Float on a Floor of Tatami Mats

“All the day long-

  Yet not long enough for the skylark,

  Singing, singing.  "

                           ~ Bashō Matsuo

As opposed to having a cheap, unnatural particle board core, faithful Tatami mats have a rice straw interior and a rush grass exterior, forming a true and traditional marriage in the Japanese spirit. It takes more time to manufacture a mat layered with straw that comes from rice, but the end result is more durable over the course of time.   

In addition to these assets, Tatami mats are also warm to the touch of bare feet, and although they’re firm, they’re not too hard, which makes them akin to a sprung-wood dance-floor, providing flexible support to the spinal column as well as every joint in the body. Mats made with these natural materials also have the added benefit of not producing any toxic off-gassing like carpets made from chemicals and synthetic fibers, which can off-gas for a long period of time, causing allergic reactions and negative medical conditions for many people, especially those individuals with keen sensitivities, such as vulnerable children and elderly adults.

TATAMI MATS ARE THE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE FLOOR/SLEEPING/EVERYTHING MAT

Haiku Designs is very selective about the Tatami Mats they offer, and the ones they emphasize are referred to as “Kaiteki” mats, which are both strong and pleasing to the eyes. This type of mat is ideal for foyers, dining-rooms, yoga studios, game-rooms, or any room/space that gets heavy traffic. Translated into English from Japanese, Kaiteki means comfort, and yet these mats also provide great support for the body as a whole.

Made in Taiwan for mostly Japanese customers, the Kaiteki mats are comprised of all natural materials, as they were a thousand years ago, defying the infantile practice of using toxic materials that didn’t even exist 150 years ago. To drive the natural and truly traditional point home, the rush grass straw acts as a tenacious barrier, earning the Kaiteki mat the coveted "Best Grade #1" rating, which simply means that it has very little or no visible flaws in the pattern of the straw. As a significant footnote, the mat is then fortified with muscular clothe around the perimeter or edges to prevent it from getting warped in any way

Also available from Haiku is our high quality Japanese Furniture and Japanese Beds - let Haiku Designs help you create Zen & Harmony in Your Home.

Please contact us anytime by telephone on weekdays or email on weekends for more information about Tatami mats or other alternative, eco-friendly products. We also have periodic sales and discounts so keep an eye out for those ongoing opportunities.

Source URL: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/float-on-tatami-mats.htm

The Ingenious Design of the Raku Japanese Platform Bed

“A snowy morning--

    By myself,

    Chewing on dried salmon.

                               ~ Bashō Matsuo

The Japanese, the word Raku means “comfort, ease, or relief” in English, and another translation compares it to the word “pleasure”. What’s so amazing about the design of the Raku bed-frame is the easy yet exquisite locking mechanism that joins the rails and the feet together.     

 This design does not rely on nuts and bolts or unnatural materials. Its assembly relies on a simple, sophisticated, puzzle-like design that’s very sturdy. The assembly of the frame is better executed by two people, but if you have the time and the patience to line up all the parts with a 10% margin of error, you can save yourself some money and increase your self-satisfaction. By the time you’re done, you’ll have a bed-frame that won’t fall apart unless a nuclear bomb falls on your house.

SUPPORT YOURSELF THE NATURAL (AND COMFORTABLE) WAY

Pretend that you’re a mattress for 10 seconds . . . and forget about the fact that texting is radically changing the laws of grammar and punctuation. Anyway, mattresses need firm support and conventionally that comes in the form of a dangerous weapon called a box-spring. In response to this assault on Nature, more people these days are using natural wooden slats for bodily support. However, when it comes to installation, slats are a bit inconvenient, since they consist of a series of thin, narrow planks connected by clothe, which makes them annoyingly unwieldly. So, another natural, eco-friendly alternative is Tatami mats, which have a long and honorable history in Japan. Defined by a questionable and scary Google search, the word tatami is defined as a “three foot by six foot (91 cm by 183 cm) floor mat woven of rice straw, used traditionally in Japanese homes” and other homes around the world.

