In an era marked by constant motion and an insatiable pursuit of happiness, Haemin Sunim, a prominent Buddhist monk and meditation teacher, offers a simple yet profound antidote: slow down.
Sunim, the author of The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down, a bestseller with over three million copies sold worldwide, advocates that true contentment comes from taking life at a more deliberate pace. His message has resonated widely, particularly as the pressures of modern life intensify. The book, which topped bestseller lists in Korea for an impressive 41 weeks, has since become a global guide for well-being, addressing key areas such as relationships, love, and spirituality.
Sunim’s rise as a voice of modern Buddhist wisdom is notable. A former professor at a small arts college in Massachusetts, he began sharing his reflections on life and happiness via social media, where his insights quickly found an audience of over one million Twitter followers.
Central to his teachings is the belief that inner peace is attainable through mindfulness and recognizing the impermanence of negative emotions. “Regard them as a passing cloud, instead of identifying with them as a defining part of yourself,” he writes.
His message, though grounded in ancient Buddhist principles, avoids trendy mindfulness tropes. Sunim stresses the value of self-awareness, urging readers to cultivate the ability to take their time, reflect deeply, and appreciate the present moment. In his view, happiness is less about chasing achievements and more about being selective in one’s thoughts and actions, savoring the richness of life’s experiences.
In an increasingly hurried world, Sunim’s message of slowing down offers a counterbalance—a reminder that happiness may be found not in speed, but in stillness.
Source: Independant
