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errantabbot · 5 years ago

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Gold Dust and Orthodoxy: A Teisho for Today

Gold Dust Is Valuable (The Rinzai Roku, Case #53)

“Governor Wang visited Zen Master Rinzai one day. When they happened to pass the monk’s hall, the Governor asked Master Rinzai; “Do the monks in this monastery all study the Sutras?” “No, they do not,” answered Rinzai. The Governor further queried; “Then, do they practice meditation?” The Master replied again; “No, they do not.” The Governor was confused so he asked; “If they neither study the Sutras nor practice meditation, what then do they do?” Master Rinzai said; “All of my students are training to become Buddhas.” The Governor said; “Though gold dust is precious, in the eyes it clouds the vision.” Master Rinzai remarked; “And I almost took you for a common fellow!”

I have been reflecting lately on the reality that I have a really interesting mixture of students. On one hand I have a number of folks who live relatively lay, householder style lives, a place where I find myself increasingly in recent years. And on the other hand, I have a number of folks who live fairly stringent monastic style lives, replete with the robes, haircuts, daily liturgical schedules, and high ceremonial. Because of our varied locales around the country, usually these folks mostly engage one another on social media, and in retreat once a year so. Given the nature of 2020, however, and our ongoing social distancing precautions, with the continued closure of our temples, we initiated, as Roshi Al has, a number of Zoom programs where all have been invited to practice together, usually in the examination of our traditional collections of “Zen Case Studies” (or koans), and this has been an interesting exercise.

I’ve noted that my householder students are often highly educated, with secular jobs that reflect such efforts, and too, they’re often quite concerned with an academic, rational study and practice of Buddhism. On the other hand, I’ve observed that my monastic students tend to be a bit more earthy, deeply connected with matters of the heart, and are far more interested in liturgical and embodied meditative practices. This seeming division is well known to Buddhist history, and at times it has been posited as a division between sutra study and zen study, most often as an irreconcilable divide. That said, I’m not so quick to pass off Zen as mere meditation focused practiced. Indeed, I would contend that when Bodhidharma uttered his sacred verse (you know, “a special transmission outside of the scriptures, not dependent on words and letters, directly pointing at the mind and becoming Buddha”) that he did so not with the intention of forgoing sutra study, or scholarly, rational concerns, and certainly not to facilitate a mere trade off with such interests for the sentimentality, and typically reductionist romanticization that can be associated with the meditative and liturgical practices that often find themselves broadly situated under the banner of Zen.

As most of you know, Zen is something notoriously difficult to pin down and define as something of a “Gestalt,” or phenomenon possessed seemingly of more than its constituent parts. While a simple definition might be, somewhat accurately even, “concentrated attention,” or colloquially “meditation,” that doesn’t quite do this discipline justice. No doubt, shared Buddhist history across traditions is replete with individuals who have wholeheartedly cast themselves into the furnace of meditative fervor, and who have, after considerable number of years, decades even, done little but ruminate on their rather stagnant patterns of suffering and delusion.

On the other hand, Zen orthodoxy is filled with stories and hagiographies of personalities, such as the sixth patriarch Hui Neng who have come to rather complete, and integrated awakening experiences after relatively little practice or cultivation. In fact, Hui Neng is a particularly fascinating, idealized case, as this universal Zen ancestor’s cultivation consisted of little more than cutting wood and selling his wares in a marketplace while accidentally hearing a recitation of a sutra that seemed to attune his mind to the frequency of awakening. (How’s that for a gestalt?)

However, even the most devout proponents of the doctrine of “sudden” (rather than “gradual”) awakening would rarely, if ever, recognize such a phenomenon as actually happening in the real, lived lives of contemporary practitioners whose lives are strewn with rational factuality rather than filtered ideality.

In this, if Zen is simply meditation, how can practitioners devote themselves to the discipline of silent sitting for decades upon decades and reap the harvest of neither sudden nor gradual cultivation? And further, how can luminary personalities such as Hui Neng seemingly devote no time to meditation, and stumble into the spiritual parenthood of not just myriad practitioners, but indeed, myriad schools and lineages?

In this, then, if Zen is not reducible to meditation, and if formal sitting is not required for awakening in Zen orthodoxy, why do we continue to hold the practice thereof so closely to our hearts? Indeed, Hui Neng’s story could be understood to be dismissive not only of run-of-the-mill meditation, but too of liturgy, precepts, and sutra study. Why bother with any of that, as we do?

Case fifty-three of the Rinzai Roku is a fantastic dialogue that exemplifies this dilemma. Governor Wang, holding to the classical dichotomy that posits an unquestionable divide between the sutric and meditative schools queries Master Rinzai on the training of his students, who seem to be possessed of neither this-nor-that, but rather of reality itself in the practice of Buddhahood itself. Responding then, to Master Rinzai’s cuttingly truthful characterization of the school of thought that makes up more than half of our Open Mind Zen School’s inherited dharma lineage, Governor Wang observes “gold dust is precious, but, in the eyes it clouds the vision.”

Friends, there is no doubt to me that sutric, rational, and scholastic rooted inquiry is a valuable, worth its weight in gold spiritual discipline. Too, there is no doubt that the meditative practice of sitting down, shutting up, and paying attention is a precious, worth its weight in gold spiritual discipline. That said, if we get too close, if we hold too tightly, if we allow our eyes to become organs of projection rather than perception in committing to any of this, it’s all poisonous, damaging, and blinding. Such is the potential nature of literally all orthodoxy (and likely heterodoxy, but we’ll leave that for another day).

Orthodoxy is generally defined as “conforming to what is generally or traditionally accepted as right or true; established and approved.” While the connotation of such a definition generally implies something ancient, venerable, and unchanging, it’s that unchanging notion that makes the usual implications of orthodoxy utterly incompatible with Buddhist teaching, which universally posits that literally all things are changing, transitory, in process, and ultimately insubstantial, and unreal in their immaterial nature.

Buddhist orthodoxy, therefore, must be alive and open to subtle refinement over time as generations come and go. As nothing is truly stationary, stagnant, or even comprehensive in any would-be stable position, the truest assertions are those which remain conversant with reality, and evolve not only with, but indeed for it.

At its best, rendering something as orthodox is to give it a particular status which reminds us that it (and the processes pertaining to how it came to be) is, or are, worthy of due consideration and particular attention over time. In this, orthodoxy must never become an untouchable status that renders a thing free from criticism or exempt from change. Rather, it should provide something of a shield from the flippant disregard and inconsiderate abandonment that Zen students, and certainly our rather shared post-religious, post-modern ever secularizing culture can itself frequently render.

It’s interesting to note that Buddhism was first founded by Siddhartha Gautama with his observation that existence itself is seemingly wrapped up entirely with pain and disappointment, or Dukkha. The Buddha asserted that this pain and disappointment is birthed from nowhere other than our own consciousness, and particularly, from our tendencies to incorrectly regard nature as anything other than what it is. Nature, then, the Buddha posited, is marked with impermanence (anicca), insubstantiality (anatta), and the ever-looming potential for dissatisfaction (dukkha), because human psyches seem so primed to be particularly averse to impermanence and insubstantiality.

The Buddha’s answer to this quandary, in alignment with the orthodox, sramanic suppositions of his time was to step away from it all. To increasingly renounce material nature so as to become unbounded from it, and to eventually leave it behind. This, of course, is the origin of the Zen school – contemplating the nature of existence, it’s innate problems, and stepping off the wheel in responding to the observations assumed to arise from that contemplation.

As Buddhism gained popularity and requisite adherence, it gained too critically discerning minds, each sincerely engaged with the burgeoning orthodoxy of Buddhism, but also with that of reality itself. Slowly, subtle divergences, caveats, and new directions appeared, and a multitude of schools of Buddhism became (and are becoming) established, each with their own sets of orthodox presuppositions.

As these oft metaphysical suppositions have been added, subtracted, and supplanted within these traditions, practices and eschatological suppositions have evolved accordingly. This is proactively happening too as Buddhism continues to mingle with modernity’s secular materialism, and post-modernity’s emerging trans-secular relativism.

When Siddhartha Gautama was alive and teaching, the religious milieu of the day widely supported the notion of postmortem reincarnation. Accordingly, the Buddha’s response to the perception of the impermanence, insubstantiality, and tendency toward dissatisfaction that seemingly define material reality was to separate oneself so far from it that one could become disentangled with it entirely, forgoing then reanimation on a physical plane after death, and thereby dissolving into the void in a “final enlightenment”.

In pondering the context and milieu of contemporary America, however, where notions of postmortem existence are increasingly anathema to the masses, and where dissolving into the void is to be assumed rather than to be striven for, orthodoxy has to evolve lest it abandon conversation and therefore relevance. While notions of the impermanent and insubstantial nature of reality have become nothing but more acceptable as legitimate assumptions in our day and age, the inextricability of suffering and dissatisfaction from those assumptions has become less so.

In Buddhist orthodoxy enlightenment has long been cast as multifold, as encompassing initial and final iterations. While so-called “final enlightenment” has been synonymous with dissolution into the void, initial enlightenment (or “entering the stream” as it’s sometimes called) has been understood as a related primer state, defined by its secession from suffering and dissatisfaction, while not having yet abandoned the substrate of impermanent and insubstantial material reality.

Various traditions have continuously produced and upheld various personalities said to have achieved initial awakening, and who have thereby become destined for the proposed final awakening of mahaparinirvana or voidous dissolution. Our own traditions of dharma transmission and inka shomei are certainly related to this practice.

That said, if, as modernity might postulate, one need not strive toward the inevitability that is the void, one’s relationship to the material reality that precedes that inevitability (the void and it’s appendant orthodoxy) must change. Without such change, how might we credibly define enlightenment, let alone multistage awakening, as being worth any striving, should a universal grace be afforded to all in the indiscriminate voidant dissolution of all, without regard for virtue or vice, for cultivation or ignorance?

Assuming that the enlightened persons identified within various traditions and histories as having been possessed of an experience of awakening to a reality beyond that defined by the suffering appendant to the impermanent and insubstantial reality of here-and-now are to be valued, enlightenment must be qualified as being entirely wrapped up within material existence, rather than standing in opposition to it.

As such, it is no longer acceptable to abandon life in the present, perceptible world for a potentially void hereafter, which is increasingly taken as a given rather than an uncertain goal, to be entered into through burying oneself alive in the renunciation of the world through planting one’s head in the sutras, or atop a mountain of zafus and zabutons.

Saliently, Master Rinzai said; “All of my students are training to become Buddhas.” Not sutra masters, not meditation adepts, not even disciples of Shakyamuni Buddha and his pre-modern assumptions, rather, Buddhas in and of their own accord. Full stop. This Buddhahood is attained not merely through studying the sutras, and not merely through practicing meditation. What then is this practice?

It’s fascinating to me, that Governor Wang, at once wrapped up in classical duality, suddenly finds clarity in his dialogue with Master Rinzai, seeing the “gold” in these aforementioned practices, and realizing their proper place, but that is to say not in unquestioned orthodoxy, as dust blindingly blown into the eyes.

“I almost took you for a common fellow,” Master Rinzai concludes, in an alive dialogue that has naturally come to be complied as but one case among many in a sutra-like compendium.

Where and how do we train to become Buddhas, rather than Buddhists?

It’s nearing 10:00am, central time anyway. How’s about we have a bit of conversation, of alive dialogue? The central discipline of Zen, after all, has never been sutra study or meditation, but rather dialogue with and in this very moment, not the moments of 2,500 years ago, 1000 years ago, or even 10 seconds ago. Right here, right now. What – is – this? And I don’t mean that hypothetically.

~Sunyananda

#zen #buddhism #buddha #buddhist #dharma #enlightenment #sangha #awakening #nirvana #peace #Rinzai #teisho #dharma talk #koan #kongan

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slowlyteenagestarlight · 3 years ago

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Lucid Dreaming

by Arjun Walia February 13, 2017 from Collective-Evolution Website Lucid dreaming is one category of dreams that many people experience. It occurs when the individual is dreaming and during that dream, the individual is completely aware that they are dreaming. Some people report a low-level lucidity state where one is aware they are dreaming but not able to alter the content of the dream. Other people have experienced high-level lucidity where one is aware they are dreaming but are also able to alter the dream and have the freedom to do whatever they desire within the dream. Dreams are a fascinating phenomenon as they provide us with insights into a world full of experiences we cannot perceive or create in a completely conscious state. Or can we...? Lucid dreaming is a well-documented phenomenon. Researchers continue to explore it as it shows some very significant brain patterns and biological happenings within the body. A fairly recent example is a study conducted in 2009 at the Neurological Laboratory in Frankfurt. Research shows how lucid dreamers produce the fastest brainwave frequencies ever recorded - gamma brainwaves - that operate at 40Hz+. (1) This suggests that lucid dreamers are more self-aware, and are more conscious in this state than compared to a normal state of wakefulness. We don't operate anywhere near that frequency (in regard to brainwaves) when in our normal wakeful state, and we operate at even lower frequencies during other sleep states. Research suggests that the existence of gamma brainwaves indicates a totally conscious experience, (4) so the experience of being awake within a dream is a very real phenomenon. This begs the question: Which state is actually real? Could what we perceive as being fully aware and awake be the real dream? Or are these just different aspects of reality that we are jumping to and from? Is our ability to create our own reality easier in a state of lucid dreaming because our brain is functioning at a higher frequency? What would we be capable of if we were able to attain that frequency without lucid dreaming? Would we be able to have instant manifestations as we do in our lucid dreams? Gamma brainwaves are involved in higher mental activity and consolidation of information. Operating from this frequency allows our brain to link and process information from multiple parts of the brain. (2) We use more of our brain when we are experiencing lucid dreaming than we do when we are fully awake. Below is a list of brainwaves and the different frequencies at which they operate: Delta Brainwaves These are the most pronounced brainwaves in premature babies. They are of a very low frequency and range from 0.5 to 2Hz. Theta Brainwaves These are at a higher frequency, typically around 4 to 7 Hz. These brainwaves are characterized by light sleep, rapid eye movement sleep (REM), dreams, and hallucinations. Alpha Brainwaves Alpha brainwaves are even higher in frequency. Their frequency range is approximately 8-12 Hz. These brainwaves are most prominent during relaxation, contemplation, and a lack of visual stimuli. So when you are not distracted or focused on the external world, but rather, in your own zone of contemplation, relaxation, and awareness, your brain vibrates within this frequency range Gamma Brainwaves Gamma brainwaves are of the highest frequency. They range from 40 to 100 Hz, the fasted documented brainwave frequencies known to man. It has been documented that Electroencephalography (EEG) dimensions in humans increase with age and time, and also throughout human evolution. EEG is the recording of electrical activity along the scalp. It measures voltage fluctuations resulting from ionic current flows within the neurons of the brain. This is how they are able to measure the different brainwaves and the different frequencies they dish out. (5) Not long ago, researchers led by Richard Davidson, a neuroscientist at The W.M. Keck Laboratory for Functional Brain Imaging and Behavior teamed up with a number of monks and volunteers. The

