|  Simplicity is serenity
The Zen concept follows the idea that a person can be weighed down and burdened with possessions and that to gain inner freedom, possessions should be kept to a bare minimum. Hence Zen is about ‘less is more’.
Simplicity in interior design does not mean that one has to live in minimalistic clinical surroundings but allows appreciation for the few well selected pieces to be admired and enjoyed and to become the focal point of the room.
For example instead of a bunch of flowers, place a simple single stem flower against a backdrop of whitewashed wall and then stand back and admire in awe the sheer beauty of nature.
Creating harmony through balance
In the Zen philosophy the two areas that weight against each other are referred to as yin and yang, or male or female. It is important to balance these in order to create harmony and tranquillity. Too much of one and not enough of the other can cause an imbalance in ones environment.
Balance can be created by introducing the earth, water, fire and wood elements through the use of colour, shapes and objects. The key is to represent them in equal proportions and where an element is missing, to use colour of that element to redress the imbalance
For example fire can be represented by a candle, earth by pebbles, water by a fishbowl and wood by a plant or twisted willow.
As well as the elements, balance should also be achieved when selecting furniture, lighting and colour schemes. For example furniture should be placed symmetrically and lighting should be selected to create well lit areas as well as shaded areas for quiet contemplation and meditation.
Flow of energy through space
The natural energy or the life flow known as ‘chi’ can promote wellbeing if allowed to flow freely but can cause ill health if it becomes stagnant. Therefore a constant flow of air throughout the home is imperative. The modern home is not built to allow this process to occur naturally, therefore opening of windows and doors is essential, even in colder climates.
The arrangement of the room can determine how well the chi flows through your home. Ensure that plenty of space is left between the furniture and that when you open the door to enter a room there is a clear space in front of you. Low-level furniture should be placed around the window so that it does not hinder the chi coming through.
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