Give me ‘ma’

You can easily create your own calm with a touch of Japanese minimalism

Create a sense of calm with Japanese minimalism

The start of the year is the perfect time to consider making tweaks to boost your wellbeing. But instead of focusing on ‘more’ (who doesn’t have more exercise, healthy food and quality ‘me’ time on their to-do list?) why not enjoy the perks of ‘less’? Enter ‘ma’, a form of Japanese minimalism that celebrates the empty space between things. The practical aspects of this traditional theory help you streamline your life, promoting stillness and calm. To road-test this minimalist approach, adopt these simple changes:

1. DECORATE WITH LESS

Cut back to just a few ornaments per room in your house. Clutter draws the eye in many different directions, making a space feel ‘busy’. By contrast, clean surfaces and clear spaces create calm.

2. DON’T FILL THE SILENCE

At a dinner party? Lean in to the lulls in conversation around the table. Rethink ‘awkward silences’ as ‘contemplation time’ to absorb what’s been said and how you will respond.

3. SERVE SPARINGLY AT A BARBECUE OR BUFFET

Instead of entertaining with a multitude of dishes, serve just three or four options. Enjoying just a few flavours more fully boosts meal satisfaction.

4. PRUNE BACK YOUR SOCIAL-MEDIA FEEDS

Unfollow people who are not close friends and unsubscribe to unnecessary online alerts and digital influencers. This will de-clutter your social media feed and help you ditch distractions that take up space in your daily life.