To complete this blog’s proposal of a triad marriage, we need to choose a mattress to sleep on, which may be the most important decision when it comes to one’s orthopedic health and one’s overall health. As a guide, we might consider the fact that the word orthopedic is defined as “relating to the branch of medicine dealing with the correction of deformities of bones or muscles”. As a response to this, we might consider a latex mattress, which is a great topic for another blog, but for now, just visit this link for a more in-depth exploration of latex as a substance for a mattress alternative

In the meantime, please contact us anytime by telephone on weekdays or email on weekends for more information about Tatami mats or other alternative, eco-friendly products. We also have periodic sales and discounts, so keep an eye out for those ongoing opportunities.

Source URL: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/raku-ingenuity.htm

Modern Multifunctional Spaces: The Guest Room / Home Office

Utilizing Multifunctional Space in Your Guest Room or Home Office

 "Experimenting...I hung the moon on various
    branches of the pine."

                  ~ Hokushi

Guest rooms are often the smallest bedroom in the house, so it's common practice to use the room for other purposes when guests aren't staying over. This very modern approach to utilizing valuable space is a wonderful design trend, but it can be tricky to pull off well. Because guests often visit in pairs, you'd probably prefer to avoid a Twin or Full-size bed if you can avoid it.

However, a larger bed simply might not fit – or if it does fit, there won't be much floor space left over for your desk area, art easels, or crafting table.    

If you like the idea of having a guest room that's also an office or art studio, Haiku Designs offer a range of excellent options to help create your ideal multifunctional living space. A crafty compromise is a modern daybed, which converts from a nice, roomy sleeping area to a compact, space-saving sofa. Old school sofa beds were basically thinly-disguised torture devices, packed with pointy metal coils and weird mattress lumps – the whole affair seemed intended to torment the in-laws into considering a motel as an option on their next visit. 

MULTIFUNCTIONAL SLEEPER SOFAS TURN AN OFFICE INTO A GUEST ROOM

Luckily for both you and your guests, the old-fashioned sofa bed is a relic of the past. Donate yours to the charitable organization of your choice, and replace it with a contemporary alternative.

If you love the idea of a traditional library look for your home office, our York Sofa Bed is a timeless, elegant choice. Crafted of tufted leatherette or vintage blue or mauve velvet, the York is soft to the touch and its look is warm and inviting. In addition to the traditional all-flat sleep arrangement and entirely-upright sofa arrangement, you can also choose to leave one or both sides of the backrest in the reclining position, adding even more options for lounging. Almost any desk will look wonderful paired with the York Sofa Bed. And if you ever have clients who visit your office, they will never suspect that the York isn't simply stylish office seating.

We at Haiku Designs are not big fans of noxious gasses. In fact, we go out of our way to ensure that only the healthiest products on the market today are available for our customers to purIf your guest room functions as an art studio most of the time, you will adore our Chill Deluxe Sofa bed with Wood Armrests. This is a sofa that is perfectly attuned with your artistic side, combining the classic look of mid-century furniture with utterly modern features. The Chill functions as a sofa, with quality wooden armrests; as a bed, with both sides of the back folded down; or as a lounger, with only one side of the back turned down. Order it in our ultra-hip Mixed Dance Burnt Orange, wrapped in the wonderful texture of Mixed Dance Grey, sleek in white or black leatherette – and those are just a few of the eight amazing color options!

MODDERN STYLE WITH LUXURIOUS COMFORT 

The Elan Sleek Excess Sleeper Sofa is a wonderful option for a guest room that doubles as a craft room or workshop. This beautiful Queen-sized sleeper offers luxurious comfort for sleepover guests, and a lovely seating area during the day. The natural textiles of the Elan are sure to inspire your creative side, and a stain-resistant leatherette option is available to help guard against your messier artistic endeavors.

These are only a few of the chic and practical options available at Haiku Designs. We carry a wide range of sleek, modern styles that offer comfortable sleep surfaces at night, and stylish seating during the day. No spikes, no lumps. Because you love your guests.

Source URL: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/modern-multifunctional-spaces.htm

Organic Futons: A great match for almost any room

A Versatile, Cost Effective, Comfortable, And Healthier Way to Sleep

 "Arise from sleep, old cat,
    And with great yawns and stretching’s...
    Amble out for love."

                           ~ Bashō Matsuo

If you are a millennial or gen X'er you may associate futon mattresses with sleeping on an uncomfortable, low-quality futon placed on a squeaky metal frame often found in places like Wal-Mart. We're here to tell you that not all futons are the same! Futons come from Japan, being a traditional quilted Japanese sleeping mat or mattress, i.e. shikibutton.    

