The temple is called the Dachang Vajradhara Ling, and sits on a picturesque estate. It was quite a sight to behold, especially as I approached the complex from the quiet village of Aubry-le-Panthou by bicycle. Sitting amongst the green rolling hills and cows was a golden-topped white pagoda, adorned with colourful Tibetan prayer flags in different colours, set against the bluest of the blue skies. It was spring. The temple was surrounded by pastel-coloured flowers all over. I could smell the pleasant scent of flowers, and listen to the effervescent chirping of the birds. It was a celebration of life.
What I really appreciated about this temple was its atmosphere. The entire complex felt as though it was envelopped in benevolence, a conducive place for connecting with the others and living among people. With no major road or railway nearby, the temple was the most beautiful refuge from the grinding days in Paris. At night, one can marvel at the beautiful stars that I did not even know existed. And in morning, you do not even need an alarm clock because the birds will gently wake you up with their pleasant singing.
There are also a lot of activities going on. Punctuated by the regular Tibetan prayer sessions everyday, the temple hosts a large number of activities and groups doing different things. I enjoyed interacting and exchanging with people from different groups during my stay at the Tibetan temple, especially during lunch time and dinner time.
Blessed with an exceptionally beautiful weather, practising Shiatsu outdoors, under the sun and on the ground, was a delightful experience. In a nod to the traditional Chinese philosophy, in which the human being is at the centre between the earth and the sky, drawing energy from the two, I felt physically and psychologically nourished by the earth and the sky.
If you are interested in similar seminars or learning Shiatsu in Paris, do not hesitate to regularly check information on Toshiatsu, the Shiatsu school where I am a student, for more information.
Les Flâneries 