophy based on Zen Buddhism, praises imperfection and the beauty of nature. In this blog, we will look at the history and description of Wabi Sabi, its sustainable principles, and how it might be adopted in the western world. 

History of Wabi Sabi 

Wabi Sabi first appeared in Japan in the 15th century as a response to the wealth’s luxury and lavishness. It was expressed through traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremonies, Ikebana (flower arrangements) and pottery making. The name “Wabi” alluded to the lonliness of living in nature, whereas “Sabi” meant the beauty that comes with wear and age. Wabi Sabi has grown into a broader philosophical notion emphasising simplicity, humility and appreciation for life. At its essence, Wabi Sabi honours the beauty of imperfection, and the patina that forms over centuries. Wabi Sabi invites us to appreciate the natural cycle of development, decay and rejuvenation while appreciating the beauty of every stage of life.

Sustainability Through Wabi Sabi 

Wabi Sabi provides a compelling paradigm for sustainable living. By accepting imperfection and impermanence, we can limit consumption and waste, resulting in a more sustainable lifestyle and mindset. The following are some significant Wabi Sabi concepts that encourage sustainability:

• Appreciation of natural materials: choosing materials that age beautifully and gain character over time i.e wood, stone and clay. We need to lessen our reliance on synthetic products that massively effect our environment.
• Minimalism and simplicity: minimising clutter and excess, therefore choosing more sustainable items that will last longer.
• Repair and repurpose: rather than discarding at first sight of deterioration, try to mend and repurpose items, therefore extending the life cycle and reducing waste.
• Connecting with nature: spending time in nature and observing the cycles might deepen our appreciation towards the environment.

Photo credits: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/847521223611789149/

Embracing Wabi Sabi in all parts of the World 

While Wabi Sabi originated in Japan, its ideas are universal and applicable in the western world. Here are some ways we might incorporate Wabi Sabi into our daily lives:

• Slow living: slow down and savour the time, enjoying the beauty of imperfections in your environment.
• Mindful thinking and consumption: prioritising quality over quantity and selecting long-lasting things.
• Accept imperfection: rather than aiming for imperfection, accept things how they are.
• Sustainable practices: build healthy habits into your routine and use products that are better for you and the environment (like the ones mention in the other blogs).
• Connect with nature: spend more time outside surrounded by greenery.

In a world that frequently prioritises perfection and continuous development, Wabi Sabi helps ground us. We need to improve our fast-paced mindsets that aren’t as mindful and create more sustainability around us. Whether in Japan or the rest of the world, we can learn from each other and learn how to live with the nature that surrounds us without compromising anything for the future generations.