At Haiku Designs we offer high quality, natural, eco-friendly, and organic futons that fall more into the true definition of what a futon is. Our Futons and Shiki Mats are a great addition to nearly any room.

CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR COMFORTABLE AND AMAZINGLY AFFORDABLE FUTONS:

Featured below are some of our favorite futon mattresses.  Click on the image to learn more about each one!

ECO PURE 7" LATEX & WOOL HYBRID FUTON

The Eco Pure 7" is our most affordable futon available.  It features a 2-inch core of solid Organic Dunlop Botanical Latex core surrounded by roughly 6 inches of Natural Ameri-Wool, then wrapped in a 100% Organic Cotton casing. 

• Medium Firm Comfort Level
• Hand Stitched and Tufted for Quality 
• 14-32 lbs of Natural Virgin Wool. (depending on the size mattress)
• 2 Inch GOLS Certified 100% Organic Botanical Latex Core - 35 ILD - 90 Density (Dunlop)
• GOTS Certified 100% Organic Cotton Case
• 100% Chemical Free - USDA Certified Organic
• Made in the U.S.A. - Fair Trade Certified
• 15-year life expectancy with everyday use.

SERENO 8” ORGANIC COTTON, LATEX AND WOOL FUTON

The Sereno is our mid-level futon for those who are looking for a little bit extra support without breaking the bank.  A great option for a sleeper who prefers a firmer mattress, this futon provides the additional comfort needed to get an amazing night’s sleep.

• Approximate 6" High at Corners, 7"-8" High in the center
• GOLS certified Latex - GOTS certified Cotton and Wool
• Organic Cotton Twill Case - No Chemical Fire Retardants
• Firm Comfort Rating - Latex ILD: 28
• 3 Inch Certified Organic Botanical Latex Core
• 5 Year Warranty - Made in the U.S.A. 

SERENITY PLUS 9" LATEX & COTTON HYBRID FUTON

This is the ultimate in our line of Organic Hybrid Latex/Wool/Cotton futons.  The Senerity 9" features all the benefits of the Eco Pure & Sereno, with an additional inch of latex for the ultimate support & longest life expectancy of any of our futons. 

• 9-inch Extra Firm Latex and Cotton Futon Mattress
• 10-16 lbs. of Natural virgin wool (Depending on size of mattress)
• 6 Inch GOLS Certified 100% Organic Botanical Latex Core, 34-38 ILD, 85-90 Density (Dunlop)
• 12-25 lbs. of Natural Cotton. (Depending on size of mattress)
• GOTS Certified 100% Organic Cotton Case
• 100% Chemical Free - USDA Certified Organic - Fair Trade Certified
• Made in the U.S.A. - 15-20 Year Life Expectancy

SERENO ORGANIC LATEX SHIKI MAT

Made from Natural and Organic cotton, our luxurious Shiki mat style futon is great for when you're having guests in from out of town and need to throw together a quick but comfortable bed.  Easy to roll up, this Shiki mat provides a sturdy & firm feel for you or your guests.

• All Natural and Organic materials
• Firm and comfortable rest
• Comes in Twin, Full, Queen or King size
• Optional All Natural or Organic covers

Source URL: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/organic-futons-blog.htm

Why Dining Room Tables are still the centerpiece in today's modern family home

MODERN FAMILIES GATHER IN THE DINING ROOM

 "  April's air stirs in

    Willow-leaves...a butterfly

    Floats and balances "

                           ~ Bashō Matsuo

It's 2017.  Your family likely spends a majority of their at home time looking at some kind of a digitized screen, absorbing what we consider too much eye-straining liquid crystal display light.  This all changes the moment you place a delicious home cooked meal down on the dining room table, call in your family, and create real moments together that aren't measured in social media likes.   

Let's face it, these days modern families congregate in two places- the living room to watch TV or gaze into their smartphones, and the Dining Room.  Family dinners have been a mainstay in our society for quite a long time now, and aren't going anywhere.  Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, built in 1772, was one of the first American homes created with the dining room in mind.  In the United States, this cultural fixture grew stronger in the post-WWII era as families sitting down to spend time with each other were regularly portrayed in popular TV shows such as Leave it to Beaver, The Brady Brunch, and just about every family sitcom aired since.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT DINING ROOM TABLE FOR YOUR HOME

Not all dining room tables are alike.  Your home needs a table that provides enough space for your family to eat, play games, do school projects, and set cumbersome laptops on top of.  It must fit into the unique aesthetic of your home while providing a sense of community when your family sits down at it.  That is why we offer an extensive line of natural dining room tables so you can find the perfect match!

