Temple Life.

Taroko Gorge is one of the most awe-inspiring places I've ever visited. One can literally feel the past and experience magic within its tunnels, waterways, walkways, and temples.

My mom sent me and my sis to HuaLien Taroko Gorge Temple which is located on the east coast of Taiwan in majestic HuaLien county, Fushih Village during our winter and summer break. It was a 6 days trip and we stay 3 nights in the temple. I would say it was an amazing experience for us. =)

Taroko Gorge Temple located at the top of a mountain and it is apparently famous throughout the world and was to be our home for the next three nights while we learned about Buddhism and meditation. It was our first experience of temple life and it was a chance to brush up on our mind clearing and leg- crossing skills.

By the time we had reached the bottom of the mountain it was late evening. We were confronted with a very imposing set of stairs up to the huge temple at the top. Yet another Kill Bill moment ! We wearily climbed the steps and were met by a very friendly and positively beaming monk who welcomed us in.

The basic principles that we were taught were about how you are supposed to clear your mind and concentrate only on your breathing. There was no walking meditation, only sitting.The lifestyle of the monks and nuns also appeared to be stricter.This was most evident when we retired to our rooms at the end of the lesson for some well needed sleep every noon and night. We settled down and tried to get some sleep at 9.30pm every night before the wake up call at 4.30am every morning. Yes, 4.30am. In the morning. =( And no, I didn't know there was a 4.30am in the morning either.

Breakkie was preceded by a lot of chanting and the food was YUMMY ! Afterwards we met with the monk for a more in depth discussion on all things Buddhist and meditative. Also with a Dhamma Talk where the head monk teaches us lessons and tells us stories to best illustrate her ideas. Along with the broad themes of happiness and sadness, also speaks of the challenges of meditation versus the challenges of every day life. We were given some health talk, investment talk and lots more from some famous teachers as well. From the moment the talk finishes, the day seems to be full of distractions. I am usually less aware of how much my mind wanders; however, this facr becomes overly apparent as I practice the meditation techniques I was taught the day before.

I quickly learn that meditation is like an endurance sport. Concentration, discomfort, practice, and most importantly, desire are all components of finding success.

I love the place. It's so cool to be in a place that looks like heaven and having fresh foods with fresh air! It is good to experience a blank state of mind once in a while.

Love,
Steph ♥