Ikebana
"Ikebana" is from the Japanese ikeru (生ける, "keep alive, arrange flowers, living") and hana (華, "flower"). Possible translations include "giving life to flowers" and "arranging flowers".
People in all countries appreciate natural beauty, but in Japan, the appreciation amounts almost to a religion. The Japanese display a remarkably strong desire to have a bit of nature near them.
Ikebana aims at suggesting the whole of nature, by creating a link between the indoors and the outdoors. The truth about the origin of Ikebana is unidentified. But when the Buddhism reached Japan in the 7th century, it is thought to have come to Japan as part of Buddhist practice.
In the past, Ikebana was considered an appropriate pastime for even the toughest samurai. Currently, the leading flower arrangers are, for the most part, men. Ikebana is not only an art, but an occupation for men and women alike.
The spiritual aspect of ikebana is considered very important to its practitioners. Silence is a must during practices of ikebana. It is a time to appreciate things in nature that people often overlook because of their busy lives. One becomes more patient and tolerant of differences, not only in nature, but also in general. Ikebana can inspire one to identify with beauty in all art forms. This is also the time when one feels closeness to nature which provides relaxation for the mind, body, and soul.
"Ikebana is a borderless art which can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere, by anybody, and with any materials. Your own arrangement that represents your thoughts springs from your attunement to plants. Ikebana offers the world a revelation of plant beauty and brings both peace of mind and happiness to everyone."