Outings to Cheer the Heart
Outings to Cheer the Heart
Poet Chang Jian of the Tang Dynasty wrote: “At dawn I enter the ancient temple, the morning sun lights up the high village. A winding path leads to a secluded place, the Zen hall deep among flowers and trees. Mountain scenery delights birds, the pond shadow clears the heart. All sounds fall silent here—only the chime and bell echo.” When people immerse themselves in nature, the meandering paths, elegant surroundings, fresh mountain and water views, bright sunlight filtering through colorful blossoms, ripples rising from the pond, and their reflections naturally cleanse the mind of clutter, instantly dispelling worries and filling one with joy and contentment. Naturally, one achieves both delighting the bird’s nature and the human spirit, clearing the heart and cheering the soul.
Since outings relieve mental stress and enhance physical and mental health, they can be done year-round. They are akin to walking meditation—choose suitable seasons and weather, “according to the climate’s warmth and coolness,” and pick a favorable month to travel mountains and waters—how delightful and enjoyable!