Our inner character is reflected in our outer expression, and to improve everything from how we carry ourselves to even the look in our eyes, classical literature says that a person must first refine his or her character.
Among the better self-help guides of the past is a Japanese book for samurai written by a 17th-century Confucian scholar named Yamaga Soko. In his book “Way of the Knight,” he explained that to make genuine improvements in outer appearance, a person must first look inward.
Calm the Mood, the Mind Will Follow
Soko gives a simple formula on how to refine yourself: Calm your mood, and your mind will follow.
Joshua Philipp is senior investigative reporter and host of “Crossroads” at The Epoch Times. As an award-winning journalist and documentary filmmaker, his works include “The Real Story of January 6” (2022), “The Final War: The 100 Year Plot to Defeat America” (2022), and “Tracking Down the Origin of Wuhan Coronavirus” (2020).
How to Chill Out Like the Samurai
These men of mettle had a surprisingly relaxed disposition
Calm the Mood, the Mind Will Follow
Soko gives a simple formula on how to refine yourself: Calm your mood, and your mind will follow.