In Japan, what westerners view as aesthetic imperfections are embraced and celebrated, this artful practice is called “Wabi Sabi,” the respect and acknowledgement for imperfection. In today’s society, we are bombarded by advertisements and verbiage telling us how we should look and what defines beauty. The truth is, everyone is beautiful despite what you may perceive as “imperfections,” or what others outside yourself tell you. Not being concerned or influenced by the latest beauty trends, or pressured by the opinion and standards of others is the most valuable thing you can do for yourself. Being comfortable in your own skin is not only an amazing compliment to yourself, but it carries over into the world in which you reside. By this I mean, confidence is not only powerful, but it is contagious and is noticed more profoundly than that which you perceive as an imperfection. Living life and appreciating each moment as it occurs as opposed to creating unnecessary thoughts about who, or what you feel you should be, or look like… is Wabi-Sabi. Embrace everything about you and let go of the illusion of perfection!
