Purify the body, purify the mind

When I decided to stay at the Root Institute, I knew I’d have to let go of some of my usual comforts. Life here, in the heart of India, comes with its own set of challenges, and the conditions, while simple, are far from ideal. I did make a small compromise by choosing a single room with an attached bathroom rather than a shared dormitory, but even then, stepping out of my comfort zone has been an enriching experience. It has taught me to cherish what I have and find creative ways to make do—lessons that extend to something as ordinary as my daily shower.

Water, especially clean water, is scarce in India. Here, a shower is not a convenience but a luxury. To conserve resources, I’ve adapted to using a single red pail of water for bathing. The cold weather means I shower every other day, ensuring that I use as little as possible. As the Italian lady that said to Julia Roberts’ character in Eat, Pray, Love, "Whatever needs to be cleaned will be cleaned." With just a cup of water, I wet my hair, apply shampoo, and rinse sparingly. Another few cups suffice to soap and wash my body, each drop carefully used to its fullest. By the time I’m done, I feel refreshed and renewed, all with just one pail of water.

This mindful approach to water has deepened my appreciation for its value, reminding me that even the smallest resources deserve gratitude. It also reflects a broader lesson: cherishing the sentient beings we encounter. In India, beggars are a common sight, and helping them requires balance and discernment. I carry small packets of biscuits to give out, and if they decline my offer, I’ve still made an effort. While compassion is vital, it’s equally important to act wisely and with skillful means—just as we are taught in our practice.

Returning to my shower routine, balancing the hot and cold taps to achieve the right temperature is a metaphor for the middle path in Buddhism. Too cold, and I might fall ill; too hot, and I risk burning myself. This balance—not indulging in extremes—is where true harmony lies. Our spiritual cultivation should also avoid extremes, for attachment to anything, whether pleasure or suffering, can cloud the mind and lead to restlessness.

When we allow attachments to dominate, we lose ourselves in the clutter of our thoughts. The essence of Buddhist practice is to clear the mind, to let go of these entanglements, and to rest in the simplicity of the present moment. If we can’t, our troubles will cling to us, much like the persistent beggars on the street who refuse to let go.

Purifying the body through mindful daily actions and purifying the mind through balanced, intentional practice are interwoven lessons. They remind me that simplicity, gratitude, and effort are the pillars of a harmonious life. Whether through conserving water or cultivating the middle way, these practices guide us toward deeper awareness and peace—with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us.