When it comes to creativity, we’re all about experimentation, exploration, and transformation. That means we’re always open to inspiration from anywhere, which you can see in the inspirations for our various collections. And if you’re always looking for inspiration, always exploring the world around you, and always looking for new ways of working, you’re always going to come up with something new.

What is New?

What does it mean to be “new”? Hasn’t everything been done already? Maybe it has, but don’t let that discourage you: it hasn’t been done by you. You are what makes it new. Whatever you do, if you do it honestly and passionately (and not just because someone else is doing it or because it is profitable), will be original because it will carry a piece of you. That piece of you will connect with someone else. And that connection will be something that has never happened before.

But not every new idea works. Not every spark of inspiration starts a fire, and not every concept results in a new piece of jewelry. Again, we can’t let ourselves be discouraged by that fact. You could feel like you’re wasting your time, that you’ve failed, and that you’ll never create anything worthwhile. But if you’ve put your heart into it, and if you’ve grown from the experience, that time was not wasted. Failures are only failures if you fail to learn from them. When it finally clicks, and you produce something new and beautiful, something you’ve never done before, you see that all of that effort is a part of that final product, whether it is a new, original jewelry design or a recipe that you’ve modified, or a relationship.

Always More To Learn

When you’ve done something a few times, you start to feel like you have mastery over it. But if you want to keep it fresh, you can’t see yourself as the finished article, the all-knowing master of your craft. There’s always more to learn, and you can learn from novices and masters alike. So we’re always looking to evolve and grow, always flowing like a river. There’s a saying that you can never step into the same river twice: the water is always flowing, and that water you stepped into long ago has now emptied into the sea. Yet the river is still recognizable as a river, as a single, continuous thing. We are all like that river. We know who we are, and we have a sense of history and connection with others, but we are always changing and growing.

We will always keep that spirit of growth, open-mindedness, and adventure alive so that there will always be something new at Syna.

Genuine individuality isn't just a matter of style or outward appearance; it emanates from the inside out. Someone has said that your individuality is a singular treasure that only you possess. It may be difficult for you to know exactly what that treasure is right now, but you definitely possess such a treasure, which you share with no one else. Each and every one of you does, with absolutely no exception! 

Of course, even when trying to "be themselves", there are many people who don't know what that means. That's quite natural. In fact, all too often what people think of as being true to themselves or exercising their individuality is something they have borrowed or copied from others. That's why, if you think who you are right now is all there is to you, you are very much mistaken. Human beings have the capacity to change. Who you are now is really no more than the starting point for an even more wonderful you in the future. 

Telling yourself, for instance, "I'm a poor speaker, so I'll stay in the background," is not living true to yourself. Instead, suppose you earnestly challenge yourself with the spirit to become a person who, though maybe not naturally a good talker, can bravely speak out and stop someone from bullying another, or can speak up for what's right at the crucial moment. Then, by making that kind of effort, your own unique character will shine in a way that is different from those who are naturally good speakers. That will be your individuality.

Your individuality only really starts to shine when you strive with all your might, challenging yourself with every ounce of your energy. It won't if you don't develop yourself. Only through making efforts to improve and grow will your individuality shine -- just as a sword is forged in the flames. Your individuality is your own unique weapon for making the most of your life. It is your jeweled sword.

People who have worked hard and long to develop their own identities take delight in seeing others develop theirs to the fullest, too. They support and encourage them in their efforts. They take joy in others' successes. And they have the capacity to work for the happiness and welfare of others. 

- Adapted from "The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace" by Daisaku Ikeda in the "Living Buddhism" June 2022 edition. 

You have no idea how many of us are constantly trying to live up to an image that other people may find important. This is quite exhausting because it costs a lot of energy to constantly regulate yourself. There's a constant fear of doing something that doesn't correspond with the image. The problem with fear is that it suppresses creativity, joy, curiosity, and spontaneity.

There's a saying in Zen that says, "Tension is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are." The less we have to worry about fitting in, the more we are able to stand out. Not to be better than others, but merely as a result of becoming who we truly are.

It's vital to find ourselves a place where we can be who we are, a place where we feel at home. If you don't have such a place, go look for it. If you can't find it, create it. 

Never underestimate the importance of having a place where you can show up as you are; where your whole self is welcome, not just a part of yourself.

Our fears are born out of unfulfilled needs, such as the need for safety, the need for love, and the need for recognition. Fear is driven by self-interest. 

