From the beginning of life. Youthful curiosity and open-mindedness.

Having a mindset of acceptance, enthusiasm, and wonder, regardless of one’s previous knowledge or belief. This includes the Einstellung effect (a predisposition to solve a problem based on past experiences and impact your ability or willingness to find a new or more effective solution to a similar problem). People are so accustomed to doing things a certain way that they often overlook new ideas or approaches.

Think about the innocence of children. They are fascinated by their senses and instinctively know what pleases them at a very young age. As we get older, we become set in our ways and lose that sense of curiosity, openness, and desire to learn new ways to achieve the same or similar results for the task at hand or the feeling that we seek. We develop habits, beliefs, and many times, except the status quo, all while ignoring our surroundings.

Remember a time when you encountered something new that forever changed your views, consciousness, and life in a positive way? Maybe it was the day you decided to walk to the market instead of driving your car and noticed a small patch of the most fragrant and beautiful roses growing just beyond a neighbor’s fence. Its beauty and aroma stopped you in your tracks, and from that day forward, you smile, appreciate, and think about the delicate patch of roses during that memorable and delightful stroll to the market.

Or your first time owning a pet. Becoming its caregiver dramatically altered your daily schedule, budget, priorities, and responsibilities, but in return, you are rewarded with an undeniable connection. A new understanding of and desire for true companionship and unconditional love fills your heart and memories for a lifetime.

Shoshin encourages moments like those when you allow yourself to be open to new experiences and remain aware at every moment, embracing life and all that surrounds us.

Fragrant rose-sweet air,
I thank the day I slowed down —
the world bloomed for me.

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