The Importance of Rekindling Play – 5 Days in Bir, June 2024
Feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Sometimes, taking a step back to rekindle play and patience can be transformative. Over the past week, I attended a program called “A Primer on Patience” at the Deer Park Institute in Bir, Himachal Pradesh, India. This program, based on Buddhist psychology, offered a ‘light-touch’ approach to imparting deep-rooted wisdom in an interactive and enjoyable manner accessible to everyone.
I had previously studied under the lead trainer, Nivedita, and her down-to-earth and practical style of imparting wisdom resonated deeply with me. More importantly, Nivedita embodies humility and warmth, making the experience even more enriching.
Here are five key insights and takeaways from my time there:
1. I Felt Free and Energized!
I had forgotten how much I love sharing space with like-minded individuals in a fun learning and authentic sharing environment. We learned, we shared, we drew, we laughed, and we connected over simple meals and walks.
The 35 participants from across India and a few from overseas varied in age, stage of life, and backgrounds. Yet, it was easy to connect with almost all of them. Why? Because the conversations were authentic, and five days together opened us up. We were united by a common purpose—seeking a more fulfilled version of ourselves.
2. Holding “I” Lightly
The sense of “I” is strong for me. It has helped me achieve and create a comfortable life, but it also often causes me suffering. This week, I was able to soften the edges of this “I.” For example, during a group activity, I made a strong point, but the group chose not to prioritize it. Typically, I would have been agitated, but this time, letting go was easy. I hope to continue nurturing this seed of letting go.
3. What is Happening Within Me?
Usually, an external stimulus (e.g., a remark about my behavior) leads to agitation and then action. Over the past few days, I noticed an increased ability to pause before reacting. Victor Frankl said, “Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” This newfound ability to pause is something I aim to cultivate further.
4. The Power of Habits
I was reminded of the unwholesome behaviours we inadvertently practice. For me, these include excessive internet surfing and subtle judgments of others. These subconscious practices can be replaced with wholesome, conscious habits practiced daily.
5. Aspiration – The Catalyst
The week-long session rekindled my love for Indo-Tibetan mind training practices. My aspiration to continue exploring this wisdom and support others in leading more fulfilling lives has strengthened. Experiencing how the facilitators used interactive creative exercises was inspirational and motivates me to bring more ‘play’ into group sessions.
I look forward to investing more time with fellow travellers, learning, and laughing a lot more!
For busy professionals feeling the strain, these insights offer a path to reclaiming joy and patience in our lives. Embracing authentic connections, pausing before reacting, fostering positive habits, and nurturing meaningful aspirations can help navigate stress with grace and fulfilment.
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