Dalai Lama even dispatched eight of his most accomplished practitioners to Davidson's lab to have them hooked up for EEG testing and brain scanning. These monks come from traditions of meditation for an estimated 10,000 to 50,000 hours, overtime periods of 15 to 40 years. The monks were fitted with a net of 256 electrical sensors and asked to meditate for short periods, and Davidson was particularly interested in measuring gamma waves, the highest frequency and most important known electrical brain impulses. The results showed that the electrodes picked up much greater activation of fast-moving and usually powerful gamma waves in the monks. (3) The movement of the waves through the brain was far better organized and coordinated. Keep Evolving Your Consciousness Inspiration and all our best content, straight to your inbox. Researchers suggest that the very existence of this synchronized gamma indicates that a consciousness experience is occurring. The gamma wave state is the most sensitive compared to any other state of consciousness measurable. Gamma brainwaves are associated with intelligence, compassion, self-control, and feelings of natural joy. So what can we take away from these discoveries? The fact that brain activity during the lucid dreaming experience radiates a gamma frequency is extremely significant. It shows us that our brain is vibrating at a higher frequency, and functioning at a more clear, coherent, and higher state of consciousness than it is when we are awake. Although the size of the human brain has remained unchanged for 200,000 years, brainwave frequency and states of consciousness have changed over time. (6) Humans seem to increase the brainwave frequency, and operate at different brainwave states as we continue our journey forward. Imagine a race vibrating at the same frequency as one does in a meditative state, constantly illustrating the gamma brainwave state. The presence of gamma brainwaves illustrates that the people who experience high-level lucid dreaming are having a totally conscious experience, within the 'dream world.' Who is to say that when we are lucid dreaming we are not experiencing an alternate reality that operates at a higher frequency? Maybe higher frequency states allow us to access alternative timelines, other dimensions, or aspects of reality. There are many questions that dreaming, and more specifically lucid dreaming, bring to the forefront of our time. Very little is understood about the phenomenon, but what we do understand is that our dreams allow us to create our reality at a specific frequency. As quantum physics continues to elaborate on how consciousness directly shapes our physical/material world, imagine what possibilities exist in a reality resonating in the gamma frequency or higher. The human race's potential is limitless. 6 Steps to Lucid Dreaming Other suggested techniques for remembering your dreams and being conscious throughout your dreams include: As mentioned above, throughout the day, remember to look at your hands for about 10 seconds. This will help you notice any changes in your hands in the dream. Before you go to sleep at night say to yourself: "I am going to remember my dream tonight and I am going to dream about..." Repeat this over and over again and it will increase your ability to remember your dreams. Ask yourself repeatedly throughout the day, "Am I dreaming?" Then (like the hands' method) while you are dreaming you will ask yourself and hopefully become consciously aware that you are dreaming. The good old-fashioned "pinch test." If you are unsure if you are dreaming, give yourself a pinch. If you are dreaming you won't be able to feel this, so then you will know that you are dreaming. Keep a dream journal. This is very important. Keep a notepad beside your bed and whenever you wake up, whether it's 3, 6, or 9 a.m., write down whatever you remember about your dream and if you did become conscious, write down exactly how that happened, and then what happened after that point. Set your alarm clock to

wake you up about 5 ½ hours after you have fallen asleep. Studies show that if you are woken up during a dream you are more likely to remember them. Lucid dreaming does take some practice so be patient. Sometimes the very shock of realizing that you are dreaming within a dream will wake you up, so just keep practicing. It is pretty incredible to be able to control your dreams, and when you learn this technique you can take control of your dreams and use them to your advantage. You can use them to help you try out new ideas and methods before implementing them into your waking life. You can virtually put yourself anywhere you want to be in any circumstance. You can even face some of your greatest fears all while getting a good night's rest. Our friends over at Lucid Secrets have put together a comprehensive system to help master the art of lucid dreaming, including lessons on essential techniques such as astral projection, mind relaxation, meditation, and more. This program will tell you guys everything you need to know about the limitless world of lucid dreaming, and we highly recommend you explore this program. Sources http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19750924 http://nro.sagepub.com/content/9/6/475.abstract http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A43006-2005Jan2.html O'Nuallain, Sean. "Zero Power and Selflessness: What Meditation and Conscious Perception Have in Common". Retrieved 2009-05-30. Journal: Cognitive Sciences 4(2). http://www.plosbiology.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pbio.1001045 J. Gebser, The Ever-Present Origin. Ohio University Press, Athens, Ohio. (1985) pg 120-121

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jiwoneelee-blog · 7 years ago

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Final

Over the past two or more decades, television has changed into a new model of storytelling, which is different from the conventional serial forms and episodic that were previously televised. Complex TV is the new model, which infuses multifaceted narratives as the norm television shows that air throughout the developed world. Essentially, it has redefined episodes under the guidance of serial chronicling with a shift in balance. It includes dismissing the requirement for the plot of television show to close inside the scene in way that foregrounds continuing stories in a scope of genres. A plethora of serial practices exist that can be employed based on the supposition that the narrative in the series builds over time. Being unconventional is the most defining feature of complex television. However, there are other features that characterize narrative complexity in modern TV. They focus on the serial as opposed to the episodic. They have an extended depth in the way characters are portrayed. Typically, the script is that of narration and storytelling coupled with an ongoing and constant plot. Characters also shift in perspective with each varying episode. It is also common to come across a commentary in television shows that explore their narrative stunts. Suspense is also a major feature that seems to be part of complex television, and the most active audience speculates about what might become of lead characters or a major twist in the plot (Mittell 20). Collective intelligence between the fans and the film is ubiquitous, and they participate quite intensively from the first to the last episode. This case study focuses on a series of TV shows that are ideal examples in demonstrating the Complex TV phenomenon, and they include Westworld, American Gods, Walking Dead, and Legion.

A lot of people conflate the description of the film as, “Highly Serialized Drama” with long-form episodic examples such as the X-Files and Twin Peaks. For a show to live up to its concept, it should not be predicated on a central narrative enigma not attached to future events triggered by narrative statements (Mittell 19). A show such as Revenge typically embodies complex television because its narrative thrust is simply forward moving, but with a keenness on insights and flashbacks that pop up in episodically so that the viewer understands key aspects about characters. Viewers do not have to grapple with deep mysteries in which they have to piece together hints to understand a character. Therefore, the common feature is that viewers are aware of narrative statements that are accumulated over time so that they have a clear understanding of possible future events that shape subsequent episodes. It is against the same backdrop that viewers and fans of Westworld, American Gods, Walking Dead, and Legion should understand them in terms of complex television. Character portrayal, the plot, the narrating, and storytelling style is in such a way as to dissuade viewers while maintaining a concrete storyline characteristic of complex television.

Westworld disorients viewers through its robotic characters portrayed as having their lives hanging on a loop. Thus, it means that the show’s storyline takes place over a long time, but it could also appear in a sequence, which further confuses the viewer. Westworld is reminiscent of the Marvel series Legion in which the characters’ bodies are swapped, and the audience is just not sure if the characters are really themselves or their swapped personalities. The common shifts between characters in complex television are thematically triggered by contemporary phenomenon among people whereby they have to constantly interrogate the realities around them. For instance, one might view their perception of an unusual scene as magical, artificial intelligence, psychosis, or just the side effects of trauma. The fact that they are not sure is reflected in complex television through character shifts. With the information age at its peak, it is quite difficult for one to differentiate between what is real and fake. The notions of reality are increasingly being distorted by a bombardment of news from different online platforms. Therefore, the idea that characters in Legion can swap bodies reflects the experiences of a typical contemporary television viewer. Perhaps the confusion created in complex television is the real source of fascination that the audience has with contemporary television shows.

The character swaps in a single storyline of a show and the use of robots show that the two shows mirror the transcending feature of complex television that projects a future that seems quite far but increasingly plausible. Traditionally, television has often been a way to escape reality, but complex television exposes certain ways through which realism gets constructed. It makes the audience to think whereby it is common to come across fans reading online recaps of shows just to understand certain things such as the real character, an actor’s alter ego or a twisted aspect of the plot. Towards the end of Westworld’s first season, for instance, there were already murmurs in its fan base that it had failed to exhaust the themes of humanity and consciousness. Some pundits went as far as challenging the notion that the series portrayed complexity as being equal to ingenuity. Complex television such as Westworld creates another significant platform in entertainment, including dynamic entertainment blogs keen to delve into the complexities of plot, character portrayal, and other nuanced issues.

Complex television is also about an extended depth of characters, and episodes vary from each in ways not contemplated by the viewer. The opening scene of American God, for instance, demonstrates the complexity characteristic. The series is based on an adaptation from one of Neil Geiman’s novels. The show is, indeed, human fantasy, but it is the depth of characters that makes it stand out from the rest of the shows aired around the same period of cable news networks. The audience for American Gods has to be really captivated, and it has to watch quite actively to understand even the first episode. There are soliloquies that are quite overdone. For example, “Technical Boy” in the film, who is the god of technology, soliloquizes, describing language as “a virus”, religion as “an operating system”, and prayers as “spam”. The gods undergo some temporal shifts and change their body shapes.

In one lewd scene, a goddess sucks people inside her by repeatedly having sex with them. Until that point, “Technology boy’s” point about language is evident. There is no difference with Westworld, which portrays a futuristic theme park in which humans have sex with lifelike robots before murdering them. Boston Dynamics and Jurassic Park are quite a phenomenon in the series. There is an enviable depth in character portrayal and the roles they play to advance the plot and set the stage for the next episodes. Interestingly, character complexity may sometimes turn off fans instead of intriguing them. The raping and murder scenes in Westworld might be quite unlikable, but they emphasize the typical feature of complex television.

The opening and closing brackets of each episode in most shows is debatably the most vital feature of the role screen time in establishing a balance between the serial and episodic form. Screen time often defines a specific episode as a distinct part of storytelling and it also entails the break between episodes (Mittell 27). A scene in many shows starts with a critical marker(s), for example, a short recap of scenes in the past episode, an opening title sequence of variable length. Similarly, a scene ends with closing credits that preview future accounts.. The show, Walking Dead illustrates the feature of opening and closing credits quite well. The storytelling in the show’s season finale evokes the events that shaped scenes in previous episodes. At the same time, it makes major and minor references to characters throughout the series. The devices employed to bring up the major theme of zombie survival, which also follows the current trend of narration in complex television. All of the screen-time elements as illustrated in Walking Dead exist outside the story-world and even its narrative. Like in series, the plots are stringed and arced across one full season. Nonetheless, the producers of the show always understand and try to make it such that each episode is a separate narrative that follows the pattern of screen time already set in the previous episodes. However, the first ten minutes of each episode is actually a recap of the final act in the previous scene. The compelling bridge between episodes is manifested in the way fans religiously look forward to the next episode.

Characters in complex television shows have intricate histories, which further convey the same inherent feature. Character complexity tends to compliment character depth. In Legion, for instance, David, the main character, has a complex history that only requires several visits to blog sites to be able to fathom. He is born of Charles Xavier and a survivor of the catatonic Holocaust. The latter was the former’s patient during his earlier visit to Israel. Up to that point, it just seems complicated that David exists in the first place. The viewer immediately becomes curious about his peculiarities. The audience soon realizes that David has telekinetic powers that enable him to make kitchen explosions. Further probes, of course, using online explainers, reveal that his experience is about the process of psychotherapy and treatment, which as the show indicates, is engaging and vigorous.

Complex TV is unique for its cinematic and novelistic features, which are compliments accorded to it by media pundits. However, the medium has significant aesthetic accomplishments that are worth noting. The first one, which is also an artistic breakthrough, is that it has created an active and engaged community of viewership that has an equally ubiquitous online presence. Although other modes exist to be used in television storytelling, complex television functions majorly within the several choices of locating story-worlds, characters, time, and events in continuing serial and episodes. The goal is to reflect a world where the imagined and the real are not so far apart.

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anniversary-magazine · 4 years ago

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Stillness — In Conversation With Cédric Etienne of Studio Corkinho

In recent times, people might find they’re settling into a slower-paced rhythm, where freedom is limited. There could not be a better time to introduce one of Studio Corkinho’s latest projects: the STILL Room.

The name reflects the fundamental ethos underpinning the project which expresses how stillness can be curated and perceived. Located at Noorderpershuis, a classified heritage building near the harbour of Antwerp was transformed into an architecture of silence.

Not only does the STILL room hold a selection of Studio Corkinho designs, but it also highlights their shared level of meaning. The STILL room devotes itself to the understanding of the dynamics of silence and how inner balance can be lived. Like craftsmanship results in timeless objects, the monastic cell makes time erode into a calming void, a silent atmosphere to contemplate in the now and here. The entire space becomes a sanctuary or temple for introspection.

Besides the STILL room, Studio Corkinho plans to curate other experiences of stillness. Whether in the form of a study room, lectures, art debates, residency afternoons or ritualized ceremonies. The STILL room becomes a meeting space for shared knowledge and reconnection with our true nature.

Nela Riessova: NR Cédric Etienne: CE

NR: How did you come across the project of STILL room? Was it planned, or has that happened by accident?

