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The Ginkgo Leaf, Kintsugi and the Heart of The Broken and Beautiful Collective

Updated: Sep 22


Close-up view of a ginkgo leaf with vibrant yellow hues
A close-up view of a ginkgo leaf showcasing its unique fan shape and vibrant color.

The Ginkgo Leaf: A Symbol of Resilience


The ginkgo leaf is more than just a beautiful plant; it embodies resilience and adaptability. Known for its unique fan shape and vibrant yellow hues in the fall, the ginkgo tree has shown remarkable survival, enduring the millenia, even through vastly changing environments.


In many cultures, the ginkgo leaf symbolizes hope and longevity. For example, people in Japan view the ginkgo tree as a bearer of peace, often seen flourishing in historical sites. This reminds us that, like the ginkgo tree, we can thrive, overcoming adversities and embracing our true selves.


A bouquet of red, yellow, and white daisies in a ckintsugi vase set against a plain background, creating a fresh, lively mood.
The Japanese art of Kintsugi: a broken thing becomes even more beautiful

Kintsugi: The Art of Embracing Imperfection


Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, beautifully illustrates embracing imperfection. Rather than hiding cracks, kintsugi highlights them, transforming broken pieces into unique works of art. This practice teaches us that scars are not something to be ashamed of; they are marks of resilience.


At The Broken and Beautiful Collective, we draw inspiration from kintsugi in our approach to healing. For example, one member recently shared how their experience with loss shaped their identity and became a source of strength. By embracing imperfections, we can craft a narrative that celebrates our journey and inspires others to do the same.


The Intersection of Ginkgo and Kintsugi


The ginkgo leaf and philosophy of kintsugi beautifully intersect in our mission at The Broken and Beautiful Collective. Both symbolize resilience, growth, and the beauty of imperfection.


As we navigate our individual journeys, we can look to the ginkgo leaf as a symbol of strength and adaptability. At the same time, kintsugi encourages us to embrace our scars. By integrating these symbols, our collective not only supports healing but also celebrates the unique beauty that emerges from our shared experiences.


A Call to Action


In a society that often prioritizes perfection, The Broken and Beautiful Collective invites you to embrace imperfections and find beauty in brokenness. Through the symbolism of the ginkgo leaf and the art of kintsugi, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of resilience and growth.


Get in Touch with The Broken and Beautiful




Related Media


An exploration of the history of Kintsugi, the process of breaking and repairing and the philosophy behind the art.


Thought-provoking commentary on the Japanese mending practice of Kintsugi.

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Storywork Counselor and Life Coach - Lincoln, NE

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