At the beginning of spring, a group of unfamiliar people carrying burdens gathered in front of the mountain gate of Sudoksa in Yesan, Chungcheongnam-do. Those diagnosed with cancer, those who have lost their spouses, and those who have lived with anxiety and depression for a long time. Eleven individuals, each carrying different weights, embraced the mountain temple for a 2-night, 3-day stay.
A Healing Space Chosen by the Health Center — Sudoksa Mindfulness Temple Stay
The Yesan County Health Center operated the 'Mindfulness Temple Stay' again this year, following last year, to enhance the mental health of local residents and alleviate depression and anxiety. From February 27 to March 1, for 2 nights and 3 days, the location was the millennium temple Sudoksa, a representative of Chungcheongnam-do.
Participants consisted of residents experiencing various mental difficulties, including children and adolescents, cancer patients, those who have experienced spousal loss, and individuals expressing depression and anxiety. They were people who brought their own pain as proof, not with medical certificates or prescriptions.
A Cup of Tea, One Sound — Soothing the Heart with the Language of the Mountain Temple
Participants reflected on themselves through static activities in nature, such as tea talks with monks, singing bowl meditation, and making lotus lanterns, letting go of the tensions of daily life.
A time to sit face to face with a monk and share a cup of tea. The sound of the singing bowl resonating through the air. Hands quietly holding wishes as they light the lotus lanterns. Some healing comes not through words but through sensations. An indescribable sense of relief that the body remembers first; that is the gift of the mountain temple.
The Tranquil Environment Itself Was Healing
In particular, the regular lifestyle and tranquil environment experienced at the mountain temple had a positive effect on psychological stability and emotional recovery. Waking up to the sound of morning prayers, eating meals at set times, and naturally resting as the sun sets. What modern people have lost the most is the 'rhythm' of life, which the mountain temple restores.
Expanding the Reach of Mental Health to 50 People
The health center plans to expand the program this year to operate over a total of 5 sessions from February to November, targeting 50 participants, with schedules of either 1 night and 2 days or 2 nights and 3 days, providing customized mindfulness programs considering the characteristics and situations of the participants.
The authenticity of this program lies in the fact that it does not end with just one experience. Repetition, continuity, and customization. The Yesan County Health Center understands well that mental health is restored not through a single prescription but through consistent care.
A health center official stated, "Experiencing self-care in nature is providing practical help in reducing participants' depression and anxiety," and expressed their commitment to continue efforts for the mental health recovery of local residents facing emotional difficulties.
In Conclusion — Healing Begins at the Mountain Temple
It may be a natural flow for mindfulness meditation to come out of the hospital. A tranquil space, a regular routine, the sounds of nature, and a warm word from a monk. The mountain temple stay, where all these elements come together, is not just a simple 'healing trip' but a heartfelt prescription for those whose hearts have hit rock bottom.
As they leave the mountain gate of Sudoksa, their steps feel a little lighter. May those steps continue like the spring breeze.