CE: For more than ten years, I founded theMoodstudio, a show production agency designing settings for brands like Giorgio Armani, YSL, L'Oréal Produits de Luxe...

Besides our productions, Studio Corkinho started to grow bit by bit.

In the summer of 2018, I bumped into a maritime heritage building in Antwerp's Harbour, where I felt a profound connection.

At the end of 2018, I made an important decision to reflect on my more profound purpose.

My intuition led me to stop my activity as a show producer/set designer and take a contemplative pause to connect with my true Self.

I needed to slow down to listen in a profound way to the messages of life.

The space had been abandoned for over 20 years. It was a kind of metaphor for myself.

I could feel its sacred potential throughout the massive dust, screaming for being "cleaned." I devoted myself entirely to the re-purposing of the building and, at the same time, experienced this cleanse inside of me as well.

In no time, I felt this space was the perfect field to sign our architectural manifesto.

In parallel with recovering this monumental body's beauty, I decided to go on a creative pilgrimage to find bare silence in sacred architecture.

After two years of research and profound work, the STILL room came to fruition.

Looking back, there was no real plan. By allowing myself to give space for an introspective rebirth, I learned to listen at a deeper level to reset and connect from a refreshed creative mind.

NR: I read somewhere that you fully dedicated yourself to the study of the architecture of silence. Did you come to understand the key elements or conditions of silence?

CE: Silence has always fascinated me.

I've always loved to be on my own, to connect with the potential of "nothingness."

During my several journeys to Japan, I educated myself to listen to silence, spending days in silence with Buddhist monks to meditate and discover the endless energetic presence of silence.

After these experiences, I dedicated my travels to study sacred spaces how the Great Masters of Architecture succeeded to "build" silence.

For five years, I visited & studied more than 100 sacred spaces to understand the "conditions of silence": like monasteries, temples, churches, cathedrals, dismissed cloisters, religious buildings, Japanese tea houses but also museums, installations which I consider "sacred" as well ...

Silence is a universal concept but has endless morphologies & interpretations.

It's a very personal and reflective phenomenon, making it so unique and inspiring.

The creative process is continuously enriching.

I absorb from what I experience and try to channel in new contexts.

From all these visits, I have collected sketches and notes to compare and evaluate silence's versatility. I wrote a "mémoire" for our studio about the "architectural conditions of silence," as a kind of manifesto, which we applied to design our STILL room.

STILL is the translation of the critical elements or conditions of silence.

This space allows us to bring silence in confrontation with humans, understand their experience, evaluate their emotions, and imagine new scenarios in different contexts where we forget the silence or stillness of our everyday lives.

STILL acts as a real-life lab to contemporize the energy of stillness. It feels very satisfying when people come back to STILL for a specific experience of being in a moment of contemplative, energizing or inspiring rest.

NR: Did any particular travels or experiences of yours shaped the design of the STILL room?

CE: Travelling to Japan has been very inspiring.

The visits to Traditional Japanese Teahouses & Ryokans have deeply touched me. How the space is organized, according to the rhythmic proportion of a ritual. How the negative space called "ma" becomes a field of energetic potential. Studying the floorplan of over 300 ryokans, experiencing tea ceremonies and silent meditations will always remain in my design unconsciousness.

But you can't export a traditional teahouse from Japan to Europe or anywhere else. My fascination is translating this "Law of Emptiness" into a universal scenario that transcends space and time.

I proceeded this Pilgrimage of stillness in Europe, where I experienced true serenity when visiting the wooden chapel in the Bavarian forest designed by John Pawson, or the Bruder Klaus Field Chapel by Peter Zumthor, sleeping in a monastic cell at Le Couvent de La Tourette by Le Corbusier. Also, closer to home in Belgium, when discovering the Roosenberg Abbey designed by Dom Van der Laan. These are some of the most intense sacred places in terms of architectural silence.

NR: These days, noise is all around us most of the time and silence might make some people uncomfortable. How do you make silence attractive?

CE: I aim to elevate stillness from a contemplative atmosphere. Where people feel inspired to open the doors to a deeper level of well-beingness.

What's the energy of a space?

How will space make your body move from the inside?

With silence, I found a very inspiring field. If we don't pay attention, we are all absorbed by an excess of input.

According to my experience, silence is not purely the absence of noise, rather the lack of distraction. Imagine it as a diet of distraction - to connect with simplicity, to learn how to make those joys less external and temporary, like silences between the notes in music or pauses between words in sentences.

I seek to manipulate these conditions of silence to shape "stillness," where the mind travels inwards, connecting with the heart and experiencing the feeling of "timelessness."

Stillness brings you "nowhere" where you've never been.

"Going nowhere" is not turning your back on the world; it's about stepping away now and then so that you can see the world more clearly and love it more deeply.

In an age of speed, nothing can be more refreshing than slowing down.

In an age of distraction, nothing can feel more luxurious than experiencing the now.

In an age of constant movement, nothing is more urgent than recharging through stillness.

Silence is beautiful in itself. It's just the way how society looks at it; the "push" of being busy while we all urge for a moment of rest.

Inspired by a strong narrative about emotional well being, we seek to conceptualize silence or stillness into the atmosphere and connect the experience to daily rituals.

Silence as a source of focus empowerment, rebirth and self-care.

NR: What stillness means to you, and how do you practice it?

CE: Stillness is the experience of the timeless now.

It's a deep connection with inner peace.

And a complete disconnection of the mind.

Stillness results in deep trust with the existence of life. To become deeply aware and be in full connection with your intuition.

I practice it every day through transcendental meditation, breathwork, mantras or body movement in the morning, and every time before a creative challenge to enter in deep concentration.

But stillness can also be found while walking in nature, cycling, reading a book, listening to music, being in the full creative process. It's a process that happens inside when you completely switch off the mind... this feeling of "effortlessness."

NR: How do you spend time these days?

CE: I am pretty disciplined to wake up earlier to follow a morning ritual, starting with meditation, physical exercise, and finally entering some in-depth study reading a book.

We are pretty secluded at the studio, so even with Covid, we can continue working on projects and developing new work in our atelier. I am dedicating weekends to quality time with family. And for as much as I can, I try to stay in touch with friends by having a walk in nature or going cycling outdoor.

NR: What are you reading at the moment?

CE: I just finished the study of 300 floorplans of Japanese Traditional Teahouses and Ryokans.

Now I turned my fascination to the work of Egyptian modernist Hassan Fathy.

As well as on an Essay about the use of metaphors and void by Kazuo Shinohara.

On a spiritual level, I am reading the last book written by Deepak Chopra entitled Total meditation.

NR: What is next for Cédric Etienne?

CE: 2020 was a year of transition for Studio Corkinho.

Thanks to our STILL room, we allowed ourselves to take time to shape our foundation.

We are now working on a project in contemplative hospitality, located in the Portuguese cork fields close by Melides. A Belgian artist asked us to design his private studio in Lisbon, and a Belgian art collector mandated us to redesign his penthouse rooftop terrace into a secret garden. We also created a tatami installation for Hagius, a Berlin-based well-being art space.

Besides, we are developing a concept that we called Campus Still is a holistic wellbeing retreat destined to build a creative community activated by healers & facilitators to propose workshops/therapeutic programmes/residencies around purposeful living, craftsmanship and focus empowerment.

See it as a monastic farm or ensemble of several spaces composed of an energy pharmacy, a zen garden, a multi-purpose patio, several still rooms, a creative library, workshops, work/meetings spaces and living units in order to welcome residents for longer stays.

Besides working on spaces, we will develop new collections of objects made out of new cork compositions.

We will work on new ideas to develop our collection of olfactive objects in collaboration with AOIRO.

Finally, we will launch a collection of architectural surfaces made out of our cork composite destined to inspire architects looking for a patina of stillness.

Studio Corkinho is a multi-disciplinary design practice based in Antwerp, Belgium, aiming to change people's perception and awareness of objects and spaces that deserve attention for their unique values. Furthermore, the studio designs limited editions within the fields of objects, furniture, and creates contemplative atmospheres for interiors and architecture.

STILL Room images by Piet-Albert Goethals Courtesy of Studio Corkinho

#Cédric Etienne #Studio Corkinho #Antwerp #Stillness #Aoiro #Berlin #Piet-Albert Goethals #Featured

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juniperpublishers-yoga · 6 years ago

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Dreaming with a Wakeful Mind: The Gateway to Breaking the Illusion-Juniper Publishers

For more articles in Journal of Yoga and Physiotherapy please clickon https://juniperpublishers.com/jyp/index.phpFor more Journals in Juniper Publishers please click on https://juniperpublishers.com/index.phpTo know more details regarding our Juniper publishers please click onhttps://juniperpublishers.business.site/Juniper Publishers- Journal of Yoga and Physiotherapy

Abstract

Illusion is the cornerstone on which the entire edifice of Advaita Vedanta of Hinduism and Mahayana of Buddhism are erected. Of the many classic examples adduced to illustrate the concept of illusion, appearance of silver in the nacre of a conch shell, snake in a rope and the dream experiences are most widely cited in the Indian philosophical literature. Illusion is a serious matter of concern to a philosopher as it reminds one that all knowledge experienced is not always valid and poses epistemological challenge as to how reality can be distinguished from illusion.The central reason for admission of illusion as reality is that we fail to recognize illusion as an erroneous mental representation at the time of experiencing it; we realize its falsity only afterwards. Our inability to realize illusion as a mere false cognition at the time of experiencing it is vital to our falling prey to it. We are carried away by the illusion because it does not occur to us that it could be unreal during its experience. In the wakeful state we would never know when we come across an illusion because for us, every experience seems real: it's only at a later time that we realize how we have mindlessly fallen prey to an illusion. But realizing an illusion afterward does not help in enlightenment. Enlightenment is when one wakes up during the occurrence of an illusory experience. Unfortunately, in the wakeful world we normally do not come to know beforehand that a particular piece of experience is illusory.

Dream is a unique illusory experience that we come across every day. Dream experiences are real as long as they last and every day we enter and exit the dream world without exception. Thus dream is a wonderful opportunity where we know beforehand that we are going to enter into an illusory world. Hence if we somehow learn to keep ourselves awake during the illusory experience of dreams, it would be a practicing ground for realizing illusion as it happens and find a way out. Hence dream state is an ideal ground for a practitioner to come out of illusion by practicing to stay put in lucid awareness and realizing the illusory nature during the course of a dream. Realizing the wakeful experiences as illusory is far harder than admitting the illusory nature of the dream state. Tibetan dream yoga is based precisely on this very principle. Milam or Tibetan Dream Yoga is one such practice that provides elaborate methodology for spiritual seekers to use dream state as an ideal platform for mastering spiritual enlightenment. It provides an elaborate procedure to recognize illusion, controlling it and finally get rid of it. This paper discusses the significance of dreaming with a wakeful mind to practice surmounting the clutches of illusion and tread on the path of enlightenment.

Keywords: Dream; Lucid dreaming; Illusion; Reality; Dream yoga; Milam; Tibetan buddhism; Advaita

Introduction

Every day, we the human beings, on an average spend one third of our life span (about eight hours) in sleep and dreaming. Out of these eight hours, we spend about ninety to one hundred and twenty minutes in dream reveries. This is the time where we create a world within ourselves, a virtual world within the world that sometimes is more fantastic and realistic than the real world. Yet, while most us have no contention in accepting the reality of the external world arising out of sensory experiences, give credence and value it, we simply underrate and write off the dream world as sheer figment of our imagination that is inevitably experienced daily. But the fact remains that while one is dreaming, the experiences are utterly real and the dreamer experiences pleasure and pain, awe and fear, hatred and anger, in the same way as is experienced during wakeful hours. The dreamer does not know that the objects of the dream world are only mental creations and fails to distinguish between objective physical world experienced empirically and conceptual mental world. The dream objects exhibit all the qualities and characteristics of physical objects and offer sensory experiences that correspond to the wakeful experiences of the physical world.

As we withdraw from the external world, every day without exception, we enter into a strange, illusory and deceptive world. Here is an illusion that we know we would inevitably fall victim to, taking the dream objects and resulting experiences as utterly real, yet we don't make any effort to keep ourselves mindful to save ourselves from that everyday predicament. In a sense we take pleasure in being fooled every day in and day out accepting unreal as real. This raises several philosophically significant questions both in epistemology and in ontology which perturbed the philosophers across the timeline: If we are being fooled everyday by a non-entity as being really existing and even an iota of doubt does not arise in us while experiencing it, what is the guarantee that the present moment of experience we have now is also not illusory? What qualifies something as real and something else as illusory? If illusions were to be discarded gradually, where would one finally end?

Philosophers across the timeline have been fascinated with this line of thought -many were perplexed by the sheer semblance between dream and waking world experiences and despaired to find a way to distinguish the two. But the meditative yogis of ancient India and Tibet not only found a solution to 'wake up' to higher consciousness during dream time but also devised an elaborate mechanism, a point to point roadmap for maneuvering the dreamscape and even controlling, which, according to them would ultimately qualify them to steer through this grand illusion called samsāra. Called Svapna darşana in Sanskrit and Milam in Tibetan yogic parlance, this secretive doctrine has been relegated to mere yogic lore all these years. However advancements in dream studies coupled with recognition of lucid dreaming as a practicable genuine phenomenon of consciousness in the recent times, have now unfurled the innumerable possibilities 'controlled dreaming' can offer to a philosopher in search of ultimate truth. Dream world is an ideal ground to experiment with different dimensions of illusion and practicing to recognize illusion and coming out of it, provided one is able to realize the dream as such while he is experiencing the dream. But is it possible to 'wake up' to the realization that what is experienced is a dream, without disturbing the very dream and allowing it to continue? If this is somehow mastered and if the same technique is employed in the wakeful experiences, does such practice lead one to a higher state of consciousness?

The Problem of dream in east and western thought

The problem of nature of dream world has always fascinated the spiritualists and philosophers of east and west throughout the ages. The fact that we don't realize that we are dreaming while we are in the dream state led many philosophers to wonder whether one could actually be dreaming constantly, instead of being in waking reality. Or in other words, it may just be impossible to certainly state at any given point in time that one is not dreaming.

