The Philosophy of Nezen

Since introducing Iwata’s newly launched line, Nezen, we’ve spoken often about the bedding itself, the futon system, the camel hair mattress pads, the duvets, pillows, and sheets that make up the collection. But after spending time with Iwata’s current president and Nezen founder, Arichika Iwata, it became clear that the collection is rooted in something much broader than bedding alone.

Inspired by teachings developed by the Zen monk Hakuin Ekaku after experiencing exhaustion during his own training, Nezen approaches rest not as something that begins when we fall asleep, but as a gradual process of preparing the mind and body for sleep. Rather than adding more, the collection often asks what can be removed. Less processing. Fewer distractions. More awareness of material, atmosphere, and routine. The approach feels holistic, considering not only comfort, but how the body, mind, and surrounding environment gradually move toward rest together.

In developing Nezen, Arichika Iwata also worked closely with Tosei Shinabe, a contemporary Zen monk and spiritual guide who consulted on many of the collection’s more meditative elements, particularly the Nezen Box Set. Together, they considered the role of sound, scent, flame, and ritual within the transition into sleep and stillness.

There was also something surprisingly practical in the way Iwata spoke about sleep. It was discussed less as escape, and more as the gradual removal of friction, physically and mentally. Regulating temperature and humidity. Reducing sensory noise. Creating small rituals that help signal rest.

For those interested in learning more, below is Iwata’s guide to the evening practice of Nezen, adapted into English by Nalata Nalata.

The Evening Practice

The evening practice is not intended to force sleep, but to gradually prepare the mind and body for rest. Through a series of small rituals, attention shifts away from the activity of the day and toward stillness.

1. Open the Box
Begin by opening the paulownia wood box and arranging the Nezen objects in a quiet space. If you wish, place your phone inside the box as well, allowing yourself to step away from the digital world for a while.

2. Light the Candle
Dim the room and light the Warousoku candle. Watch the gentle movement of the flame for a few moments. Its approximately twenty-minute burn time offers a natural pause before bed.

3. Sound
Strike the Taku once, allowing its clear wooden tone to mark the transition into the evening.

Next, gently strike the side of the Orin four times with the wooden striker. As the resonance gradually fades, allow the silence that follows to settle naturally.

4. Incense
Light a stick of natural incense and simply notice its fragrance as it fills the room. The burn time may be shortened by gently breaking the incense before lighting.

5. Prepare for Bed
Once the candle and incense have safely burned down, prepare your bedding and settle into bed, carrying the lingering atmosphere of the ritual with you.

Practice (Susokukan)
Once in bed, lie comfortably and simply observe your natural breathing.

As you exhale, silently count each breath from one to ten. Upon reaching ten, begin again from one. If your mind wanders or you lose count, gently return to one without judgment.

Continue until your breathing settles or sleep arrives naturally.

Morning

In the morning, fold away your bedding or futon before beginning the day.

Then reverse the evening sounds: first sound the Orin once, then strike the Taku once. The morning practice gently marks the transition from rest into activity.

Remember, the practice is not meant to become another routine to perfect. Whether you begin with the candle, a single strike of the Orin, or simply a few quiet breaths, allow it to become part of your own rhythm, naturally and without strain.