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| He who distinguishes between the garden and practice cannot be said to have found the Way. - Muso Kokushi - |
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Invitations to Stillness: Japanese Gardens "Every element in the Japanese garden from the shape of the pruned pine trees to the careful placement of stepping stones has intention and is specifically designed to cultivate nuanced awareness. The contrast between what is placed and what is left blank, brings to life a pictorial space that leaves room for our imagination. Symbolism and metaphor in the garden also offer powerful tools to help humans reconcile their own lives and relationships to both society and the larger forces of nature. The American garden scholar Kendall Brown argues that 'The opportunity for direct engagement with nature is what makes all gardens compelling but, as Japanese gardens function so effectively as philosophical and physical microcosms, their power is even stronger.'" More in this lovely essay. { read more } Be The Change When have you felt your practice at its most vibrant? Reflect on what you attribute this to. What might further vivify your practice in this current time? |
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