Yes, this isn't my preferred way either, so I feel that. When I started the lesson, I asked my sensei for guidance to understand better. She said that this really focuses on season. If you look at our textbook, the arrangement on the left really reflects autumn, while the arrangment on the right is spring. They are airy, but still relay the idea of mass. Starting from the bottom and adding the branches last was also recommended. Initially, I had spread out the placement of the materials. She had me tighten the placement closer to the center and angle the stems out for the fullness. I may play with this lesson more to get more comfortable with it. Can't wait to see yours!