Plank Natural Dining Room Furniture

This contemporary styled natural solid ash wood table features loving and warm natural tones.  With a distinctive grain pattern and true wood colors in the table top, the Plank Dining Room Table provides a unique modern style to your dining room.  Featuring two 'X' crossed steel legs, the Live Edge is a sturdy and sleek addition to your home!

MokuzaitableMOKUZAI LIVE EDGE DINING ROOM TABLE

Dedicate to a father of the American craft movement, Japanese/American artist George Nakashima, who won countless medals for his works throughout the 20th century.  The Mokuzai Dining Room Table is a natural dining room table styled after his works.  Hand made from sustainability harvested, solid Acacia wood, this table makes it feel like you're having a picnic outside at every meal.

Teburu Farmhouse Table

Built from solid wood planks made from Pine, the Teburu Farmhouse Table is designed off of the traditional box, or rectangular design is often seen in old furniture found in the American frontier.   To create that rustic traditional look the table top is only lightly sanded so its natural colors, depth variances, and mill marks remain so it may keep its natural style.

Source URL: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/dining-room-tables-centerpiece.htm

Ultra Modern Comfort: The New Organic Latex Mattress

WHY THE MODERN COMFORT OF LATEX MATTRESSES REIGNS SUPREME

 " Clouds come from time to time -

    and bring to men a chance to rest

    from looking at the moon. "

                           ~ Basho

A comfy bed is nothing to sneeze at. For the ultimate in a healthy sleep experience, it's important to choose all natural materials that resist dust mites and other allergens. Haiku Designs offers an array of wonderful mattresses, all of which are carefully chosen to be the highest quality mattresses available, crafted from all natural, environmentally sustainable, materials. Our organic, latex mattresses provide comfortable support, and will change along with your if your sleeping preferences change.  

The “Sweet Dreams” All Natural Latex Mattress features a 100% GOTS Certified Organic Cotton cover, cotton which is grown free of pesticides or other noxious chemicals. The top layer of this amazing mattress is made entirely of American, all-natural, untreated wool, with our unique Progressive Comfort Core at the center, made entirely of GOLS Certified Organic, All Natural Botanical latex. Choose from two thickness levels and two luxurious comfort levels, to get the mattress that is exactly right for you. The Progressive Comfort Mattress is made to order, and comes in all standard US mattress sizes.

Conventional “memory foam” mattresses are associated with numerous health concerns due to the unnatural chemicals used to produce them. Owners often complain of sleeping too hot on a memory foam mattress, and of having difficulty changing positions while they sleep. Another common complaint is the unpleasant odor of off-gassing chemicals. (The chemicals used to in the production of conventional mattresses are often released into the environment while you sleep.) As if that weren't enough, conventional mattresses are treated – post-production – with fire-retardant materials such as Antimony (which can damage the heart and lungs, and may be a carcinogen), Boric Acid (a pesticide that is especially toxic to pregnant women and young children), and Decabromodiphenyl Oxide (which, apart from being a potential carcinogen, has been linked to hair loss and memory loss).

YIKES! NO THANKS, YOU SAY. SURELY THERE'S A BETTER OPTION? AND THERE IS: ORGANIC LATEX.

Latex offers many of the benefits of expensive “memory foam” mattresses, but without the long, scary list of potential problems. Latex mattresses are becoming very popular these days, and for very good reason, and almost always boast above-average ratings in customer satisfaction. Our natural latex is made from the sap of the rubber tree, and is utterly free of harmful chemicals.

Our “Sweet Dreams” Mattress is 100% Natural Botanical Latex, free of chemicals and synthetic fibers.  Our organic mattresses are made responsibly, without the use of toxic chemicals – there is therefore no chance of off-gassing chemicals into your environment. You'll sleep better, and breathe healthier, in a clean air environment.

HAIKU DESIGNS DOES NOT SELL ANY MATTRESS THAT HAS BEEN TREATED WITH DANGEROUS FLAME RETARDANT CHEMICALS.

