In my short little opening post, you probably saw the lovely introduction video to Ma by Dans le Gris. I find the concept intriguing… It’s a philosophy that does not fit into our busy lifestyles, homes and definitely not into my tendency to overdo (and over-clutter) my doodles and art.

We easily suffer from FOMO and when it gets to our spending (and often hoarding) habits, less is definitely not more. Just look at my studio!

I’ve always been a sort of a minimalist, or so I like to believe, but when I look around me, I’m far from it.

BUT Ma is not about Minimalism… It’s so much more than that.

The Japanese concept of Ma has been described as a pause in time, an interval or emptiness in space. Ma is the time and space life needs to breath, to feel and connect. If we have no time, if our space is restricted, we cannot grow. This universal principle applies to every aspect of life.
– uniquejapan.com

But why the obsession?

I think there’s a constant need in me to live, work, play and create with calmness and content.

It’s not a new journey, but one I’m getting even more curious about each step on the path. A journey that started when I discovered Zentangles, Mandalas and Mindfulness many moons ago. It’s by no means an easy path and I’m far from figuring it out…

Here’s a wonderful video by ROANOKE about how Hayao Miyazaki (from Studio Ghibli) uses Ma in his films.

Until next time!