Travelling allows us to step outside our everyday life and experience something new. By giving us space from routines at home, travelling provides the opportunity to break free from the repetitive thought patterns and habits, and to evaluate them with fresh eyes. For this reason, travelling is much more than a distraction or a few days off work — if done correctly, it can be a mindfulness practice of its own.
One of the best ways to distance ourselves from our habits at home is to dive into a new culture’s traditions and unique way of thinking. Cambodia allows travelers this privilege by offering a truly immersive and unparalleled opportunity: spending the night (or several) in one of its many ancient monasteries. As we discover ancient teachings, partake in spiritual practices, and stretch our minds, we’ll be able to explore what life as a Cambodian monk is really like.
Cambodia is historically Theravada Buddhist, with over 95% of the population identifying as Buddhist. Theravada Buddhism, the more conservative sect, follows the Pali Canon and focuses the individual’s quest for enlightenment; Mayahan Buddhism, in contrast, emphasizes helping others reach Nirvana as well.
For those that aren’t familiar with the Buddhist doctrine, Buddhists believe that life is suffering, or dhukka, at its core. This suffering is caused by our own desires, or tanha, because all that we crave is fleeting and impermanent. The landscape of our lives is ever-changing, and the more we try to cling to the way we want things to be, as opposed to the way things are, the more we suffer. This even applies to the concept of the self. Buddhists believe that any fixed, isolated sense of self is an illusion, and those who can transcend it will enjoy the supreme bliss of Nirvana, a break from the cycle of death and rebirth.
Whether or not you’re a practicing Buddhist, the opportunity to explore traditional ways of life and religious practices is the ultimate cultural immersion for any spiritual traveler. While extended meditation requires practice, this one night experience is beginner-friendly, and allows visitors an introduction to the Buddhist way of life.
Upon arrival to the monastery, we’ll be greeted by the monks who live there. They will be our spiritual and cultural guides during our overnight stay, allowing for a first-hand learning experience. Monks will introduce us to the basics of Buddhist philosophy and monastic life. In some monasteries, there are as many as 277 rules to follow, including no dancing, handling money, or eating after noon. Indeed, most of the day in a monastery is spent fasting, although some overnight stays will provide snacks for guests.
After an introduction, the monks will hold an ordination ceremony. Visitors will be dressed in saffron-orange robes, and men will have the option of shaving their heads and eyebrows. Some ordination ceremonies include a ride on a horse or even an elephant around the grounds.
Afternoons are typically reserved for naps or meditation. Many young monks attend university in the afternoon, or study things like Buddhism philosophy or history within the monastery. We’ll likely go to bed early, because the next day starts before dawn. Room and board in the monastery is simple, with floor bedding and no-frill meals — a stay is meant to be an authentic immersion, not a tourist attraction.
The next day, we’ll awaken to the sound of drums. The day begins with early morning meditation, chanting, and prayer. After being introduced to a few different forms of meditation and ancient Pali chants, we’ll participate in the spiritual ceremony ourselves. It’s a surreal experience that provides an opportunity to explore our minds in a way unlike anything we’ve done before.
We’ll gather for breakfast and lunch, and those staying only a single night will likely be on their way. While we’re within these ancient walls, we’ll get a feel for the intricacies and the rhythm of monastic life, a way of life that dates back centuries.
This cultural stay will engross our minds, bodies, and souls as we embark on a personal journey of self-exploration and growth. The teachings we learn here will help to foster inner calm, while giving us the chance to engage with Cambodia’s fascinating heritage.
To committed meditators and spiritual tourists alike, I challenge you dive in head first and discover what it truly means to be Buddhist.
Scotty Carlson’s love for travel began at the same time he formed his first memory—he remembers slurping up clams on a Portuguese beach and watching the clouds whizz by. Since then, his hunger for travel has never ceased, visiting 20 countries before his 20th birthday. Currently a Neuroscience and Philosophy student at Duke University, Scotty also works as a content specialist for a travel start-up called Jubel. When he’s not daydreaming about far-flung places, you can find him meditating, playing basketball, watching reruns of Scrubs, or trying to become the world’s first chocolate milk sommelier.
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