Kokedama Workshop: A Journey to Connect with Yourself and Nature
On February 24, 2024, in the refreshing green space of Toong 51 Phan Bội Châu, the Kokedama planting workshop took place, offering participants a unique experience of Japanese bonsai art and the philosophy of Wabi Sabi. The event was not only an opportunity to learn the techniques of planting but also a profound journey to connect with nature and oneself.
Immerse Yourself in Ancient Bonsai Art and the Philosophy of Wabi Sabi
Kokedama, also known as “moss ball,” is an ancient style of bonsai from Japan. Unlike traditional bonsai trees placed in pots, Kokedama resembles a slice of nature, where the roots are wrapped in soil and covered with a lush layer of moss. This simplicity highlights the philosophy of Wabi Sabi – celebrating the beauty of imperfection and accepting change as a natural part of life.
The Japanese believe that Kokedama is not only a work of art but also a way to connect with nature. Practicing Kokedama requires patience, meticulousness, and focus – qualities that help individuals escape the fast pace of life, listen to themselves, and find peace within.
At the workshop, participants not only learned how to create Kokedama but also how to care for them to maintain their vitality. Through each meticulous step, from selecting plants and shaping the soil to wrapping the moss and watering, they realized that caring for a “moss ball” is akin to nurturing one’s own soul – requiring gentleness, love, and consistency.
Kokedama – The Art of Connection Between Humans and Nature
With a vision to create inspiring and creative workspaces, Toong continuously seeks ways to bring nature and art closer to the community. The Kokedama Planting Workshop and Dialogue with Nature is part of that journey – a space where every participant not only learns but also reconnects with themselves.
Toong 51 Phan Bội Châu, with its harmonious design blending classic Indochinese architecture and contemporary charm, provides an ideal setting for the workshop. Every corner here exudes a sense of tranquility, allowing participants to relax their senses and deeply connect with nature. Co-hosted with Toong are SS.UP – TRỨNG ỐP CLASS and Êm Êm Workshop, organizations that strive to bring art and nature closer to the community through multisensory and therapeutic artistic activities.
Toong believes that in modern life filled with pressure, taking the time to care for a small “moss ball” or sitting quietly in nature can help balance emotions, spark creativity, and rejuvenate the mind. Therefore, this meaningful workshop serves as a spiritual gift that Toong wishes to offer to the community of Toongers, enabling them to fully embrace nature and their inner selves.
A Journey of Connection, Healing, and Inspiration
In the fresh atmosphere of the new year, the Kokedama Planting Workshop was not just a practical class but also a journey of spiritual healing. Under the attentive guidance of experts from Êm Êm Workshop and SS.UP, participants not only learned how to plant but also shared in the benefits of plants for mental health, gaining a deeper understanding of the profound connection between humans and nature.
Discussions about the philosophy of Wabi Sabi opened new perspectives, helping everyone accept and appreciate the imperfections in life. Through this, they realized that not only does nature need care, but the soul also requires nurturing to revive after trauma and stress.
One participant shared, “Kokedama is not just a work of art; it’s a lesson in patience and acceptance. I feel like I’m caring for a part of my soul through each branch and layer of moss.” These moments helped each individual connect more deeply with nature, feeling the life that flows through every small object, thus expanding their hearts and minds.
The event concluded in a warm atmosphere, with everyone taking home not just a lovely "moss ball" but also invaluable experiences of connection and healing.
The workshop may have ended, but the values it imparted continue to resonate. Participants left with not only a charming “moss ball” but also a sense of tranquility, lessons in acceptance, and appreciation for the simple things. The art of Kokedama is not just a way to care for plants; it is also a means to nurture the soul.
Toong hopes that through events like this, each individual can find joy in connecting with nature and themselves, making life lighter and more meaningful.