BORANA ARTEFACTS AND ECO-DESIGN TO CREATE AESTHETIC PRODUCTS FOR N AI R O B I M E DI T AT I O N C E N T R E .

Background: Meditation centres act as safe haven for those who seek to gain a deeper
understanding of themselves and the world around them. Mediation is a practice that
originates from the Far East and has gained traction across the globe for its power to
change lives. Its transformative power has led millions of people towards greater selfawareness
and realisation. Consequently, promoting healthier, fulfilling and more
meaningful lifestyles. The Eastern form of Meditation is not a popular practice in most
African cultures and especially those in Kenya. However, there is ongoing debate as to
what practices constitute mediation.
The Problem. The lack of cultural identification in these centres proves to be a deterrent
for many as meditation centres use Asian centred artefacts. For this reason, a majority
of Kenyans wanting to come into these facilities are unable to churn a personal
connection and end up lacking the inspiration to try mediation in these centres. This
paper presents an inquiry into why African artefacts are integral objects in meditation
centres.
Objectives: There are four main objectives which seek to explore and identify ways in
which mediation centres actively use their spaces in an attempt to create holistic
mediation environments. With this in mind, this paper seeks to examine the ways in
which these centres can incorporate African cultures in its practices to ensure that
customers get a well-rounded experience that takes into account their cultural and
spiritual values. This will aid in the preservation of minority cultures that are on the
brink of cultural erosion.
Design: A descriptive research technique is used to offer an in-depth analysis on the
information obtained through the various primary data collection methods deployed.
This includes observations, photographs, archival research and case studies. Setting:
Nairobi Meditation Center. Subjects: The owners at the Nairobi meditation center,
employees and clients at the company.
Findings: This study found little to no representation of African cultures in the centres
visited. Therefore, coming to the Conclusion that there is a need for more investigation
into ways to develop more African centred meditation centres. This will in turn offer
inclusivity and diversity in decorative ornaments as well as in wellbeing and meditative
practices.