Fearful people are afraid that they don't have enough or that they are not enough. Fear always needs something. Fear always wants to get. That doesn't mean fear is bad, it's just a survival mechanism that reveals an unfulfilled need. 

Once we learn to fulfill these needs and we let go of fear we make room for love, and love is not interested in taking because it doesn't need anything. Love is appreciation, and appreciation has no needs. 

Love is not an emotion; it's a way of being. And once we raise our consciousness to a state of love by overcoming our fears, all we want is to connect, create and contribute. Love always wants to share. Fear may motivate but only love inspires.

Be courageous to do what you love, and love what you do. 

The course of our lives has taken us around the world, from India to the United States and everywhere in between. We’ve found inspiration in every one of those places, from the pink palaces of Jaipur to the shining glass edifices of New York City’s skyscrapers. Architecture certainly inspires us, but the people, the culture, and the history of these places all have stories to tell. While we can immerse ourselves in people and culture, we can’t go into the past, but we can bring a piece of it into the present and transform it into something that is meaningful to us, creating new meanings for old traditions.

But it’s not just these great monuments and lofty ideas that inspire us. As we began looking for inspiration, we quickly learned that it was there to be found in anything. A morning in the backyard, a stroll through the neighborhood, or a deep conversation with friends can become an adventure and inspire your art if you live your life with your eyes open.

Living With Your Eyes Open

That’s really what inspiration is about: living with your eyes open, being receptive to the beauty around you, the beauty to be found in everything from the complex patterns of an ancient bas-relief to the way a spoon resting in a coffee cup reflects the sun. Everything can be a source of inspiration if you’re open to seeing it. Inspiration isn’t something you wait for; it’s something you have to look for and be ready to receive. Everything has a story to tell.

All of those stories, both great and small, find their way into our work. As jewelry designers, we are always looking for ways to crystallize the stories of our lives as a piece of jewelry. It’s why we favor elegant, simple designs that feature bold pops of color. Their clear lines and patterns reveal an inner life, an experience or emotion cast in gold and gemstones. Every design comes from the heart, captures a piece of our lives, and tells the story of a moment.

A Story Belongs to Everyone

A story doesn’t just belong to the teller, either. The listener imparts their own experiences and their own emotions, and by doing so becomes part of the story. That’s how stories remain relevant for centuries, and how a piece of jewelry can remain close to your heart for a lifetime: they’re not just these static moments in time; they continue to grow and evolve and take on new meaning. There’s a spiritual experience in art in that we all experience it together, feel closer to the people around us, and find meaning in the world that surrounds us.

There’s inspiration in everything, a story to be found in every object and every interaction. That’s what we hope to convey in our designs. When you wear a Syna piece, you are sharing in an ongoing story, which will in turn become lasting memories. 

When we make a decision, a new path emerges. If nothing emerges, you haven't made a decision, you've just come to a conclusion. A conclusion says "you should do this" whereas a decision says "let's do this". Our rational mind is good at generating conclusions, but our emotional mind makes decisions. The reason is our navigator but emotion presses the gas pedal. 

The word "decide" literally means "to cut off". Making a decision is about cutting off all other options, chopping away what's irrelevant. A firm decision is like a future set in stone. That's why visionaries are so powerful, they see a future as if it already exists, and they decide to make it happen. Think about Steve Jobs who said, "We started out to get a computer in the hands of everyday people, and we succeeded beyond our wildest dreams" 

So the point is, start with the vision in mind. Make it crystal clear where you want to go, or who you want to be, and ask yourself if you're willing to take responsibility for it. Decisions and responsibility go hand in hand. Without responsibility, there can be no decision. So find out what it is you want, and cut off everything else that's irrelevant. And then you will see a path emerge.

When we believe we already know something we stop exploring. Beliefs are like conclusions. These conclusions become the lenses through which we see the world. Our beliefs can be so strong that we actually see what we believe. To those with a fearful heart, the world is a dangerous place. To those with a playful heart, the world is a playground. We constantly see what we believe to be true.

If we filter our views through our beliefs, we don't actually see; we project. Projecting leads to judgment; true or false, right or wrong. This is how we learn; this is only how we confirm what we already believe. To discover new truths, we must question our beliefs.

If we want to grow, we must learn to be completely open; to observe without judgment. True learning occurs when we arrive at the same place over and over again until we recognize it for the first time. 

If we keep doing what we've always done, we seem to forget why we do what we do. This is a habit. Many people live their entire lives out of habit. 

We may eat healthy, we may exercise regularly, but without a sense of purpose, we may not live fully. Without an exciting reason for waking up in the morning, we will never experience the amount of energy we have access to. Without strong intention, we become a slave to our habits.

