John O’Donohue

Hidden resources at work

Your unfolding life

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John Quincy Adams

Inspire others to dream

Johnathan Jena

Never forgotten

<p>Jon<span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(32,33,34);"> is an American professor emeritus of medicine and the creator of the Stress Reduction Clinic and the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He was a student of Zen Buddhist teachers Philip Kapleau, Thich That Hang, and Seung Sahn and a founding member of the Cambridge Zen Center. He teaches Mindfulness and his stress reduction program, </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mindfulness-based_stress_reduction">mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)</a><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(32,33,34);">, is offered by medical centers, hospitals, and health maintenance organizations around the world.</span></p>

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Jon Kabat-Zinn

You already belong

Jonas Gahr Store

Connectivity

Jonas Jödicke, aka JoJoesArt, hails from Berlin, Germany. He has been creating and imagining fantastic worlds ever since he can remember. In 2010 he started uploading some of his artworks on the Internet and growing more and more of a fan-base. What started as a hobby has now become his profession. His works are appreciated and purchased all around the globe and have been featured on countless well-known blogs, websites, magazines and book covers.

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Jonas Jödicke

<h3 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#c28515;">AN ART ESSAY</span></h3><h4><span style="color:#c28515;">JONAS JÖDICKE</span> has been creating and imagining fantastic worlds ever since he can remember. What started as a hobby has now become his profession. Here he shares with us what art means to him, and offers a poem associated with each work of art.</h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Art has always been a crucial part of who I am. It’s as though art chose me, not the other way round. Pablo Picasso once said, “Painting is stronger than me, it makes me do its bidding.” I can only attest to that. The urge to let my inner feelings and thoughts become reality has always been very strong, especially growing up in a creative family with six siblings, two of which are also full-time artists.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">When I turned 14, I stumbled upon a video on YouTube of someone painting on their PC. I was immediately hooked and asked my parents to gift me a graphic tablet and a student version of Adobe Photoshop for my birthday. Digital Art quickly became my favorite medium.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">After finishing high school I decided to go on a two-year missionary trip with my church, which was a crucial time of self-discovery and spiritual growth. I think the spiritual dimension I added to my fantasy art after that journey really struck a chord with many people, and within a year I was able to fully sustain myself as an artist.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">I choose animals as the subject of most of my pieces because, weird as it may sound, I feel it is easier for us to relate to the depiction of animals on an emotional level than it is to relate to the depiction of humans. Unconsciously we tend to judge people by their looks, skin color, proportions, gender, and so on, which can prevent us from focusing on the essentials. I give my animals slightly human traits such as deep, emotional eyes, and it almost makes the viewer feel as though they are looking into a mirror. It makes them realize that they themselves are divine beings.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">I am especially fascinated by the interconnectedness of light and dark, portraying the bipolar relationship between the forces that govern our universe: cold and warmth, day and night, good and evil, body and spirit. Portraying both sides of the spectrum in one piece of art creates a tension that the viewers can feel inside of them.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">In my ‘Symbols of Life’ series, these two poles, represented by animals, are actually bound together in a mix of affection, love, necessity, and also pain. My belief is that each of them cannot exist without the other: stars could never shine without the dark of the night. The same applies to relationships between humans. We may be as different as day and night, but still we can and ought to be bound together in love.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Many of my pieces also evolve around the theme of guardians, those heavenly beings who watch over us. I believe in God, and through my art I try to express what His presence feels like to me.