○Education in Prout Village
In Prout Village, education is centered around three main pillars:
Acquiring knowledge and skills necessary for self-sufficiency and community governance. From a young age, children learn practical skills such as natural farming methods, the production of everyday items, and literacy through hands-on experiences in daily life.
Learning how to learn and engaging in activities driven by curiosity. By following their curiosity, residents naturally encounter various subjects to learn about, leading to the development of talents, suitable vocations, and fulfilling occupations. These experiences become a deep well of knowledge and contribute to personal growth.
Understanding no-mind and the nature of the ego. No-mind serves as the source of intuition, guiding individuals towards the right path in life. Ignorance about the nature of the ego ("I") is what leads to human suffering.
These aspects of education are primarily learned through group activities, such as circles or clubs, rather than within the traditional framework of schools.
○Understanding No-mind
Everyone desires happiness rather than suffering. Often, individuals believe that obtaining something will fulfill that desire. For instance, people may think, "If I earn a lot of money, I can buy everything I want and be happy" or "If I become famous or achieve success, I will find happiness" or "If I can be in a relationship with that person, I will be happy."
However, consider the scenario of being in a relationship with someone you are interested in. Initially, one might feel joyous, but over time, those emotions may fade, conflicts might arise, and the relationship may become burdensome, ultimately leading to a breakup. Prior to entering the relationship, one may have experienced a desire to possess the other person, which transformed into joy and happiness once the relationship began. However, during the breakup, suffering arises, following a cycle of happiness and suffering.
The important point here is that regardless of external circumstances, any sense of fulfillment or satisfaction arises from one's internal desires for ownership and self-gratification. However, the joy and happiness derived from these desires are short-lived, leading to further cravings and eventually transforming into suffering. As long as one remains trapped in this cycle, happiness and suffering continue to perpetuate endlessly. Happiness and suffering are two sides of the same coin. However, as human beings, we all aspire to be happy rather than suffer. So where does the answer lie? The answer lies in the space between the extremes of happiness and suffering, which is called "no-mind." In no-mind, there is tranquility, peace, serenity, stillness, and harmony. To understand no-mind, let's try the following simple exercise.
○Cultivating No-mind through Focused Awareness
Whether standing or in a cross-legged position, straighten your back and close your eyes for 20 seconds. If any thoughts or words come to mind during this time, recognize them as thoughts. It is from these thoughts that suffering arises.
Now, close your eyes again for another 20 seconds. Direct your awareness to the point between your eyebrows, known as the "third eye" or "eyebrow center." By focusing your awareness at this point, thoughts cease and no-mind is cultivated. In other words, you consciously stop the flow of thoughts. Take slow and deep breaths through your nose, exhaling slowly, to deepen your concentration. You may also perform this exercise with your eyes open.
The area around the eyebrow center is where thoughts tend to arise, including memories of the past, future predictions, and anxieties. As you enter a state of no-mind, these thoughts subside, and stillness prevails. The incessant chatter of thoughts diminishes, reducing suffering. Maintain this conscious awareness throughout the day. With consistent practice, it becomes a habit to quickly notice when thoughts arise and return to a state of no-mind.
This practice involves being consciously attentive. The opposite state is unconsciousness. When anyone becomes angry or excited, they may speak hurtful words without being mindful. However, by consciously observing our inner state, as demonstrated in the exercise above, we cultivate a state of attentiveness that reduces the tendency to be carried away by emotions.
Focusing your awareness on the eyebrow center is one method, but the object of focus can be anything. For example, you can gaze at passing clouds, direct your awareness to environmental sounds while walking, focus on your breath, or engage in any activity you enjoy that allows for single-pointed concentration.
○The Origin of Suffering from Thought
Through daily practice of conscious no-mind, you become aware even when thoughts dominate your mind. As the amount of time spent in a state of no-mind increases throughout the day, the suffering generated by thoughts gradually diminishes, and the state of stillness becomes habitual. Individuals whose minds are not calm have developed a habit of excessive thinking. People with a tendency towards negative thoughts may even experience depression.
By following this practice, you will notice something important. Even when you attempt to be mindful, thoughts may arise on their own, recalling memories from the past, emotional wounds, or feelings of inferiority. These thought patterns may occur without your conscious awareness, and if left unchecked, they can stir up emotions and lead to suffering. However, by recognizing that such thoughts are temporary and that they cease along with suffering when you enter a state of no-mind, you can eventually remain in a state of tranquility, silence, and calmness. It may take time to calm down if intense anger or anxiety arises.