The Greek philosopher Plato considered this problem in Theaetetus. In the dialogue between Theaetetus and Socrates, Socrates asks Theaetetus whether he could supply any veridical proof to anybody, should anybody ask them, whether they were asleep at that moment and their thoughts were a dream or whether they were really talking to each other in a waking condition. Theaetetus contemplates and replies in agreement- 'Really, Socrates, I don’t see what proof can be given; for there is an exact correspondence in all particulars, as between the strophe and antistrophe of a choral song. Take, for instance, the conversation we have just had: there is nothing to prevent us from imagining in our sleep also that we are carrying on this conversation with each other, and when in a dream we imagine that we are relating dreams, the likeness between the one talk and the other is remarkable’. The dialogue turns further interesting when Socrates exclaims-'So you see it is not hard to dispute the point, since it is even open to dispute whether we are awake or in a dream' and further contends that -'in each state our spirit contends that the semblances that appear to it at any time are certainly true, so that for half the time we say that this is true, and for half the time the other, and we maintain each with equal confidence’ [1].

In his magnum opus Metaphysics, Aristotle also describes the difficulty or rather impossibility of distinguishing between appearance and reality by stating "wondering whether we are at any given moment asleep or awake" [2]. Rene Descartes, employing the method of doubt also wondered if it was really possible to ascertain and distinguish the reality of the external world from that of the dream world in his Meditations on First Philosophy. Descartes noted that the testimony of the senses with respect to any particular judgment about the external world may turn out to be mistaken. He contends that the most vivid dreams that he occasionally experiences are internally indistinguishable from waking experience and so it is possible that everything that he perceives to be part of the physical world outside him at the moment, could be in fact nothing more than a fanciful fabrication of his own imagination. (Med. I)

In 1923, a prominent Physician and editor of a Journal titled Practical Medicine, Ram Narayana [3], brought forth an interesting problem in front of the intellectual community by eliciting solutions to the dream problem. A dreamer who often dreams similar dreams, once stops his dream mates and tells them that they are his mental creation and that he comes to this world from another world by the name wakeful world and if he returns to his world or if he wishes, he could came his dream mates vanish into thin air and that their existence is entirely dependent upon him. The persons in the dream, though at first out rightly reject and laugh at the utterances of the dreamer, finally give him a patient hearing and agree to believe his version, if only he could manage an object from his wakeful world into the dream world as a proof of existence of some other world than their world of dream. Ram Narayana stops at this and asks the intelligentsia to come up with suitable solutions as to how an object, as a proof can be transported into the dream world from the wakeful world. This problem was circulated to well known philosophers, doctors, scientists and engineers of that time and a compendium of suggested solution was published under the title "The Dream Problem and Its Many Solutions" in two Volumes. This caught the imagination of the academicians, philosophers and scientists of that time and is still debated occasionally in the psychology and philosophy circles.

Zhuangzi a Chinese emperor, who ruled around 369 BC, raised an interesting enigma that demands serious consideration. He says he dreamt he was a butterfly and wonders whether he indeed was the emperor Zhuangzi who had just finished dreaming he was a butterfly or whether he was a butterfly who had just started dreaming that he was emperor Zhuangzi (1996)! We might just dismiss this as mere play of words or figment of imagination and say the existence of Zhuangzi as an emperor is real and his experience of being a butterfly is illusory because we know that he was an emperor of China. But while doing so, we are conceding his existence as the emperor beforehand and so our standpoint is biased and thus, is a case of logical fallacy. We might further argue that his emperor's existence' is more real because it outlived the experience as the butterfly. But again this is a contention from the point of view of the waking world. During his existence as the butterfly at no point of the time Zhuangzi felt it was ephemeral. Looking from the dreamscape, the dream world appears complete in itself and feels as though it would last forever. Further, it would be fallacious to quantify the dream time with the scale of waking world because they are two different worlds each having their own timescales. Unless a device or mechanism is devised that can measure the two worlds with the same standard, comparing the dream world and the waking world from the waking world's point of view will be fallacious. This popular parable is what Zhuangzi calls as the great dream paradox.

Mandukya karika

The Mandukya Upanishad of Atharva Veda with its twelve verses describes Om with its three matras of a, u and ma, as the all encompassing Supreme Reality and equates these three matras with wakeful, dream and deep sleep states. It speaks of a fourth state of consciousness called turiya which runs as the undercurrent through these three states and which also transcends these three states allowing one to experience these states as experiences of one Subject.

Gaudapadacharya in his Mandukya karika elaborated on the Mandukya Upanishad and described in detail the experiences of these three states and proves how impossible it is to ascribe reality to one state and unreality to the other. It brings to fore certain oft overlooked issues such as the fact that we live our lives in three disconnected states of wakefulness, dreaming and sleeping. We are not able to remember the previous state of ours once we move into another state and that particular state we enter into will become really real for us. Yet there is a connecting thread lying as undercurrent in all these states which can be realized through our prospective memory. Prospective memory is one which we employ to remind ourselves about a thing or event at a future point of time. Waking up at a specific time to attend to an important meeting is one such example. This same prospective memory can be trained and drastically improved to connect us more strongly with the three states will full awareness as we wade through them. The Mayavada of şankara also equates the empirical world with that of fantasy and illusion. Mandukya karika’s attempt is to present dream as an inevitable illusion that we are sure to experience everyday and show it as an opportunity to relook and reassess our understanding of reality [4].

Why philosophical study of dream state is important

Of the least understood subjects, even in today's knowledge based scientific world, is the nature of dream world. Why do we dream and why do we fail to recognize during our dream that what all experienced is just our own mental creation still eludes satisfactory explanation. Though the advent of psychoanalysis as a system of treatment in the early twentieth century by Sigmund Freud generated considerable interest in the dream analysis and interpretation of the meaning of dreams [5], philosophy of dreams concerning the ontological and epistemological issues were never seriously considered by the philosophers. Even Freud complained of the apathy and nonchalance of philosopher toward dream study, he complained that philosophy regards this whole topic as intellectually unworthy and second-rate. Though there are many intricate philosophical questions that crop up owing to our daily experience of dream state it never received the serious consideration that every philosopher must owe to it. For example, how and why do we experience objects and events in dreams even though there is no physical existence of such objects eludes satisfactory epistemological explanation. Similarly how to define reality becomes more complicated when one takes into account the utterly convincing dream experiences. Further other philosophical questions like whether we are answerable to our dreams and whether we engage in karma during dreaming etc., open up the Pandora box. Some of the greatest scientific discoveries and inventions, some of the finest creative ideas are attributed to the dream reveries. For example the molecular structure of Benzene was conceived by Augustus Kekule as he dreamt of a long serpent biting its tail and this gave him the idea of cyclic structure of Benzene. At least four Nobel prizes are attributed to the dream time creative illumination. There are several reports of precognitive dreams throughout the history in which the dreamer has a premonition about occurrence of a future event.

How dream world is different from the wakeful world

A significant part of the human life is spent in dream and deep sleep yet the portion of human life spent in these states is not under the conscious control of the human beings. While in the waking state humans have at least a limited degree of control on the sensory experiences and are endowed with the powers of discretion, logical judgment, introspection, etc., the dream state and deep sleep states divest them of these abilities. On the other hand surprisingly the dream world sometimes offers extraordinary abilities which he would otherwise not possess in the wakeful state. The dream world does not seem to follow the laws of physics and one can fly in dreams. Further the dream time seems independent of the waking life time. In dreams we could fly back into our past, a facility not supported by the wakeful world. With our rather numbed logical faculties, our dream world seems to obey a set of unfamiliar logical rules that are alien to our waking world. However the most challenging aspect of dream state is the fact that while we are dreaming [6] we hardly ever realize that the experiences are illusory and unreal.

Lucid dreaming

Post 1950s, there has been renewed interest to study the nature of sleep and dream, thanks to the discovery of Random Eye Movement (REM) and non-REM sleep cycles by William C. Dement and Nathaniel Kleitman in 1953. Even by that time there have been many people who claimed that they knew they were dreaming while they were dreaming and some even claimed that they could alter the course of their dreams as per their liking. However such claims could not be validated and there was no way to check whether somebody could still be not awake and yet realize that he is dreaming. In 1970 Keith Hearne, for the first time successfully managed to record pre-determined eye movement signals communicated by a lucid dreamer to the external world (researcher). The lucid dreamer, his brain scans confirmed without doubt, was still sleeping and was having dreams yet was not only aware that he was dreaming but could also convey it to the outside world through definite signals. This was the first ever recorded communication between dream world and waking world. This stands tangentially opposite to what Ram Narayana wanted as a solution in his dream problem in 1923-to carry an object or signal from the waking world into the dream world. This ability of lucid dreaming is not limited to some extraordinary people alone but this skill is learnable and cultivatable. The world of lucid dreaming opens up new pathways toward our philosophical understanding concerning knowledge and reality.

Charlie Morley defines Lucid dreaming as a dream in which we are actively aware that we are dreaming as the dream is happening. Morley puts them as "as among the most thrilling experiences to be had". It is 'a full-colour, high-definition and hyper-realistic experience that can profoundly reconfigure our perceptions of reality' [7]. This is a mind training in which instead of being passive recipients of dream experiences we take conscious control of ourselves in dreams which in turn confers on us the ability to control the dream events. Whether it be dream or wakeful life, we are usually carried away unawares by the currents of our thoughts and tendencies and seem to enjoy very limited conscious control on the events. Charlie Morley [7] contends that till such time one experiences dreams in full lucidity, one will be tempted to think dreams only as unreal and inconsequential. "When we become lucid in our dreams and learn to stabilize that lucidity, we quickly learn that a lucid dream is as real as waking reality. It's just a reality with different dimensions". This inevitably wakes us up to the important fundamental question of ontology: "what is reality?" Lucid dreaming is not easy to master, but it is undeniably one of the most exciting and rewarding practices we may ever engage in, with a wealth of both psychological and spiritual benefits. It cultivates mindfulness in dream and sleep and enables an insight into the nature of reality that is incomparable. It is a completely safe practice, open to all ages and abilities, offering a unique insight into our own psychology. In a letter to a mourning friend Albert Einstein once wrote, 'A human being... experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest-a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness. To try to overcome this delusion is the way to attain true peace of mind.' By practicing to dream lucidly we can learn to overcome this delusion.

In any dream, whether or not it is lucid, the reality is that both the subject and objects of experience are produced from the subjective self only. Though a dream character might stand up and display wrath and the dreamer may experience fear at the very same time, in fact the dreamer, the dream characters and their contrasting emotions are produced from the same subjective self! The same unitary consciousness projects itself as many. However in an ordinary dream we fail to recognized this very vital point. In a lucid dream we have an opportunity to realize this reality fully, as it is happening. Thus lucid dreaming compels us to face directly the notion of maya which argues that all the experience of duality is but a delusion and that the only ultimate reality is but the consciousness.

Milam-dream yoga

Interestingly, thousands of years ago, the meditative yogis of India and Tibet found a way out to break the eternal wheel of illusion by realizing that subduing completely one illusion in all its dimensions will train the consciousness to subdue all other kinds illusions, and that dream is a nature's gift to master the technique of breaking the illusion. The Tibetan Buddhist School started by revered master Padmasambhava in 8th century CE, known by the name Dzogchen or Atiyoga, is a system that considers the perceived reality as mere appearance and as unreal. In this tradition Dzogchen there is a mystic practice called Milam, which is popularly known in the western world as Dream Yoga which describes various practices that are exclusively meant to understand, predict and control the dreams. Described as part of the advanced spiritual practices known by the name "the six yogas of Naropa" this Milam practice is known in Sanskrit as Svapnadarsana and intended to enable the practitioner to realize the identicalness of dream world and the world experienced in wakefulness which would finally lead the practitioner to realize the emptiness of these two worlds.

As ChÖgyal Namkhai Norbu, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist teacher puts it: "In a real sense, all the visions that we see in our lifetime are like a big dream ...". Waking world, just like the dream, is also an experience. And we cannot be certain of the 'reality' of the external world absolutely; all that we in fact know is our experience. For an uninitiated, the mentally created conceptual world is no different from the sensory world. He feels the dream world is also a result of employing his senses and fails to find any sign or symbol that points to him that he is dreaming. This inability to recognize is an illusion with no escape route. By training the mind, cultivating and fine tuning the faculties of recognition, mindfulness, and alertness one could recognize the illusion as it is happening. This becomes the way to breaking the illusion experienced in the form of dream. When this practice is steadily developed this acute sense of mindfulness and alertness, enables the practitioner someday, to wake up from the illusion of the external world.

The similar nature of dream experiences and the so called after death experiences is emphasized in the Bardo Thodal or the Tibetan Book of the Dead. If one is carried away by the illusory experiences encountered in the dream world daily, he has no escape from similar experiences the consciousness experiences at and after the time of death. If one has not practiced to stay alert in dreams, one is bound to be tormented by the after life experiences, because after all both are the experiences of the consciousness at different altered states. "If we cannot carry our meditative practice into sleep", Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche [8] writes, "If we lose ourselves every night, what chance do we have to be aware when death comes? Look to your experience in dreams to know how you will fare in death. Look to your experience of sleep to discover whether or not you are truly awake".

Conclusion

Friedrich August Kekulé who discovered the structure of Benzene ring said 'Let us learn to dream, and then we may perhaps find the truth’ [9]. Every day, human beings enter into the dream world as passive participants, subjected to the vagaries of the dream world unwittingly, having no control on the events. While the scientists and philosophers make serious attempt to improve the quality of the external world and thereby improve the wakeful world, their attention is hardly drawn to the dream world experiences despite the fact that this state takes appreciable amount of one's life time and its experiences are valid and real as long as they last. Thanks to advances in lucid dreaming, it is now an attested fact that a dreamer can train himself to experience his dreams mindfully and experience the dream world with full consciousness and even control the experiences. This learnable technique of lucid dreaming, which was well documented in the ancient yogic literature as Milam or Svapnadarşana, not only raises many epistemological and ontological issues but also provides complete answers to the question of knowledge and existence. The technique of lucid dreaming developed in the west in the recent past and the age old Tibetan Dream Yoga offer some great solutions to stay conscious and wakeful throughout our dream experience. Now-a-days, aficionados of lucid dreaming have even identified chemical supplements, dietary regimen and devised methodologies that guarantee a person to experience dreams lucidly, challenge illusion directly and realize answers to the eternally pestering questions of illusion and reality all by himself. By practicing these techniques one could not only enrich his whole life but also utilize the practices for one's spiritual enlightenment.

