-- Susan, every other Sunday
"Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process, (s)he does not become a monster. And if you gaze long enough into an abyss, the abyss will gaze back at you."--Nietzche
"Perception of an object varies according to the mind. When the mind is polluted, the object becomes tainted." -- Kōbō Daishi
Today, I am turning my back on the abyss, to cleanse my mind with a (virtual) walk in the woods. I hope you'll join me.
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Shinrin-yoku (lit. "forest bathing")
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The Japanese practice of entering nature (specifically forests)
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for the purpose of cleansing and healing the mind and soul.
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Take a walk in the trees.
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Sit in silence. Contemplate the mountain.
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Breathe fresh air.
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Listen to the wind in the reeds.
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Follow a trail to a destination you cannot see.
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See the grasses turning gold as summer gives way to autumn.
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Feel the breeze on your cheeks and the sunlight on your head and shoulders.
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Pause for breath.
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Find a place to be alone, if only for a moment.
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No phones. No Internet.
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Walk off the beaten path, and feel the earth beneath your feet.
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Go past the place where the trail ends.
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And when you're ready, begin your return to civilization.
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Eat the pancake. Drink the coffee. Remember that life is sweet as well as bitter.
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Remember that when you need them, the mountains and the trees will be waiting for you.
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And remember . . . it's OK to take time to breathe.
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