S.N.

However, I strongly feel that it was the right decision to dive in.

Before applying for the temple stay, I was worried about whether I would be able to overcome the training and whether anything would really change by participating. However, I strongly feel that it was the right decision to dive in.

There are countless insights and reflections from these six days, but I will summarize a few key points briefly:

1. The connection between the mind and body.

Although the movements of the mind are invisible, the movements and state of the body are visible. I learned that while it’s difficult to directly approach the mind, by observing my actions and words from a third-party perspective, I can calm and steady my troubled mind.

2. The importance of receiving feedback.

There were many occasions where the monks pointed out mistakes in my posture, or when my approach was insufficient. Usually, I don’t get pointed out directly, and often only hear complaints behind my back. However, being pointed out directly in the moment allowed me to immediately recognize that I needed to correct my actions. It will take more time to turn this into a habit, but I was given a significant opportunity to make changes.

3. The importance of following the form.

I learned that by following the established form, I can maintain a steady state without being swayed by anger or confusion. Specifically, I realized that by sticking to the morning routine, I can spend the day in a fulfilling way, which was a major insight.

4. Doing what needs to be done in the moment.

I was pointed out that if tools are not properly cleaned up, the next person has to start by cleaning. I learned to focus on what needs to be done in each moment and to see things through to the end. Not multitasking. The accumulation of these short moments leads to accomplishing things in the long run of life.

5. The realization that the amount of food served is enough.

Despite living a more physically demanding lifestyle, the amount of food provided was more than enough. I realized how much unnecessary food I usually consume.

Moving forward, my top priority will be to improve my daily habits.

Specifically, I will make it a point to go to bed before midnight. No matter how busy work is or what else I have to do, I will make sure to sleep. This will improve both the quality and quantity of my sleep, allowing me to wake up in a good state. Until now, I woke up according to my work schedule, but from now on, I will wake up at a time I set myself, and shift to a more dynamic life from the morning.

Lastly, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the monks who guided me, to the fellow practitioners who learned alongside me, and to everyone at Fukugonji who supported and welcomed us during the temple stay. I will treat daily life as a place for training, constantly reflecting on what I learned during these six days, and building the habit of focusing on what I need to do. When my habits waver, or when I hit new walls, I hope to return for guidance once again.