One of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken was to Bhutan. The landscapes are enchanting and colorful, with fluttering prayer flags and spinning prayer wheels at every turn. I loved learning about Buddhism, their culture and the significance of their traditions.
Prayer flags have prayers, mantras, and auspicious symbols written on them. Buddhists believe that the wind blows these messages into the air like silent prayers. Anybody or anyplace touched by the wind will be happier and uplifted and those who raise them up are blessed with good luck, happiness, and prosperity. My sister and I hung up some prayer flags that had been blessed by a monk on the Taktsang trail to the “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery. Such a cool experience.
The prayer wheels also have prayers inscribed on them. When you turn the wheel clockwise, it is believed that they generate compassion, positive vibes, and blessings. Buddhists believe that spinning prayer wheels is the same thing as reciting them orally. The more you spin, the greater the blessings!
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