The philosophy in IKEBANA

Every plant species has a specific meaning in Japan. As a result, people are picky and meticulous when selecting the components for flower arrangements. For instance, the pine tree, which symbolizes eternities, is frequently used during the New Year. Every year on March 3rd, the fully blossomed peach branches are used for the New Year of Dolls. Youngness is represented by the flexible bamboo, while aging is represented by the blossoming apricot branches.

Ikebana uses both the design and the colors to convey its meaning. In March, when there are frequently strong winds in Japan, people frequently plant curved branches to reflect the wind’s movement. White flowers are used at housewarmings because they symbolize water and will help the host escape any fires, while red flowers, which represent fire, should be avoided.

Ikebana developed more religiously-based philosophical meanings after Buddhism introduced it to Japanese culture. Flower arrangements, according to Ikebana practitioners, should be silent, attentive, and patient. The gardener can better comprehend the flowers, create stunning compositions, and, most importantly, become more in tune with nature thanks to this meditative aspect.

We will be able to comprehend the precise significance of each type of plant in Japan by using the language of flowers, also known as hanakotoba.

The florists must comprehend how to craft materials to enhance their natural beauty. The flowers can be pruned to act as a backdrop for other flowers or removed and reattached in a more aesthetically pleasing location. For more complex shapes, the branches can be bent or straightened. To synchronize the composition, dry and fresh materials are cut or painted as necessary.

Ikebana has a wide variety of schools and styles, but it always adheres to the fundamental idea of a proportional triangle, in which some subjects stand in for the Sun, Moon, and Earth, or it could be Heaven, Humans, and Earth. The vase one chooses is also significant because the composition as a whole can be impacted by the water content and how it is exposed to the atmosphere.