What becomes clear is that when the mind is in a state of no-mind, it becomes serene and peaceful. Happiness and joy derived from external factors, as commonly understood, are temporary and fade over time. Desires reemerge, leading to attachment and the onset of suffering. Happiness and suffering are intertwined, alternating between the two. Tranquility is not found within them. Lasting serenity can only be attained through the state of no-mind, which involves the cessation of thought. The more thoughts occupy your mind and the more you cling to something, the more suffering arises. By closely observing this process and gaining insight, it becomes easier to break free from thought patterns that generate ingrained suffering.
During early childhood, when cognitive abilities are not fully developed and ego is weak, children experience fewer worries and can spend their time joyfully. Even if they are scolded or get into a fight, within 10 minutes, they are back to their cheerful selves as if nothing happened. Around the age of 10, during the second phase of development, the body begins to mature into adulthood, and cognitive abilities and ego become stronger. Consequently, worries, jealousy, inferiority complex, suffering, and conflicts increase.
Practicing no-mind and stopping thoughts can be done while being still and doing nothing or while being completely absorbed in an activity. Once your mind is in a state of no-mind, intuition naturally arises, and all you have to do is surrender to it. Using thought is not inherently bad; it is useful when making plans or engaging in specific tasks. However, during other times, it is beneficial to quiet the mind. Changing your living environment is not necessary to achieve no-mind. You can continue with your work and engage in daily activities while practicing no-mind.
○The Purpose of Life
All human beings are constantly troubled and suffering. This suffering arises from thoughts related to past memories and future anxieties. However, when a person achieves no-mind, peace and serenity enter their inner being, allowing them to break free from the cycle of suffering.
The problems and relationships that arise in one's daily life are often a result of their own thoughts, actions, and words. By practicing no-mind, maintaining silence as the foundation, and engaging in moderate conversations with others, unnecessary problems become less likely to occur. Even if problems do arise, they are not viewed as problems and are not exacerbated. For example, when meeting someone they dislike, if one thinks about their dislike, it may subtly transmit to the other person. However, if one immediately becomes aware of this and enters a state of no-mind, the relationship is less likely to deteriorate.
The ultimate purpose of human life, as advocated by Prout Village, is to break free from the cycle of thought (ego) → desire → attachment → suffering and to exist with a calm mind. Just as individuals have habits in their actions, there are also habitual patterns of thought, and if those patterns are negative, individuals unconsciously suffer. The key is to cultivate the habit of no-mind and overcome negative thought patterns.
Without thought (ego) and "I", my body, my possessions, and the meaning of my life would cease to exist. When there is no thought, the only thing remaining in the mind is consciousness. Consciousness exists first, followed by thought (ego). In other words, consciousness is the primary entity, and the ego emerges thereafter. The name, body, gender, and nationality that humans think of as "I" are illusions belonging to the ego, and consciousness is the true form of a human. When there is no thought and only consciousness, tranquility and peace prevail, and from there, when thought "ego" appears, suffering begins.
The purpose of life recommended by Prout Village, which is the overcoming of the ego, means recognizing that the true form of humans is consciousness, becoming no-mind, and existing as consciousness. Humans gain various insights through life experiences. In this process, they grow and mature as individuals. This growth and maturation are directed towards overcoming the ego. When immature, one may act selfishly, but as one matures, the ego is restrained, and respect and priority for others increase. In other words, humans accumulate a wealth of life experiences and increase their awareness until they return to their original form of consciousness. Eventually, for those who have overcome the ego and for whom it becomes natural to always exist as consciousness, the meaning of life disappears. Until that point is reached, they repeatedly oscillate between temporary joys and sufferings caused by the ego.
This is a purpose possible only because we live in this world, and it is uncertain whether it can be done after death.
Furthermore, during moments of no-mind, human beings gain intuition, which guides their actions. Sometimes this intuition leads to finding one's true calling or suitable vocation, igniting passion. In such cases, pursuing this passion may become another purpose in life.
○Intuition
During moments of no-mind, human beings gain intuition and express it through various forms of skills or creativity. Whether it's called intuition, insight, ideas, or inspiration, they all originate from becoming aware within one's own mind.
Engaging in something often leads to deeper thinking. However, when we are driven by self-centered desires and forcibly searching for answers, the ideas that arise during such moments often prove to be less than ideal upon reflection. On the other hand, when we think from a place of purity, such as considering the well-being of others or society, it is beneficial to delve deeper into our thoughts.