But that doesn't mean our mattresses aren't safe! Quite the opposite, in fact. Our mattresses meet and exceed all Federal Flammability requirements naturally – untreated wood and bamboo fibers are inherently flame resistant in their original state. Your mattress will be as safe as any on the market, and will help you get a healthier sleep as well.

The Latex Foam we use in our mattresses is all natural, and provides relief for allergy sufferers and those with asthma. Our All Natural Latex resists microbes and inhibits the growth of bacteria, mildew, and mold – all without the addition of a single unnatural chemical.

Additionally, our Latex and Eco-Foam boast an open cell structure that resists dust mites. Dust mites simply can't live in our mattresses the way they do in conventional mattresses, which is an extremely important consideration when purchasing a mattress. One of the major causes of allergies these days is the presence of legions of microscopic dust mites that build up over time in conventional mattresses (Yuk!).

When you sleep on a mattress from Haiku Designs, the air in your room will remain fresh, and free of chemicals or living mites. So get ready for the best sleep of your life, and rest easy knowing you won't wake up sneezing.

Source URL: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/ultra-modern-comfort-organic-latex-mattress.htm

Sleeper Sofas So Stylish Your Guests Won't Want to Leave

SLEEPERS THAT SIMPLY TOO STYLISH & COMFORTIBLE

" My arm for a pillow,

  I really like myself

  under the hazy moon. "

       ~ YosaBuson

Long gone are the days of old-fashioned sleeper sofas that doubled as torture devices for family or friends brave enough to sleep over. When it was time for bed, you would sheepishly gather fresh bedding for your guests, then unpack the unwieldy, cumbersome eyesore and make the bed. You'd send your friends to bed with an apology, hoping they would be able to rest amid the myriad lumps and potentially hazardous metal springs.       

These days, sofa sleepers are so modern and stylish that they bear almost no resemblance to the plaid tweed monstrosities of old. They're so different they really ought to be called something else entirely: Stealthy Sleepers, perhaps, or Designated Nap Zones? Regardless the term you choose, be careful who you invite over because they may not ever want to leave.

VOGUE SLEEPER SOFA BY HAIKU DESIGNS

THE VOGUE CONVERTIBLE

The Vogue is a completely convertible set of sofa and lounge chair that can be rearranged to suit its environment. The bed itself is ideal for smaller rooms, or choose several pieces to design the perfect conversation pit in an unstructured loft space. The Vogue has an undeniable mid century modern appeal, and is cleverly customizable. Choose brass or steel legs for an airy, art gallery look; or select wooden legs in two finishes for a funky, retro look. Make this piece your own by choosing from five delectable upholstery choices: sleek fabrics in Soft Indigo Blue, Light Gray, and Natural; or Vintage Velvet in Blue or Mauve.

This stunning piece has several positions: upright in the traditional sofa configuration, completely flat for a cozy night's rest, or the angled lounge position for relaxing with friends or binge watching your favorite shows. The unique split backrest allows you to leave one side up, while folding the other side flat. It boasts a seven inch cushion with an additional pillow top layer, for the ultimate in sleeper sofa comfort.

THE YORK SLEEPER SOFABED

THE YORK SOFA BED

And now for something completely different: the York Sofabed, shown here in luxurious chocolate colored, vegan-friendly leatherette. The York combines the best elements of traditional and contemporary, simply radiating cool – it's the 007 of convertible bedding options. You definitely won't want to relegate this sofa to the guest room: it's a stunning conversation piece.

Not only can you choose from three very different looking finishes (Vintage Velvet Blue, Vintage Velvet Mauve, and Brown Leatherette), you can even choose from three different types of legs (Brass legs, Retro Legs, and the highly unusual Dark Wood Styletto shown in the photo above.) Be creative! Which combination of upholstery and support legs best represents your personal sense of style?

THE ELEMENT SOFABED

THE ELEMENT SOFABEDThis wonderful sleeper sofa is the perfect example of minimalist design. In the Element Sofabed, cool design meets cool function. Its sleek silhouette lends itself perfectly to your creative whims when creating the perfect piece for your home. Choose from a wide variety of luxurious fabrics: natural earth tones in Gray or Natural; rich ultra-modern Soft Mustard Flower; Vintage Velvet in Blue or Mauve...or express your individuality with our uber-retro Wild Flower Tropical pattern.

