I think this book is about cultivating a home with exactly what you need, or essentialism; to view it as purely a self-help text on the aesthetic of minimalism is a loss to the reader, and overlooks the relationship between Zen and Japanese culture.<p>I was offered some advice last year by a monk who had been living at a monastery that resonated when I read this book:<p>&quot;Our surroundings have a profound impact on our psyche. If you want to do good deeds, consider surrounding yourself with good people. If you want to work hard, consider surrounding yourself with hard workers.<p>And if you’re feeling sad, down, and kind of messy? Clean your room.&quot;