“The only zen you can find on the tops of mountains is the zen you bring up there.”
— Alan Watts
Simplified Meaning:
Finding peace and calm isn't about where you go, but about what you have inside you. Imagine someone climbing a mountain to find tranquility. They will not magically feel peaceful just because they're at the top; they need to already have that calm within themselves. For example, in everyday life, if you're stressed and go on a vacation, you may still feel stressed if you don't address what's inside you first. It's like carrying a heavy backpack full of worries — simply changing your surroundings won't lighten the load. To truly feel zen, or peaceful, you need to work on your inner self, wherever you are. So, if you want to experience peace, start by practicing mindfulness or meditation regularly. Calm your mind and find balance inside. Then, no matter where you go, that inner peace will come with you.
