Calming interiors and Buddhist principles may just be what the doctor ordered in these times of chaos. Anjana Vaswani handpicks 7 buys to create a serene Zen home Zen is not a religion; it is a philosophy The word Zen was formed when the Japanese intended to pronounce Ch'an, a word which, in turn, was formed out of the Buddhist principle of, "Dhyan" (meditation) when Boddhidharma, a monk who belonged to the 28th generation of Buddha's disciples introduced the philosophy in China. Zen is not a religion, but rather a philosophy or a set of principles that were developed by Gautama Buddha, which got fused into Chinese and Japanese values and beliefs through the pages of history. According to Zen teacher, Professor Masunaga Reiho, "Zen is the practice that helps every human being penetrate to his true self through Zazen (cross-legged meditation), and to vitalise this self in daily life." <img alt="" src="/imagedata/2009/mar/Jute-chair.jpg" align="right" border="1" />How to imbue Zen into your home? 1. The golden principle of Zen decorating is, "Less is more!" De-cluttering is essential and hence it recommends getting rid of unnecessary bric-a-brac and any items that you have not used in a long time and have no real use for. 2. To achieve a naturally balanced room using Zen principles, you should introduce the five elements of nature: Water, earth, fire, wood and metal. Water fountains and bamboo plants are easy ways to introduce some of these elements. 3. Use earthy shades on walls, as mixing colours or using ornate wall papers create the illusion of clutter and confusion. 4. Sticking to simple decorative objects such as a vase of flowers or a small potted plant. 5. The key to Zen decor is minimal furniture and hence, getting rid of all pieces of furniture that do not have actual utilitarian value. Upholster furniture in natural fabrics or solid, earthy shades. 6. Organisation is of paramount importance, so ensure that you have sufficient storage to keep bits and pieces out of sight, and that everything has a fixed, designated storage place. Go asian with jute Though this super comfortable, low-level jute chair is a product of Indian Cottage Industries, it perfectly compliments the Asian theme. Price: Rs 2,468 Available at: Central Cottage Industries Corporation across the city. Turtles for longevity The turtle is associated with longevity in Chinese mythology, which combines with the principles of Buddhism to form Zen.u00a0 Price: Rs 250 Available at: The Ostara Shop, 12 A/2 Surya Kiran Building, behind Tejpal Auditorium, AK Marg. Call: 23874929 Texture for a zen vibe An air of naturalness can be introduced into your home with these earthy shades of textured Pidilite paint. Price: Rs 100 per square foot. Available at: Vaiksh Wallpaper, 108, Shop No 5, Ravji Sojpal Bldg, SK Bole Road, Dadar (W). Call: 23204178; Wall Decor, Dr Moose Road, opposite Gadkari Rangayatan, Thane (W). Call: 25360452 Go natural with fragrant pebbles Natural elements have an important role in creating the Zen look. Use these Millefiori fragrant pebbles to infuse your space with the fragrance of, Cold Water, Lemon Grass, or Pompelmo. Price: Rs 850 per bottle Available at: Gifted Lifestyles, 11, Madhuli, Shivsagar Estates, Worli. Call: 24918045 Lotus: the symbol of growth The lotus, our National flower, is one of the 8 auspicious symbols of Buddhism and signifies the growth of the soul from materialism, through experience to enlightenment. This stained glass charm will serve as a reminder of that ultimate goal and hence will help you keep your priorities in order. Price: Rs 1,275 Available at: The Ostara Shop. For mercy and compassion Quan Yin or Guanyin is the Chinese representation of the Buddha who often represents a fusion of a man and woman. These charms that bear the image of the deity of mercy and compassion would encourage you to invoke those attributes in your lives. Price: Rs 300 and Rs 380 Available at: The Ostara Shop. Simplicity with paper lanterns Achieve minimal Zen style within your budget. Pick up this unique Japanese-style, single-bulb, fan-shaped paper lantern. Price: Rs 1,810 Available at: Contemporary Arts &amp; Crafts Pvt. Ltd., 19, Napeansea Road. Call: 23631979

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Calming interiors and Buddhist principles may just be what the doctor ordered in these times of chaos. Anjana Vaswani handpicks 7 buys to create a serene Zen home


Ten-minute guide 7 ways to create a Zen home

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Ten-minute guide 7 ways to create a Zen home

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