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Art is more than a hobby or a profession to me. It is a means of giving voice to the thoughts, feelings and truths I carry inside, which can’t be expressed any other way. It helps me access the peaceful space of divinity inside myself and all around me. When I create, I feel as though everything but me and the piece I am working on disappears for a while, almost like during meditation.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">I believe we were all made to create in one way or another. Whether it is through art, music, cooking, writing or photography, being creative connects us to our deeper consciousness and to our fellow human beings. It brings the unconscious to the surface and teaches us a lot about ourselves.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Many of my pieces have helped me better understand certain issues I was having at the time I was working on them. They contained messages that were meant for me. But when others looked at them, they saw something totally different and interpreted them in their unique, personal way. That is the magic of art – one and the same piece can tell a million different stories to a million different people.</p><h3 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#c28515;">Brotherhood</span></h3><h5 style="text-align:center;">We may be as day and night,<br>as different as black and white,<br>yet there is no reason here<br>to fight a war because of fear.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">Cause you’re just you and I am me,<br>come, open up your eyes and see,<br>that no matter how different,<br>it’s love that binds us in the end.</h5><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/symbols_of_life2_bbaab83652.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-10T06:34:43.273Z" alt=""></p><hr><h3 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#c28515;">Yin and Yang</span></h3><h5 style="text-align:center;">Balance is a state of opposition,<br>a state of two forces facing each other.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">There is no light without darkness,<br>no peace without pain.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">It is our choice which way we face<br>and in the end that choice</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">…determines our eternal destiny.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/symbols_of_life3_438cd5346d.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-10T06:35:52.980Z" alt=""></h5><hr><h3 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#c28515;">Eternal Bond</span></h3><h5 style="text-align:center;">We live, we die,<br>we laugh, we cry,<br>we’re low, then high,<br>we fail and try.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">We hope, we doubt,<br>we breathe, we shout,<br>we’re soft, then loud,<br>we’re meek and proud.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">Eternity is meant to be<br>a never ending harmony<br>of dusk and dawn,<br>nor split nor torn,</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">for as we die,<br>we’ll be reborn.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/symbols_of_life4_20857089d4.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-10T06:36:59.995Z" alt=""></h5><hr><h3 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#c28515;">Circle of Life</span></h3><h5 style="text-align:center;">In life we face both low and peek,<br>we fail and sometimes we succeed<br>to gain fulfillment, joy and peace,<br>until we find that missing piece:</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">Someone to hold, someone to feel,<br>someone, who makes our joy so real,<br>a lover, friend, a child, our God,<br>someone we can truly love.</h5><p><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/symbols_of_life5_b2c04a7c8f.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-10T06:38:05.112Z" alt=""></p><hr><h3 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#c28515;">Peace</span></h3><h5 style="text-align:center;">Is war the answer,<br>is hate the way?<br>Is life just a game<br>of predator and prey?</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">Give me your hand,<br>feel my heart beat,<br>put down your weapons<br>and let us make peace.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;">For we both know,<br>we can’t hide,<br>we might die together,<br>if we chose to fight.</h5><h5 style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/symbols_of_life6_b08cb2cb69.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-10T06:39:37.750Z" alt=""></h5><p><span style="color:#c28515;">https://www.instagram.com/jojoesart/</span><br><span style="color:#c28515;">https://www.facebook.com/JojoesArt/?ref=settings</span><br><span style="color:#c28515;">https://www.youtube.com/user/PeeGeeArts</span></p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Art, poetry and article by JONAS JÖDICKE</h4><hr>

