Yana's Samsara

 The circle of life - birth and death, and rebirth - that's Samsara, a process that leads over time and many repetitions, to the state of nirvana. Samsara is the name of Yana Dakota's var region on AMV, a region that's undergoing renewal and growth. HG Address at the end of the post, as always.

It was a pretty quick rez as the hordes of Safarians arrived - we've been having slow textures for a few weeks, but this time, they all arrived in the little dock house with seconds of lag only. It's a big region, so everyone tried to keep their draw distances and other bells and whistles to a minimum, of course.

Yana Dakota: Namaste to Samsara. Creating the Samsara region in the Alternate Metaverse has been a labor of love. My goal was to design a space that encourages introspection and spiritual growth. Every detail, from the high-detailed builds to the serene environment, was crafted to provide a peaceful and immersive experience. The music and viewer settings are optimized to enhance the overall atmosphere, making it feel more engaging and calming.

Elegant and lagbusting the ladies of the Safari are unbeatable!

If the name of this sim is familiar to you it's because there was an interview with Yana on this blog a few weeks back. This was an opportunity for Yana to show off her favorite pieces and also to explain so much about this belief system that is so close to hear heart. 

Sun Tzu and Cherry B - Cherry has that chinese hat, a gift from Yana

Yana was on the dock, giving out chinese hats when we arrived , she was there to welcome us together with Cataplexia Numbers and Clifford Hanger, grid owners at Alternate Metaverse Grid. 

Cat and Cliff

Yana Dakota: At the heart of Samsara is the Dhamma Hall, a dedicated space for Vipassana meditation. This hall is designed to be a quiet and contemplative space, perfect for practicing mindfulness and self-awareness. The sessions are designed to help participants develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their surroundings, promoting inner peace and clarity.

Welcome area

Yana Dakota: I hope that visitors to Samsara find it to be a place where they can truly connect with their inner selves and embark on a journey of self-discovery. The combination of the serene environment, detailed builds, and Vipassana meditation sessions creates a holistic experience that encourages personal growth and enlightenment....  the first  scene we visit by  foot ,   so follow me please... 

Through a forest of bamboo we hurried after Yana, that's the fin part of these trips you're never quite sure where the host is leading you. And then the landscape opened up, and we all saw this door in the wall..

... and the enchanting garden beyond it.

Cherry B: oh cute place

Sunshine Szavanna: beautiful :)

Yana Dakota: This  was my second creation on Samsara  and started building  around it. A zen pond, or "chisen" (池泉) in Japanese, plays a vital role in traditional Japanese gardens.  They are meticulously designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape, incorporating natural elements such as rocks, plants, and fish to create a harmonious scene.  

Yana Dakota: The elements within the pond often hold symbolic meanings. For example, rocks might represent mountains or islands, while the water symbolizes the flow of life. The serene environment of a zen pond encourages mindfulness and meditation. The sight and sound of water, along with the presence of koi fish, help calm the mind and promote a sense of inner peace.  Zen ponds also foster a deep connection with nature, encouraging visitors to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of the natural world. The overall goal is to create a peaceful retreat that brings balance and serenity to those who visit. Isn't it fascinating how much thought and intention goes into these beautiful spaces?

Thirza Ember: how big is the region Yana?

Yana Dakota: the region  used to be a 2x2   but it will be expanded  to   5X5  and working on it. so  it would be something for a second tour

 Cherry B: really beautiful job, yana

Thirza Ember: Yana were you interested in meditation before you found virtual worlds? Or did you discover it here?

Fish legs! Love it.

Yana Dakota: No  Thirza, i was raised partly Buddhist  and i did    together 300  hours  of meditation in noble  silence 3 weeks long in the UK... and trust me that was really hard, but i managed. Shall  we go to the next  scene   ?

Thirza Ember: lead on, we all have good walking shoes

Star Ravenhurst: Yana why did you decide to incorporate fairies into the build? They are nice to see, but wondering why.

Yana Dakota: yeah i know.. i just liked them /laughs/  there will need a replacement,  though,  for them

Star Ravenhurst: Well in virtual we can do anything we want to.

Yana led us to the rather foreboding looking entrance to a cave. In we went (we're a trusting lot) and we all marched down a very impressive tunnel. Not easy to get proportions right inworld, so that the tunnel feels small, but your cam doesn't get caught up in the stonework. Goot tip on Safari, find George, you can always recognize him by his hat, and follow. 