Ask yourself, "What is the difference I'm trying to make?"

The moment we discover our purpose is the moment we tap into an infinite source of energy. This is the moment we realize we weren't tired; we were just uninspired. 

As Mark Twain said, "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."

There are two problems in life; either there is something we don't want, or we want something that isn't there. The first reason creates aversion. The second reason creates longing. Most of the time, both situations trigger frustration.

To let go of the frustration we must learn to accept reality as it is. Nothing is right or wrong in itself. See the world exactly as it is: perfectly imperfect.

Acceptance doesn't mean passivity. It just means we don't argue with reality: we don't resist the truth of what is. Once we have accepted that things are exactly as they are, we can now focus our attention on what we want to manifest in the world. it's interesting to see that transformation usually happens as a result of accepting something completely. 

The eternal tension between what is and what ought to be either causes frustration or transformation. The choice is yours. 

There is often a tension in life between what you’ve learned and what you’ve been taught. What’s the difference between the two? The things you’ve learned are the ideas and values you know deep down to be true. They may have been taught to you—by teachers, by family, or by experience—but they are realities that have been confirmed again and again. They are the external truths that align with your inner being. The things you have been taught, on the other hand, are the ideas you have accepted without question, or unconsciously internalized, or taken as “common sense.” These ideas are comfortable and familiar, even if they may also be harmful and false.

The tension here is between what is true and what is familiar, between the authority you have over yourself and the authority imposed on you by others. To fully realize yourself and your potential, you first must learn to be your own authority. This means we must challenge the ideas that we unthinkingly accept from family, culture, and society.

This, of course, is much more easily said than done. The problem with these conditioned ideas is that we believe that they are our own. Many of us hold beliefs that we believe we came to logically, but if we are honest with ourselves, we may see that they’re just ideas that we have absorbed and accepted without much thought. We are surrounded by our own culture and our own society at all times, so it can be difficult to even imagine thinking or acting in a different way. And when we do act in a manner that is not socially accepted, even if we’re doing what we know is right, we are made to feel like something is wrong with us. So there are all these pressures on us to not question why we act the way we act, why we value what we value, why we love what we love, and why we hate what we hate.

So how do we get ourselves out of this trap? It’s not easy. If we want to realize ourselves, we may sometimes have to isolate ourselves for a while. We need to take a moment to listen to our own inner voice, and that can be difficult when we’re surrounded by everybody else’s noise. And it is also difficult to discern your authentic inner voice from the voice of your ego, which exists to protect you from harm. Your ego tells you that you are always right and other people are always wrong. Your ego makes you believe that you can see every side of a situation even when you’re only looking at it from your own point of view. Your ego is afraid of change; it is afraid of growth. So separating your inner voice from your ego is another challenge to self-realization.

But self-realization is not just about blindly questioning everything and contradicting anything that comes from an authority figure or expert. You have to take time with each idea and weigh its validity against what your inner voice is telling you. Silence the voices of your social group, your culture, and your ego, and listen only to the truth. What is true must become more important than what is familiar or comforting.

If we learn to listen to our inner voice and become our own authority, we can realize ourselves. And only then can we truly renew and enhance ourselves and the world around us. What is really in your nature? Are you acting in line with your nature, or are you just doing what you’ve been conditioned to do? Challenge yourself. Ask yourself these questions every day, and you will soon realize your own potential.

Syna means together, and the concept of togetherness and collaboration is a core tenet of the Syna brand of jewelry. Started by husband and wife team, DK and Namrata Kothari, 20 years ago, the collection has evolved throughout the decades while maintaining its core “effortless sophistication” aesthetic.

Tune into Couture's latest podcastwith DK and Namrata to learn more about their unique journey, their many sources of inspiration, and how their spirituality extends to all aspects of their life, including their creative approach.

Carl Jung said, "The pendulum of the mind alternates between sense and nonsense, not between right and wrong." Human beings have an internal compass that helps them navigate between what makes sense and what doesn't. No one in the world can tell us what makes sense to us; we have to discover that ourselves. Other people can advise us, but they cannot make the decision for us.

When we find the courage to do what makes the most sense to us, we will find opportunities at places where we did not even look in the first place. New worlds will open up. New opportunities will unfold as a result of following one's inner compass. 

Listen to your internal compass and let it guide you. You will find that the more you listen to that inner voice, the more you will be open to opportunities that come your way. 