Symbols of life

Joseph Campbell

Be who you are

<p style="text-align:justify;">Joseph Robinson is a Heartfulness trainer and yoga teacher who has been exploring the role that somatic practices can play in transformation for close to 20 years. He is a husband, father of two, and currently lives in Vienna. You can find more about him and his work at joeyyoga.com.</p>

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Joseph Robinson

<h4><span style="color:#BE2027;"><strong>JOSEPH ROBINSON</strong></span><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);"><strong> reflects on the tension between longing for peace and reaching for more—and what lies beyond that divide.</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">I, and most of the people I know, live with a kind of subtle tension. On one hand, there is the sincere desire to be more present, more grounded, less stressed. &nbsp;On the other hand, there is the nearly universal pull to have more, to do more, to become more.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">In my own life, this tension has produced no small amount of suffering. My younger self dismissed ambition as shallow—until I found myself broke. As an adult, I am painfully aware that in the rush to push forward, I am sacrificing opportunities to nourish and deepen the relationships that matter most.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Trying to understand this conflict, I eventually realized that while these desires appear contradictory, they both arise from looking at our lives and concluding, <i>“This is not enough.”</i> If we felt truly fulfilled, there would be pressure to neither improve our circumstances nor to escape them. We would simply inhabit the present moment. In this way, the desire for “more” and the desire for “peace” are twin responses to the feeling that our life, as it is, is incomplete.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">In response, my first instinct was to pathologize striving as a kind of spiritual immaturity, but that idea didn’t survive much scrutiny. As a father and provider, I’m not sure the impulse to hustle is so maladaptive, and anyway, problems of scarcity are obviously real. When money is tight, relationships are strained, and when our habits have become confining, the impulse to dream bigger, get our act together, and work harder isn’t neurotic—it’s necessary. Moreover, where would spirituality be without this “drive for more”? Without some internal unsatisfactoriness, how would anyone ever rise above their hedonic tendencies and commit to something larger?</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The obvious problem with all this is that if we look closely, most of us can find a voice inside that is never satisfied, no matter what we achieve. This voice flows from our shame, or the belief that something is wrong with us—not for what we’ve done, but for who we are. This shame is one of the deepest and most isolating pains we feel, and our attempts to repress or outrun it tend to distort our lives in powerful ways. And when that distortion meets our natural drive to grow, our striving can easily become just another expression of “I am not enough.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#BE2027;">The obvious problem with all this is that&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">if we look closely, most of us can find a voice inside&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">that is never satisfied, no matter what we achieve.&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">This voice flows from our shame, or the belief that something&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">is wrong with us—not for what we’ve done, but for who we are.</span></h4><hr><p>&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify;">If we cannot tell the difference between authentic striving—a way of honoring our potential—and neurotic striving—the hustle to outrun “I am not enough”—it is easy to spend years, decades, a lifetime running after something that is not actually the answer. As someone with plenty of experience on this front, I say this with compassion. Hopefully, you find the following distinctions as useful as I do:</p><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#BE2027;"><strong>Authentic Striving</strong></span></h4><h4 style="text-align:justify;">“I am already enough. Growth is how I express my fullness.”</h4><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/notes_wanting_more2_93f9cf73d2.webp" alt="notes-wanting-more2.webp"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><h4><span style="color:#BE2027;"><strong>Neurotic Striving</strong></span></h4><p>“I am not enough yet. Growth is how I earn love or safety.”</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/notes_wanting_more3_19c6f29ba6.webp" alt="notes-wanting-more3.webp"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Recognizing the difference is an act of profound honesty. And if that second voice feels familiar, I’ve found two practices to be especially healing:</p><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#BE2027;"><strong>Santosha: the practice of contentment</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;"><i>Santosha</i>, the second <i>niyama </i>(five observances) found in the <i>Yoga Sutras</i> of <a href="https://heartfulness.org/magazine/the-mind-according-to-patanjali" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Patanjali</a>, is an inner attitude that affirms:</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“Nothing is missing in this moment.” “I can meet life exactly as it is.” “My okay-ness is not dependent on improvement.”