Ikebana Traditional Japanese Art of Flower Arranging

Ikebana in Japanese means "living flowers" and describes the traditional Japanese technique of arranging freshly cut flowers with the sentiment of giving the flowers a new life. The basic principle of Ikebana is to "give life to the flowers" by using each flowers natural characteristics to its advantage in creating harmony and balance with other flowers. Flowers are living beings, and they will respond to us with their "smile" when we tune into their "feelings" while pondering the arrangement. Experience a unique hands-on method of practicing mindfulness, while learning and appreciating traditional Japanese wabi-sabi minimalist aesthetics. With 300 years of history behind the art of Ikebana, you will see how Japanese artists create an ecosystem of balance and harmony in one arrangement. Not only will you learn tips and tricks to help maintain fresh flowers that will allow them to last up to two weeks, but you will learn a new skill that will elevate your appreciation for nature.