Our January meeting kicked off with members doing one of our classic arrangements, variation #2 slanting Nageire.
Point 15 from the 50 principles of Sogetsu by Sofu Teshigahara, he writes; “while the Hikae is slanted at 75 degrees in all basic styles, in variation #2, the Hikae and the Soe switch their positions. The Soe is now strongly slanted instead of the Hikae. In both upright and slanting styles of variation #2, the Shin and the Soe are spread open, creating a unique shape. The slanting style of this Kakei is especially suitable for materials with beautiful curves, bringing forth a light a lively expression”.
Part two of our workshop that day was learning more about the Japanese philosophy Ikigai - which combines the terms iki meaning “alive” or “life” and gai meaning “benefit” or “worth”. What gives your life meaning or purpose.
A Japanese psychologist Michiko Kumano said that “Ikigai is a state of wellbeing that arises from devotion to activities one enjoys, which also brings a sense of fulfillment”
Ikigai is a journey which requires time, deep self-reflection and effort, as well as incorporating the 10 rules of Ikigai into your daily life:-
