Bhutanese Buddhism: Harmonizing Tradition, Sustainability and Well-being
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Abstract
This article delves into the intersection of Buddhism, tradition, sustainability, and wellbeing in Bhutan. Anchored in the Vajrayana tradition, Bhutan's Buddhist practices offer a distinctive approach to sustainable living and holistic wellbeing. The study focuses on Gross National Happiness (GNH) principles, emphasising holistic wellbeing over economic growth. GNH integrates four pillars: sustainable development, preservation and promotion of cultural values, conservation of the natural environment, and establishment of good governance, all deeply rooted in Buddhist values.
This exploration highlights how these Buddhist principles are theoretical and actively shape Bhutan's national policies and societal norms. The article examines Bhutan's environmental conservation efforts, including its constitutional mandate to maintain at least 60% forest cover and protect sacred natural sites. It also discusses how Buddhist practices like mindfulness and meditation, integrated into daily life and educational systems, contribute to mental health and emotional resilience. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of cultural preservation in maintaining social cohesion and identity, exploring the role of religious beliefs in wildlife conservation and tolerance.
The findings illustrate how Bhutan's unique blend of spirituality and modernity fosters a balanced and sustainable society. By integrating spiritual principles into governance and everyday life, Bhutan presents a compelling model for sustainable development that prioritises holistic wellbeing. This intersection of tradition and modernity offers valuable insights for the global community, demonstrating that development guided by spiritual and ethical values can enhance environmental stewardship and quality of life. Bhutan's experience underscores the potential of such an integrative approach, offering a holistic and sustainable path forward for other nations. Through an analysis of various aspects of Bhutanese life, including environmental conservation, mental health, cultural preservation, and wildlife conservation, this article demonstrates how Bhutan's development model can serve as a global example of how spiritual values can guide sustainable development and enhance the quality of life.
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References
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