The Spirit of the Fragrant Winds of the South—Kakemono and the Seasonal Winds

A scroll hanging in the tea room reads, "Kunpu Minami yori kitaru (A fragrant breeze comes from the south)."
As the soft light of early summer shines through, these words gently seep into my heart, like the wind itself.

"Kunpu" literally means a fragrant wind.
This refers to the refreshing breeze that blows gently from the south after the beginning of summer, rustling the green leaves.
It is not just a meteorological phenomenon, but a gentle breeze that carries the scent of plants and trees and the breath of life.
The Zen phrase describing this wind as "coming from the south" indicates a mental attitude of accepting the blessings of nature as they are.

In the tea ceremony, hanging scrolls are considered to be "words that connect the host and guest."
When the host hangs a scroll, it is filled with not only the beauty of the season, but also his gaze towards his guests and his prayers for the space.
The words "Kunpu jinanrai" also have the power to set the stage and completely change the atmosphere in the tea room, both in their sound and meaning.

At this time of year, a single iris, reminiscent of a waterside, or a swaying iris or daffodil, is placed in a dignified arrangement on the tokonoma alcove.
Flowers help us visualize the wind, and just by being there, we can feel the air flowing.
Even without burning incense, the scent of the wind fills the air with just the sticks and flowers.

Feeling the wind during a tea ceremony also means treating something that cannot be seen with care.
The sound of boiling water, the wind caressing the surface of the kettle, the presence of someone picking up a tea scoop...
We strive to ensure that everything resonates softly and quietly, like the wind blowing in the here and now.

And when offering a smoke, do so lightly and without pressure, like the "wind from the south."
The moment the guest picks up the tea bowl, it feels as if a breeze is passing through his palm.
The tea ceremony may already be a success.

The fragrant breeze is a symbol of the "natural kindness" that suddenly appears in everyday life.
This is quietly evident in the way the tea is made and the way the utensils are handled.
Inviting the early summer breeze into the small universe of the tea room...
We welcome our guests today with the spirit of "a fragrant breeze coming from the south" in this invigorating breath of fresh air.