Using Play As Our Practice

Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh writes;

“From time to time, to remind ourselves to relax, to be peaceful, we must wish to set aside some time for a retreat, a day of mindfulness, when we can walk slowly, smile, drink tea with a friend, enjoy being together as if we are the happiest people on Earth. This is not a retreat, it is a treat.”

I thought of his words this morning as I looked out from my bedroom window. Across the way, a young girl was chasing soap bubbles with a friend, a fearless pup blissfully nipping at the air. Their joy was palpable, as much a part of this day as the sun itself. And between each shriek and heart filling giggle, a pause – just long enough to effect their mutual gratitude.

Play encourages the heart’s liberation, alleviating the burden and impossibility of long-standing barriers. Through play, our consciousness is lifted, allowing us to explore new ways of thinking. We begin to see the simplicity within the complex, recognizing our place in their interpretation: everything, just as it is and nothing more.

In this way, life itself becomes our practice, and we…we finally become the enrichment we seek.

In peace, my sweet friends…

Namaste ❣

About

Tara Lemieux is a mindful wanderer, and faithful stargazer. Although she often appears to be listening with great care, rest assured she is most certainly‘forever lost in thought. She is an ardent explorer and lover of finding things previously undiscovered or at the very least mostly not-uncovered.

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