Creating a Zen Garden: A Transformative Workshop for Health For Armenia’s Doctor-Leaders

30 June 2024

This weekend, Health For Armenia’s doctor-leaders embarked on a unique and enriching journey – learning the art of creating a Zen garden, guided by "Japanese masters". This experiential workshop, held under the expert guidance of Vasken Brudian at Ardean Design, allowed our doctor-leaders to reflect on core principles such as excellence, patience, and building on the work of others, concepts that resonate deeply with their roles in the healthcare system.

The workshop was not just about art; it was an opportunity to connect deeply with the essence of mindfulness, creativity, and collaboration – tools that our doctor-leaders can carry with them as they continue to grow and transform healthcare in Armenia’s rural communities.

The Zen Garden Philosophy: A Lesson in Patience and Excellence

The morning began with a session on the philosophy behind Zen gardens. Participants explored the core principles that guide the creation of these tranquil spaces:

• Excellence: The pursuit of mastery in all things.
• Patience: Understanding that true beauty and change take time.
• Building on the Work of Others: Appreciating the foundation laid by those before us and using it as a springboard for new ideas and innovations.

As they learned about these principles, our doctor-leaders discussed how they could integrate this Zen garden approach into their medical practices. How can these same values of calm, collaboration, and patience guide their work in healthcare, especially in rural areas where resources are limited?

The Collaborative Art Workshop

The next day, the group engaged in a hands-on workshop, creating 19 pieces of collective art. The creative process was collaborative, with participants first working individually, then moving to their neighboring canvas, and finally coming together in larger groups to complete the artwork. The rules of the workshop were strict, designed to foster discipline, focus, and unity:

1. We are not in Armenia: Our minds have traveled to a Japanese Zen garden.
2. We are not ourselves: We are Japanese master artists like Tadao Yamaguchi.
3. Meditation to start: A moment of reflection before creating.
4. Strict time limits: Time was respected – when it’s up, we stop.
5. Silence is golden: The entire process was completed in silence.
6. Respect for others’ work: No interference with each other’s creations.
7. Unchangeable rules: All participants agreed to respect the structure and flow of the workshop.

These structured rules allowed the group to step out of their daily routines and enter a space of pure focus and connection. They created something unique – 19 individual pieces coming together to form one collective artwork, symbolic of their shared mission in healthcare.

Reflections and Insights

As the workshop concluded, participants shared their personal reflections, which echoed the power of the experience:

• “I felt the best feelings in the world. At first, there was confusion and misunderstanding, but then calm set in. I tried to leave my internal state in every painting.”
• “I wasn’t thinking. My mind was calm and harmonious.”
• “Freedom. I did whatever I wanted.”
• “I felt how different we all are, but also in tune with one another.”

The process allowed participants to connect more deeply with themselves and each other, fostering a sense of unity. They also realized how these principles could bring them closer as a team, enhancing collaboration and trust in their medical centers.

A Lasting Impact

In addition to the personal reflections, the group agreed that they would like to keep the artwork, displaying it in their offices or medical centers as a reminder of the workshop’s lessons. These pieces will serve not only as art but as symbols of their shared commitment to excellence, patience, and collaboration.

We also compiled a short video of the workshop weekend to capture the energy and spirit of the experience, which you can watch [here]. We hope this visual story brings the workshop to life and inspires others to join our journey of transforming healthcare in Armenia.

A Special Thank You

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Vasken Brudian and Ardean Design for their time, expertise, and guidance throughout the workshop, and to the Vahé & Lucie Foundation for funding the art component of our program. Without their support, this unique and impactful experience would not have been possible.

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As we continue our mission to develop the next generation of healthcare leaders in Armenia, we are reminded of the importance of creativity, mindfulness, and collaboration – not only in the arts but in everything we do. By investing in these qualities, we’re not just shaping skilled doctors; we’re building a healthcare system rooted in compassion, patience, and a commitment to lasting change.

Join us in supporting the transformative work of Health For Armenia. Together, we can build a healthier future for Armenia’s communities.