A Beaming Buddha

It’s scientifically proven that monks generally enjoy a higher state of mental well-being than us laity, despite having forgone sex, relationships, and having a lot less to do (even the busiest monks generally do three things: hang out at their temple centre, or teach Dharma through academics or activism, or develop Dharma courses). Now I don’t advocate becoming a monk. In fact, I believe a supporter of the Dharma can often do more as a laity than as a monk. This has been exemplified in legitimate Buddhist movements, where the survival of Buddhist institutions comes from worldly support by laypeople (including businessmen and kings). According to Buddhism, your salvation is not salvation if it depends on being part of an elite minority.

Nevertheless, according to Men’s Health:

Brain scans of Buddhist monks found they’re happier than the average fella – and that’s without sex. So what’s their secret?

Quieten down: Meditation stimulates activity in the brain lobes associated with feel-good emotions.

“Taking 10 minutes each day to sit and close your eyes, away from any distractions, helps relieve stress and create a more positive outlook,” according to Professor Owen Flanagan of the University of Wisconsin in the US.

Chew on it: The meditative magi chew their food slowly and think of the effort that went into producing it, where it’s going and what it’s for, even if it’s a doner kebab.

“Extra chewing breaks down food so there’s less work for your gut. You’ll suffer fewer digestive problems and extract more nutrients from food,” explains Amanda Ursell, Men’s Health Nutrition Editor.

Get dirty: “Growing your own food is a great form of exercise,” advises Stephen Bachelor from Sharpham College for Buddhist studies in Dorset in the UK.

“If you don’t have a garden, however, try a 10-minute stretch outside – in the park or street – every morning to feel the benefits of fresh air.”

Is this hard? Most certainly. I agree completely.