minimalistic – DesignApplause

The true meaning of zen. Hint: it’s not a habit.

Sep 30, 2010

zen is not a minimalist aesthetic or simplicity. true zen is far beyond concepts.

The following written by Sandra Day…

Every time I turn around these days there’s a new blog with “Zen” in its title.

“Zen” is being linked to everything from copywriting, web design, and business strategy to personal development, food, and far more.

Some bloggers are genuinely trying to express what they believe to be the spirit of Zen via their work and their blog. Others are simply riding the popularity wave from Zen Habits.

Yes, it’s all Leo Babauta’s fault. Just teasing, Leo! Don’t worry, I’m not going to yell at you about having the word “Zen” in your blog title. Even if I did, you would just tell me to “…breath. And then let it go.”

Besides, some credit should go to the icons who introduced Zen into mainstream consciousness starting in the ’50′s: Jack Kerouac with the book The Dharma Bums, the philosopher and writer Alan Watts, the Trappist monk Thomas Merton, and Robert M Pirsig known for Zen and the Art of Motorcycle.

But just to set the record straight, Zen is not…
• a habit
• simplicity
• a state of peace
• a state of mind
• a minimalist aesthetic
• living simply
• a destination
• nor is it just being in the moment
These are merely popular concepts about Zen. In reality, true Zen is far beyond concepts.

What is the true meaning of Zen?

Zen is a remarkable wisdom tradition.

It is a path to fully awaken to your original nature, which is present right here, right now. It is the essence of wisdom and compassion embodied in spiritual masters like Shunryu Suzuki-roishi and Thich Nhat Hahn. It is a living lineage of tradition passed on since the time of the Buddha.

“Zen” is actually shorthand for Zen Buddhism. According to the Random House Dictionary 2010, Zen is “…a Mahayana movement, introduced into China in the 6th century and into Japan in the 12th century, that emphasizes enlightenment for the student by the most direct possible means.”

Zen is practiced mainly in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam although there are many Zen centers in the United States as well.

The word Zen is derived from the Chinese word “chán” and the sanskrit word “dhyana,” which mean “meditation.” In sanskrit, the root meaning is “to see, to observe, to look.”

Zen is a noun. Zenic is an adjective.

It’s not uncommon to misunderstand Zen even when you study and practice it. That’s why it helps to have a teacher. The great Shunryu Suzuki-roishi once said:

“And this misunderstanding—the misunderstanding you have about Zen, I think—when we say: Zen, oh, Zen is wonderful [laughs]. Whatever you do, that is Zen [laughing]. Even though you are doing something wrong, that is Zen. Whatever you do is Zen. That is why I like Zen. [Laughs, laughter.] This kind of misunderstanding I think you will have about Zen. But what we actually mean is quite opposite.”

There is nothing imprecise about Zen. At the same time, it’s almost impossible to put your finger on true Zen.

“Zen mind is one of those enigmatic phrases used by Zen teachers to make you notice yourself, to go beyond the words and wonder what your own mind and being are. This is the purpose of all Zen teaching—to make you wonder and to answer that wondering with the deepest expression of your own nature.” – from the introduction to Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki-roishi.

Zen mind cannot be understood from the perspective of our ordinary, dualistic mind.

“We say “big mind,” or “small mind,” or “Buddha mind,” or “Zen mind,” and these words mean something, you know, but something we cannot and should not try to understand in terms of experience. We talk about enlightenment experience, but it is not some experience we will have in terms of good or bad, time or space, past or future. It is experience or consciousness beyond those distinctions or feelings. …Enlightenment cannot be asked for in your ordinary way of thinking. When you are not involved in this way of thinking, you have some chance of understanding what Zen experience is.” – from Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki-roishi.

Zen practice may calm our mind, bring more clarity, and infuse us with greater kindness. But the ultimate goal of Zen isn’t seeking or clinging to peace. Calming the mind is just one part of the story. The purpose of Zen isn’t to put an end to the activity of mind. That would be impossible anyway. As Shunryu Suzuki-roishi explains when he speaks about zazen (sitting meditation),

“When you are practicing zazen, do not try to stop your thinking. Let it stop by itself. If something comes into your mind, let it come in, and let it go out. It will not stay long. When you try to stop your thinking, it means you are bothered by it. Do not be bothered by anything. It appears as if something comes from outside your mind, but actually it is only the waves of your mind, and if you are not bothered by the waves, gradually they will become calmer and calmer.”

