Why Include ZENsational decor to your home ???

With my deep rooted Indian origin, I find myself drawn to countries that are steeped in history, culture, art, architecture……..When it comes to design aesthetics, it’s no surprise that my home is an eclectic reflection of all that I draw globally. However, a closer look will reveal that I do have my favorite and time and again I’m enticed by the striking simplicity and exotic charm that surrounds the Asian décor. By including elements like the Buddha himself, a hand mudra, thangka painting or an unpretentious orchid, the central objective is to bring ZEN vibes to my home and in the process create a space that helps sustain my spirit and soul. 

The Buddha statue serves as the anchor in this Zen vignette. 

I personally think that the word ZEN has been overused and somewhere along the way it may have even lost its true significance with people interpreting it in more ways than one. I’m not here to take on the impossible task of defining the word Zen. However, I’m here to share my perspective on why I include elements of ZEN to my home. 

An IKEA RISKORN Plant pot brings in the textural detail while the Kalanchoe that it holds, adds a punch of color and contrast. Finally adding the sensory appeal to the vignette is a candle holder from World Market. The glow from the candle helps create focus on the Buddha, while I seek a peaceful refuge from the day's demands.
I embrace ZEN because it helps me stay grounded in an environment that is stressful and helps bring about equilibrium, harmony and relaxation. I'd often find myself either worrying about the future or trapped in the realm of the past. Little did I realize that it is "NOW" that is important. With the inclusion of ZEN vignettes and decor to my home, I'm reminded of the essence of ZEN - "Living fully and authentically in the present moment i.e. being face to face with our true original nature". The past is past and an investment in the present will assure you of a happy now and an even happier tomorrow with memories of today.  

So the next time you decide to inject elements of ZEN to your decor, do take a moment to sit back and imbibe the real vibrations of a quintessence zen vignette. 

Have a ZEN day !!!

Images: Clicked by me. Please do not use without prior written permission. Images are the property of Sruthi Singh and subject to copyright. 

With a Spring in my Step

Hello Folks !!! 

Last week and the weekend have both been hectic. But it has been an exciting one. Last Wednesday, I woke up to my blog adda featured on IKEA FAMILY LIVE FACEBOOK !!! My head's still reeling with excitement:) If you haven't had a chance  to check it out, click here.

With family visiting us from India, I do have my hands full entertaining them. But what's nice is, I'm being pampered in return and treated to some wonderful home made Indian delicacies......will be sharing some recipes very soon. As for my bit to entertainment them, the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC was on the top of my list. Yesterday we had a chance to drive down to DC to see the blooms. With a soft corner for these flowers..........It was a treat for the eyes. It's their simplicity that draws me in every single time. And I must say, I've hit it big with three cherry blossom trees right outside my sunroom window!!! 

My fixation does not end with just admiring them.........I had to have a touch of the Cherry Blossom to my decor at home. So I paired a small branch of the delicate cherry blossoms with my Buddha from Nepal. Also adding to the zen vignette  is the wooden box another find from Nepal. 

The wooden box symbolizes the pyramid adorning the Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal. Declared as the Heritage sight by UNESCO, the Bodhnath Stupa is a must see. Monopolizing the skyline, the unique architecture is said to have been built in the 14th century. The original pyramid like architecture has 13 steps, representing the ladder to enlightenment and the triangular shape depicts the abstract form of fire. 

Love how the white of the cherry blossoms and the gold of the Buddha pops against the black and brown base color. 

And finally rounding up the post for today with a close up shot of the most awaited flower of the season here in DC.........the cherry blossom!!!

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead and stay tuned for more exciting news and posts coming up this week !!!! 

Images:Clicked by me. Please do not use without prior written permission.

Images are the property of Sruthi Singh and subject to copyright.