20th
The Stress of Modern Life
The stress of modern life can be overwhelming. Many people turn to drugs or alcohol. Some people smoke or are addicted to caffeine or other uppers. Others take out their stress in abusive ways toward others.
I visited Thailand recently for a Yoga and meditation retreat and I saw not one but 17 Thai monks smoking and drinking whisky at various temples throughout the country! Now, I’m pretty sure that’s not allowed by the rules for Buddhist monks, so they must have been very, very stressed. (Apparently they haven’t been meditating or doing yoga!)
One of my favorite things about visiting Thailand is Thai massage. It’s like having yoga done TO you while you lie back and relax. I have to admit, however, it did hurt a couple of times when the massage therapist pulled a little too hard. I enjoyed my trip but I was also happy to return home to enjoy my massage chair in the privacy and comfort of home.