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topfygad · 5 years ago

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50 Things to do in Japan

Japan is, for sure, one in every of my favorite international locations in the whole world.

From my first, awkward visa run again in 2009 to my hike alongside the Kumano Kodo to my 2018 go to to Osaka, I’ve fallen head over heels in love with this dynamic, beautiful, fascinating nation.

Under, you’ll discover my hand-picked Japan bucket record – packed stuffed with unmissable experiences, breathtaking vistas, and scintillating cultural experiences.

Whether or not you’re touring solo or reserving a tour, you’ll discover loads of inspiration under!

Once I began placing my Japan bucket record collectively, I figured it might be arduous to fill the record.

I had hassle filling my China bucket record, so why wouldn’t a a lot smaller nation be a tougher prospect?

It proved to be fairly the other, and I’ve had a hell of a time narrowing it down to only fifty issues to do in Japan.

I’m positive I’ve left some off and I’m positive I’ve included some you wouldn’t take into account worthwhile, so let me have it within the feedback!

The under are the issues I feel ought to most prominently leap to your thoughts if you’re contemplating a visit to Japan.

A few of these are landmarks or historic websites, whereas others are cultural experiences that I feel are central to a real Japanese expertise.

Picture courtesy of Conifer Conifer

#1 – Arishiyama Bamboo Forest

The towering bamboo stalks of Kyoto’s Arishiyama transport guests to a different world altogether. Japan’s wealthy cultural historical past with bamboo is straightforward to know as you stand amidst its enduring magnificence.

It’s straightforward to neglect you’re on the coronary heart of one in every of Japan’s busiest cities as you wander the serene forest of gently swaying inexperienced giants, however that’s all part of what makes Japan’s gardens and shrines so fascinating.

Whether or not you’re taking your time wandering by means of the groves, hire a motorbike and whizz by means of with the wind in your hair, or experience the romantic Sagano Practice, a go to to Arishiyama is sure to be one of many extra enduring recollections of your time in Japan.

Achieved on December 10th 2017

Picture courtesy of Jonathan Lin

#2 – Eat ramen on the Ramen Museum

Ramen is true up there alongside sushi in the case of iconic Japanese meals, however the widespread comfort retailer snack is way over simply broth and noodles.

When you can pattern the flavourful noodle dish just about all over the place in Japan, why not indulge your style buds whereas additionally studying in regards to the large number of flavours and types that exist?

The Shinyokohama Ramen Museum is extra nostalgic meals courtroom than a real museum, however your abdomen goes to thanks for the expertise.

If you happen to’re in search of ramen recs, ask the individuals who know greatest. ViaHero’s journey planners are locals in Japan who can suggest their favourite spot to slurp.

Picture courtesy of Toshiyuki Imai

#3 – Experience the Shinkansen bullet practice

Japan’s rail community is legendary around the globe for its velocity and effectivity and has acted because the blueprint for comparable high-speed rail methods in neighbouring China and South Korea.

Stretching from northern Hokkaido to southern Kyushu, the 320km an hour Shinkansen is taken into account one of many most secure and best methods of getting across the nation.

Whereas it’s only a technique of getting from Level A to Level B, the affordability of the Japan Rail Cross and the expertise of hurtling by means of the idyllic Japanese countryside make it a should see in your journey.

Achieved on November 28th, 2017

Picture courtesy of Jonathan Lin

#4 – Eat sushi and sashimi on the Tsukiji Fish Market

You knew that sushi and sashimi had been going to make an look on this record.

Japan’s most beloved contribution to worldwide delicacies is extra than simply rice and uncooked fish, and in case you’ve seen Jiro Goals of Sushi, that it may be a lifestyle to some.

It wouldn’t be a visit to Japan with out sampling its signature delicacy, so why not mix that have with a go to to the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo?

Selecting the place to eat sushi in Tsukiji is usually a daunting prospect, however wandering the world’s largest seafood market is an expertise all of its personal. If the prospect of getting misplaced out there daunts you, I’d recommend wanting into a non-public Tsukiji Market tour.

Picture courtesy of B Lucava

#5 – Rock out all night time in a karaoke bar

We may debate till the cows come house whether or not Korean noraebang, Japanese karaoke, or Chinese language KTV got here first – however let’s simply agree that the phenomenon is most carefully related to Japan.

You’re not prone to have any hassle discovering a karaoke joint on the finish of an evening’s eating and ingesting, with each non-public ‘karaoke containers’ and boozy stay karaoke joints each obtainable.

Most karaoke joints can have a choice of English songs to select from, and plenty of additionally serve meals and drinks.

We received’t converse of the shady form that serves different issues…

Wish to know extra? Take a look at this superior information to karaoke in Japan.

Picture courtesy of David G Steadman

#6 – Attend a sumo bout

Sumo is among the distinctive athletic pursuits in Japan, and a well-timed go to to Japan can coincide with one of many six annual fifteen-day sumo tournaments that happen.

These tournaments happen in Tokyo (January, Could, and September), Osaka (March), Nagoya (July), and Fukuoka (November), and tickets are offered on a per-day foundation.

Making an attempt to know how the schedule works and buying your passes could possibly be a problem, so take a look at this web site for the entire info you’ll want and help in reserving your tickets.

A sumo tour is an effective way to be taught extra in regards to the sport of sumo.

Seeing Sumo 12 months Spherical

If you happen to aren’t in Japan for one of many tournaments, you possibly can verify the official sumo calendar for exhibitions or pay a go to to a sumo secure, the place aspiring sumo practice.

If you happen to’re involved in seeing how sumo practice, you possibly can take an enticing sumo tour with MagicalTrip. On this tour, you’re going to get a greater understanding of how a lot arduous work goes into changing into skilled sumo. Most locals have watched Sumo on TV however have by no means watched the coaching, so it’s gonna be a really distinctive and particular expertise for you.

Picture courtesy of Terence Lim

#7 – Wander Fushimi Inari

There is no such thing as a finish to the attractive and serene shrines in Japan, however few are fairly as photogenic and fascinating as Fushimi Inari in Kyoto.

Famed for its prolonged tunnel of brightly colored torii gates, Fushimi Inari is among the nation’s hottest shrines.

Along with its immediately recognisable torii, the shrine can be house to plenty of different graveyards, statuaries, and shrines.

Achieved on December 10th, 2017

Picture courtesy of Miki Yoshihito

#8 – Go snowboarding

Snowboarding in Japan has change into one of the widespread pastimes for individuals residing in Asia and Australia, with greater than 500 ski resorts scattered throughout the nation’s mountains and valleys.

There’s loads of debate as to the place to search out one of the best snowboarding in Japan, with newbie and foreigner pleasant Niseko a well-liked selection with first-timers.

Picture courtesy of SITS Ladies

#9 – See the Macaque snow monkeys in Jigokudani Nationwide Park

If you happen to’ve ever been on social media, chances are high that you simply’ve seen an lovely picture of a household of snow monkeys simply chilling out in a steaming sizzling spring.

The Japanese Macaque is probably the most northern-dwelling (non-human) primate on this planet and makes its house in temperatures as little as -15C.

Guests flock to Jigokudani Nationwide Park for his or her probability to watch and {photograph} these distinctive primates, with one of the best time to see them coming in the course of the winter months when the new spring is surrounded by snow.

Take a look at this information to seeing the snow monkeys for more information.

Picture courtesy of Wall Boat

#10 – Climb Mt. Fuji

Snow-capped Mount Fuji is among the most enduring pictures of Japan, and no go to to the Land of the Rising Solar could be full with out witnessing the majesty of Fujisan at dawn or sundown.

Whereas it’s all effectively and good to snap a number of footage of the mountain from afar, for a very Japanese expertise, climbing to the highest of the three,776m excessive mountain is prone to be a reminiscence you’ll cherish for the remainder of your life.

The right way to Climb Mount Fuji

The mountain itself isn’t thought-about a troublesome mountain to climb, though there are some steep parts and the danger of altitude illness to cope with. Through the official climbing season (July to September), you’ll need to cope with crowds in search of their very own daybreak summit.

Many climbers will hike about midway on the primary day, in a single day in one of many huts on the mountain, after which time their ascent to coincide with the fantastic dawn.

You may even e book a guided Mt. Fuji tour to take out the entire guess-work.

Picture courtesy of Anish Palekar

#11 – Go to the Imperial Palace in Tokyo

A go to to the seat of Japanese Imperial energy is a should for an curiosity within the nation’s historical past.

Whereas the unique palace was destroyed throughout World Conflict II, the present incarnation is a trustworthy recreation that’s nonetheless house to the reigning Japanese Emperor.

Whereas the Emperor’s function is ceremonial as of late, the prospect to wander the palace grounds and gardens is of apparent attraction. If you happen to time your go to to coincide with New 12 months’s (January 2nd) or the Emperor’s Birthday (December 23rd), you possibly can even achieve entry to the interior palace grounds the place the Imperial household stay.

#11b – Go to the Kyoto Imperial Palace

If you wish to full your palace assortment, you can too go to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which acted because the residence of the Emperor till the capital was relocated in 1868.

Picture courtesy of Yoshikazu Takada

#12 – See the cherry (and plum) blossoms in Shinjuku Gyoen Nationwide Backyard

Like Mount Fuji, the common-or-garden cherry blossom has change into an emblem of Japan.

Photographs of the pink-white blossoms gently drifting on the spring breeze and adorning the roads are extremely wanted, and there are total websites devoted to discussing one of the best locations to see cherry blossoms in Japan.

The Finest Place to See Cherry Blossoms

Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyeon Nationwide Backyard is taken into account the best possible, each resulting from its accessibility and its manicured gardens.

The Thinker’s Path in Kyoto, Kema Sakuranomiya Park in Osaka, Mount Yoshinoyama in Yoshino, Osaka Citadel, Himeji Citadel, Hanamiyama Park in Fukuoka, and Hirosaki Citadel in Tohuku are different nice choices.

Plum Blossoms > Cherry Blossoms?

One in all my readers, Rohan has asserted that plum blossom season is each bit as interesting as cherry blossom season.

Blooming from February till March, these extra brightly coloured blossoms are an attraction all of their very own.

Take a look at the place to see plum blossoms in Tokyo.

Picture courtesy of DD

#13 – Get misplaced in Akihabara

Whether or not you’re seeking to purchase the most recent devices otherwise you’re eager to indulge your anime or manga fandom, the neon lights and bustling crowds of Tokyo’s Akihabara district are prone to be of attraction to you.

Japan’s standing as a tech large and because the birthplace of manga are mixed into one dizzying, exhausting orgy of consumption that must be skilled to be absolutely comprehended.

Maid Cafes

Akihabara can be (in)well-known for its maid cafes, wherein prospects are waited upon hand and foot by guffawing women in maid’s outfits. There are additionally butler cafes for the women.

Given the doubtful nature of each the clientele and the underbelly of maid cafes, it’s one thing greatest averted.

Manga Kissa

For a much less perverted expertise, you can too drop by a Manga Kissa (Manga Cafe) the place you possibly can learn manga, watch anime, surf the web, and even spend the night time.

When you’re not prone to discover any English manga to learn, the expertise is one you’ll seemingly not neglect.

Learn extra about manga kissa.

If you wish to discover Akihabara in a approach that additionally educates you, a tour is an effective way to take action.

Taking an Akihabara Tour

Akihabara is a giant place and there’s a lot happening. Whereas it’s completely affordable to discover it at your individual tempo, having a neighborhood information may be an effective way to realize perception into the varied subcultures represented right here.

MagicalTrip affords an Akihabara tour, on which you’ll discover the realm with a neighborhood information and expertise the realm’s distinctive components, comparable to arcades, intercourse outlets, anime & manga cafes, and the notorious Maid Cafes. You’ll even take some purikura!

Achieved on December 1st, 2017

Picture courtesy of Nick Turner

#14 – Go to the Robotic Restaurant

You may hold your Michelin stars and your fancy banquets – Tokyo’s well-known Robotic Restaurant is my ‘should see’ eating expertise in Japan.

Nothing epitomizes the zany insanity of contemporary Japan fairly like this odd mixture of dinner theatre, science fiction, and vaguely sexual efficiency.

Whereas the meals isn’t a lot to write down house about, phrases can’t fairly describe simply how bizarre the Robotic Restaurant is.

Because the restaurant is vastly widespread, it’s advisable to seize your tickets prematurely. Richelle and I used Voyagin to benefit from their low cost pricing. It even got here with a free present!

Achieved on December 1st 2017

Picture courtesy of Candida Performa

#15 – Individuals watch at Shibuya Crossing

Vivid lights, deafening noise, seething crowds… it hardly seems like an expertise you’d exit of your method to have.

However to many, being jostled at Shibuya Crossing is the quintessential Japanese expertise.

Very similar to Occasions Sq. in New York, Shibuya is a pedestrian space that has taken on a lifetime of its personal over time. It’s been immortalized in movie to the purpose that vacationers come right here merely to say they’ve crossed the busy intersection and brought within the sights and sounds.

For an avid individuals watcher, staking out a seat within the close by Starbucks and taking in the entire motion is a should.

Achieved on December 4th, 2017

Picture courtesy of Simon Nielsen

#16 – Sleep in a capsule resort

They may not be probably the most glamorous choice and so they’re definitely not going to be probably the most spacious, however Japan’s capsule inns are such an enchanting glimpse right into a form of high-tech dystopian future the place area is at a premium and we’re all packed in tighter than sardines.

That isn’t to say that up to date capsule inns are dystopian and even uncomfortable. Many boast capsules (or pods) which have creature options comparable to flat display TVs, on-site spas, charging docks, libraries, and so on.

They aren’t going to be one of the best keep of your journey, but it surely’s an expertise that’s fairly uniquely Japanese.