“Even though waves arise, the essence of your mind is pure; it is just like clear water with a few waves. Actually water always has waves. Waves are the practice of the water.. To speak of waves apart from water or water apart from waves is a delusion. Water and waves are one.” – from Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki-roishi.

If you would like a taste of true Zen, a good place to start would be with Suzuki Roishi’s spiritual classic Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind.

The allure of the word “Zen”

There’s no turning back from the fact that Zen has acquired a “colloquial” meaning in modern life. Maybe it’s the zip and zing of the actual word “Zen” that is part of its allure. And, it conveniently rhymes with a whole range of other words making for ever so zingy blog titles. Chances are there will be many more blogs with “Zen” in their title and many other enterprises too.

Please don’t misunderstand. I’m not getting on anyone’s case. I have great respect for bloggers like Leo Babauta who are helping others live saner, healthier, and happier lives. They readily admit to having little if any knowledge of Zen, but simply like its spirit. I also appreciate blogger Mary Jaksch, an authorized Zen teacher, who explores the interface between spirituality and personal growth.

This is just a gentle reminder, amidst the frenetic activity of the blogosphere, let us not forget the profound and true meaning of Zen.

full article > always well within

Resources:
keeping it minimal…simple
• Minima
• Becoming Minimalist
• Minimal Mac
• Why the Minimalist Lifestyle Appeals to Me
the number one habit of highly creative people
zenhabits

The ultimate minimalist. Ghandi.

Mar 31, 2010

Here’s another article from a Zen blog that’s more about a minimal lifestyle than aesthetics.
As a designer who loves minimal aesthetics, the process of pealing away to the bare essentials is always an interesting read. Let’s read more about the ultimate minimalist, Ghandi

1. Accumulate little
Gandhi believed in possessing little except the clothes he wore and some utensils for cooking and eating. He used to give away or auction any gift that was ever given to him.

It may not be possible these days for us to get down to less than ten possessions like Gandhi did, but start cutting down to bare basics. Recycle, give things away, or auction your unwanted possessions.

We tend to spend a lot of time and energy looking after our possessions. By having fewer things to possess and look after, your life naturally becomes simpler.

2. Eat simple food
Gandhi never had a problem with being overweight. He followed a strict vegetarian diet and frequently cooked his own simple food, which was locally produced.

He ate this simple food from a small bowl, a reminder to eat moderately, and at the same time he ate mindfully, often accompanied by prayers. So eat simply and moderately.

3. Dress simply.
Gandhi wore simple clothes that conveyed his message.

There is this anecdotal story of the time when Gandhi met the King of Great Britain in London and he wore his simple wrap around cloth. A journalist asked Gandhi, “Mr Gandhi, did you feel under-dressed when you met the King?” Gandhi replied, “The King was wearing enough clothes for both of us!”

Though it may not be practical to weave your own cloth and make your own clothes, you can simplify your life by dressing for comfort, not to impress. A simple hairstyle can shorten your grooming routine. You could even go as far as Gandhi and Leo Babauta and shave your hair off.

4. Lead a simple, stress-free life
Gandhi never got stressed. He meditated daily and spent hours in reflection and prayer.

Though he was a world leader and idolized by millions, he continued to lead a simple life with few distractions and commitments. He would even interrupt his political meetings to go off and play with children.

And despite all his needs being taken care off, Gandhi still insisted on doing his own simple things. He advocated self-sufficiency and simple work. So don’t take life too seriously — remember to take time out to play.

5. Let your life be your message
Though he was a prolific writer and powerful speaker, in private Gandhi spoke very quietly and only when necessary. He was also very punchy and concise in his writing. He preferred to let his life do the talking for him.

By living a simple life, Gandhi was able to devote his life to his chosen higher purpose. He was totally focussed on his commitment to his people and the world. Even if you don’t wish to be another Gandhi, your life will be much simpler and happier by following his life lessons.

“If one has wealth, it does not mean that it should be thrown away and wife and children should be turned out of doors. It simply means that one must give up attachment of these things!” ~Gandhi

note: the author of this article makes a point to “take up the 100 thing challenge and see if you can get down to owning less than 100 or even less than 50 things.” on his list was a “minimalistic desk”.

above: one less desk by heckler design

from zen habits | keep in minimal…simple

The minimalist luxury credo. Or, a little black dress.

