Navigating Life's Currents: How to Let Go of Resistance and Flow Like a River

The past few years have been a test for all of us as we navigate a global pandemic, political turmoil, economic instability, and various natural disasters. It's not often that we see so many events happening all at once in such a short period of time. However, with countries slowly opening up their borders, we can start to travel the world again to see new places and spend time with friends and family. Recently, I had the chance to take a trip to Japan's Kansai region over the New Year. It was an incredible experience that provided me with much-needed grounding and perspective on how to approach life moving forward.

Japan is a country steeped in tradition and culture. One of the most significant aspects of this culture is the emphasis on spirituality and mindfulness. Shrines and temples are found all over the country and are especially highly concentrated in the Kansai region, and visiting them is a way for people to connect with something greater than themselves.

I had the opportunity to visit several shrines and temples including Kiyomizudera, Ryōan-ji, Todaji Temple and Fushima Inari during my time in Japan, and the experience was truly transformative. The peaceful atmosphere, the sound of the temple bells, the sense of togetherness and the smell of incense all contributed to a sense of serenity that I had never felt before.

Watching the sunset from Kiyomizudera

I was lucky enough to take part in hatsumode on the first day of this year. Hatsumode, the first shrine or temple visit of the New Year, is an important tradition in Japan. Not only is it a time for religious observance, but it is also a time for family and community to come together and reflect on the past year while looking forward to the one ahead.

Hatsumode is also a time for community and family to come together. Many people will make the pilgrimage to a shrine or temple with their loved ones, and it is not uncommon to see groups of friends and families visiting together. This sense of community and togetherness is an important aspect of hatsumode and helps to strengthen bonds between people.

Hatsumode at Fushima Inari

But perhaps the most impactful aspect of my time in Japan was my interactions with Zen monks. Zen Buddhism is a branch of Buddhism that emphasises meditation and mindfulness as a way to achieve enlightenment. The monks I met were incredibly kind and welcoming, and they took the time to explain the story of “flow like a river”.

The story of "flow like a river" is a powerful reminder of the importance of living in the present moment and embracing change. The story goes that a Zen master was asked by a student how to deal with challenges in life. The master replied, "Flow like a river."

This simple yet profound statement speaks to the idea that being at peace comes from letting go of resistance and allowing ourselves to flow with the natural course of life. Just as a river flows effortlessly through its surroundings, adapting to the contours of the land and the obstacles it encounters, we too can learn to move through life with ease and grace.

One of the key lessons of this story is the importance of being present. When we are caught up in worries about the past or the future, we are unable to fully experience the present. By focusing on the present moment and letting go of our attachment to outcomes, we can find a sense of peace and tranquility.

Reflecting in the rock garden at Ryōan-ji

Another important lesson is the importance of embracing change. The river is always changing, moving forward, and adapting to its surroundings. In the same way, we must be willing to let go of the past and embrace the unknown. When we resist change, we create unnecessary suffering for ourselves. By learning to flow with change, we can find greater happiness and fulfillment.

The story of "flow like a river" is also a reminder that we are all connected. Just as the river is part of a larger ecosystem, we too are part of a larger community. By recognising our interconnectedness and acting with compassion and kindness towards others, we can create a more harmonious world.

Todaji Temple in Nara