While walking with my son, I noticed birds basking in the sun on the sparkling surface of a river. Even a casual moment like this can calm my mind. When you feel calm, even the smallest everyday events seem different. This is due to the nature of Ki, which means that when you emit positive Ki, positive Ki will gather in response from those around you.
In the ShinKiko retreat seminar, we explain two main states of the mind as “guidelines for purifying the mind.”
“A mind that attracts positive energy” – a strong, cheerful, righteous mind, self-control, abandoning undesirable desires, living in harmony with others, and a life of gratitude.
“A mind that easily attracts negative energy” – hatred, envy, jealousy, envy, curses, anger, complaints, dissatisfaction, doubt, worry, guilt, irritability, and a hasty mind.
The emotions that attract negative energy are triggered by regrets about the past and anxiety about the future. In other words, it is important to focus on the present as much as possible, and it is especially good to use your body to focus on actions that you can take now.
However, since we are not monks, it is difficult for us to concentrate on each moment. In the our retreat seminar, we recite various “words of vows.” For example, the awakening vow is “I have just awakened. I vow to live my life today, giving my all in everything I do,” which focuses on the “now” of today. The unit of one day is easy to imagine and practical.
For example, when you wake up in the morning, open the window and take a deep breath of fresh air. Take the time to slowly savor your favorite drink. Say “thank you” to your family and colleagues. Each of these small actions will attract positive energy.
What’s even better is if you can “find the good in others” and share their good points. Expressing a casual kindness in your family. Saying “thank you” to a colleague or store clerk at work for their smile. These actions will bring positive energy not only to the other person, but to yourself as well.