1. HEALTH

• Anything is possible when one is in good health.
• Taking care of your mind, body, and soul is critical. To avoid preventable illnesses and stress, eat a healthy diet and exercise daily.
• Mental health can be improved by being more present, eating well, and taking time to decompress. 

2. PURPOSE

• We must have a purpose - a goal, an outcome we want to achieve as we walk this Earth - to live a fulfilling life.
• When you discover your purpose, you will feel like you have truly begun to live.
• You can call it your dreams, aspirations for your career, or your own definition of success, but if you truly want to make a difference in the world, you must start with yourself.

3. FAMILY & FRIENDSHIPs

• It's all too easy to forget how important family is to us. 
• It's natural to be busy, but why not try to be busy with the people who matter the most to us? Keep in mind that your family is priceless.
• You can't pick your family, but you can pick your friends and make them family members.

4. TIME

• Time is a limited resource; once it is spent, it's gone forever. we cannot ever get time back, but we can be intentional with the time that we have.
• If you understand the value of time better, you can gain experience and develop skills over time.
• We can protect our precious time, saving it for the activities and people that give our lives the most meaning and joy.

5. LEARNING

• Life is a gift, and making the most of it is our responsibility
• You may believe you are an expert in a field one day, only to be confronted with a challenge the next day that proves you wrong.
• You will add great depth and meaning to your life if you discover and cultivate your talents through constant learning. 

We travel the world to find ourselves, but aren't we just running away from ourselves? Carl Jung once wrote, "One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious."

It's easy to look in the mirror and see our bright side. It's easy to acknowledge our talents and gifts. It's much harder to shine a light on the things we don't want to see. The failures, the jealousy, the fear, the hatred. Or the hurt little child, hiding deep within ourselves. 

To see ourselves the way we are is one of the most difficult things to do. It requires radical honesty and courage. If we are able to look at our dark side without judgment, we may be able to accept ourselves as we are. If we no longer see our dark side as an enemy, we may befriend it. When we bring light to darkness, the darkness dissolves and our light will shine even brighter. 

One of the most common ways we slow down our progress is by rushing the process. We want everything right now. We seem to have lost our self-discipline, but what we have really lost is our patience. 

Grass doesn't grow faster by tugging on it. The best things in life don't manifest instantly. We seem to overestimate what we can do in a month and we underestimate what we can do in a few years. We are in love with the result, but not the work - not knowing that it's the work that brings us fulfillment, not the result.

Take your time. Plant seeds. Give things their chance to grow. Keep moving, but don't stress out. Sometimes the best way to arrive on time is to stop running. 

Keep growing a little better than what you were yesterday, life is that simple! 

How many of us have said, "I think about it all the time but I can't figure out what my passion is"?

Well, the reason we can't figure it out is that it doesn't work that way. One does not discover passion by thinking about it.

We don't think passion, we experience passion. Passion comes as a by-product of putting effort into something meaningful.

The only way to experience passion is to put effort into that which is important to us. Passion manifests as a result of wholehearted effort. 

Go follow your interests. Experiment, explore, discover. Do things worth doing until you ignite that spark inside yourself. But, remember, igniting your spark is like falling in love.

That's the easy part. Staying in love and weathering the inevitable storms is the hard part.

It takes time, commitment, and continuous effort to keep a fire burning. The more care and effort you put into it: the better it gets. 

You can't discover your passion just by thinking about it. 

Music is not just about the notes. Chord progressions, melodies, harmonies, and the way these components interact are part of the experience, but dynamics matter, too: when to play loud, when to play quiet, when to keep it steady, when to surprise the listener and get quiet when they’re expecting loud. And perhaps even more important than the notes you play are the notes you don’t play: the silences between phrases, the gaps that create rhythm.

Meaningful

While playing lots of notes at a high volume makes a lot of noise and gets noticed, the gaps and silences, space and rhythm, make a thoughtful statement. It’s the same in other art forms—the colors you don’t use, the space you don’t fill, the ideas you don’t express, the action you don’t explain is as meaningful as what you actually do paint, or write—and fashion is no different. Luxury is no longer about making the most noise with brand names and logos everywhere. It’s not about conveying status or calling attention; it’s about wearing something that is well-made, meaningful, and quietly stylish.

The distinction underlines the difference between flash and taste, between the latest hype and a carefully considered aesthetic. The person interested in the latter exudes confidence and personality: they are not making purchases based on status but on what they find beautiful and made with craftsmanship and artistry.

