Mindfulness Practices From Around The World
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What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present, focusing on being intensely aware of what you’re sensing and feeling in the moment without interpretation or judgment.
If we look at cultures worldwide, we’ll find many different traditions include forms of mindfulness practice. At Rickshaw, we always try to provide chances for our customers to experience unique hidden gems on their travels, far away from the tourist trail. It is in these moments, when you surround yourself with true culture, that you can discover and learn traditional practices.
Let’s have a look at some of the interesting ways people around the world practice mindfulness, helping to maximise their happiness and fulfillment in life.
Japanese Mindfulness Practice: Shirin-Yoku
Shirin-Yoku, otherwise known as “forest bathing.” This is a prescribed form of meditation and medicine, seen as a healing therapy to combat the stresses of modern life.
The Japanese community encourages members to immerse themselves in nature, taking the time to truly focus on their surroundings.
If you want to read more about this fantastic therapy for restoring balance and calm, you can find details in our previous blog: “What is forest bathing, and where can you do it?”
Our Kyoto trips includes visits to zen gardens and picture-perfect temples, giving you an opportunity to try Shirin-Yoku for yourself.
Tibet Mindfulness Practice: Metta Meditation
Tibet is a remote and mainly-Buddhist territory region in China; it is governed autonomously and is known as the “roof of the world.”
Metta meditation is a mindfulness practice that involves focusing on growing a sense of kindness and goodwill towards others. Metta translates to “loving kindness,” and the meditation itself includes directing positive thoughts onto other people.
Tibet is filled with huge monasteries and chanting monks, a truly mindful and intriguing place to discover. You can speak to our Travel Specialists about Tibet travel, an experience we are sure will enlighten you.
Costa Rica Mindfulness Practice: Cacao Ceremonies
Cacao ceremonies have been around for thousands of years, and although originating in Central and South America, they are now practiced in many parts of the world. These ceremonies are used for spiritual and medicinal purposes for inner awakening and creative guidance.
A cacao ceremony keeps you centered and connected to your own heart and feelings. They involve gathering with others to drink cacao, sharing thoughts of gratefulness, and creating a space for connection, healing, and inspiration.
At Rickshaw, we have trips and itineraries to many parts of both Central and South America, including Costa Rica.
Importance of Mindfulness & Cultural Practices
Mindfulness practice is vital for improving emotional and physical well-being. In the busy (and slightly crazy) world we have all experienced in the last year, it is more important now than ever to look after ourselves.
Learning about mindfulness and the different forms we see around the world also opens our eyes and hearts to culture and tradition from communities beyond our own. Good things happen when we travel, and we believe immersing ourselves in new cultures is one way we can become more meaningful and responsible travellers in the future.
We’d love to know if you have ever experienced one of the practices above; leave a comment down below for our Travel Specialists to read! And don’t forget – you can contact us anytime to discuss your future holiday, one we are sure will leave you with memories you’ll cherish forever.
