As I was organizing the OJAC giftshop this week I noticed the recurring symbol of the Lotus on a few of our items. This led me to thoughts of what this flower represents, and it’s possible connection to this moment in time which we are experiencing.
I already knew that the traditional meaning of the symbol of the Lotus is one of calm and meditation. When I researched further, I found it is also a symbol for strength and “triumph in transformation.”
As the COVID-19 situation has evolved, many of us have begun living our day to day lives in new ways, with adjustments to change. Regardless of the differences in our lived experience of this, I know we are all navigating challenges and transitions. We are all juggling the stress and anxiety associated with the unknown. This lotus flower seems to me the perfect symbol for what we all need these days. This year seems like a time to embrace any opportunity for relaxation, positivity, and hope.
Deep, calming breaths, and quiet, calm activities are always a good idea for anxious days.
I also recommend the opportunity to distract and de-stress with two Lotus-themed objects from our giftshop collection:
Our Tibetan Lotus Incense Burner is a beautiful, antiqued piece that compliments most home décor styles! Burn your favorite scent inside this lovely bronze flower to create a relaxing environment of any room.
Need a quiet, mental break from school or work? Solve one of our traditional, carved Wooden Lotus Puzzles and enjoy a few minutes of inner peace. (These boxes make a lovely and thoughtful gift for children and adults, alike!)
And lastly, in terms of a mental health break I can personally recommend a visit to the galleries of our historic jail building. There, you will find a quiet, tranquil environment showcasing dozens of intriguing artifacts from a variety of Asian countries.
Tatum Green, Administrative Assistant and Visitor Services Coordinator
