The Essence of Balance and Renewal in Japanese Temple Life

Ryoyu Kurasawa, the head priest of a Buddhist temple in Haguroyama, Japan, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced supply of nutrients for both the body and the mind as essential for human living. He advocates for achieving good health, not just physically but also mentally, by ensuring this equilibrium. Kurasawa believes that nurturing the soul involves fostering an environment of quietness, cleanliness, and simplicity. He asserts that in silence, one can connect with the rhythms of nature, sensing the pulse of life and experiencing the fragrant essence of trees, which in turn restores inner peace. Additionally, entering a clean environment has a purifying effect on the heart, providing a sense of cleanliness and clarity. Simplicity, according to Kurasawa, contributes significantly to peace of mind. These spiritual nourishments, as he describes them, offer the strength necessary for life's journey. Many temples across Japan encapsulate such environments designed to nourish the soul. Each visit to these temples tends to infuse a sense of revitalization and energy, further emphasizing the significance of these spiritual spaces in providing sustenance for the human spirit.


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