As comfortable as it is beautiful, the Element transforms from the traditional upright configuration to a gently angled lounger or a completely flat sleeper. Its generous 7 inch cushioned sleep surface is covered with a luxe pillowtop for the ultimate in comfort.

Source URL: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/sleeper-sofas-too-comfortable.htm

PLAYING WITH COLOR IN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

"  In the twilight rain
    these brilliant-hued hibiscus -
    A lovely sunset "

                           ~ Bashō

Modern design in 2017 is anything but tepid. Everywhere you look, designers are using lush, vivid jewel tones for everything from accent pillows to accent walls. A logical extension of the current emphasis on natural materials in home décor, jewel tones add a pop of color that brings to mind the glory of a sunset or the subtle glint of a precious gem. And the perfect counterpart to dramatic colors is the elegant, understated note of minimalist furniture.   

When wielded with restraint, the season's new “it” colors – deep emerald tones, rich ruby reds, passionate purples, and sumptuous golds – create the perfect backdrop for modern décor. It's quick and easy to change the color of an accent wall or buy new pillows or throws, and high-quality furniture with clean, timeless lines will always blend seamlessly with a new color scheme. Investing in gorgeous, heirloom pieces is always a good strategy. Change the colors your home every season, or whenever the urge strikes, without having to replace your main focal pieces. 

Since 1963, the design bible for fashion designers, graphic artists, and interior designers has been the Pantone color matching system – an enormous book of color swatches. The books change constantly, adding colors as they cycle into vogue and removing colors from the spotlight when they begin to appear dated or overused. If you're looking for fun new colors to try, their online resource (pantone.com) is a great place to start! Pantone describes their fashion color choices for Spring 2017 as a “mixture of vitality, relaxation, and the great outdoors.” 

THE OBVIOUS PLACE TO PLAY AROUND WITH LUXURIANT COLOR IS THE LIVING ROOM.

One group of furniture that would lend itself perfectly to your Spring project is our Elan Sleek Excess Sleeper Sofa. This masterpiece of understated elegance commands enough visual weight in the room to offset any color choice you want to try. It is available in four absolutely gorge colors, any of which would be fun to play off as a neutral against a jewel tone background: Begum Dark Brown (a fun, slightly nubby texture), Mixed Dance Natural, Classic Grey, Vintage Velvet Blue and Vintage Velvet Mauve. We also offer alternative versions of this very desirable sleeper sofa: the Elan Deluxe Excess and the Elan Deluxe Quilted.

Another great place to experiment with color is the dining room. Even if you prefer the simplicity of relaxing neutrals in your main living spaces and bedroom, the dining area is a place to entertain friends and family and bold, bright colors do a great job of sparking conversation and energizing a room. 

ELOQUENT DESIGN WITHOUT SACRIFICING COMFORT. 

One example of a dining set that would work perfectly in this context is our Curzon Dining Room Collection. A masterpiece of sculptured design, the under edges of this gorgeous table are sculpted into unique angles and carved with a solid wood design in two chic colors: Cathedral Ebony and Teak. Cathedral Ebony creates a darker, dramatic flair that would complement perfectly a lighter, more vivid wall color. The natural Teak is a lighter, softer shade of wood that brings to mind the timeless appeal of mid-century pieces and would complement any color, especially deeper, richer tones. This amazing table spans 84 inches in length, providing comfortable seating for eight. The support stand is a work of art in its own right: a cleverly crafted, chrome wire frame sculpture that is as sturdy as it is lovely.

Source Url : https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/modern-furniture-designs-makes-your-home-fabulous.htm

FINDING PEACE THROUGH MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

"Body, air, and mind
    the gust of a breeze, like breath 
    Mindfulness the prize" 

Mindfulness techniques have been around for a very long time. Buddhist monks first developed the practice about 2500 years ago, as a tool to attain enlightenment and inner harmony. Early mindfulness endeavors were designed to further spiritual and intellectual development and unlock human potential. 

Meditation is not complicated, but the skills needed to achieve a quiet mind require many hours of practice to master. There are a number of basic techniques, and if you find that mindfulness works for you, you may wish to consider taking classes at a yoga studio or meditation center. For now, focus on learning one method. Begin by meditating for 10-15 minutes every day, increasing to 30 minutes as you become more comfortable with the technique. Eventually, you may wish to meditate for an hour a day.  