Dec 10, 2009

lbd’s somehow can work with flip-flops or stilettos.

window dressing(s) on the luxury venues this time of year does put you in a mood. it’s only fitting to read THIS account from a self-proclaimed connoisseur via her blog, privilege…

<< In the beginning I thought minimalism meant pared-down design. Mies Van der Rohe chairs. The opposite of baroque, or ornate.

Or, the current indie frugality trend? Canning peaches, attaching toilet paper rolls to your walls as art*, reusing plastic bags.

But a few weeks ago I bought a very expensive little black dress, and I believe it was the most minimalist action I’ve taken in the last 5 years. Luxury isn’t the antithesis of minimalism, unnecessary is.

Let’s be clear. It wasn’t a virtuous purchase. No self-denial involved. I love my dress. Made from a cashmere wool blend, and therefore not itchy, but even so, lined in the bodice. Sleeves. I no longer have the need or wish to show my upper arms. Knee length, applying similar principles to the legs. Structured, seamed, perfectly fitting. Narciso Rodriguez, for those who care, as I confess I do, about designers’ bodies of work.

But it’s not the aesthetic, the lack of ruffles, lace, sheer panels, nor the usefulness alone that makes me cry minimalism. I present the minimalist luxury credo, for your review.

1. Be clear why you need what you plan to buy. For what uses? They must be multiple, or critical, i.e. many times, or one time so important it is nigh-historic. I will wear this little black dress, as I have two others in my life, for 5-10 years. With joy. Over and over and over again, each time feeling fantastic and honoring the occasion I celebrate.

2. Be sure you have no happy way to do without. None. When I am called to dress up, if I feel I have nothing appropriate to wear, my upbringing calls in the ghosts and I become sad, anxious, and resentful. This may not be true for you. You will have your own ghosts and your own non-negotiable needs to either burn from your soul or make peace with. Which brings us to the next point.

3. Understand the requirements of your heart and your circumstances point by point. Make sure you know what you want and that you have realistically assessed the likelihood that this purchase will answer your needs. I don’t go to Burning Man. I can see, even now, the times and places I will wear my dress and I can feel looming anxiety dissipate.

4. Do homework to understand price banding. Luxury does not relieve us of the responsibility to assess value. I had looked at J. Crew and found nothing, tried on Barney’s New York private label version to no avail, and vintage clothing gives me the creeps. I am familiar with Rodriguez and his reputation for quality. I also knew, that though his dresses are expensive, I could afford the purchase. Or I would never have walked into the store to begin with. Minimalism means do not stir up undue desires that you cannot fulfill without consequence.

5. Never make anyone else feel bad for what they can’t have. Because, if you pare away everything unnecessary, courtesy has to make the cut.

(Because Little Black Dresses are as flexible in philosophy and meme as they are on the body. Hence the enduring appeal.) >> more pov’s from privilege

DA— the following dresses / designers, and many more, found by googling “minimal little black dresses” and doing an “images” search…

below:
Designer: katarina danisová
Photographer: vivienne bolla

Designer: louis vuitton
Photographer: vivienne bolla

Designer: orsolya kránitz
Photographer: vivienne bolla

Concrete house. haus bold.

Sep 20, 2009

Built in 2004, Haus Bold is made of prefabricated concrete.
The industrial looking cube-shaped house carefully uses glass walls and anodized aluminum facades. The site, equally minimalistic.

Concrete walls too. However, radiused walls and window treatments, textured, polished stone tiles, and a sunny day breathes warmth.

Concrete stairways and steel handrails take us to the second floor. Skylights, yes.

The stone tile is used on the wall in the bath. Stone sink. The mirror, the geometric lines play pleasant tricks.

All black kitchen. Stainless steel powder room. Very cool in every manner of speaking. Noticing the small planted trees via the large windows, these photos might have been taken right after move-in. Curious to know if large expansive walls now display art. Definitely a bold house.

Designer: thomas bendel architekt

Kohler reve ensemble.

Aug 19, 2009

Bold geometric shapes. Clean, crisp lines.
The Rêve Ensemble is a sculptural work of art, revealing the full extent of its unique character over time. The water-saving Dual Flush toilet and an array of lavatories and vanities deliver modern functionality, simplicity and warmth to classic and contemporary bathrooms alike.

Architectural in aesthetic, the ensemble features corners that have been softened for user comfort, free of superfluous details, which helps to keep the it sanitary and easy to clean

Producer: Kohler