In a world where relentless pursuit is often glorified, there's quiet wisdom in the art of giving up. It's not about surrendering to defeat but rather reclaiming agency over our lives. Questioning societal narratives of endless hustle and embracing self-compassion, we find that success isn't always about pushing through pain. Instead, it's about discerning when to let go, when to prioritize balance, and when to embrace the beauty of the present moment. By relinquishing the need for constant achievement and comparison, we create space for authenticity, joy, and genuine connection in our lives.
Embarking on a journey to Plum Village, nestled amidst the serene French countryside, I found myself propelled into a world utterly unfamiliar yet profoundly transformative. What began as a pilgrimage to reunite with my monk brother evolved into a three-month odyssey of self-discovery and renewal. Amidst the gentle rhythms of monastic life, I shed the trappings of my former self—indulgence, digital distractions, and emotional barriers—and embraced the teachings of mindfulness and compassion. In the quietude of Plum Village, amidst dharma talks, yoga sessions, and shared meals, I unearthed the profound wisdom of deep listening and loving speech, forging enduring connections with fellow seekers from across the globe. As I bid farewell to Plum Village, I carry with me not only cherished memories but also a newfound appreciation for the present moment and the transformative power of self-awareness.
In our relentless pursuit of a life filled with meaning and fulfillment, we often overlook the profound journey that lies within. While external adventures may dazzle us with their novelty, it is the exploration of our inner landscapes that truly enriches our existence. Through mindfulness practices, introspective journeys, and even psychedelic experiences, we uncover layers of our psyche previously unseen. This inward exploration softens the grip of the ego, fosters compassion, and deepens our connection to ourselves and others. As we navigate the complexities of our inner worlds, we gain resilience, creativity, and a profound understanding of what it means to be human. So, let us journey inward with curiosity and compassion, for it is in this exploration that we find the true essence of a life well-lived.
"In a world intoxicated by consumerism, Enlightened Anarchists stand as beacons of resistance, challenging the status quo and advocating for a radical shift towards conscious living. Rejecting the hollow promises of material possessions, they call for a deeper examination of our societal values and priorities. Through the lens of Wise Consumption, they encourage simplicity, empathy, and environmental stewardship, urging us to break free from the cycle of endless consumption and embrace a more sustainable way of life. This is not just a philosophy; it's a rallying cry for individuals to reclaim agency over their choices and contribute to a world where meaningful connections and collective well-being take precedence over mindless accumulation."
"In my quest for happiness, I embarked on a journey of self-exploration and growth, inspired by the idea that happiness is not a destination but a skill to be cultivated. Through exploration, I learned that true fulfilment begins with understanding ourselves deeply and finding meaning in the present moment. Along the way, I discovered the transformative power of compassion and the importance of embracing presence. By nurturing these four pillars—exploration, self-knowledge, meaning, and presence—we can unlock the door to lasting happiness and fulfillment in our lives."
What we eat and how we eat it plays a significant role in determining our overall health and well-being. It's not just about the nutrients we intake, but also about how we approach our meals. The following seven simple nutrition tips can help you enhance your lifestyle, nourish your body, and bring joy to your eating routine.
So much of what we are told isn’t really that helpful. We are told to chase and strive, to never stop, to just do it, to hustle. To wake up at 4 am and keep pushing. That nothing good ever comes to the person who doesn’t compete, who doesn’t get down and dirty. You get the picture. You know the picture. It’s everywhere.
I had finished University, had a good job, money, and status, but something was missing. That is probably why I spent all of my weekends binge drinking and chasing girls. Don’t get me wrong, I had a lot of fun, but year after year of this same pattern left me lost and unfulfilled.
What do you want your 2019 to look like? What do you want your life to look like? Are you doing things that are inching you closer to your dreams and aspirations? Are you giving yourself the best chance to be really healthy and happy?
When we are always running at a frantic pace from one commitment to another we never get the chance to simply sit with our feelings. When you don’t take the time to see how these feelings affect you and more importantly where they stem from, you never get to truly come to terms with those mistakes or regrets and they can tap away forever, little by little tearing your present moments away. In order to be truly happy, healthy and alive, we need to examine our lives.
I was curious as to why we aren’t happier in the western world and I wanted to see if it was a direct result of an increase in technology, an increase in choice and an increase in financial prosperity? So I packed my bags for Cuba, a country renowned for its lack of technology , amongst other things, and a nation on the verge of drastic change.
