REFLECTIONS ON LIFE AND WHAT IT MEANS TO LIVE FULLY…

The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down by Haemin Sunim is a beautifully written and contemplative book that offers wisdom on mindfulness, inner peace, and emotional well-being. Haemin Sunim, a Buddhist monk and teacher, presents a collection of short essays and reflections that encourage readers to slow down in life, pay attention to the present moment, and connect more deeply with themselves and others.

The book is divided into eight sections, each addressing different aspects of life, such as love, relationships, work, spirituality, and self-care. What makes this book stand out is its simplicity and accessibility. Haemin Sunim’s insights are presented in a calm, gentle tone, often paired with practical advice on how to live more mindfully in the midst of life’s busyness and challenges.

One of the central themes of the book is the idea that by slowing down and being more present, we can experience greater clarity and insight into our emotions, thoughts, and the world around us. Haemin Sunim encourages readers to embrace stillness and calm, rather than rushing through life in pursuit of external success or constant productivity. He emphasizes that true happiness and fulfillment come from cultivating a sense of inner peace and balance, rather than from external achievements.

The book also includes beautiful, minimalist illustrations that complement the peaceful tone of the writing, adding to the overall soothing experience of reading it. Each section is interspersed with short, reflective quotes or poetic lines that invite readers to pause and reflect.

Some key takeaways from the book include:

1. Mindfulness in Daily Life – Haemin Sunim stresses the importance of being fully present in each moment, whether you’re working, spending time with loved ones, or simply resting. By paying attention to the here and now, you can experience life more deeply and fully.
2. Self-Compassion – The book advocates for treating yourself with kindness and understanding, especially in times of difficulty. Sunim encourages readers to let go of perfectionism and be gentle with themselves when they make mistakes or face setbacks.
3. Emotional Awareness – Haemin Sunim writes about the importance of acknowledging and accepting your emotions, rather than suppressing or avoiding them. By allowing yourself to feel, you can develop a healthier relationship with your emotional life.
4. The Power of Rest – Sunim highlights the necessity of taking breaks and resting, both physically and mentally. He reminds readers that productivity is not the key to happiness and that rest is essential for maintaining balance and peace.
5. Love and Relationships – The book touches on how to nurture love and kindness in relationships. Sunim encourages readers to practice empathy, patience, and compassion toward others, and to approach relationships with an open heart and a calm mind.

Overall, The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down is a gentle reminder to take a step back from the fast pace of modern life and find joy and meaning in the quieter, more reflective moments. Haemin Sunim’s teachings offer a sense of calm and encouragement for anyone seeking to live with more mindfulness, peace, and presence. It’s a book that invites you to pause, reflect, and embrace the beauty of slowing down.