2 Zen Sayings for the New Year 2012

(from http://www.fatchomper.com)

"No snowflake ever falls in the wrong place"

In nature, there's no such thing as right and wrong. The seamlessness and functionality of the natural world reminds us that ideas of 'good' and 'bad' are just constructs of the human mind. They don't really mean anything. It could help to think of the events in life as snowflakes, not in the typical corny-metaphorical way, but from a natural perspective. 

"Zen is selling water by the river"

One might try to glorify Zen practice as something above-average or superior. In reality, Zen embraces and acknowledges the absurdity of life and does not pretend to be anything more than an ideology. The reason Zen advocates for direct experience over pure study is that we only truly learn through experience.  And even experience can feel meaningless and empty.  So, selling water by the river means embracing meaninglessness and experiencing life despite the fact that it can feel empty at times.  This proverb also takes on a new meaning from a modern perspective; at this time of year, the media and the people around us put so much emphasis on things, prices, items and commodities.  Advertising convinces us that things we spend money on will make us happy, when, in reality, it's the giving spirit and the warm comfort of close friends and family that make the holidays so enjoyable.   

Source (quotes): www.thedailyzen.org

Four key practices for holistic healing

Some key practices for holistic healing are provided below:*

Stop judging others: Forgiveness is one of the keys to being a whole and well person. Cultivating it allows you to live in the present moment. It's impossible to connect with other people if we constantly set unrealistic standards for them. So stop holding grudges. Quit ruminating. Forgive.

Stop judging yourself: Our self judgements influence our well-being. The most important thing in the wellness game is to learn to get out of your head. The endless chatter of thought can be exhausting. Learn to hold thoughts briefly before letting go. Dealing with our sense of guilt and self-criticism is the path to personal wholeness and connecting with others.

Be permeable: It's OK - it's good, even -- to feel sad, hurt or angry about something. But you shouldn't hold onto these feeling for very long. Here we can look to the example of children, who can go from temper tantrum to fits of laughter in an instant.

Find your you triggers: Joy is a choice that can be life changing. Find the things that make you happy and make them part of your life. 

*quoted from the video "Talking sustainable wellness at Urban Zen", Huffington Post, July 7, 2011.

Principles for sustainable living

Everyone can do something for the environment, every day. Your choices are important - how you live, what you buy, how you travel and what you eat. With the right knowledge and conditions it is not so difficult to live sustainably. And it is not only good for the environment, or the climate, it is also good for your economy, personal well-being and health - as well as for other humans, animals etc. Here I present eight basic principles for sustainable living:

1. Do not use substances that have a negative impact on the environment 
The most important thing is to not use something that is downright dangerous, such as toxic chemicals. And remember, you should always choose the option that causes the least pollution, consume the smallest amount of resources and to travel the shortest path. 

2. Do not waste - be careful about the earth's resources
Often, we buy clothes and things that we do not really need or that does not even interest us. This over-consumption is a big part of the reason for our environment today. Consider, therefore, if you really need what you intend to purchase. And invest in quality things (..and relationships) that last. Always look for opportunities to buy organic and buy products that are locally produced. Also think before you drive or, for example, before you increase the heat indoors - are there any alternatives? Buying second hand items instead of new is a good alternative, i.e. to protect the earth's resources.

3. Never throw anything away that can be used
Sell ​​or give away clothes, furniture and household items that you get tired of or no longer needed. There are always people who will be happy to use and/or pay for your stuff. Even when something is broken or has become waste, there is a lot to do with the material instead of simply throwing it away or burn it up. And do not forget to compost and sort your household waste.

4. Question your own thinking, habits and routines
Changing old habits and routines can be difficult, but often leads to something better. Travelling by train gives, for example, time for work or relaxation and to bike or walk to work provides the necessary exercise and cheer you up. It pays to occasionally ask the question "why?", when it comes to you own thinking, habits, routines, and behavior. 


5. Exercise and meditate on a regular basis
Exercise physically and mentally regularly. In order to build enduring fitness, do yoga, cardiovascular- and strength exercises at least three, and up to 6-7 times a week. Learn how to meditate and deep-breathe. Practice it for 10 minutes a day. Listening to meditative or relaxing music can help. Turn of the TV and visit a friend or your local library instead. 


6. Consume only natural and organic foods
Experience the rainbow in your meals and try to eat fresh foods every day, of every color. You will maximize your vitamin and mineral intake. Learn what is available in your region and at your local food store, and do not hesitate for ask for specific products or ingredients that you might search for. Read labels to find find out about processing, nutrients, ingredients and calorie intake.

7. Connect daily with nature

Allow yourself to feel the grass under your feet, the dirt under your hands, or to marvel at the night sky or moon. Enjoy the forest, lake/sea, fresh air and sunset. You can buy a great pair of walking shoes, and/or a bike. Then walk or bike for 30-60 minutes a day - preferably in nature.

8. Perform a daily act of kindness and compassion

Perform one random act of kindness and compassion every day. Realize that life is not only about making a living, but also about giving. Life is so much bigger than ourselves. Find a way to forgive and loose a load of emotional baggage. Talk to your neighbor, or just someone in the street. Find out if there is something new that you can learn about yourself or from others.