Field notes · A DIY practice
The Peace of
Mind Bottle
A simple, physical way to sit with your feelings — water, rocks, and a little dirt in a bottle, from the teaching of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
What you'll need
- A clear glass or plastic bottle, whatever size you choose
- Water — enough to fill about 2/3 of the bottle
- Rocks of all sizes and colors, ugly or pretty — enough to fill about a third of the bottle
- Dirt or fine sand — a small amount, about a teaspoon
The steps
In / Out Deep / Slow Calm / Ease Smile / Release Present Moment / Wonderful Moment
Be still and know
Save your P.O.M. bottle. When you feel disturbed, shake it once and follow the last step. Otherwise, shake it once each morning and evening, and do the same.
From the teaching of Vietnamese Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.