THE SPIRITUAL TRINITY OF MEDITATION

There are three main elements of this simple approach to mindfulness: body, breath, and thought. To center the body, set up a meditation space that will be conducive to concentration. Choose one corner of a room where you can sit quietly without being interrupted. Meditation mats are a perfect way to designate a specific area as your mindfulness space. You can also light candles, if you like, to be reminded of life's impermanence. Or you can decorate your space with photos and mementos reminding you of what is most important to you. Turn off your phone, and face away from distractions like TV screens or computer desks.  Although if you need to balance the harmony of your zen space take a look at some of our meditation furniture  to help you begin your practice.

Begin by sitting comfortably. A meditation cushion is ideal for mindfulness practice. These are designed for sitting on, or for placing in the small of your back. The Zafu cushion is specifically constructed to help position your body into proper alignment. Rest your hands on your legs, with the palms facing upward ready to receive energy (you can also face your palms downward, if you need to feel more grounded.)

Allow your eyes to rest where they will, but don't think about the objects in front of you. Begin to focus on the second aspect of meditation, breath. Breathe slowly and deeply, anyway that comes naturally to you. Focus on the journey of your breath: how the air enters your lungs, travels through your body, and is released. Don't try to control your breathing, just try to relax.

As you focus on breathing, you will notice that thoughts pop unbidden into your mind. You may have worrying or stressful thoughts, or you might simply be distracted by details of your environment. When you feel your thoughts becoming disordered, make note of the fact that you are thinking, then focus on your breath again. Your goal is not to completely empty your mind; your thoughts are a part of who you are. Acknowledge your thoughts, and return to your breathing. Be aware of yourself and how you exist in this moment.

Source Url: https://www.haikudesigns.com/blog/mindfulness-meditation.htm

Asian Minimalist Design and Seasonal Versatility

VERSATILITY FOR SEASONAL ENTERTAINING

“In the city fields

  Contemplating cherry-trees...

  Strangers are like friends”

                 ~ KobyashaIssa

One of the biggest advantages to Asian inspired design today is versatility. Creative types express their taste and originality in their home environments, and often “set the stage” for a new season by transforming their living spaces to greet each season throughout the year. Japanese minimalist design provides the ideal blank palette. Choose the right pieces, and you can completely transform the room with art, plants, soft furnishings, and accessories.   

For a breezy, cool summer look, stick to cushions and accessories in soothing, neutral shades. Add cozy notes to a room in autumn by incorporating eclectic retro pieces that mimic the colors of falling leaves. To brighten the feel of a room in the midst of a chilly winter, add bold splashes of color. And celebrate the return of spring with lively spring colors and an abundance of brand-new house plants.

Although Japanese Minimalist design generally eschews gaudy decorative pieces, its “tabula rasa” nature lends itself beautifully to the addition of holiday themed accessories. Add warm hanging lighting, scented candles, and a living tree during the winter solstice season and transform your rooms into inviting spaces to entertain guests.

THE TENTAI ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

TENTAI ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

The Tentai Entertainment Center's clean, minimalist lines will blend seamlessly into any Modern or Minimalist room, while its perfectly balanced, harmonious design will invoke constant compliments. This stunning piece serves as the perfect stand for your television or stereo components.

It is extremely well crafted of Eco-Friendly Solid Bamboo Wood, one of the most sustainable resources on the planet. It has two roomy drawers, two enclosed shelves, and slots to tame the frustrating spaghetti of multiple electrical cords. Choose from a fresh caramelized or dark walnut finish, so it blends perfectly with your existing pieces.

THE ROUND TENTAI BAMBOO DINING ROOM COLLECTION

THE ROUND TENTAI BAMBOO DINING ROOM FURNITURE

As inviting a dining arrangement as you could possibly wish for, the Tentai Round Dining Set perfectly marries form and function. Proudly crafted of Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Bamboo Hardwood, this is a set that will complement your Asian Minimalist home for many years – its look is genuinely timeless.

Perfect for smaller spaces, the Round Tentai Bamboo Dining Set is the ideal find for a contemporary urban flat. It will also fit snugly into the eating area of larger kitchens, for a casual, everyday dining experience. This stunning set is also comfortable enough to entertain a friend, with its gently curved seats and backs. Enjoy an amiable evening with a friend over a bottle of wine, or settle in to play your favorite board games or a few rounds of cards. Either way, you'll be proud to show off this charming compact dining set.