</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Santosha is sufficiency, equanimity, and non-resistance. It does not require gratitude or positivity. &nbsp;It simply asks us to stop resisting reality and to cultivate contentment in the present moment, regardless of circumstance.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">For many of us, it is hard to even comprehend this attitude because it stands in direct opposition to the sense of insufficiency that so many of us feel. In addition, we are so accustomed to identifying with thoughts and contracting around discomfort that the idea of allowing experience to unfold without interference feels foreign.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/notes_wanting_more4_4e0eceec98.webp" alt="notes-wanting-more4.webp"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#BE2027;">To cultivate santosha,&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">I’ve found this mantra to be beneficial:&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">“<i>I am enough. This moment is enough.”</i></span></h4><hr><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But by practicing santosha, we become much more aware of the experience of contraction and the particular ways it tends to play out in our lives. Armed with this awareness, when the feeling of “<a href="https://heartfulness.org/magazine/the-most-important-thing-you-can-do-for-yourself" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">not enough</a>” shows up, we can notice it for what it is and perhaps resist the impulse to numb or manage it through control or striving.</p><p>To cultivate santosha, I’ve found this mantra to be beneficial: “<i>I am enough. This moment is enough.</i>”</p><h4><span style="color:#BE2027;"><strong>Gratitude—The Heartfulness Way</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">As Erich Fromm observed, freedom <i>from</i> something—in this case, the distortions of shame—is only half of the solution. To truly purify ambition, our drive to grow must be yoked to a higher goal. As a practitioner of Heartfulness, I understand that goal to be developing an authentic relationship to Being.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Because Being is relational, Daaji teaches that true spirituality isn’t about conquering or extinguishing the self; it’s about expanding the heart to the point that the self-centeredness at the core of how we relate to the world dissolves.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/notes_wanting_more5_21baaa966d.webp" alt="notes-wanting-more5.webp"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify;">To help with this task—and strengthen me in my daily struggle with selfishness—I find it healing to contemplate our fundamental dependence on everything: we have received so <i>much </i>from parents and ancestors; from mentors, communities, and social institutions; from culture, language and inherited wisdom; from the biosphere; and ultimately from a Cosmos that makes consciousness, growth, and love possible. What do we owe others for the privilege of not being alone? &nbsp;What do we owe existence for the privilege of being supported so completely? When I ask these questions, the answer explodes in my heart—gratitude. Lifted up by that heart fullness, I forget my narrowness and remember that I am here to serve, which is the essence of <i>bhakti</i>—devotion expressed through action. In the words of Rabindranath Tagore: “I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold—service was joy.”</p><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#BE2027;"><strong>Conclusion: Returning to the Beginning</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">The tension we began with—the longing for peace and the longing for more—softens when we learn to discern the source of our striving.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Santosha addresses the wound of insufficiency directly: it teaches us to rest in the present without needing life, or ourselves, to be different. Gratitude completes the arc, turning our impulse to strive outward, transforming ambition into a form of service and growth into a quest to connect more authentically to the world.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Together, these practices reveal that presence and aspiration are not opposites. When rooted in enough-ness and oriented toward devotion, striving becomes an expression of being fully alive. Peace is not the absence of growth, and growth is not the enemy of peace. They meet in the heart that remembers:</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><i>Nothing is missing—for Love was always there. And yet there is always room to serve more deeply.</i></p><p style="text-align:justify;">This is the Heartfulness Way.<br>&nbsp;</p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#BE2027;">Santosha addresses the wound of insufficiency directly:&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">it teaches us to rest in the present&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">without needing life, or ourselves, to be different.&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">Gratitude completes the arc, turning our impulse</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">to strive outward, transforming ambition into&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">a form of service and growth into a quest&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#BE2027;">to connect more authentically to the world.</span></h4><hr><p>&nbsp;</p>

Notes on Wanting More

<p>Josh is a self-taught professional photographer who is known for his captivating imagery of Buddha statues. His work has graced book and magazine covers, reflecting his dedication to the craft and his heartfelt tribute to his late mother through his photography.</p>