More Joy

It is also about making intentional choices. We are all becoming increasingly concerned about the future, about what kind of world we want to create, live in, and leave for future generations. These attitudes filter into our purchasing habits. We want things that are going to put more joy into our lives and into the world. We want things that are going to last a lifetime, not fall apart or fall out of fashion in a year. We’re not buying to show off wealth or show that we’re part of some trend; we want things that are meaningful to us, that connect us with others, things that are handmade and are built to last.

You know how good your clothes and jewelry are, and that makes you feel good about yourself. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks, or whether or not they know what brand you’re wearing or how much you paid for it because you’re doing it for yourself. And soon, others will take notice. Not because you’re calling attention to yourself, but because of the aesthetic you’ve put together and the confidence you exude while wearing it. You’re not making a lot of noise; you’re playing the silences, making music in the pauses. That’s the essence of “quiet luxury,” the understated statement.

After a delightful and rejuvenating vacation in France, we are thrilled to return brimming with inspiration for our upcoming collections.

Our journey spanned the serene waters of Lake Annecy, the majestic peaks of Chamonix-Mont Blanc in the French Alps, the picturesque villages of Luberon in Provence, and the charming towns along the French Riviera. Each destination offered unique charm and beauty, sparking countless new ideas that we can't wait to bring to life.

Stay tuned as we weave the elegance and sophistication of these enchanting locales into our latest designs. Meanwhile, here are some pictures from our trip that we’d love to share with you, inspiring your own travels.

 Room with a View of Lake Annecy

Gazing out from our cozy room, we were greeted each morning by the serene and breathtaking beauty of Lake Annecy. The tranquil waters, framed by majestic mountains, provided a perfect backdrop for moments of reflection and inspiration.

 Cherished Family Moments in Annecy

Our closest family gathered here, creating unforgettable memories amidst the stunning backdrop of Lake Annecy. The laughter, love, and shared experiences made our time truly special. Lake Annecy, with its enchanting scenery and serene atmosphere, has become a cherished destination for us.

Unforgettable Nights in Annecy

No vacation is complete without games, and our evenings were filled with endless rounds of Canasta. We spent countless nights competing, laughing, and having total fun, with wine flowing freely. The combination of friendly rivalry, great company, and the cozy ambiance of our home-away-from-home made our stay truly unforgettable.

Chamonix: A Scenic Drive to Alpine Splendor

The road to Chamonix offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc, making the journey an absolute treat. As you navigate the winding roads, each twist and turn reveals a new angle of the majestic mountain landscape. Arriving in the vibrant town of Chamonix, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mont Blanc, is nothing short of amazing. The combination of charming streets and awe-inspiring scenery creates an unforgettable alpine experience.

Awe-Inspiring Lavender Fields in Provence

The Abbey in Provence, surrounded by breathtaking lavender fields, left me utterly speechless. The sight was a complete shock, capturing my heart and mind in an instant. Each moment spent amidst these vibrant, fragrant fields felt like a dream, and every image taken was as stunning as this one, with no filter needed.

Wine Tasting Delight in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The Châteauneuf-du-Pape region is an absolute must for wine enthusiasts. Our wine-tasting experience here was an absolute blast, and it greatly deepened our appreciation and understanding of our wine preferences. This particular bottle is one of the oldest from the winery, representing a rich history and tradition in winemaking. The depth of flavor and complexity we discovered in each sip made this experience truly unforgettable, and we left with a newfound passion for the exquisite wines of this remarkable region.

Morning Rituals and French Elegance

Capturing Diva's daily breakfast routine, slicing through a baguette with finesse, was a delightful moment. But there's more than just breakfast on display – notice her favorite accessory from our collection: the Sword Ring. This little ritual, blending culinary tradition with a touch of elegance, perfectly encapsulates the charm and sophistication of our French sojourn. Who knew that a simple morning task could turn into a showcase of style? Watch out, world – Diva's making even breakfast a fashion statement.

Enlightening Visit to the L'Occitane Factory

Our visit to the L'Occitane factory was an absolute pleasure, offering us a glimpse into their meticulous processes and innovative branding ideas. The experience left us with much to ponder, as we were inspired by their dedication to quality and sustainability. Understanding the artistry behind each product and the thoughtfulness in their brand story has sparked countless new ideas for us. It's amazing how a factory tour can turn into a masterclass in elegance and craftsmanship, leaving us enriched and eager to infuse these insights into our own creative journey.