A lovely complement to your Tentai Round Bamboo Dining Table and Chairs, the gorgeous matching Tentai buffet is perfect for neatly storing dining essentials. It also serves beautifully as an unobtrusive sideboard to showcase modern art pieces or a collection of Asian pottery. A display of lovely Japanese garden lanterns would be perfectly suited to this delightful display piece.

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Hybrid Organic Futons: The Best of Both Worlds

Aspen Platform

Prepare for the Best Sleep of Your Life

"The lamp once out

Cool stars enter

The window frame"

                 ~ NatsumeSoseki

We get it: you love the idea of a traditional Japanese futon. You've got your eye on a gorgeous platform bed, which is the most stylish bedroom furniture on the market today. Yet you're slightly worried about switching to an entirely new type of bed, and you worry that you might miss the softer feel of a traditional mattress. 

HAIKU DESIGNS HAS GOT YOU COVERED

SERENO Organic FutonOur Serenity Plus 9-inch Hybrid Futon has all the benefits of an organic futon with a luxurious 6 inch Botanical Latex Core. It provides the cozy, firm feel of a traditional futon, but boasts the thickness of a regular mattress. We've added an entire layer of GOTS certified cotton and an additional layer of untreated Natural Eco-Wool that is completely free of coloring, flame retardant coatings, or other additives.

The result is a true Hybrid Futon that serves as a futon for your Asian Minimalist Platform Bed, but can also be used with or without a box spring on a non-platform bed (the kind with support slats). Your new hybrid Futon/Mattress will provide complete orthopedic support, and an incredibly comfortable dreamland experience. Our Hybrid Futons are sustainably produced with all natural materials.

All of our organic futons are GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified. GOTS is the processing standard for organic fibers, and is regulated by an independent testing organization. GOTS insures that organic materials meet strict requirements for textiles, including social and ecological criteria.

A VARIETY OF CHOICES TO SUIT YOUR SLEEP PREFERENCES

Shiki Organic Futon

Our Natural Organic Futons are available in four configurations, to fit your individual sleep preferences. Our line of SerenoEcoPure and Serenity Plus Hybrid Futons are ideal if you are looking for the firmness and support of a traditional futon, but with a slightly softer and more luxurious feel.

The 7-inch thick Eco Pure Latex & Wool Futon is has a 2 inch core for a firm but comfortable sleep surface, and is manufactured without the toxic foams and chemical flame retardant coatings used in most mainstream manufacturing.

The 8-inch thick Sereno Organic Futon has a 3 inch core and includes an additional inch of Organic Botanical Latex and an additional layer of Organic wool, resulting in a slightly softer, more yielding sleep surface.

Our Organic Cotton Shiki Futon Mat provides a completely traditional Japanese style of bedding. The Shiki mat is made from natural, organic cotton and is wrapped in tufted, heavy-duty cotton material for durability and longevity. It can be rolled up when not in use and moved out of the way, or used as seating – which is the traditional Japanese style.

ORGANIC FUTONS ARE HYPOALLERGENIC AND BOOST OVERALL HEALTH

All organic futons from Haiku Designs are constructed using all-natural latex, an environmentally friendly, renewable resource sourced from the sap of the Asian Rubber tree. Natural latex provides healthy yet comfortable back support. Our Natural Latex molds to your body's natural contours, resulting in a sublimely comfortable sleep experience.

Organic latex is naturally hypoallergenic; it is resistant to mildew, mold, bacteria and dust mites. When shopping for a new mattress, this is a very important matter to consider. Dust mites are one of the most common allergens, and they can cause serious health issues. Dust mites live and breed in almost all standard mattresses. Dust mites trigger asthma attacks and cause eczema, sneezing, and itchy eyes. They can even cause depression, headaches, and fatigue. Natural mattresses and natural futons are vital for health and general well-being. If you are sleeping on a typical, mainstream manufactured mattress – especially if it is several years old – you are probably dealing with the negative effects of dust mites, and you may not even be aware of it. Switching to a natural, organic futon is one way to instantly improve the quality of the air in your sleeping environment, and boost your overall health.

Our completely organic, natural mattresses and futons are specifically designed to help you get the best sleep of your life. Organic futons contain no petrochemicals or polyurethane foams. They emit zero off-gassing of toxic fumes, so you can rest easy knowing your home environment is free of these dangerous allergens.

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