It’s value noting that many capsule inns are male solely, so do your analysis in case you’re a touring couple or a solo feminine traveler!

Picture courtesy of ralchovak

#17 – Attend a Kabuki Present

With extravagant costumes, over-exaggerated performing, and elaborate units, Japanese kabuki theatre is a vastly widespread type of conventional artwork that stretches again to the Edo Interval.

Whereas it began as an all-female artwork type, trendy Kabuki is carried out solely by males – in a lot the identical approach as conventional Shakespeare featured all male casts with males who specialised in taking part in the feminine love pursuits.

With the tales typically derived from Japanese historical past or mythology, attending a kabuki efficiency is usually a invaluable perception into Japan because it was earlier than its speedy modernization.

Picture courtesy of Jose Navas

#18 – Go loopy at Harajuku

If Akihabara is consultant of Japan’s trendy technoculture, Harajuku is consultant of its youth. These headed to the Harajuku Station space are inevitably drawn to Takeshita Dori and its surrounds, the place boutiques, outlets, quick meals joints, and extra vie for the eye of fickle teenagers.

It’s within the Harajuku space that a few of Japan’s most iconic youth trend actions have their origins and other people watchers are prone to spot every part from rockabilly-loving hipsters to wildly inappropriate cosplayers on a Sunday when faculty is out.

Along with its apparent attraction as one thing of a human circus, Takeshita Dori and close by Omotesando are an excellent place to perform a little buying. You’ll discover every part from classic garments to noise-making toys to the most recent in excessive trend within the space.

Achieved on December 2nd, 2017

Picture courtesy of Reginald Pentinio

#19 – Go to Himeji Citadel

With its distinct white look, Himeji Citadel is one in every of Japan’s ‘twelve unique castles’ that has by no means fallen sufferer to pure disasters or struggle. Generally referred to as White Heron Citadel, Himeji is one in every of Japan’s most stunning examples of the architectural model.

Himeji’s historical past stretches again greater than 500 years to the 1400s when it was a strategic fortress to protect the path to the then capital, Kyoto. The fortress because it stands at the moment is a basic instance of the 1700s model.

Whereas Himeji-Jo is very spectacular when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, it’s nonetheless value a go to whatever the time of yr you’re visiting.

Achieved on December ninth, 2017

Picture courtesy of Japanexperterna

#20 – Spot a Geisha within the streets

Alongside the regal Samurai, the serene great thing about Japan’s Geishas is among the many nation’s most enduring pictures.

For these wishing to catch a glimpse of the few remaining true Geisha in trendy Japan, Kyoto’s Gion district is the place you’ll wish to be. Even in case you’re extraordinarily affected person, nevertheless, there isn’t a assure you’ll see what you got here for.

With Geisha changing into much less widespread as Japan modernises and their companies being in excessive demand by unique clientele, a geisha out and about is a rarity certainly.

My good friend, Becki from Borders of Journey has an excellent piece on her expertise recognizing Geisha in Kyoto.

Achieved on December 10th, 2017

Picture courtesy of Kanegen

#21 – Wander the woods of Meiji Shrine

Positioned a brief stroll from the hustle and bustle of Harajuku, Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine is an island of calm on the coronary heart of one of many world’s most densely populated cities.

Upon getting into by means of the shrine’s distinctive torii gate, you’re transported into the center of a serene forest as greater than 100,000 timber work collectively to drown out the noise of the town.

Whereas the shrine itself is just below 100 years outdated, Meiji Shrine is arguably the nation’s most well-known and widespread shrine, with greater than Three million individuals visiting to pay their respects over the New 12 months alone.

Whether or not you come to flee the noise, recognize the historical past, bask in a second’s quiet prayer, or to identify locals in conventional apparel, Meiji Shrine is prone to be a balm for the soul and for the sanity after the pleasant insanity of contemporary Japan.

Achieved on December 2nd, 2017

If you happen to’re in search of one thing that isn’t on each single vacationer itinerary, under you’ll discover plenty of strategies that vary from semi-obvious to a little bit quirky.

There’s a motley mixture of cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and wildlife experiences. If you happen to’re undecided easy methods to make all of this a actuality, take into account taking a guided tour in Japan. There are lots of unbelievable firms in a position to assist sew distinctive actions into an unforgettable itinerary.

Picture courtesy of Mark Barton

#22 – Get Misplaced in Translation on the Park Hyatt Tokyo

Made well-known by Invoice Murray and Scarlett Johannsen’s unlikely pseudo-romance in Misplaced in Translation, the Park Hyatt Tokyo’s New York Bar has change into a well-liked cease for these whose love affair with Japan began with Sofia Coppola’s Academy Award-nominated movie.

For these eager to have their very own Santori time, New York Bar within the Park Hyatt has the drinks and it has the stay music.

All you want is your individual Scarlett Johannsen.

Picture courtesy of saltowitz

#23 – Wander Naoshima Artwork Island

Sandy seashores, sunny climate, a laid-back ambiance, and an abundance of contemporary artwork make Naoshima one thing of a should for these wanting a unique Japanese expertise.

Your entire island is sort of a huge out of doors artwork exhibit, and art-minded vacationers from internationally make the pilgrimage to the island for his or her probability to wander amongst the installations and be soothed by the peaceable island ambiance.

Along with the varied open-air exhibitions, you’ll additionally discover 4 artwork museum on the island with works from the likes of Monet, Warhol, Turrell, and extra. With the museums themselves being works of architectural artwork, it’s definitely a feast for the eyes.

Meals and lodging can be found on the island, and there’s additionally a good seaside for these wanting a break from mental stimulation.

Take a look at Wikitravel’s web page on Naoshima for a extra complete overview.

Picture courtesy of Akuppa John Wigham

#24 – In a single day at a Buddhist retreat on Mount Koya

Identified domestically as shukubo, temple stays are a approach for petitioners to increase their time at holy websites and to expertise the Spartan lodging and austere existence of the monks who have a tendency the grounds and temples.

Whereas not each Buddhist temple affords the service, lots of the extra widespread temples round Tokyo and Kyoto supply the choice. Mount Koya is an particularly good location for these eager to spend an evening or extra dwelling in one other time, with greater than 50 shukubo on supply and a few even boasting English-speaking monks and Reserving.com pages!

For these eager to sleep on conventional tatami flooring, expertise the heat of kotatsu flooring, and eat scrumptious vegetarian meals, it’s a unbelievable expertise. The chance to stay (virtually) like a month and to have a better diploma of entry

The chance to stay (virtually) like a monk and to have a better diploma of entry to the temple and its grounds can be a giant promoting level. Company are in a position to wander the grounds when the vacationer crowds have departed, take part in morning prayers, and (in sure shukubo) take part in monk-led actions comparable to meditation or the copying of sutras.

Intrigued? Chasing the Unknown shares her expertise staying in a Koyosan Temple Keep.

Picture courtesy of Freedom II Andres

#25 – Pay your respects at Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Some could name it darkish tourism, however making the pilgrimage to websites of unspeakable atrocities may be an necessary a part of studying from the errors of the previous in order that they can’t be made sooner or later.

The dual atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki led to the deaths of between 129,000 and 226,000 individuals, and whereas some should debate whether or not or not the bombings had been justified, it’s a catastrophic lack of life that many select to acknowledge by visiting one or each of the affected cities.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park at the moment stands as a tribute to not solely those that misplaced their lives however as a testomony to the hope that such motion won’t ever once more be crucial. Guests can wander the quiet parklands, go to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and see the A-Bomb Dome – the closest construction to the detonation that survived.

The Nagasaki Peace Park affords an analogous expertise, though it’s not fairly as intensive.

Taking a Hiroshima bar tour is an effective way to expertise trendy Hiroshima’s vibrant night time life.

A Totally different Facet of Hiroshima

Hiroshima isn’t a metropolis mired up to now. Certainly, it’s a dynamic and thriving metropolis with much more to see than the varied memorial websites that appeal to vacationers.

MagicalTrip affords a unbelievable Hiroshima bar hopping tour, which is an effective way to take pleasure in Hiroshima nightlife and its meals.

Picture courtesy of Jiashiang

#26 – Scuba Dive on Okinawa

College students of army historical past could have their very own causes for wanting to go to the positioning of one in every of World Conflict II’s bloodiest battles. Greater than 200,000 individuals died within the combating that finally noticed the US seize the island from Japanese troopers, and this was most just lately immortalized in Mel Gibson’s Hacksaw Ridge.

There are a variety of parks and struggle memorials on Okinawa devoted to those that misplaced their lives on either side of the combating.

Scuba Diving Okinawa

For these with the scuba bug, the Okinawa island chain affords some really world-class scuba diving websites. Boasting an enormous variety of landscapes and problem ranges, the chain is vastly widespread with divers.

With waters such as you’d look forward to finding in Southeast Asia, Okinawa’s dive websites vary from shore dives to shallow reefs to drop-offs to submerged monuments, Okinawa and surrounding islands comparable to Yonagunijima and Ishigakikima are a diver’s paradise with a lot to maintain even probably the most skilled diver occupied.

Learn extra about Okinawa’s dive websites.

Picture courtesy of conifer conifer

#27 – See the Sika Deer in Nara Park

Alongside the snow monkeys talked about earlier, Japan’s deer are one of the recognisable symbols of the nation. With Shinto Buddhism contemplating deer to be messengers of the gods, the animals take pleasure in particular remedy as they roam freely by means of Nara Park in (you guessed it) Nara.

There may be way more to Nara than simply paying a number of yen to feed the town’s iconic deer inhabitants, nevertheless. Described as “second solely to Kyoto because the richest assortment of conventional websites in Japan” by Inside Kyoto, Nara has additionally been described by my reader, Rohan as one in every of his favourites resulting from its historical past and the dearth of crowds.

Historic Websites in Nara

Guests to Nara shouldn’t miss the prospect to see the likes of Todai-Ji Temple and Kofuki-Ji Temple, in addition to the big variety of conventional gardens that dot the town. The Harushika Sake Brewery can be one that’s value a glance in case you take pleasure in imbibing Japan’s signature spirit.

Lastly, once more at Rohan’s urging, I’ve been instructed to suggest Sakura Burger. Go, eat one, and inform me the way it was.

Achieved on December ninth 2017

Picture courtesy of DocChewbacca

#28 – Keep in a ryokan resort

These in search of some cultural immersion throughout their go to to Japan ought to with out query spend a while sleeping in a ryokan. Ryokan are conventional Japanese inns with a historical past courting again centuries.

Immediately, they’re a well-liked approach for vacationers to expertise conventional Japanese hospitality. If you happen to’ve ever watched a Japanese film and thought it may be cool to open a shoji (sliding paper doorways), take off your sneakers and stroll barefoot on heat tatami (reed mats), and spend the night time sleeping on a futon – ryokan are what you’re in search of.

So, a ryokan is identical as a resort?

Not precisely. Whereas a ryokan serves the identical function as a western resort, it does so in a distinctly Japanese approach. You’re not prone to discover TVs, WiFi, or giant queen-sized beds right here.

Not for individuals who need all of their western creature comforts, an evening in a ryokan nonetheless affords a whole package deal that always contains each dinner and breakfast. Generally, these meals are taken in your room at a low desk, however some ryokan have communal eating areas as effectively.

Many ryokan preserve elaborate gardens and/or communal baths the place you possibly can additional immerse your self in a less complicated form of life.

If you happen to’re involved in including a ryokan expertise to your journey, take into account trying out Japanese Visitor Homes.

Achieved on November 13th, 2017 at Andon Ryokan

Picture courtesy of Olivier Bruchez

#29 – Go to Studio Ghibli

If you happen to’ve by no means seen one in every of Hayao Miyazaki’s superb anime movies comparable to Spirited Away and Howl’s Shifting Citadel, or possibly one thing grim like Isao Takahata’s Grave of the Fireflies, you actually ought to.

Go and do this now. I’ll wait.

Finished? Good!

Visiting the Studio Ghibli Museum

Positioned in central Tokyo, the Studio Ghibli Museum affords followers of the movies a whimsical expertise as they discover the varied reveals devoted to the artwork and worlds from the movies.

Described by the administration as ‘a storybook expertise with you as the principle character’, the museum has you wander by means of unbelievable worlds and rekindle friendships with outdated pals, whether or not out of your childhood or (like me) your maturity.

There’s even a cute little cafe on website to nourish your physique after you’ve nourished your coronary heart.

You may learn extra about visiting the Studio Ghibli Museum at Simply Hungry.

Remember to e book your Studio Ghibli tickets by means of KKday early, as they typically promote out!

Picture courtesy of DocChewbacca

#30 – Go to Japan’s largest graveyard at Koyasan

I discussed Koyasan above as one of the best place in Japan to expertise a Buddhist temple keep, however there’s extra to the mountain than only a place to in a single day.

The guts of Shingon Buddhism, Koyasan is house to greater than 100 temples and an abundance of the aforementioned temple stays. Outstanding temples embrace Kongobu-Ji and the Garan complicated, on the coronary heart of which is the Konpon Daito Pagoda. Shingon Buddhism posits that this pagoda is on the coronary heart of a mandala that encompasses all of Japan.

Okunoin Temple & Cemetary

Stated to be the place the founding father of Shingon Buddhism, Kobo Daishi rests in everlasting meditation, Okunoin is one in every of Japan’s most sacred websites and a very atmospheric expertise.

Over the centuries since Kobo Daishi’s dying, many distinguished historic figures and monks have desired to be buried shut by. This has given rise to one of the hauntingly stunning sights in all of Japan: a sprawling graveyard complicated in a forest of cedar timber.

Lit by hundreds of lanterns and that includes quite a lot of distinctive gravestone designs, Okunoin is fascinating by day and otherworldy by night time.

Picture courtesy of Asian Brasserie

#31 – Make and eat your individual sushi

It’s all effectively and good to make a degree of consuming a little bit sushi and/or sashimi in your journey, however a very adventurous traveller will wish to get their palms a little bit soiled by making it for themselves.