A Vibrant Surprise in Gordes

I know, I know—why tomatoes? But I couldn't resist capturing the stunning array of colors these tomatoes displayed in the charming village of Gordes. This picturesque locale was even more enchanting as we found ourselves at the right place at the right time for their Wednesday morning market. Gordes itself was beautiful, but the vibrant hues of these tomatoes were a delightful surprise that demanded a photo. I have many pictures from that day, but the kaleidoscope of colors in this one truly left me amazed. Who knew tomatoes could steal the spotlight?

Breathtaking Views from Bonnieux

The most spectacular shot of Provence was captured in the charming village of Bonnieux. It required a bit of a hike, especially when parking is a distant memory by the time you reach your destination, but every step was undeniably worth it. The panoramic views, with their stunning blend of rustic rooftops and rolling lavender fields, left us utterly enchanted. Sometimes, the best vistas demand a little extra effort, and in this case, Bonnieux delivered a scene that was nothing short of postcard perfection.

 Cannes: An Unexpected 4th of July Extravaganza

While Cannes might not have been our favorite stop, we were truly captivated by the city's enthusiastic celebration of the 4th of July. The fireworks display was nothing short of spectacular, illuminating the night sky in a dazzling array of colors. The entire event was a harmonious blend of visual splendor and festive music, creating an atmosphere that was both electrifying and enchanting. This picture, though beautiful, hardly does justice to the grandeur of the celebration we witnessed.

a Glimpse of St.Tropez's Allure

Our brief visit to St. Tropez may have been short, but this enchanting shot of the shimmering waters was truly a delight. The azure hues and gentle waves perfectly captured the essence of this glamorous coastal town. It's amazing how even a fleeting moment in St. Tropez can leave a lasting impression, turning a simple click into a cherished memory. Sometimes, it's the briefest encounters that capture the heart and soul of a place so perfectly.

Reunited in France: A Family Affair

It's always a joy when family joins you on vacation, especially when they travel all the way from Mumbai. We've shared countless memories from our days in Mumbai 20 years ago, and though we don't meet that often, every reunion feels like no time has passed at all. This trip was no exception. We seamlessly picked up from where we left off, creating new memories while reminiscing about the old. It's moments like these that remind us of the enduring bonds of family, transcending time and distance, making each gathering feel wonderfully timeless and filled with joy.

Antibes: An Artistic Adventure

Antibes was an absolute delight, especially with its enchanting cast iron sculptures scattered throughout the town. Each sculpture added a touch of whimsy and artistic flair to our strolls, turning every corner into a new discovery. The blend of the town's historic charm and these modern artistic expressions created a unique and captivating atmosphere. It felt like we were on a treasure hunt, with each sculpture telling its own story and adding to the vibrant tapestry of Antibes.

Bougainvillea Beauty in Saint Paul de Vence

We have a particular soft spot for bougainvilleas, and seeing them draped elegantly over the doors in Saint Paul de Vence was nothing short of inspiring. These vibrant blooms, cascading in lush clusters, added a romantic and picturesque touch to the charming village streets. Their vivid colors against the rustic stone walls created a scene straight out of a painting. It was a reminder of nature's ability to enhance even the most historic of settings with its effortless beauty.

Dreamy Eze: A Garden in the Sky

Eze was an absolute dream, especially the meticulously curated cactus garden perched atop the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the sea. This enchanting village quickly became one of our favorite places in the south of France. The contrast of the vibrant, sculptural cacti against the endless blue horizon created a surreal and captivating landscape. Strolling through this sky-high garden felt like a whimsical adventure, blending the rugged beauty of nature with the charm of this historic village. Eze, with its picturesque streets and stunning vistas, truly captured my heart.

Nice: A Perfect Blend of Bustle and Tranquility

Nice is beautiful in so many ways that we could easily envision us moving there. It's a small, happy city that perfectly balances vibrant hustle and serene neighborhoods. Our favorite part of Nice was undoubtedly our outstanding Airbnb apartment, adorned with an impressive collection of art. We loved simply being there, immersed in the creative ambiance of our home away from home. The neighborhood was a dream, offering close proximity to everything the city has to offer while maintaining a peaceful and quiet atmosphere.

Our journey through France was nothing short of extraordinary. The best part was allowing our trip to breathe, taking in the serene beauty of Annecy in the French Alps, the rustic charm of Provence, and the vibrant allure of the French Riviera. Each region offered its unique magic, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the richness and diversity of France. Despite our adventures, we feel there's still so much more to explore, and our love for this enchanting country has only deepened. We hope you savor your summer and create unforgettable memories. Taking a break is essential, a gentle reminder to recharge and refresh before life insists upon it. Until our next adventure, cherish every moment and embrace the journey.

