8 inspiring Japanese concepts as part of your interior

Many of us seek more clarity, meaning, and peace in everyday life.

Japanese life philosophy offers surprisingly practical tools for exactly that – and these wisdoms are not tied only to Eastern culture. 

When we combine them with Finnish and Nordic aesthetics, we get powerful tools to face life's challenges and create balanced everyday life.

Here are eight inspiring Japanese concepts that you can easily bring into Nordic interiors, lifestyle, and everyday life.

1. Ikigai – The Meaning of Life in Everyday Choices

Ikigai means a reason to wake up in the morning – the purpose of your own life. It arises where passion, skill, and need meet.

Example of how you can implement Ikigai in your everyday life: Create a place at home where you can do exactly what you love – whether it's painting, reading, or crafts. Even a small corner painted in an atmospheric color where you feel exactly in the right place can serve as your own ikigai base.

2. Kaizen – Small Steps Towards Better

Kaizen means continuous improvement – not big leaps, but small steps of progress every day.

Example of how you can implement Kaizen in your everyday life: Don't stress that your home isn't always "perfect." Paint one chair or drawer at a time, change curtains for spring, or organize one shelf at a time. This way your home's interior and life develop gently but surely.

 3. Hara Hachi Bu – Moderation and Balance

Hara hachi bu is an Okinawan saying meaning "eat until you are 80% full." It describes the philosophy of moderation.

Example of how to implement the HaraHachi Bu philosophy and minimalism in your everyday life: Your home doesn't have to be full of stuff or trends. Just choose the items and shades that truly bring joy – this way you maintain clarity and breathability in the space – moderation – just like at the dining table.

4. Ganbaru – Trying is Already a Victory

Ganbaru means perseverance and trying – not perfectionism, but the courage to do your best.

Example of how to implement Ganbaru in your everyday life: 
Dare to start, pick up the brush yourself, even if you are not a "professional". Frenchic Paint's user-friendly products support exactly this: do it yourself, in your own way, for yourself.

5. Wabi Sabi – The Aesthetics of Imperfection

Wabi sabi is beauty in imperfection, the patina of time, and natural wear.

Example of how to implement Wabi Sabi in your interior: 
Keep old, well-lived furniture and update it lightly by painting it to suit your interior. A rustic, worn surface, the beauty of age, is part of the story – and that is exactly what makes your home authentic and soulful. 

6. Kakeibo – Conscious Spending

Kakeibo is a Japanese method of managing finances in writing. It helps you understand where your money goes and what you value.

An example of how you can incorporate the Kakeibo technique into your daily life:  
In decorating, this means thoughtfulness: invest less but in higher quality. Focus, for example, on durable paints, timeless furniture, and natural materials. Implement budget-conscious decorating, recycle and renew old items. You don't always have to buy new. 

7. Shoshin – Beginner's Mind

Shoshin means "beginner's mind" – curiosity, openness, and joy of learning.

An example of how you can practice Shoshin in your daily life: 
Approach decorating playfully and openly try new things, learn new techniques, explore and test. Boldly try new shades, even on a small surface – Frenchic 250ml small paint can is the perfect way to start. Experience the joy of discovery and success!

8. Shinrin Yoku – Forest Bathing without a Forest

Shinrin yoku, or forest bathing, means immersing yourself in the peace of nature with all your senses.

An example of how to practice Shinrin Yoku in your daily life: 
Bring nature into your home: use green interior colors, natural shades, wood materials, and natural light. Open a window, bring in fresh, fragrant branches – and breathe deeply: your forest bath is ready.

Quiet strength in everyday life

With these eight Japanese concepts, you can create more peace, beauty, and purpose in your home – with small, thoughtful actions.

They combine something that also deeply resonates with Finnish aesthetics: respect for nature, simplicity, and the feeling of home as a place where you can be yourself.

Get inspired and try – even one thought at a time. 

Frenchic Paint gives you color courage and accompanies you on the journey towards a truly authentic life. 

Make room for Bold home dreams!