There’s nobody place in Japan the place you need to get within the kitchen, because the meals’s recognition at house and overseas implies that there isn’t a scarcity of culinary colleges on supply for would-be cooks. The lion’s share are usually in main cities, with Tokyo having the broadest choice.

Achieved on November 22nd, 2018

Picture courtesy of Richard Moross

#32 – Strive your hand at Pachinko

Wanting one thing like a toddler’s arcade parlour, these noisy and smoky institutions are packed in any respect hours with locals eager to attempt their luck and win a little bit cash.

Like some ghastly hybrid between pinball and a Vegas model slot machine, pachinko sees gamblers firing tiny metal balls in regards to the display hoping to activate the drum (or, in trendy machines, display) and have matching symbols come up.

Identical to slot machines, pachinko machines are inclined to have all method of vibrant and deceptively child-like themes, and also you’d be forgiven for mistaking a parlour for one thing way more household pleasant.

Even in case you’re not a gambler, wandering round a crowded parlour and soaking within the smoky, gritty atmosphere of all of it is value a quick cease.

Be taught extra about pachinko.

Picture courtesy of Erica Kline

#33 – Take obnoxious Purikura

It sounds extra mysterious than it truly is. Purikura is a Japanese pronunciation of “print membership” and is used to explain picture cubicles of the sort westerners have at weddings, birthday events, and different social events.

In Japan, purikura is a a lot greater a part of life, and particularly amongst teenage women.

Present in most online game arcades and scattered in regards to the streets, purikura are picture cubicles wherein a pair or a bunch of pals can take hammy pictures, typically with quite a lot of props or digital filters. These footage then print out on stamp-sized paper to be tucked into your pockets or pinned to your dream board.

It’s all a little bit foolish, but it surely’s a enjoyable little memento and one other window into trendy Japanese tradition.

Be taught extra about purikura.

Achieved on December 1st, 2017

Picture courtesy of zaopharm

#34 – Go on an Osaka meals crawl

In a nation with an everlasting love affair with good meals, Osaka stands out as the go-to foodie vacation spot in Japan.

As all good foodie cities do, Osaka presents the perfect from round Japan but in addition has its personal signature dishes and flavours that individuals journey to expertise.

Reasonably than bore you with a listing of meals to attempt, I’ll as a substitute go away you within the succesful palms of Mark from Migrationology, who has this exhaustive Osaka meals information to your viewing pleasure.

If discovering and ordering every part for your self appears a tad daunting, you’ll discover an abundance of Osaka meals excursions to select from.

Achieved on December 11th, 2017

Picture courtesy of Erik Drost

#35 – Get baseball fever

Baseball may me America’s pastime, however Japan additionally considers the tedious sport to be its nationwide pastime.

(You’ll forgive my disdain for baseball, it’s principally a lazy man’s cricket)

No matter your ideas on the game, the spectacle of attending a baseball match in Japan is one which shouldn’t be ignored.

Variations between American and Japanese baseball

Raucous followers, a festive ambiance, tasty bento containers, a unique model of play, and different distinctly Japanese variations on the theme make it not like something you’ll have skilled earlier than.

It’s arduous to not get caught up in baseball fever as the group chants and sings, and whereas I’ve not had the pleasure of attending a Japanese baseball match, my expertise at a Lotte Giants recreation in South Korea was one thing very totally different to my expertise at an MLB recreation within the US.

Be taught extra about Japanese baseball tradition.

Picture courtesy of Hans Johnson

#36 – See Kinkaku-Ji Temple

You may be considering, “However Chris, you’ve advisable so many temples already! Do we actually want one other one?”

It’s true that in lots of instances, seeing one temple is seeing all of them, however Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion) is one you’re going to be glad you made the hassle to see.

A Zen Buddhist temple positioned in Kyoto, Kinkaku-Ji’s distinctive gold leaf displays superbly from the waters of the big pond beside it.

One thing distinct from different temples you’ll see in Japan, the Golden Pavilion is amongst Japan’s most photogenic temples.

Achieved on December ninth 2017

Picture courtesy of iyoupapa

#37 – Attend the Sapporo Snow Competition

Even when snowboarding and snowboarding aren’t actually your factor, there’s one thing on the Sapporo Snow Competition for everyone.

Akin to the Harbin Snow & Ice Competition in China, Sapporo’s pageant boasts plenty of spectacular snow and ice sculptures that virtually shine within the crisp winter air.

Unfold throughout three pageant websites in the identical space, the pageant is house to stay music, market stalls, and family-friendly actions comparable to snow slides and meals stands.

It’s a celebration of all issues white, fluffy, and just a bit too chilly – and it’s one in every of Japan’s hottest festivals consequently.

The Sapporo Snow Competition takes place in early February every year.

Picture courtesy of shiranal

#38 – Bar Crawl the Golden Gai

You may drink virtually wherever in Japan, however you’ll remorse not indulging in Tokyo’s seedier facet with a number of drinks on the notorious Golden Gai.

A throwback to less complicated instances, Golden Gai’s many bars vary in dimension from shack-sized six-person institutions to extra generously sized bars. Six tiny alleys surrounded on all sides by towering skyscrapers and traffic-choked streets, the Golden Gai has by some means defied Tokyo’s speedy modernisation and retains a lot of its superb, seedy appeal.

United by a love of alcohol and an something goes method to themes, the Golden Gai district is widespread with locals and vacationers alike, though bars would like it in case you spend a little bit cash to go together with that tacky selfie you’re snapping.

The place to drink on Golden Gai

Tough Guides has an excellent information to Golden Gai that recommends one of the best bars and offers some etiquette ideas. With some bars being invite solely and others having a strict ‘no vacationers’ coverage, you’ll wish to perform a little analysis or apply your greatest sorry in Japanese.

(Severely, there are such a lot of methods to make an apology in Japanese!)

Achieved on December 4th, 2017

Picture supply

#39 – Courageous a chew on Piss Alley

Whereas we’re within the Shinjuku space, it might be legal to not take a stroll down the infamous ‘Reminiscence Lane’.

Higher referred to as ‘Piss Alley’, this ‘outdated Japan’ model alley is a cramped laneway of low-cost BBQ joints, dingy bars, and locations serving up among the weirdest dishes you’ll encounter in Japan. Acquired a hankering for horse penis, grilled salamander, and pig testicles? That is the place you’ll discover it!

For the much less adventurous, Piss Alley is best identified for draft beer, flavorful yakitori skewers, and hearty bowls of nikomi stew.

Achieved on December 4th, 2017

Picture courtesy of Ralta Futo

#40 – Soak in an Onsen

For the uninitiated, onsen are pure sizzling springs. These are immensely widespread all throughout Japan, with individuals touring to totally different springs depending on their illnesses and the purported well being advantages of the minerals within the water.

Whether or not or not you subscribe to their well being advantages, there’s nonetheless quite a lot of attraction to be present in a go to to one in every of Japan’s many onsen resorts. Soaking in blessedly heat water surrounded by serene gardens is nearly anyone’s concept of heaven.

Dogo Onsen – Japan’s Oldest Onsen

Dogo Onsen in Shikoku is taken into account one in every of Japan’s oldest onsen, with tales of Prince Shotoku bathing in its sizzling waters way back to 1,500 years in the past. For these with an curiosity in each Japanese historical past and public nudity, Dogo has apparent attraction

There’s loads of heated (pun supposed) debate as to which onsen resorts are one of the best, so do your analysis and resolve for your self which is Japan’s greatest onsen.

Achieved on November 13th, 2017

Seeking to do one thing that none of your pals has accomplished?

Been to Japan a number of instances and all of it feels a bit ho hum now?

Under, you’ll discover ten obscure sights and actions so as to add to your Japan bucket record.

Picture courtesy of Muratagawa

41. Stroll the Kumano Kodo

You’ve maybe heard of the Camino de Santiago, a legendary Christian pilgrimage that pulls tens of hundreds of penitents and idealistic backpackers to western Europe yearly.

Japan not solely has its personal sacred pilgrimage, it occurs to have one of the underrated and breathtaking hikes of its form on this planet.

An Historical Custom

The World Heritage Listed Kumano Kodo has a historical past that stretches again greater than 1,000 years, with petitioners starting from humble peasant folks to the Imperial household making the trek to the Grand Shrines of Kumano – Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha.

Following paths that wend and wind by means of mountain forests and alongside windswept clifftops, the Kumano Kodo was and is a sacred journey by means of a few of Japan’s final untamed wilderness.

A Fashionable Hike of Cultural Immersion

Whereas among the Kumano Kodo’s unique routes have since been constructed over, there nonetheless stay plenty of Kumano Kodo trails that may be hiked in a number of days.

These wandering this historic approach pays their respects at remoted Oji shrines, in a single day in silent Buddhist temples, and see a facet of Japan that almost all don’t even know exists.

Wish to Do It Your self?

Richelle and I tackled the whole 170kms of the Kumano Kodo Iseji Route in November 2017. You may learn in regards to the expertise of mountaineering the Kumano Kodo, take a look at the two-week Kumano Kodo itinerary, or have a look at Richelle’s superior piece on making ready to hike the Kumano Kodo.

Achieved November 13th – November 28th 2017

Picture courtesy of Sayako Shimoyama

#42 – Go to Cat Island

You might need seen pictures of Tashirojima, Japan’s well-known ‘cat island’ the place stray cats outnumber the island’s getting older inhabitants by a ratio of about 6:1.

This may sound like hell to some, however cat fanatics have turned this in any other case unremarkable fishing island into one thing of a vacationer attraction as they arrive to see the felines who name it house.

With locals believing that feeding the cats brings them luck, they have a look at the island’s survival of the 2011 Tohuku Earthquake as an indication.

Visiting Tashirojima

Regardless of the island’s rising recognition with vacationers, it nonetheless stays a practical fishing village with an getting older inhabitants. There aren’t quite a lot of tourism services, so guests must be ready to make use of squat bathrooms, convey their very own meals, and return to the mainland to sleep.

Picture courtesy of Ivan Milnaric

#43 – Immerse your self within the land of Ninja and Samurai

If you happen to’re like me and suppose that ninjas are simply in regards to the coolest factor within the universe, you might need been dismayed to be taught that there’s treasured little info on the market about donning the black and slinging shuriken your self.

Fortunately, the Japanese authorities has acknowledged the unhappy lack of ninja-themed sights and there are plans underway to open a ninja academy in Tokyo.

Uncovering Japan’s Samurai Historical past

On a extra critical word, I’ve at all times been fascinated with Japanese historical past. My explicit fascination has been with the interval from the 12th century to 1868’s Meiji Restoration when the Samurai dominated Japanese politics.

Whereas the intricacies of the varied Shogunates and the Bushido code aren’t one thing I’ll go into right here, it’s a very enthralling interval of Japanese historical past that ended far more just lately than many think about.

Touring Samurai Websites

Today, guests to Japan can immerse themselves in Samurai historical past by visiting historic castles and Samurai districts, wandering the varied museums on Samurai historical past, or visiting Samurai theme parks comparable to Nikko Edomura.

Picture courtesy of Jordi Sanchez Teruel

#44 – Experience the Hakone Tozan Railway

For rail fanatics, there’s a extra conventional different to Japan’s famed high-speed trains.

The Hakone Tozan is Japan’s oldest mountain railway and winds its approach by means of slender forest valleys in a throwback to the glory days of rail.

A scenic journey it doesn’t matter what time of yr you go to, the experience is very picturesque throughout June, when hydrangeas are in bloom, and within the fall when the valley is about afire by the autumn foliage.

Different Issues to do in Hakone

After all, there’s greater than only a scenic railway in Hakone, and yow will discover a wealth of issues to do in Hakone together with peaceable shrines, artwork museums, and scenic hikes.

Picture courtesy of Kimi Showota

#45 – Expertise the old-fashioned Hanayashiki Amusement Park

Claiming to be Japan’s oldest amusement park, Hanayashiki opened within the 1800s and has been amusing younger and outdated alike ever since.

Whereas most vacationers will make a beeline for Tokyo Disney or Disney Sea, I’m drawn to the historical past and outdated carnival appeal of this park.

A Fashionable Amusement Park

Historic doesn’t imply out of contact or harmful, and Hanayashiki at the moment boasts the entire trendy amusements and security measures you’d look forward to finding in a theme park.

Curler coasters and massive drops are set alongside old-fashioned Ferris wheels and carousels, and it’s all coupled with the distinctly Asian appeal of motorized panda vehicles, noisy arcade video games, and 3D theatres.

A Stroll Down Reminiscence Lane

With old style amusement parks being changed by trendy theme parks stuffed with excessive tech rides and colourful characters, the prospect to take a historic tour of the park can be a draw. Guests can take a guided audio tour to be taught a little bit extra in regards to the park’s historical past.

The park’s actual attraction isn’t its rides or sights, however its standing as a throwback to a bygone period.

Want One thing Newer?

If an deserted amusement park isn’t your factor, you’ve additionally received Tokyo Disneyland. Right here, you possibly can see the fascinating fusion of the standard Disney aesthetic with that distinctive Japanese cultural taste.

For tickets (or excursions to different Tokyo highlights), you possibly can take a look at Musement.

Picture courtesy of mendhak

#46 – Hike the Northern Alps

If the Kumano Kodo doesn’t look intense sufficient for you, the Northern Alps may be extra your velocity.

Ranging from idyllic Kamikochi Resort inside Chubu SangakNationalal Park, guests to this geographically beautiful area of Japan can embark on plenty of hikes starting from comparatively easy day treks to multi-day climbs.

It’s definitely potential to do an reasonably priced tenting trek of the breathtaking Northern Alps, so learn extra about Kamikochi on a funds.

Picture courtesy of Zekkei Japan

#47 – See the Takane Ruby Bloom in Akasoba-no-Sato

Cherry blossoms too mainstream for you?

Plum blossoms a bit hipster to your tastes?

The yearly purple buckwheat bloom (higher referred to as the ruby bloom) in Akasoba-no-Sato is taken into account one of many extra beautiful shows of floral magnificence in Japan. Going down each September, this bloom turns the Nagano fields a vivid shade of pink-red that makes for beautiful pictures.

Extra than simply flowers

After all, there’s extra to Nagano Prefecture than only a yearly blooming of buckwheat.

