Month: October 2023

Every family story has its ups and downs, unexpected turns, and memorable moments. Mine begins in the bustling streets of Saigon and winds its way to the vast landscapes of Australia.

Imagine living through the era of the Vietnam War. My parents did. Their lives were shaped and contoured by the relentless combination of gunshots and bomb explosions. By the time I was born in the 80s, the war had settled into history, but for my older siblings, its memories were more vivid.

Now, here’s a twist in our story: faced with the hardship of post-war Vietnam, Dad dreamt of getting us to America, and he wasn’t thinking of just any regular journey. He planned to take us there by boat. Yes, you heard that right—a boat!

But life, with its mysterious ways, had other plans. Despite trying three times, the boat journey to America remained an unfulfilled dream. But Dad’s spirit? Unbreakable. When one door (or sea route) closed, he looked elsewhere, spotting a business opportunity in lacquerware right at home. This venture wasn’t just about keeping the lights on; it was about a larger vision: securing top-tier education for us.

Australia soon became our beacon. We were lucky to fly here as overseas students. A reality check of being overseas students in Australia? It was like ordering the most expensive item on the menu every single time. Yet, my parents were undeterred. They believed in investing in quality education. One moment that would stay in my memory forever was when they’d have us wear thick jackets under Vietnam’s blazing sun in a light-hearted prep for Australia’s cooler climates. This was to help us visualise a different lifestyle and to get us ready for a new chapter. We all migrated to Australia in the end.

This roller-coaster of experiences taught me a few valuable lessons:

1. Embrace change: when plans go awry, adapt, and find another way. That’s how you turn roadblocks into stepping stones.

2. Understanding sacrifice: witnessing my parents’ efforts, from boat plans to business ventures, all to ensure our education, was a masterclass in sacrifice and priorities.

3. Never give up: Dad’s three boat attempts taught us that it’s not about how many times life throws you off course, it’s about charting a new one with even more determination.

Through all the waves we rode, both literally and figuratively, the journey instilled in us that dreams might evolve, but with tenacity and patience, they can come to life in the most unexpected ways.

May your wishes and dreams come true!

Love,

Bình

In today’s fast-paced world, with an overload of information and distractions, it can be challenging to find moments of peace and stillness. A quiet mind can lead to clarity, increased awareness, and inner peace, improving our overall well-being.

Here are 10 techniques and practices to help quiet the mind:

1. Deep Breathing: Whenever you find your mind racing, take a few deep breaths. This simple act can help centre yourself, reduce stress, and quiet the mind.

2. Mindfulness: This practice involves staying present and fully engaging with the here and now. Whether you’re eating, walking, or just breathing, be fully present in that moment, letting go of regrets from the past or worries about the future.

3. Meditation: This ancient practice offers various benefits, including the ability to quiet the mind. Start with just a few minutes each day, focusing on your breath or a mantra. As your practice deepens, you’ll find it easier to enter a state of stillness.

4. Nature Walks: The natural world has a calming effect on the mind. Taking regular walks in nature, away from the noise and hustle of urban environments, can bring profound peace and stillness to the mind.

5. Digital Detox: Reduce screen time, especially from social media. Dedicate specific times during the day when you are free from all electronic devices. This can help in decluttering the mind and reducing the constant influx of information.

6. Journaling: Writing down your feelings and thoughts can be therapeutic. It helps in organising your thoughts, reflecting on your day, and understanding your emotions better.

7. Reading: Engage with a good book that captivates your attention. Fiction can transport you to another world, while non-fiction can give you new insights and perspectives. Either way, it’s a break for your mind from the usual chatter.

8. Limiting Multi-tasking: While it might seem efficient, multi-tasking can scatter your focus and keep your mind busy. Try single-tasking and fully immerse yourself in one activity at a time.

9. Listen to Calming Music or Sounds: Sounds have a profound impact on our state of mind. Whether it’s classical music, nature sounds, or white noise, find what soothes you and use it to bring peace to your mind.

10. Engage in Physical Activity: Exercise, be it yoga, walking, or any form of physical activity, releases endorphins which act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Engaging in regular exercise can help in keeping the mind calm and rejuvenated.

In conclusion, while external factors often contribute to mental noise, the key to a quiet mind lies within. With consistent practice and mindfulness, we can train our minds to find stillness amidst chaos.

For those interested in delving deeper into practices and philosophies surrounding a calm and quiet mind, the following books offer invaluable insights:

1. “The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment” by Eckhart Tolle: This bestseller delves into the importance of living in the present moment and the profound peace that comes with it.

2. “Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life” by Jon Kabat-Zinn: A seminal text on the practice of mindfulness, this book offers practical advice on integrating meditation into daily life.

3. “10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Actually Works–A True Story” by Dan Harris: A sceptic’s guide to meditation, Harris narrates his personal journey with humour and honesty.

4. “Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life With the Heart of a Buddha” by Tara Brach: This book combines personal anecdotes, guided meditations, and insightful teachings on finding inner peace through acceptance.

5. “The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself” by Michael A. Singer: This book delves into the question of who you are and provides pathways to experience the freedom and peace of a quiet mind.

6. “Silence: The Power of Quiet in a World Full of Noise” by Thich Nhat Hanh: The Zen master explores the benefits of cultivating inner silence and offers techniques to find it amidst daily chaos.

7. “Stillness Speaks” by Eckhart Tolle: In this deeply reflective work, Tolle emphasizes the transformative power of silence and stillness.

Remember, the journey to a quiet mind is ongoing, but with commitment and practice, it’s an attainable goal that offers profound rewards.

Much love,

Binh