We can each ask ourselves: 'What life condition am I in?'

Perhaps we feel happy, sad, or neither. Perhaps there is something on our minds, something we hope to obtain, or achieve, something that drives us in a particular direction. 

Buddhism has a very clear way of explaining the different ways that we feel and respond to the world around us. It is a principle often referred to as the "Ten Worlds". 

TEN WORLDS

The Ten Worlds are ten conditions of life that everyone possesses and which we experience from moment to moment. 

The first six lower worlds are Hell, Hunger, Animality, Anger, Humanity, and Rapture. These six lower worlds arise automatically from within our lives in response to external surroundings.

Three of the four remaining worlds, Learning, Realization, and Bodhisattva, are developed through seeking, discovering, and aspiring. 

Each of these nine worlds has a positive aspect which is balanced by a negative aspect. 

The tenth world,  Buddhahood, is a condition of pure, indestructible happiness.

The majority of people spend most of their time moving between the first six conditions of life, from Hell to Rapture, governed by their reactions to external influences and therefore highly vulnerable to changing circumstances.

1.  Hell

Hell is a condition of suffering, in which one is devoid of freedom and has very little life force (physical or mental energy). Without the world of Hell, however, we would never be able to understand happiness or identify with anyone else’s suffering.  Also, the desire not to fall into this condition is a powerful incentive for us to make efforts in daily life.

2. Hunger

Hunger is a condition characterized by an insatiable desire for food, power, wealth, fame, pleasure, and so on. Looking at it positively, though, hunger is the driving force behind most human activity.  Put simply, without the desire to do something, nothing would get done.

3. Animality

Animality is a condition in which one is governed by instinct, in which one has no sense of morality and lives only for the present moment. The positive aspects of animality are our intuitive wisdom and the instinct to protect and nurture life — both our own and the lives of those close to us.

4. Anger

Anger is the condition in which one is dominated by the selfish ego, competitiveness, arrogance, and the need to be superior in all things.  Its positive side is passionate energy, a desire for excellence, and, above all, a burning abhorrence of injustice.

5. Humanity

Humanity (or Tranquillity) is the tranquil state marked by the ability to reason and make calm judgments. However, it is a very unstable state and one can quickly find oneself in a lower world if this world is disturbed.

6. Rapture (or Heaven)

 Rapture (or Heaven) is the condition of pleasure, experienced when one’s desires are fulfilled. This state is temporary and easily disrupted by even a slight change of circumstances.

The four higher worlds are characterized by the fact that one needs to make effort to reveal them from within one’s life.

7. LEARNING 

Learning is a condition in which one seeks some skill, lasting truth, or self-improvement through the teachings of others.

8. REALIZATION 

Realization is a state in which one discovers a partial truth through one’s own observations, efforts, and concentration. The worlds of Learning and Realization are closely related. People in these states can become arrogant and self-centered.

9. BODHISATTVA

Bodhisattva is a condition in which one not only aspires for personal enlightenment but devotes oneself to relieving the sufferings of others through compassionate and altruistic actions. Even this state can have a negative aspect, however, the tendency toward self-sacrifice and acting but merely from a sense of duty and resentment.

10. BUDDHAHOOD

Buddhahood is the highest of the Ten Worlds, a condition of pure, indestructible happiness that is not dependent on one’s circumstances. It is a condition of perfect and absolute freedom, characterized by boundless wisdom, courage, compassion, and life force.

In the course of a day, we experience different states in response to our interaction with our environment.  However, all of us have one or more worlds around which our activities usually center and to which we tend to revert when external stimuli subside.  This is one’s basic life tendency, and it has been established by each individual through prior actions. The purpose of Buddhist practice is to elevate the basic life tendency and eventually establish Buddhahood as one’s fundamental state.

Establishing Buddhahood as our basic life tendency does not mean we rid ourselves of the other nine worlds.  All these states are integral and necessary aspects of life. Without experiencing the sufferings of Hell ourselves, we could never feel true compassion for others.  Without the instinctive desires represented by Hunger and Animality, we would forget to eat, sleep and reproduce ourselves, and soon become extinct.  Even if we establish Buddhahood as our fundamental life tendency, we will still continue to experience the joys and sorrows of the nine worlds.  However, they will not control us, and we will not define ourselves in terms of them.  Based on the life tendency of Buddhahood, our nine worlds will be harmonized and function to benefit both ourselves and those around us. 

