The Dialogue.
Clarity is the precursor to calm. Below, we address the foundational questions regarding our philosophy, our aesthetic, and our editorial standards.
On This Page
01. Philosophy & Spirit
Is Eastern Zen Living a religious publication?
No. While we respect and draw deeply from Buddhist, Taoist, and Vedic traditions, our approach is secular and philosophical. We view these ancient systems as "technologies of the mind." We pair them with modern Environmental Psychology and Neuroscience to offer tools for well-being, independent of dogma.
How does this differ from Minimalism?
Traditional minimalism often seeks to "remove." We seek to "harmonize." Minimalist spaces can sometimes feel cold or sterile. Our aesthetic is rooted in Wabi-Sabi—the acceptance of imperfection, warmth, and the passage of time. We prefer a chipped ceramic bowl with soul over a perfect, mass-produced plastic one.
02. Design & Practice
Do I need to renovate my home to follow this?
Absolutely not. Zen is not about architecture; it is about atmosphere. Our guides focus on "Micro-Sanctuaries"—creating small pockets of peace using light, scent, and decluttering. You can change the energy of a room simply by changing a lightbulb to a warmer temperature (2700K) or rearranging furniture to face a window.
What is "Somatic" Living?
"Soma" means body. Somatic living means designing your life based on how your nervous system feels, not just how things look. It involves choosing textures that soothe the touch, sounds that regulate the heartbeat, and rituals that signal safety to the brain.
03. Editorial Standards
Why is the content update frequency low?
We practice "Slow Publishing." In a digital world obsessed with speed, we choose depth. Each article is researched, tested, and crafted to be "evergreen"—meaning it will be just as relevant in ten years as it is today. We follow the rhythm of nature, not the rhythm of the algorithm.
Do you accept guest contributions?
We maintain a rigorous standard for clarity and expertise. Currently, contributions are by invitation only to ensure a unified voice. However, we are always open to connecting with like-minded architects, designers, and tea practitioners.
Have a question that remains unanswered?
Contact The Editors