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Josh Bulriss

<p class="p1">The goal of the Buddha Project was to find and photograph some of the most unique and beautiful
  Buddha statues throughout Asia: those that are unique in color, decay or texture, and have something that set
  them apart. This 6,000 mile journey led me through six countries, forty-two cities and nineteen caves. Here are
  seven of my favorite Buddhas, in the order I photographed them. After arriving in some of these
  magnificent locations, I just sat and cleared my mind to take it all in … a sense of real serenity.</p>

<h5 class="text-center">BUDDHA COVERED WITH MONKEYS</h5>
<p class="text-center"><img class="has-img-center"
    src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/buddha_monkeys_img_4e400155bb.jpg?updated_at=2023-03-30T15:22:09.633Z" />
</p>

<p class="text-justify">The setting in Lopburi, Thailand, is what really enticed me to photograph this beautiful
  Buddha. The monkeys added an extra element.</p>
<hr />

<h5 class="text-center">DATDAWTAUNG CAVE</h5>
<p class="text-justify"><img class="has-img-center"
    src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/the_buddha_project_img1_d271adf9b8.jpg" /></p>
<p class="text-justify">Just outside Mandalay, Myanmar, this was on the top of my list for statues to photograph: the
  colors, the lighting, the textures. It is everything all in one. The tranquility this cave resonated was truly
  remarkable. I joined a group of locals for meditation in the far corner of the cave.</p>

<h5><em>See the complete set of photos in Volume 2, Issue 1
  </em></h5>
<h5><a href="//www.heartfulnessmagazine.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span
      style="color: #bf8f26;">SUBSCRIBE &amp; DOWNLOAD</span></a></h5>
<hr />

<h5 class="text-center">Photo essay by Josh Bulriss</h5>
<hr />

The Buddha project

<p><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>JOSH BULRISS</strong></span><strong> is a traveling photographer. Before heading to Thailand for the Buddha Project, he had no idea that he would find a soul mate for his travels. This is the story of Josh and Tara, entwined with photography and the Buddha</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">After the passing of my mother in 2014, I decided to embark on a focused photography project called the Buddha Project. The aim was to discover and photograph some of the world’s most intriguing and unique statues and temples, capturing their essence. With a deep-rooted interest in traveling Asia and photographing subjects that evoke a sense of peace, this project held a special significance. My mother had always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. She would have been thrilled to witness their realization.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The plan was to begin in Thailand, the gateway to Southeast Asia. Given the extensive time I had spent there, I knew it would serve as the perfect starting point. The country boasts an abundance of breathtaking temples and ancient statues, offering an incredible opportunity for photography. Recognizing the potential benefits of a local guide, I sought assistance from the local community through a chat site. To my delight, the first person I contacted agreed to help me explore Bangkok for a couple of days. The more we conversed, the more our travel plans expanded. Eventually, we decided to embark on a three-week journey across central Thailand.</p><p><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together3.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp 234w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp 750w," sizes="100vw"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,60%);">Polunawara, Sri Lanka</span></p><p><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together4.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp 233w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp 750w," sizes="100vw"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,60%);">Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos</span></p><p><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together5.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp 219w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp 750w," sizes="100vw"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,60%);">Marble Mountain Da Nang, Vietnam&nbsp;</span></p><p><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together6_da269625df.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together6.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together6_da269625df.webp 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together6_da269625df.webp 333w," sizes="100vw"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,60%);">Ayutthaya, Thailand</span></p><p>Upon landing in Bangkok, I anticipated meeting Tararat. Initially, we spent a couple of days exploring the city before setting out to discover the small towns and villages scattered throughout this ancient Buddhist country.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The joy we experienced while traveling together was unparalleled, leading us to decide that we would venture into north-eastern Thailand after I returned from Myanmar. There were countless places to explore and each new destination only fueled our desire to keep going. We ventured across north-eastern Thailand, extending our journey over the next couple of years into Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Nepal, and India. We have no intention of halting this project, as there is still so much left to discover and capture.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">On May 3, 2019, Tara and I exchanged vows in a magical moment in Bangkok, initiating the beautiful journey of marriage.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">In December 2019, we led our first successful tour across seven provinces in central Thailand, sharing the breathtaking beauty of our favorite Buddhist sites with others. The experience left us eager and hopeful to lead more tours.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">As we transitioned into the new year of 2020, we embarked on a profound three-week journey venturing deep into the heart of India, accompanied by a Theravada Buddhist monk. This expedition was one of the most transformative experiences of our lives. We explored ancient Buddhist sites that held immense historical and spiritual significance. We had the privilege of visiting Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath, where Buddha imparted his teachings during his first ceremony. We explored Kaushambi, where Buddha spent his 6th and 9th rainy seasons. It was an awe-inspiring experience to walk in the footsteps of such profound wisdom and enlightenment.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together2.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp 217w, https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp 500w, https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp 750w" sizes="100vw"></figure><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together7_09a81bd6e4.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together7.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together7_09a81bd6e4.webp 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together7_09a81bd6e4.webp 333w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,60%);">Ellora Caves, Aurangabad, India</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">During our travels, we encountered relics and precious artifacts that held a deep spiritual resonance. We marveled at some of the oldest Buddha statues in existence, dating back to the first century. These majestic statues bore witness to centuries of devotion and represented the timeless impact of Buddha’s teachings.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Our journey through India was life-changing, an opportunity to connect with the roots of Buddhism and to deepen our understanding of the path Buddha paved centuries ago. After returning to Thailand, the world was on the brink of a global shutdown due to the Covid pandemic. As the situation unfolded, I made the difficult decision to return to America in March 2020, where I began the necessary paperwork for Tara’s journey to join me. Tara landed in Rochester, NY, on July 16, 2021, marking the beginning of a new chapter together.</p><p>Over the past two years, the Buddha Project has led us to museums across the United States, and we’ve been privileged to explore the beauty of numerous sites, discovering wonders we might never have otherwise encountered. As we press forward, our unwavering pursuit of the world’s most unique and intriguing Buddhas continues, a testament to the path that united us and a guiding light toward the future.</p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">As we press forward, our</span><br><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">unwavering pursuit of the world’s most</span><br><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">unique and intriguing Buddhas</span><br><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">continues, a testament to the</span><br><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">path that united us and</span><br><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">a guiding light toward the future.</span></h4><hr><p><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together8.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp 245w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp 750w," sizes="100vw"><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,60%);">Inle Lake, Myanmar</span></p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><strong>Photographs by JOSH BULRISS</strong></h4><hr>