TEN WORLDS EXPLAINED

Each of the Ten Worlds or life-states are the ways that we respond to what is going on in our lives. We have each one of these states latent in our lives, it is just a question of how and when they are stimulated and manifest. 

Let's start with a calm, rational state called 'Tranquillity'. Sometimes it is also called 'Humanity' but I would like to stress its calmness and reasonableness. When we are in this state, things in the world appear to be just right. It's the ideal life condition to be in on holiday when we can recharge and recover from the challenges of life. We all need to experience tranquillity, but too much can be a problem and can lead to laziness. This is also the time to point out that we will see a positive and negative side to most of these worlds and extreme laziness is the negative side of tranquillity.

Imagine you are resting on a sunny afternoon, having a nice, tranquil experience when the neighbors put on some music which is not only too loud but of a sort which you would normally avoid. The life-state of tranquillity will probably have been replaced by some kind of annoyance, even perhaps a restrictive feeling of suffering. This could be the world known as 'Hell'. Unlike hell which some cultures or faiths describe as being underground, this is a very real experience where we feel imprisoned by our circumstances.

Or rather than the neighbor's music, perhaps you receive a pleasant message on your phone - someone you are fond of has told you that they love you and as a result, your heart sings! This is likely to be the world of 'Rapture' (also known as 'Heaven'). This might be followed by a desire to see that person, and the yearning is likely to be a manifestation of the world of 'Hunger'. This is not just a condition that is to do with the desire to eat food but can also be about relationships or other objects and ways that we think we can improve life. There is also a world in which we operate on the level of our more basic animal instincts, and this world, perhaps unsurprisingly, is known as 'Animality'. Perhaps if the noisy neighbors had a reputation for causing trouble our instinctive reaction would be fear that they might react dangerously to any complaint. If instead, we feel superior to our neighbors -perhaps because we have a disdainful opinion of their choice of music - then this sounds rather like the world of 'Anger'. 

This world is not about being angry, instead, it is usually quite a quiet world, but one that is dominated by our small ego and therefore demonstrates arrogance and contempt.

By looking at tranquillity, hell, rapture, hunger, animality, and anger, we have briefly considered what are commonly considered the six 'lower' worlds.  These are worlds that we experience due to the things that happen in our environment and it is just a question of our personal buttons being pushed.

There are also four 'higher' worlds that require effort for us to experience them. 'Learning' and 'Realization' are states where we are trying to improve our lives, either by studying the wisdom and experience of others or through our own insight into life. Then there is the compassionate and altruistic state of Bodhisattva in which we make efforts to take away the sufferings of others and replace them with something more positive. Finally, we have the dynamic and creative world of Buddhahood in our lives, characterized by courage, compassion, wisdom, and life force. This world of Buddhahood is the only one that is purely positive.

Life is much more complicated than humans having just ten ways of operating. A great Chinese Buddhist thinker known as T'ien-t'ai observed that people tend to have one of these worlds as their 'basic' life condition and that they then experience the world through the 'lens' of that basic world. For example, someone who is incredibly laid-back might have 'tranquillity' as their basic condition, and then they will experience rapture, hunger, and anger in a tranquil way. Someone else who is fiercely driven by their ego will experience tranquillity, hell, and animality through the 'lens' of their anger state.

When I first started to read about Buddhist principles, it was this aspect, known as 'the mutual possession of the Ten Worlds' which really grabbed my attention. The implication is that rather than ten, there are a hundred worlds at play in each of us. This principle provides an extremely sophisticated analysis of human psychology and explains a lot about how we each behave and how different people can react differently to the same situation. 

The aim of Buddhism (know more at www.sgi-usa.org) is to establish the world of Buddhahood as our fundamental life condition and then to experience the other worlds through that state. The Buddha has all of the worlds including anger, hunger, and rapture, but they are states that create value rather than being self-centered or destructive. As we establish Buddhahood as the main life condition that we experience, endless possibilities emerge.

How often do people tell us to be more realistic? But what is that "being realistic"? History books are full of people who were called unrealistic for thinking they could build an airplane or fly to the moon. Now we know who we really the unrealistic ones. Realistic is only a perspective, a point of view. 

Sometimes the most realistic people are the ones we call unrealistic. We call them blind. They don't seem to see the obstacles on the path. They don't see reality.

"Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal." - Henry Ford

Sometimes, there are those rare people who are not focused on what is; they are focused on their vision. They are able to see what is yet invisible to others. And that's the point, to not see clearly what is, but rather to see clearly what is possible. Sometimes the person who can see the most clearly is the one we call blind.