Komorebi: Light Illuminating Motivation and Inspiration

The Magic of Morning

Ah, waking up to a fresh new day—maybe it’s still dark out, the world wrapped in peaceful stillness. This is the moment before dawn, when birds are lazily snoozing, and the wise old owl debates whether to offer one last morning screech.

Then comes the dawn dip, that mystical chill just before sunrise. The earth stirs, the dew glistens, and slowly, nature begins its soft morning chatter. Birds chirp. Leaves rustle. The day stretches its limbs.

And then comes magic.

Sunlight pierces the horizon. Golden beams dash through the trees in radiant streaks, painting the forest in glittering light. It feels otherworldly, like the whole world is quietly clapping for the new day.

Komorebi: The Language of Light

The Japanese language has a beautiful way of naming what feels unnameable in English. One of these words, Komorebi, captures the essence and sensation of sunlight filtering through leaves.

"The sun shining through the trees" doesn’t quite do it justice. But Komorebi? That says it all!

It’s the sparkle, the shimmer, the moving mosaic of light and shadow that evokes awe, calm, and childlike giddiness. It’s nature’s spotlight, reminding us we are very much alive and part of the show. This is the pinnacle of motivation and inspiration.

As described in the Zen text, The Blue Cliff Record:

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"Boundless wind and moon — the eye within eyes; inexhaustible heaven and earth — the light beyond light."

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Komorebi Motivation and Inspiration

We don’t need a forest to feel it. A city park will do. Even a single sunbeam through our living room window can evoke Komorebi.

When we’re open to it, Komorebi soothes the mind, warms the spirit, and brings a sense of quiet joy. It’s the sun’s way of saying, “Hey, you’re doing great. Keep going.”

Next time our mood feels cloudy, nourish it with a little Komorebi. Take a mindful walk. Sit in silence. Practice yoga under a tree. Or simply pause and watch how light kisses the leaves.

Creating our Inner Komorebi

Even when the sky is grey, we can shine from within. By practicing mindful awareness, engaging in nature-based movement (think trail running, forest bathing, yoga), and cultivating kindness in our responses, we begin to generate our own internal light show. A shift in thought, from frustration to compassion, can be as illuminating as sunrise through the pines.

These tiny moments of awareness are our personal Komorebi, a reminder that light lives inside us, always.

Let the Light In

So next time we are outside and the sun filters through the trees, let's pause. Smile. Let it sink in.

Take a breath. Feel the sparkle. Let it move our spirit.

No umbrella needed.

Cheers,

Kether

Spunky Mind

"Be the sun of your own living universe."

-The Buddha