How the Buddha brought us together

<h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);"><strong>JOSH BULRISS</strong></span><strong> is the professional photographer behind The Buddha Project, an initiative capturing unique Buddha imagery across the world. In this photo essay, Josh maps out Buddha’s influence in history, spirituality, art, and culture, a testament to the universality of Buddhism.</strong></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp" alt="diverse-faces-buddha1.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp 1260w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Dambulla Cave Temple, Columbo, Sri Lanka</figcaption></figure><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Buddhism is one of the world’s major religions, with a rich and diverse history that spans over two millennia. We can trace its origins back to the 6th century BCE India when Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, spread his teachings. As Buddhism expanded across the Asian continent, it underwent a fascinating transformation, adapting to the rich cultural, artistic, and spiritual tapestries of the regions it encountered. One of the most visible manifestations of this adaptation is the wide array of Buddha statues found throughout Asia. These statues not only represent the essence of Buddhism, but also embody the unique artistic expressions, historical influences, and cultural diversities of the countries where they are found.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp" alt="Bagan, Myanmar.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Bagan, Myanmar</figcaption></figure><h4><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>Cultural adaptation</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Buddhism’s journey across Asia was not merely a religious diffusion but also a profound cultural fusion. As it spread to different countries, it blended seamlessly with local customs, beliefs, and artistic traditions. The result was a breathtaking array of Buddha statues that epitomize the specific cultural and artistic sensibilities of each region. In China, Buddha statues may bear distinct Chinese facial features and traditional clothing. In Japan, they may incorporate Japanese aesthetics and design elements, reflecting the harmony between Buddhism and Japanese culture.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp" alt="Marble Mountains  Am Phu Cave  Hoi An, Vietnam.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Marble Mountains Am Phu Cave, Hoi An,<br>Vietnam</figcaption></figure><h4><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>Artistic expression</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">As Buddhism took root in various regions, local artists and sculptors contributed their unique perspectives to the portrayal of Buddha. This has led to variations in poses, expressions, and attire. Additionally, various cultures place emphasis on specific aspects of Buddha’s life, such as his role as a teacher or healer, giving rise to distinct representations. Thus, Buddha statues are not just religious icons but artistic masterpieces, showcasing the boundless creativity of humanity.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp" alt="China, Northern Qi dynasty Cleavland, Ohio Cleavland Museum of Art.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>China, Northern Qi Dynasty, Cleavland<br>Museum of Art, Ohio</figcaption></figure><h4><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>Symbolism</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Buddha statues are abundant with symbolic elements that are regionally meaningful. In Sri Lanka they often feature a distinctive “flame” atop the Buddha’s head, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment. In Southeast Asia, they often feature mudras (hand postures) with specific meanings. These symbols are rooted in local belief systems, enhance the spiritual significance of the statues, and deepen their connection to the culture from which they emerge.</p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">These statues not only represent the</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">&nbsp;essence of Buddhism, but also</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">embody the unique artistic expressions,</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">historical influences, and cultural diversities of</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">the countries where they are found.</span></h4><hr><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp" alt="Nong Khai, Thailand .webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Nong Khai, Thailand</figcaption></figure><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>Regional influences</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Local deities and mythological figures have also left their mark on the Buddha statues. Over time, these figures have become intertwined with the representation of Buddha, contributing to the rich tapestry of Asian Buddhist art. In some cases, Buddha statues may be merged with regional deities or given attributes specific to the area, resulting in a unique blend of religious and cultural elements.</p><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>Local devotion</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">The manner in which Buddha is revered can vary significantly from one Buddhist tradition to another. This variation has a direct impact on the portrayal of Buddha in statues. Theravada Buddhism emphasizes a different facet of Buddha’s life to Mahayana Buddhism. These variations in worship give rise to differences in the statues, reflecting the diverse spiritual practices within Buddhism itself.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp" alt="Bali,Indonesia.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Bali,Indonesia</figcaption></figure><h4><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>Materials and iconography</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">The materials available in a particular region and the symbolism associated with the specific school of Buddhism also shape the statues. Some cultures use materials that are abundant in their area, leading to variations in texture and appearance. Iconography varies as well, with Theravada Buddhism often depicting Buddha as more human, while Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes his transcendental or celestial characteristics.</p><h4><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>Historical influences</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Historical events and politics have played a pivotal role in the portrayal of the Buddha in art. During periods of persecution, Buddhist art became more abstract to avoid overtly religious symbols. These historical influences have left their mark on the evolution of Buddha statues and the adaptability of Buddhism in different cultural and political contexts.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp" alt="Delhi,India Greco-Buddhist art  .webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Greco-Buddhist Art, Delhi,India</figcaption></figure><h4><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>A fusion of cultures</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">The cross-cultural exchange and adaptation is most striking in Greco-Buddhist sculptures, also known as Gandharan art. These emerged during a period of cultural exchange and syncretism between the Greek-influenced regions of Central Asia and the Buddhist areas of India, particularly during the time of the Greco-Bactrian and Indo-Greek kingdoms from the 3rd century B.C.E. to the 1st century C.E.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The interaction between Greek and Indian cultures in the region that is now Pakistan and Afghanistan led to the creation of Greco-Buddhist art. Alexander the Great’s conquests brought Hellenistic influences to Central Asia, which eventually merged with the existing Buddhist traditions in the area.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Greco-Buddhist sculptures are known for their distinctive stylistic fusion. They often feature the idealized, naturalistic anatomy of Greek sculptures combined with the serene, spiritual expressions of Buddhist art.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp" alt="Sukhothai, Thailand.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Sukhothai, Thailand</figcaption></figure><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">They serve as a vivid reminder that</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">spirituality and culture are intertwined in</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">complex and beautiful ways, evolving</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">over time to create a rich tapestry of</span><br><span style="color:hsl(270,75%,60%);">human expression and belief.</span></h4><hr><h4><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>The tradition of face painting</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Nepal is renowned for its distinctive and unique approach to depicting Buddha statues, particularly for adding face paint in vibrant colors and intricate designs, enhancing the cultural and artistic diversity found throughout the region. This Nepalese practice further exemplifies the dynamic relationship between spirituality and art in the world of Buddhism.</p><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);"><strong>The diverse faces of the Buddha</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">The diverse faces of the Buddha in art are a testament to the adaptability and universality of Buddhism. They serve as a vivid reminder that spirituality and culture are intertwined in complex and beautiful ways, evolving over time to create a rich tapestry of human expression and belief. Buddha statues across Asia not only reflect the essence of Buddhism but also encapsulate the cultural richness of their respective regions, showcasing the boundless creativity of humanity and the adaptability of this ancient tradition.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp" alt="Kathmandu, Nepal.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Kathmandu, Nepal</figcaption></figure><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><strong>Photography by JOSH BULRISS</strong></h4><hr>