After thorough consideration, a change of pace becomes necessary. However, this change of pace should come after exhausting all possible thoughts. The concept of exhausting thoughts refers to reaching a point where the brain feels twisted or unable to think any further, where there are no more elements to explore. If there are elements within ourselves that can still be explored, true inspirations cannot emerge. It is essential to push our thinking and reach the limit of our thoughts and knowledge. By doing so and then taking a break to change our pace, ideas that surpass those limits may come to mind.
Methods of changing pace vary for each individual, but sleep has a significant effect. One can feed the brain with a wealth of information, explore ideas until the brain becomes tired and unable to process further, and then sleep. During sleep, the information in the brain organizes itself. Upon awakening, the mind feels refreshed, and solutions may suddenly emerge. This is one of the brain's inherent characteristics, where there are three stages: input, organization (no-mind or chilling), and output. Those who realize and utilize this process take a moment before taking a break or at the end of the day to consolidate the problems they will tackle next. Ideas may surface after the break or overnight sleep. Even a 30-minute nap can be sufficient. Sleep should not be viewed as an unproductive or frivolous act, but rather an effective means of gaining intuition. It is also possible to experience moments of no-mind and intuition when taking a shower. However, by intentionally setting aside time for introspection and consolidation, the space for no-mind is created, allowing intuition to enter.
To achieve no-mind, it is beneficial to have uninterrupted time alone, solitude, and idle time. Although solitude may carry negative impressions such as loneliness or emptiness from lacking friends, it is suitable for gaining intuition and improving one's spiritual state.
Grasping intuition is a very simple act. It is not about actively thinking, but rather about becoming aware of the ideas that naturally arise during moments of no-mind and simply following them. Intuition is instantly prepared within the mind.
In sports, for example, there are many great plays that occur through intuitive movements of the body. Just before these plays, there is a flash of insight that says, "This is what I should do," and when acted upon, it always yields positive results. Rather than actively executing it, it is more accurate to say that the body moves naturally. Conversely, when consumed by anxiety or fear, one cannot execute good plays. Similarly, in the process of creating something, it turns out well when done with no-mind. Following intuitive actions and ways of living leads to positive outcomes. It is the intrinsic way of living for all living beings, including humans, where their inherent abilities are maximized. Therefore, becoming mindful also means quietly doing nothing, allowing intuition to enter that space and acting accordingly.
If a person is engaged in something that suits them, they are more likely to have a strong intuition compared to other activities. They naturally gain confidence, become poised, and become charismatic. This is what we call finding one's calling or suitable occupation. On the other hand, if they pursue other things, they may only display ordinary abilities. Therefore, it is important for everyone to explore and discover their own strengths and interests. By approaching activities with the curiosity of a child, they are more likely to find their calling or suitable occupation. Even as adults, it is often found in the realm of hobbies. Finding one's calling or suitable occupation is a form of self-expression and brings joy. However, in the case of a calling, it involves a sense of mission where one is willing to dedicate their life and even sacrifice oneself without expecting much in return, while a suitable occupation may seek certain rewards, such as financial compensation. That is the difference between the two.
○Synapses
To utilize intuition, physical skills are often required. The human brain and body are filled with many nerve cells, and weak electrical signals flowing through them allow instructions from the brain to reach muscles. Synapses are structures connecting nerves, and the frequently used parts become thicker, while the less-used ones become thinner and eventually disconnect. As synapses connecting nerves thicken, electrical signals from the brain flow more smoothly, allowing for quicker answers in study and smoother, faster movements in sports.
The way to thicken these synapses is through repetitive practice. Repetitive practice involves performing a learned task repeatedly. It can be painful to practice something uninteresting, but practice becomes relatively enjoyable when it involves something of interest.
In the medium to long term, repeating practices creates a pathway from the brain to nerves, synapses, and muscles, allowing one to remember learned techniques without practicing for a week or a month. This is called long-term memory. The more synapses there are, the more accurately and quickly electrical signals can be sent from the brain to the muscles. Advanced performers who showcase complex and sophisticated techniques have reached long-term memory through years of repetitive practice, resulting in numerous thick synapses. The only way to improve is through repetitive practice, and there are no shortcuts for engaging in something of interest in the long term.