The aforementioned Northern Alps lie throughout the prefecture, and there are a selection of different landscapes simply begging to be explored by the avid hiker.

For historical past buffs, websites comparable to Matsumoto Citadel, Narai Juku, Zenkoji Temple, and extra are scattered in regards to the area like archaeological finds.

Picture courtesy of conifer conifer

#48 – See the 48 Waterfalls of Akame

If waterfalls get your freak juice flowing, Akame may simply be your new favorite place on this planet.

Boasting a startling 25 waterfalls (48 could also be an exaggeration) starting from towering cascades to raging torrents to admirable trickles, Akame in Mie Prefecture is a area steeped in Japanese delusion and legend.

House to the large salamander, Akame is usually described as ‘the birthplace of Ninja’ resulting from its wealthy historical past as a base of operations and coaching for the legendary spies and assassins of the Samurai period.

The 5 Falls

The highlights of Akame are 5 particularly spectacular waterfalls: Fudo, Senju, Nunobiki, Ninai, and Biwa.

Strolling between these 5 falls takes guests previous all twenty 5 of the park’s waterfalls.

Picture courtesy of Gullhem Vellut

#49 – Get grossed out on the Parasite Museum

One of many weirder museums on this planet, Tokyo’s notorious Meguro Parasitological Museum is a monument to the entire creepy little buggers who appear intent on making their house below your pores and skin, in your hair, and in your inner organs.

The place else on this planet are you able to see grissly pictures, a dizzying assortment of parasite specimens, and the world’s longest tapeworm. 8.8m and it lived inside any person!

It’s a small, two-storey museum that’s positive to provide the creeps, however as Time Journey Turtle discovered, it’s effectively value a glance.

Picture courtesy of rainday1977

#50 – Expertise rural Japan in Kayabuki no Sato

Whereas there are many locations in Japan the place you possibly can ‘expertise’ rural Japan, Miyama is a small village north of Kyoto that’s nonetheless very a lot adhering to the outdated methods.

The Kayabuki no Sato village is house to thatched roof dwellings which are nonetheless lived in by native farmers and households, making it a extra genuine affair than the reproduction villages that vacationers can go to elsewhere.

Guests can stroll round this bucolic little slice of heaven and snap pictures however must be conscious that lots of the properties are non-public dwellings.

The Folks Museum

For these wanting a glimpse into the development of the standard properties, there’s a small museum that showcases objects from day by day life on this idyllic nook of the world.

You’ll additionally discover the Little Indigo Museum, for these with a eager curiosity within the… uh… dying of indigo.

In a single day in a conventional house

Seeing it by day and snapping a number of pictures is one factor, however spending an evening in one of many thatched homes is a significantly better style of cultural immersion. You’ll not solely sleep in a conventional house, you’ll even have the chance to eat native meals.

Mountain climbing Ashiu Forest

To finish your metropolis escape, it may be value venturing into the close by Ashiu Forest for a little bit of a strolling safari. An old-growth forest that has but to fall afoul of progress, Ashiu is house to monkeys, deer, and even bears!

This record may simply have been 100 objects lengthy, however I’ve saved my Japan bucket record to only fifty objects.

Have I missed any that you simply really feel must be on right here?

In search of extra bucket record inspiration?

Don’t neglect to take a look at my different complete bucket lists!

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Cheers! Now you’ve got simply received to substantiate your subscription.

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sweetlightstudios · 8 years ago

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What Your Body Language Tells the World | SF Bay Area Portrait Photographer

If our first impression is found online in a profile, on a business card or billboard, where no words are used, it would stand to reason that our body language is much more important than the words that are printed alongside our image. Warm Summer Greetings from the Studio... Hello, Gorgeous! According to a seminal study some years ago by Dr. Albert Mehrabian author of Silent Messages, our body language conveys about half of our message to those we’re communicating with in face-to-face conversation. Our tone of voice conveys about forty percent of our message and our actual words send less than ten percent of our message.

What your Posture Says | The Look, The Mood you want to Convey How we carry our body in the real world conveys a lot without saying a single word. Standing too close or too far from another individual when talking to them sends subtle signals about your confidence and interest. For instance, when you face another and lean in during the conversation, it shows a keen interest in what the other person is saying. Lift a hand to the face and grasp the chin or place your hand under the chin tells others you are listening, intently contemplating their words. Conversely, these subtle unconscious body messages can interfere with communication. Actions such as crossing your legs and pointing the knees or feet away from your companion unconsciously indicate to those around you boredom or an interest in leaving. Archetypally, crossed arms is a closed posture, as if to say “I am blocked to your perspective”. There is a myriad of other “tells” that quietly let those around you know you are dissatisfied with the current situation and looking for a change.

In Life and In Our Studio There have been countless books, lectures, and articles produced on the subject of Body Language because it is a form of nonverbal communication between people. People are curious to understand what is going on and sometimes want to study the subject in order to manipulate others. Our approach to utilizing body language in the studio is based on life, and my desire is to help you convey the message you most desire to your viewers. When we observe body language in others through everyday interactions we notice that the lovers who are enduring an angry spat may display non verbal cues to their displeasure by grimacing, crossing their arms and looking away. They probably will not be standing close together. On the other hand, those who are enjoying the company of others display this by leaning or standing closer, hands are lowered and arms are open -- the eyes light up and small little creases increase around the eyes as the muscles squeeze to see better the object of delight.

In the studio, we are keenly aware of the language of the body. We pose lovers close together showing intimacy, touching and looking at one another. Business women are posed with hands on the hips to enhance confidence. We place children in front of Mum because we know she thinks most highly of them! Photographing Mum leaning into the camera with a relaxed smile to emphasize to her family acceptance, as if the ever-present listener. Groups are posed to fit together, show hierarchy and match in body language.

Enhance your Presence We believe a lot goes into a lasting portrait, more than just posing. First and foremost, the portrait must be flattering or the subject will not want to have it, nor show it off. Body language, expression, and posing are essential to the flow of the photographs AND in delivering a congruent message about the subject (confident, formidable, approachable, sweet, kind, professional, etc.). Imagine seeing a photo of the Queen of England slumped into a chair - hand holding her head, looking away from the viewer … I know, it’s hard to imagine! The Queen, in order to assume her brand and formidable position in professional photos, is almost always photographed standing or sitting tall, head held high -- her arms are most often down, hands in lap, or high and waving proper and regal. This is what we expect from a world leader. The same is true for you… Good posture and body language tell more to the viewer than your words ever could express so sit up tall and engage that core!

How to Improve Over time, I’ve noticed my photography improving by studying and observing body language in my clients both in the studio and at networking events. I find the subject fascinating. Study Since acknowledging the power that comes from understanding body language, I’ve sought out experts, and have learned a lot from Vanessa Van Edwards. She has an in-depth workshop on CreativeLive that I purchased and have studied from. Udemy has multiple webinars on the subject if you’d like to learn more. Even the last business book I picked up at the library, The Power of Charm by Brian Tracy & Rob Arden, surprised me with two entire chapters covering just this subject. It’s true, body language can betray your most charming endeavors. Practice Best of all, I’ve found that adjusting my own body language, stance and posture, can have a profound effect on my mood and help me snap out of a funk -- just by noticing slumped shoulders I can pick myself up and put a smile on, my mood improves. Observe Amy Cuddy talks about this phenomenon in her TedTalk. Watch this vid and you’ll see why we use the “Wonder Woman” pose in the studio whenever a shy or awkward feeling client comes in! Amy says power posing can actually change our body chemistry, enough to lighten a mood and produce endorphin that will bring out our courage -- I can attest to that (try it yourself before your next speech or interview).

“When the eyes say one thing, and the tongue another, a practiced man relies on the language of the first.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson My goal is to work with you to create portraits that say what you want to say!

Call today for a consultation on working together to create your authentic new image and let me help you “See Yourself in a New Light, in a Sweet Light”. Wishing you a Sweet day! XOX, She Schedule a Session of your own at Sweet Light Studios in beautiful South San Francisco or at your site. Contact Shelah today! Phone: 1+415/409.9389 | eMail: [email protected] Find Us on YELP at SweetLightStudios Follow Us on Instagram at @inSweetLight Like Us on Facebook at SweetLightStudios & BTW, We’re Right Nextdoor, too! Click to Post

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nofomoartworld · 8 years ago

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Hyperallergic: If Hollywood Actors Tell Refugees’ Stories, Will We Finally Listen?

Still from Love Story (2016), 7-channel installation (all images courtesy of Candice Breitz and KOW, Berlin)

BERLIN — Alec Baldwin as a migrant on an overcrowded boat en route to Europe from Somalia? Julianne Moore as the victim of violence and forced displacement in the Congo? In Candice Breitz’s Love Story, currently on view at KOW, Berlin, the artist interviews six men and women who recount their stories of escape, which are then reinterpreted and told by Hollywood stars Baldwin and Moore.

Still from Love Story

Breitz, who is previously known for appropriating clips of famous Hollywood actors and creating montages from them, uses her work to deconstruct popular Hollywood tropes around identity and reality. The title of the exhibition references the hopes, struggles, and realities of life on the move for those who have been displaced, baiting the viewer with an installation of the aforementioned actors portraying each refugee. The exhibition brings to light the stories of six interviewees as they report their experiences going through asylum interviews, which are then acted out by the two Hollywood stars.

The cultural lexicon Breitz draws from is the whitewashing tendency of Hollywood, a perennial controversial topic that made headlines late last year after several high-profile nonwhite characters were played by white actors: Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One in Doctor Strange (2016), Matt Damon as a Chinese warrior in The Great Wall (2016), and Scarlett Johansson as Major Mira Killian / Motoko Kusanagi in Ghost in the Shell (2017). In the last several months, social justice groups have called attention to the practice of whitewashing and demanded more accountability in Hollywood, which they rightly accuse of severely underrepresenting nonwhites in leading roles. According to a study reported on in Reuters last year, minority lead roles in Hollywood film peaked at 16.7 percent in 2013 and dropped to 13.6 percent in 2015. Yet whitewashing is by no means a new phenomenon. In the 1960s, a bucktoothed Mickey Rooney offensively played the role of Japanese caricature I.Y. Yunioshi in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, to cite just one example, and by the 1970s, postcolonial and literary theorist Edward Said began discussing cultural imperialism, connecting it to the way the mainstream media, popular culture, and Hollywood collude to construct and manipulate the image of nonwhites, particularly Arabs, often relying exclusively on negative stereotypes and generalizations. “Arabs, for example, are thought of as camel-riding, terroristic, hook-nosed, venal lechers whose undeserved wealth is an affront to real civilization,” Said wrote in his 1978 book Orientalism.

Still from Love Story

Love Story deconstructs the Hollywood tendency to whitewash and, in the process, subverts and exposes it, rendering the practice directly visible and audible. The dark, cavernous space of KOW lends itself particularly well to Breitz’s seven-channel film installation. Upon entering, the viewer is immediately confronted with Baldwin and Moore recounting the tales of six individuals, each filled with love, loss, hope, and hopelessness. The 73-minute video features the two actors in medium and close-up shots as they take on the different roles of the individuals interviewed by Breitz in New York, Berlin, and Cape Town in late 2015. These six individuals, whom Breitz casted through personal relationships and contacts, include a Somalian (Farah Abdi Mohamed), a Syrian (Ezzat Mardini), a Venezuelan Luis Ernesto Nava Molero), an Indian (Francis Saveri), a Congolese (Mamy Maloba Langa), and an Angolan (José Maria João), — all of whom have unique memories that deserve individual attention. They are all seated in front of green screens, a neutralizing background that allows the viewer to narrow in and focus on their stories, which are at times saddening and confusing but also funny and laden with anecdotes about love and friendship. Baldwin and Moore take on their roles dutifully, capturing the mannerisms of their characters with compassion and emotion.

Interrupting the smooth faces of Hollywood privilege, Breitz presents six large screens with accompanying headphones corresponding to each of the six individuals whose narratives of escape were reinterpreted by Baldwin and Moore. These are the real faces and stories behind the Hollywood pair’s interpretations. According to one of them, Mamy Maloba Langa, who was forced to flee from her native Kinshasa, in the Congo, “People don’t even care about us, you know. They would never put us on a movie screen and talk about us.” Another, José Maria João, a former child soldier from Angola, entreats Baldwin to take his role and responsibility in this project seriously. “Alec, you must be happy that Candice is giving you this opportunity to give people my story, to tell them about my life. I just want to ask you to tell this story that I went through in the right way. You must get it right.”

Love Story, installation view

By positioning the voices of these six individuals together with Hollywood actors, Breitz’s project exposes how cinema, the mainstream media, and even visual art still requires star power in order to amplify the stories of marginalized people. As such, the exhibition foregrounds two important questions: Are such dramatizations culturally insensitive? Or do they invite empathy?

To some extent, the interview format does allocate a space for empathy, but it does so in a way that requires time and patience. Each interview is more than three hours long, making it difficult, if not impossible, to see each in its entirety. Accordingly, the project deserves to be understood as one that questions the precarious nature of our ability to take in information. It deconstructs the logistics of the attention economy in a way that calls into question how we perceive the narratives of those who have been forcibly displaced, albeit filtered by deceptive forms of Hollywood whitewashing. By infusing the project with Hollywood star power, Breitz at once considers multiple overlapping textures of pop culture and how our ability to consume entertainment masks our ability to see and empathize with others.

Still from Love Story

Above all, Love Story uncovers the mechanisms of cultural hegemony and how the media de-personifies narratives of displacement. It does so in a fascinating way that juxtaposes mainstream Hollywood entertainment with first-person accounts of individuals whose stories stand in for millions of others, thereby inviting the viewer into a contemplative space. Breitz’s project lays bare these cultural and political dynamics, and in doing so gives voice and autonomy back to those who are typically silenced — or whitewashed — by the mainstream media, Hollywood, and the art world at large.

Love Story continues at KOW (Brunnenstr. 9, 10119, Berlin) through July 30.

The post If Hollywood Actors Tell Refugees’ Stories, Will We Finally Listen? appeared first on Hyperallergic.

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