Tuesday

Shambhala Buddhism And Fashion Choices

By “Jackie Writing Jackie”

The basic teachings of Buddhism, which are a core component of Shambhala and other types of Buddhism, include The Three Universal Truths, The Four Noble Truths, and The Noble Eightfold Path. Buddhism, which is a philosophy of life, often takes these teachings into account when it comes to making choices – everything from the importance of meditation, right through to the types of food or clothing which can help liberate sentient beings from suffering. One of the three ‘trainings’ or practices in Buddhism, Sila, is based on equality and reciprocity. That is, all living entities have equal value and, ideally, Buddhists do unto others as they wish them to do unto themselves. How can this principle affect the way human beings express themselves through fashion?

Sila And Kind Fashion
Because all sentient things are equal, and one of the five precepts of Buddhism involves the absence of violence, vegan and environmentally friendly clothing can be a good choice for Shambhala Buddhists wishing to preserve life and exercise kindness. When shopping for vegan and sustainable wear, researching beforehand can enlighten Buddhists on the many fascinating ways in which companies are showing authentic commitment. Some companies (like WAMA), for instance, make underwear from hemp, thus saving hundreds of thousands of days of drinking water and a similar number of hours of LED bulb energy. Others (like BeetxBeet) directly aid various animal rights organizations. Moo Shoes, meanwhile, contain no animal products, and even use non-vegan glue. If you are trying out vegan fashion for the first time, you may be surprised at the wide array of items available, including clothing, shoes, belts and bags.

Letting Go of Attachment
It is possible to love fashion without becoming a slave to it. This idea is in line with the noble truth of Nirodha, which states that attachment to things can be overcome. When it comes to fashion, one can demonstrate liberation from material possession in many ways. Just one, for instance, can involve being happy with the items already in your wardrobe – especially classic items that can last for many years and form part of different looks. Must-have items most people have in their wardrobes include black pants or jeans, leggings, or sweatpants. Add a wow factor to black pants by pairing them with a sparkly T-shirt, oversized blouse or cute fitted T, or style them casually by pairing them with an item such as a hoodie or sweater. You can also use different shoes – think heels, sneakers or army boots – to change the look of simple, everlasting items.

Unleashing Creativity
Creativity is strongly linked to one’s state of being. Those who are in a balanced state – one in which their body, mind and spirit are calm and at peace – can express their creativity through the colors and styles of clothing they choose. Creativity can be unleashed in many ways, one of which is by ridding yourself of negative energies through meditation and adjusting your focus. It can also be fostered by taking time to analyze the obstacles that are holding you back, clearing away negative thoughts and self-judgment, and nurturing yourself.

There are many ways in which Buddhist beliefs can determine the choices we make when it comes to fashion. We can embrace vegan clothing, for instance, as well as items which are made sustainably. Finally, we can focus on expressing ourselves through clothing without becoming attached to the experience of shopping.

After taking a career sabbatical to become a mother, Jackie now writes full time on topics ranging from health and wellness right through to news and current affairs. She has, in the past, battled problems with anxiety and panic, and in her spare time she volunteers for a number of local charities that support people with mental health issues.