Once you understand these concepts, you can see that there is a lot of waste in everyday life. For example, annual tuition fees for language schools range from approximately $1,760 to $8,800 (converted from 200,000 yen and 1,000,000 yen, respectively), and it may seem that paying $8,800 instead of $1,760 provides better education and faster progress. While there is some truth to that, there is no other way to become fluent in a foreign language than to speak it yourself. Paying $8,800 may provide a sense of security with good teachers, but it doesn't make you five times faster at speaking than paying $1,760. The only way is to engage in conversation, thicken and multiply synapses, and repeat until words come out naturally without mental translation. In other words, it all comes down to one's motivation to learn and repetition. It's important to focus and engage daily while curiosity persists, reaching long-term memory. Growth is proportional to the number of repetitions. Individual differences in talent, personality, physical abilities, and environment will affect the areas of improvement and the time it takes to progress.
○Approximate Time for Synapses to Develop
For example, there are minimal technical movements, such as simple dance steps, short rhythms on percussion instruments, and shots in sports. When a beginner tackles one of these, practicing for 30 minutes a day, it takes about a week for the body to start learning the movement, but it's still at an awkward level. The quality improves after a month, and after three months, the body moves smoothly without thinking, and although the quality is not high, it loses its amateurish feel. If you've practiced two or three other basic techniques by the end of these three months, you'll be able to perform their combined techniques. This is just the stage where the body has finally become capable of performing the movement. This is a rough indication of the short time it takes for synapses to develop.
From there, the level increases as you maintain high concentration during practice time, using videos and comparing your movements to those of advanced practitioners, making corrections, repeating, and challenging yourself with new tasks, and continuing this self-analysis on a yearly basis. That's why only the things you truly love can sustain high consciousness. After about three years, you'll be able to produce tangible results as a clear skill. Age doesn't matter for synapses, and you can improve at any age. However, just like exercise, those who continue to exercise from a young age to old age can adapt quickly to new movements when learning them at an older age because their synapses have developed. On the other hand, if you suddenly start exercising when you are older, it will take more time and be harder to learn due to having fewer synapses. The same applies to using your brain.
○Start Small and Simple
Everyone starts as a beginner and works their way up to advanced levels. What beginners should keep in mind is to start with the smallest tasks and gradually progress to the biggest ones as they become more comfortable. For example, when it comes to movements, start with basic techniques. Instead of focusing on speed, move from slow and steady to fast and steady. In crafting, start with projects that can be completed in a short amount of time. By starting with tasks that have a small workload, you'll experience a series of small successes, which will help you enjoy the process and continue with it.
○Familiarize Rather than Memorize
Some people have excellent memory and can remember things they've seen just once, while others struggle to remember even after multiple repetitions. For example, when learning English, memorizing vocabulary can be challenging for those with poor memory. Going through a vocabulary book from beginning to end can be painful, and you'll soon forget the words you've memorized if you don't use them in practice. On the other hand, even those with poor memory can speak Japanese fluently. This is because they've been exposed to the language since childhood, unconsciously seeing and hearing it countless times, and have become accustomed to it. In other words, instead of trying to memorize, you'll become familiar with words and phrases by using them continuously, and they'll naturally be stored in your memory. If you need to remember something, create situations where you encounter new words or knowledge repeatedly in practice. If you're learning English conversation, prepare a variety of topics and engage in many conversations, naturally encountering and needing to use new words. By doing so, even if your memory is poor, you'll eventually become familiar with the knowledge, and it will be stored in your head.
○The Moment of Losing Confidence
No matter what you are working on, there will come a time when you no longer feel progress through repetition. Human growth tends to follow a pattern of "slightly increasing → slightly decreasing → rapidly increasing" and repeats this cycle. Basic techniques in playing musical instruments or sports involve simple movements, but when you repeat the same movement for 30 minutes to an hour, the number of mistakes increases. As the body becomes tired, it may feel like the senses are becoming numb. Some people might interpret this as their performance worsening or their skills declining, leading to a temporary loss of confidence. When this happens, it's essential to take a break. During the break, your body and mind will recover, and when you resume practice, you'll find it smoother than before the break. However, this only applies to the efforts within a day, as the body will still be tired, and the accuracy of the movements will continue to decrease. If you keep repeating this process for several days, there will come a time when you feel off for a few days, but once that period passes, you'll experience significant growth.In essence, reaching long-term memory is achieved through this repetition. Since the body learns the movements by repeating them, long-term memory is formed, and the quality of the long-term memory varies from person to person.
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