Perfectly Imperfect trail - Mono no aware

Autumnal woodland image with curved path

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Perfectly Imperfect trail - Mono no aware

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Mono no aware

Described as ‘the pathos of things’, the concept of mono no aware refers to an acceptance in the transience of life. It’s a feeling that is revealed when visual beauty meets impermanence; moments that we allow to move us emotionally. Those moments end, therefore they matter.

Passing beauty lingers

The sinuous paths and trees planted in specific locations invite intrigue, curiosity and surprise. As we wend our way through Maple Loop, home to many Japanese maple cultivars, take a moment to stop and wonder what this view will look like in other seasons. 

Notice how the shifting of dappled light through maple branches and the silent fall of a leaf can remind us of the changing seasons. The excitement of autumn is a colourful, vibrant reminder that the stillness of winter is around the corner.