About Us
The History of Zen
The Zen Shop in Birmingham has a rich history spanning over three decades, evolving into a cornerstone of the city's spiritual and holistic community. The journey began with Sylvia Chandler, who had a lifelong passion for plants, herbs, and alternative therapies. Her vision was to create a space where individuals could explore natural self-care methods. This vision materialized with the opening of 'Serenity,' a florist and gift shop incorporating the first spiritual shop on Corporation Street.
Early Growth and Evolution
In 1993, 'Serenity' relocated to Brindley Place, adopting the name 'Zen and the Art of Flower Arranging,' which was eventually simplified to 'Zen.' This period marked a significant transformation, aligning the shop's identity more closely with its expanding range of spiritual and holistic offerings.
Expansion into Moseley and Digbeth
The late 1990s and early 2000s were pivotal for Zen's growth. In 1998, a new branch was established in Moseley, emphasizing holistic healing through an in-house therapy centre. This expansion reflected Zen's commitment to providing comprehensive wellness services. Further extending its reach, Zen relocated from Brindley Place to another location in Digbeth in 2010, becoming a well-known presence in Birmingham's spiritual landscape.
Offerings and Services
Zen has cultivated a reputation as a sanctuary for spirituality, catering to the mind, body, and soul. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the aromatic allure of incense and a treasure trove of items, including handcrafted crystal jewellery, Tibetan artifacts, Wiccan and Pagan wares, gemstones, enlightening literature, herbal tinctures, teas, aromatherapy oils, and tarot cards. Beyond retail, Zen offers a variety of holistic treatments and hosts workshops and courses ranging from tarot for beginners to Reiki and Mind Therapies, fostering a community of learning and healing.
Leadership and Legacy
Sylvia Chandler's dedication laid the foundation for Zen's enduring success. After her tenure, leadership transitioned to her daughters, Kate and Meg, who has been instrumental in steering the company forward. Kate has been associated with Zen for over 30 years, having worked in the shop for most of her life, she read in the shop as an established Tarot reader herself and now serving as Company Director since January 1998 and continues to lead and develop the business and its community
Current Standing
Today, whilst the decision was made to close Moseley at the onset of Covid and relocate its therapy centre to the Digbeth store, Zen Shop still operates from 162 High Street, Digbeth, Birmingham and continues to grow and expand its products and services both face to face and online. The company remains active and continues to thrive, offering a diverse range of products and services that resonate with those seeking spiritual growth and holistic well-being.
It doesn't stop there either, Zen has built up a fantastic reputation for Tarot and Psychic Readings with both shops having Tarot card readers, palm readers and psychics available every day as well as large range of therapists offering energy healing and holistic massages and treatments to relax and heal – many who have been with the shop for 20 years or more!
Throughout its 30-year history, The Zen Shop has remained true to its mission of educating, informing, and providing a haven for individuals exploring spirituality and natural self-care. Its evolution from a modest flower shop to a multifaceted spiritual hub underscores its significant impact on Birmingham's cultural and holistic landscape.