NU
Mon, 12 May 2025
Honouring Buddha by Living His Teachings in Daily Life
In Honour of Buddha Jayanti
Today marks Buddha's 2569th Jayanti, the celebration of Gautam Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing. Across the globe, people light candles, visit temples, and share his teachings. But what if we did more than celebrate? What if we lived like the Buddha—not in robes or rituals, but through daily action?
Buddha’s teachings are not just ancient philosophy—they’re practical tools for living a meaningful, balanced, and kind life. And young people today, navigating stress, social media, climate anxiety, and pressure to perform, can especially benefit from these timeless insights.
What it means: Mindfulness is simply paying attention—fully—to what you're doing.
How to try it: Put your phone down. Take a deep breath. Focus on one thing—your breath, your steps, or your food—for just 60 seconds. That’s it. Do it once a day.
Why it matters: Mindfulness helps you manage anxiety, reduce overthinking, and be present with the people around you.
What it means: Compassion isn’t weakness. It’s strength with heart.
How to try it: Compliment a friend. Help a classmate. Let go of that need to "win" every argument. Even smiling at a stranger counts.
Why it matters: Small acts of kindness ripple out, creating a kinder environment—online and in real life.
What it means: The Buddha called this the Middle Path. It’s about balance—not too much, not too little.
How to try it: Don’t binge. Don’t burn out. Whether it’s screen time, food, or study—set boundaries that feel healthy.
Why it matters: Balance keeps you focused, energized, and mentally well.
What it means: The principle of Right Speech teaches us to speak truthfully, kindly, and only when helpful.
How to try it: Before speaking, ask yourself: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? If not, stay silent.
Why it matters: Thoughtful communication builds trust and reduces unnecessary conflict.
What it means: Buddha encouraged self-inquiry. Growth starts by looking inward.
How to try it: At the end of your day, ask: What did I learn today? Did I act from kindness or ego? Keep a journal if you like.
Why it matters: Self-awareness builds resilience, confidence, and maturity.
Buddha didn’t ask us to worship him—he invited us to walk the path ourselves. The best way to celebrate Buddha Jayanti is to apply even one of his teachings in your life today. You don’t need a temple or robe—just an open heart, a curious mind, and the courage to be kind.
Let’s stop just admiring his words—and start living them.
