Shinrin-yoku

Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) is a Japanese practice of immersing oneself in nature, to promote well-being. It involves engaging with the forest atmosphere using all our senses to reduce stress and improve overall health. It is not about strenuous exercise or hiking, but rather about mindful relaxation and connecting with nature. 

 

Shinrin-yoku encourages mindful observation of the forest environment, paying attention to sounds like birdsong or rustling leaves, the textures of bark and moss, the smells of damp earth and wood, and the visual beauty of the trees and sunlight. 

 

Studies have shown that spending time in nature, can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, reduce stress hormone levels, and improve mood and overall well-being. It's not about physical exertion but rather about slowing down, being present in the moment, and consciously connecting with the natural surroundings. 

 

Shinrin-yoku originated in Japan in the 1980s as a national health program to help stressed out workers. It gained popularity across the world, as a way to promote mental and physical health. Shinrin-yoku can have a positive impact on various health conditions, including reducing anxiety, improving mood, and even boosting the immune system. 

 

Take time out when you can in a forest so fine,

Shinrin-yoku will make peaceful calm entwine!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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COMMITMENT

An archer dedicated herself to mastering her skill, spending hours practicing her technique. Despite facing setbacks, injuries and self-doubt, she remained committed. She would wake up early morning to practice, rain or shine, summer or winter.

Years of consistent training paid off when she took her position, drew her bow, and released the arrow. It hit the bullseye. Henceforth, she could do it many more times to be confirmed as an achiever.

 

Commitment is about being fully dedicated to our goals and values. Perseverance aids in overcoming obstacles and staying focused despite challenges. Commitment gives mental strength to overcome doubts and nerves.

 

Commitment is not just about wanting to achieve something; it's about being willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen. Consistency is key for commitment to lead to success.

 

Stick to your goal, do all that is right,

Commitment brings success in sight!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

 

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Involve to Evolve

‘Involve’ and ‘evolve’ are two distinct concepts. Involve refers to participation or engagement in an activity or situation. Evolve refers to the gradual development or change of something over time. Involve is about immediate action while evolve happens over a period

 

However, there is a connection too. Those who involve in something, are likely to show transformations and evolve. Those who participate are most likely to display distinct changes. Hence when we involve, we will eventually evolve.

 

Evolution is a process of growth based on various experiences based on the involvement born out of initiatives by a person. Hence we must proactively involve in positive actions that will lead to progressive evolutions and desired results.

 

Involve and evolve are intertwined

Together they make progress shine

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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Useless Tree

In the parable of the "Useless Tree" Hui Tzu said to philosopher, Chuang Tzu: ‘The trunk, of the tree in my garden, is so bent and knotty that nobody can get a good straight plank out of it.The branches are so crooked you can't cut them up in any way that makes sense. No carpenter will even look at it. Such is your teaching, Chuang - big and useless.’

Chuang Tzu replied: ‘No use? Then plant it in the wasteland. Walk idly around it and rest under its shadow. No axe or saw prepares its end. No one will ever cut it down. Useless?’

The large, gnarled tree stood unharmed because its twisted trunk and branches make it unsuitable for lumber. The tree's "uselessness" allows it to live a long and peaceful life.

 

The story highlights themes of non-action, embracing one's natural purpose, rather than forcing oneself to fit societal expectations. Sometimes, being "useless" can be beneficial, allowing one to avoid unnecessary stress, expectations, or exploitation.

 

This parable encourages us to rethink traditional notions of value and purpose, embracing the idea that being different or unconventional can be a strength.

 

Deemed useless was a tree, twisted with its fate to engage,

It stood free in wild harmony, its uniqueness its own stage.

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

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