The diverse faces of the Buddha

<h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#F26529;"><strong>JOSH BULRISS</strong></span><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,30%);"><strong> shares his tips for staying positive in settings where negativity prevails. They are especially useful in the workplace, where tensions sometimes run high.</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Have you ever felt surrounded by negativity, especially at work, or even at home? It can be frustrating and exhausting, especially when it starts to affect your own mood. Whether it’s one person or several contributing to the negative atmosphere, it’s easy to get caught up in the bad vibes. But you don’t have to let negativity bring you down. Instead, you can take a more mindful approach to maintain your positivity. By focusing on the present moment, setting meaningful goals, and staying centered, you can rise above the negativity and keep your outlook bright. Here are some tips and ideas to help you stay positive, no matter what’s happening around you.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive2_b356a5fda5.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive2.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive2_b356a5fda5.jpg 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive2_b356a5fda5.jpg 333w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_6ways_to_stay_positive2_b356a5fda5.jpg 499w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h4><span style="color:#EC008C;"><strong>1. Stay in the Moment</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">One of the best ways to keep your positivity intact is to focus on the present. It’s easy to get swept up in the negativity swirling around you, but being mindful can help. Pay attention to what’s happening right now, rather than allowing yourself to be overwhelmed by complaints and negativity.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">When someone starts grumbling, resist the urge to join in. Instead, take a deep breath and bring your attention back to the task at hand. By staying present, you can avoid getting caught up in negative energy and maintain your own positive outlook.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive3_1dbcb27fd2.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive3.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive3_1dbcb27fd2.jpg 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive3_1dbcb27fd2.jpg 333w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_6ways_to_stay_positive3_1dbcb27fd2.jpg 499w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#F04E23;"><strong>2. Find the Bright Spots</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Gratitude is your secret weapon against negativity. Even when it feels like everything’s going wrong, there’s always something to be grateful for. Start a daily habit of identifying a few things you’re thankful for in life. Let that gratitude spill over into your interactions with others. A simple “thank you” or acknowledgment of someone’s hard work can not only lift your mood but also help shift the overall vibe at work.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive4_eae93773de.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive4.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive4_eae93773de.jpg 234w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive4_eae93773de.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#EF4423;">A simple “thank you” or</span><br><span style="color:#EF4423;">acknowledgment of someone’s hard</span><br><span style="color:#EF4423;">work can not only lift your mood but</span><br><span style="color:#EF4423;">also help shift the overall vibe at work.</span></h4><hr><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive5_77885493d1.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive5.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive5_77885493d1.jpg 234w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive5_77885493d1.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h4><span style="color:#EC008C;"><strong>3. Protect Your Energy</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">You don’t have to let negativity drain your energy. Set boundaries with those who seem stuck in a cycle of complaining. If the conversation takes a negative turn, gently steer it towards something positive, or excuse yourself if necessary.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">It’s also important to take breaks to recharge. Step away for some fresh air or do something you enjoy. These small moments of self-care help keep you from getting bogged down by negativity around you.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive6_7a66b7e615.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive6.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive6_7a66b7e615.jpg 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive6_7a66b7e615.jpg 333w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_6ways_to_stay_positive6_7a66b7e615.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h4><span style="color:#F04E23;"><strong>4. Keep Your Goals in Sight</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">When the work environment gets tough, remind yourself of why you’re there. Think about your goals and what you’re working towards. Keeping the bigger picture in mind helps you stay motivated and focused, even when day-to-day challenges arise.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">This perspective allows you to remember that negativity is just a small part of your journey, and perhaps even a lesson in resilience. By focusing on your long-term goals, you can stay positive and keep moving forward.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive7_b48ce24fe1.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive7.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive7_b48ce24fe1.jpg 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive7_b48ce24fe1.jpg 333w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_6ways_to_stay_positive7_b48ce24fe1.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#EC008C;"><strong>5. Reflect and Adjust</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Take time to check in with yourself. Reflect on how you’re handling negativity and whether there are changes you can make to improve your outlook. Being honest with yourself about your reactions and adjusting your approach can help you stay more balanced and positive. Self-reflection helps you understand what’s working and what isn’t, so you can adapt and maintain your positive mindset.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive8_c48f3aaf36.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive8.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive8_c48f3aaf36.jpg 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive8_c48f3aaf36.jpg 333w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_6ways_to_stay_positive8_c48f3aaf36.jpg 499w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h4><span style="color:#F04E23;"><strong>6. Build a Positive Network</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Look for colleagues who share a positive attitude. Surrounding yourself with people who are upbeat and supportive can make a big difference. Engage with these colleagues and build relationships that lift you up. Having a network of positive people provides a much-needed boost when the overall environment feels gloomy. These connections can remind you that positivity is possible and help you stay focused on the good.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/6ways_to_stay_positive9_c42680f557.jpg" alt="6ways-to-stay-positive9.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_6ways_to_stay_positive9_c42680f557.jpg 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_6ways_to_stay_positive9_c42680f557.jpg 333w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_6ways_to_stay_positive9_c42680f557.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#385F05;"><strong>Conclusion</strong></span></h4><p style="text-align:justify;">Staying positive in a negative environment isn’t always easy, but it’s achievable with the right strategies. By staying present, practicing gratitude, protecting your energy, focusing on your goals, reflecting on your approach, and building positive relationships, you can keep your spirits high. Even if the overall mood at work isn’t great, your positivity can shine through and make a significant difference in your day-to-day experience, and everyone else’s.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</p>

6 ways to stay positive

Joyce Rachelle

Being fully present

Judith studied art at the Academy of Fine Art in both Hamburg and Munich, and the accents École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. There, she explored the old master’s techniques, fusing them with contemporary approaches. She first gained national attention in Variety Magazine featuring her exhibit entitled “Pandora’s Box”.www.judithliebe.com

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Judith Liebe

Judith lives in Scotland, and has a background in physiotherapy, broadcasting, presentation, and property development. These days, she teaches Heartfulness in organizations and communities, and is Vice-President of two Heartfulness charities.

