How Kintsugi, the Japanese art form helps you heal from your past

When we grow up, we realise that everyone we meet has cracks in their souls. That is life, right? We go through ups and downs. These experiences stay with us—as lessons, as memories and sometimes, as a reminder of what was. We go through what we must, for us to shine brighter but in all that we also go through emotional wear and tear.

While the little cracks in our hearts are looked at with sadness, Kintsugi, a Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold lacquer changes that perception. Rather than disguising the cracks and flaws, the technique highlights and celebrates them. It is said to embody the philosophy of wabi-sabi, which values imperfection, impermanence, and the beauty of ageing. 

Kintsugi is not only a way to repair ceramics but also a way to heal from emotional wounds and past traumas. 

Here’s how kintsugi helps you heal from your past.

It encourages facing our wounds

When we experience trauma or pain, it is natural to want to hide our scars and pretend they never happened. However, kintsugi encourages us to embrace our brokenness and recognise that it is a part of our story. By acknowledging and accepting our past experiences, we can begin to move forward and find beauty in our healing process.

It teaches us to be patient with our pain 

The process of repairing broken pottery with gold lacquer is delicate and time-consuming. It requires patience, precision, and a steady hand. Similarly, healing from emotional wounds takes time and effort. We must be gentle with ourselves and allow ourselves the time and space we need to heal. We cannot rush the process, but we can trust that with time and care, we will eventually find wholeness.

It shows that scars are beautiful 

Kintsugi reminds us that our scars and flaws can be sources of strength and beauty. The gold lacquer used in kintsugi is not meant to cover up the cracks but rather to accentuate them. The result is a beautiful piece of pottery that is not only functional but also unique and eye-catching. Similarly, our scars and flaws can be sources of strength and beauty. They make us who we are and can give us the resilience and empathy we need to face life's challenges with courage and grace.

It teaches us to embrace our brokenness

It’s okay to be broken. It’s okay to be hurting. This art form shows us that we must not feel guilt, shame or self-doubt because of our vulnerability. It makes us embrace the cracks and feel proud of the light that shines through them. And embracing our feelings is the first step towards healing ourselves.