Washing the dishes – a chore most of us would rather avoid. But Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Buddhist monk and peace activist, saw this routine task as an opportunity for mindfulness practice.

In his philosophy, all our thoughts and actions, even the most mundane, can be imbued with sacredness. When we approach them with awareness, we become fully present in the moment.

"Each thought, each action in the sunlight of awareness becomes sacred," says Hanh. "In this light, no boundary exists between the sacred and the profane."

Washing the dishes mindfully isn't just about getting them clean. It's about savoring the act itself, the feel of warm water on your skin, the sound of clinking plates. It's about being present in the here and now, rather than dwelling on the past or fretting about the future.

This practice, according to Hanh, is a form of liberation. It frees us from the autopilot mode we often find ourselves in, allowing us to appreciate the simple beauty of everyday life.

So, the next time you find yourself washing the dishes, or doing any other chore, take a deep breath and try to be fully present. You might be surprised at the peace and joy you can find in the most ordinary activities. 🙂