Ikebana (living flowers) is the Japanese art of flower arrangement, also know as Kado (way of flowers). The art is in the beauty of colour combinations, natural shapes and graceful lines. A disclipined art form where nature and humanity are brought together. However which way you look at it, its about being calm, ‘calm’ body, mind and spirit.
The principles are, Less is more, Asymmetrical balance, In and Yo (Japanese Ying and Yang), and I (yes I mean you).
Lego revealed a new range of mindful models called the Botanical Collections, the Flower Bouquet to brighten the home and the Bonsai Tree. While many people seek out green spaces to relax, you can have a touch of nature indoors without it wilting or needing water.
Both sets in the new LEGO Botanical Collection include a number of elements made from plant-based plastic, produced using sustainably sourced sugarcane.
LEGO Flower Bouquet: The 756-piece set features a host of beautiful blooms in an array of stunning colours that older builders can customise as their flowers flourish. Whether you’re treating a loved one or are looking for a new creative project, the flower stems are adjustable so it’s easy to tailor the arrangement to suit any vase. A combination of snapdragons, roses, poppies, asters, daisies, and different grasses can be arranged in the bouquet in a number of ways to suit the mood of the builder and the design of the room.
LEGO Bonsai Tree: The art of bonsai has captured the imaginations of tree lovers for centuries. Now LEGO fans or those looking for a new way to relax can celebrate this ancient art with the 878-piece. Builders can enjoy a sense of calm as they carefully shape the bonsai tree model with either green leaves or pink cherry blossoms. When you’re ready for a change or when the season starts to turn, it’s easy to swap the coloured crowns to create a totally new look.
Small daily changes in routine can be the catalyst for better habits and improved quality of life. Introducing an art project into your home, such as a bonsai tree, can be one example as they require frequent tending and observation to thrive. Unlike regular houseplants, bonsai trees require a bit more love, attention and hands on care – however the personal benefits and rewards are numerous.
I believe the concept of taking care of a bonsai tree (living or Lego) helps with patience.
- Increase mindfulness: being present in the moment and your surroundings. A daily routine to help give your purpose and an end goal.
- Lower stress levels: short pauses in everyday life helps us relax and enjoy the personal hobby. Almost a merge of meditation in the activity of building, nurturing the art and breathing.
- Goal settings: a bonsai tree is an art form (instructions does help), a desire to shape and see the growth of your design to life, and a deep sense of satisfaction when completed.
- Creative expression: with a living bonsai tree, forming your bonsai tree requires many elements. The shape of the tree, the pot and accessories to create its surroundings. This also applies to creating a bouquet, the vase that you choose, the stems and colours. Who’s to say, this cannot be the same with your lego creation.
I got the LEGO Bonsai Tree, not only does it look beautiful, it has this ‘shinzenbi’ about it – a truth, virtue and beauty. I have big plans for what it will look like and where it stands, but first, I’ve got to be in right frame of mind and patience and it may take me a little while to have it completed.
Let the creativity bloom with the new decorative LEGO Botanical Collection.
