Wabi-Sabi: How This Japanese technique can add happiness to life

We all look for happiness - the issue is that we equate happiness with unusually big (or sometimes unrealistic) or materialistic things - a big house, a fancier car, fat paycheck etc. However, true happiness stems from inside, and can only be felt when we accept and live life whole-heartedly, one that is filled with imperfections, flaws, and uncertainty, and the Japanese seem to have mastered this technique, known as Wabi-Sabi. But, what exactly is Wabi-Sabi? We explore...

What exactly is Wabi-Sabi?
Wabi-sabi is more than just a technique, it is a different way of seeing the world. The term comes from two Japanese words: “wabi,” which originally meant loneliness, but has now been tweaked to simplicity and quiet beauty, and “sabi,” which means beauty that comes with age and use. Together, wabi-sabi is all about appreciating both life and death, and the natural flow of life.

Appreciating imperfection
Usually, we are taught to hide flaws and aim for perfection, in all spheres of life. However, Wabi-Sabi finds beauty in everything - be it a cracked cup, weathered wood, or wrinkles in old age. These “imperfections” are not problems to be fixed, but stories to be celebrated. When we accept our own flaws and those of others, we feel more at peace and less pressured to be perfect.


Value simplicity
Wabi-sabi places importance on simplicity over excess. It’s about letting go of what is unnecessary and focusing on what truly matters. This can mean having fewer possessions, choosing handmade or natural items, or enjoying quiet moments in nature. By simplifying our surroundings and our schedules, we create space for calm, gratitude, and joy.

Letting go
Wabi-sabi reiterates the fact that nothing lasts forever. Flowers wilt, seasons change, and people grow old. Instead of fearing change, wabi-sabi teaches us to accept it and even find beauty in it. When we stop clinging to the idea that things should stay the same, we become more flexible and open to happiness in every stage of life.

How can we bring Wabi-Sabi to our daily life?

Closer home, here's how you can practice Wabi-Sabi

Appreciate the old and worn: Use and cherish items that show signs of age, like a favorite mug or a family heirloom.

Choose natural materials: Surround yourself with wood, stone, and handmade objects that change beautifully over time.

Embrace simplicity: Declutter your home and life, keeping only what brings you joy or serves a purpose.


Practice gratitude: Notice and give thanks for small, everyday moments—a warm cup of chai, a cool bed to sleep on, and the stunning sunset.

Accept yourself and others: Let go of the need to be perfect. You are unique, and hence, don't compare yourself to others.