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Judith Nelson

<h4><span style="color:#e9573f;"><strong>JUDITH NELSON</strong></span><strong> introduces a new series for 2022 that highlights and explores ways to integrate different perspectives on various topical issues.</strong></h4><p>&nbsp;</p><h3><span style="color:#00aeef;"><strong>EMBRACING DIFFERENCE</strong></span></h3><p>I don’t know anyone who has found the last two years easy. For most of us, it has felt like a rollercoaster ride through a very long pandemic tunnel, with an unrecognizable landscape as we emerge!&nbsp;</p><p>I have felt overwhelmed by polarized and contradictory information, advice, and instructions. How to navigate the non-stop media bombardment of endless tips and tools for well-being, and “toxic positivity”? What to do and not do, say, think, be, look like, etc.? It’s no wonder I am tired, and it’s a relief to drop all this stuff, let myself and my feelings be what they are, accept myself, and embrace all our differences.&nbsp;</p><p>Life is an ever-changing picture. We are also constantly changing, even if we don’t realize or feel it.&nbsp;Even within ourselves, we often need to reconcile many different feelings, emotions, and thoughts, so why do we load ourselves with an expectation to be right, to be certain, and to feel the same as others? How can we learn to stand in our own “space,” among many different views, and enjoy and respect them all? That’s our challenge.&nbsp;</p><p>In a recent discussion, the actor Kabir Bedi asked Daaji about his views on God.&nbsp;Daaji said he doesn’t think much about God, and that if you ask the five most evolved human beings this question, they would all have different views. He spoke about the beauty of individuality, and the need to honor the perspective of others when they describe the beauty they see, which we might not see in the same way.</p><p>I was happy to hear this answer, as a validation for being authentic. I felt encouraged to honor my thoughts and feelings, also allowing the same for others. Each of us is a spark of the whole, so by being ourselves we enrich our landscape&nbsp;and the tapestry of existence. We can’t and shouldn’t be homogenized like milk.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/what_feels_right_for_you2_700x536_58d7915d24.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-09T04:39:31.660Z" alt="what-feels-right-for-you2-700x536"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>So, the big question is: Who is the real “me”? How do you get to know yourself and understand when to say yes or no, and when to feel comfortable with not knowing?&nbsp;This takes time and practice. How can you allow yourself and others that time of discovery, and the opportunity to get things wrong? And why does it feel like there’s so much pressure to get things right?</p><p>It’s not the end of the&nbsp;world to think and feel differently from those around you, to make mistakes, which are necessary for growth. Unfortunately, your ability to peep into the online world of others (even if it’s all illusion and fake) won’t help you feel better about yourself. So many of us feel anxious and, even worse, hopeless when we do.&nbsp;</p><p>Us oldies enjoyed the freedom of making spectacular but helpful mistakes (certainly in my case!), without having them recorded and circulated on social media.&nbsp;But that’s not the case today. An excellent BBC documentary about mental health issues in young people highlights the fact that children as young as eight are feeling so unhappy with themselves that they contemplate suicide. It’s hard to imagine how an eight-year-old can feel so desperate. One seventeen-year-old girl said,&nbsp;“We are exposed 24/7 and anyone&nbsp;can have an opinion about us.”</p><p>There’s no doubt that many youngsters are feeling the pressure to be perfect in their behavior, looks, scholarly achievements, and presence on social media, where they must look perfectly happy in the perfect life. But life isn’t like that. It’s a big mix of ups and downs, experiences, and emotions. It’s ever-changing, like the seasons. Even daily, we face many changes of mood and atmosphere due to internal as well as external factors. In time, our inner environment can become easier to manage, especially as we mature, but we still must deal with the outer environment and all that it throws at us.</p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color:#e9573f;">In this spirit of self-acceptance,</span><br><span style="color:#e9573f;">and instead of offering tools for self-help,&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#e9573f;">the series “Embracing Difference”&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#e9573f;">will feature different views and perspectives on topical subjects.&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#e9573f;">If we can all accept the challenge to honor&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#e9573f;">and enjoy these differences, it will inspire healthy debate&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#e9573f;">and better understanding, and help us&nbsp;</span><br><span style="color:#e9573f;">find our own ground.</span></h4><hr><p>Being yourself can take the pressure away, and, for me, that means a heart-felt acceptance of who I am right&nbsp;now. I’m not suggesting that you start behaving in any way you want, but just allow yourself to be as you are.</p><p>Self- acceptance has helped me to feel calm and present in each moment. It’s a relief, like a pause. It’s most beneficial when I feel at my worst, although activating self-acceptance, especially in difficult circumstances, can take a bit of practice. However, I’m not advocating hard work to achieve it! Quite the opposite. In my experience, rather than loading myself with more tasks, letting go or not doing can be the best and, paradoxically, the most productive thing to do! It’s in the silence or the space between the thoughts that you will understand yourself and hear or feel the “yes” or “no” you seek. And it’s in learning to stop and pause that you will find the courage to wait when the answer isn’t there.</p><p>So, in this spirit of self-acceptance, and instead of offering tools for self-help, the series “Embracing Difference” will feature different views and perspectives on topical subjects. If we can all accept the challenge to honor and enjoy these differences, it will inspire healthy debate and better understanding, and help us find our own ground.&nbsp;</p><p>And we’re asking you, dear readers, to join us in embracing these differences and enriching yourselves with these lively debates. We also invite you to engage by contributing in the comments section on the website.</p><p>There’s no one way, there’s your way, there’s my way, there’s his or her way, and that’s okay. Life would be so dull without our differences, so let’s honor and embrace them with open arms.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:center;">“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing&nbsp;and right-doing there is a field.<br>I’ll meet you there.”</p><p style="text-align:center;">—<i>Rumi</i></p><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;"><strong>Illustrations by ANANYA PATEL</strong></h4><hr>

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