And boom, we were suddenly embraced by golden light.

Yana Dakota: Tai chi, also known as tai chi chuan, is a Chinese martial art that has evolved into a form of exercise known for its health benefits. It involves a series of slow, controlled movements and postures, often accompanied by deep breathing.

Petlove Petshop: Very pretty work !

Thirza Ember: Yana do you organize events here? or is it for informal meditation?

Star Ravenhurst: You have created a very peaceful environment. I would love to come here for an event when you have it.

Yana Dakota: there are plans for it thirza   bt dont know when it will start, i can keep you  informed

Cataplexia Numbers: She's had a few tho

Yana Dakota: yes but I will do it on a regular basis as well,  Cat

Cataplexia Numbers: great! There's so much to see here.

Clifford Hanger: love the sounds here

James Atlloud

Yana listed the benefits of tai chi - it is good for fertility, coordination, flexibility, cardio health, mental clarity, and reduces anxiety. All essentials on Safari. Although, maybe not the fertility. James was almost unrecognizable in kimono and hat, but his footwear gave him away.

James Atlloud: ha ha ha - my signature shoes always work.

Petlove Petshop: atomic crocs!

Forest Azure: is there an onsen too, Yana?  a bath house?

Yana Dakota: ooh yes, there is, you're always free to visit  Forest...  ok  lets go   people, to the Monks  and temple

Off we went, past the Taoist stones, until we came to this impressive building. Having sound on here is an essential part of the experience - the whole place comes alive. 

Yana Dakota:  Buddhist chants, often referred to as "mantras" or "sutras," are an essential part of Buddhist practice and ritual. These chants are not only a form of prayer but also a method of meditation and a way to connect with the teachings of the Buddha.They help focus the mind, cultivate inner peace, and generate positive energy. 

Forest Azure: I went to Japan a few years ago 

Star.Ravenhurst: Lucky you Forest! Next time you have to tuck me in your suitcase.  I LOVE this! Love the sounds.

Clifford Hanger: i was there twice in 92

Forest Azure: I loved the politeness there, even if it is just outside.

Star Ravenhurst: Yes we could learn a lot from them and their customs.

Did you know there are two types of chants?   Mantras are short phrases or syllables repeated in a rhythmic manner. One of the most well-known mantras is "Om Mani Padme Hum," associated with the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Avalokiteshvara.  Sutras are longer texts that often contain teachings or stories of the Buddha. The Heart Sutra and the Lotus Sutra are examples of important Buddhist scriptures that are chanted.

Yana Dakota: Buddhist chanting is a deeply spiritual practice that transcends the mere recitation of words. It creates a connection between the practitioner and the profound teachings of Buddhism, fostering a sense of harmony, mindfulness, and compassion. The style of chanting can vary widely. Some chants are melodic and soothing, while others can be more rhythmic and vigorous. Monks may chant in unison or in a call-and-response manner. Chanting usually takes place in temples, monasteries, or during special ceremonies. Monks often chant together during daily rituals, meditation sessions, or special events like festivals. Sometimes, musical instruments like bells, drums, or cymbals accompany the chanting to enhance the atmosphere and rhythm.

Cataplexia Numbers: My favorite : "Aum, let there be well-being for all, let there be peace for all, let there be completeness for all, let there be auspiciousness for all."

James Atlloud: oh, I just toggled voice and it's on.  Shall we all chant together?  <joke> I can't chant.

Cherry B: Yana .... and is there a shinto shrine too ?

Yana Dakota: yes there are a few  all over the region, there is a   village as well, i can show you around for 4 hours if needed

Cherry B: i will find them next time *smiles*

Ideally, one should just wander from site to sight... to sight... on this region, but as usual our time was limited, and Yana had very carefully planned the tour - this part involved a quick TP to shortcut a walk of about 15 minutes. 

Cherry B: oh .... looks like a inari shrine

Yana Dakota: Imagine a path lined with hundreds of vibrant red gates, each step taking you closer to tranquility and connection with the spiritual world. Have you had a chance to visit any such torii paths? No?... follow me

Yana Dakota: it just started raining

Clifford Hanger: that's what you call rain

Lavia Lavine: And I didn't bring an umbrella

Petlove Petshop: my hair's going to curl right up!

Cherry B: a chinowa gate .... wow

Yana Dakota: Zen gardens, also known as Japanese rock gardens or "karesansui," are designed to evoke peace and reflection. The rocks and stones represent mountains or islands. Sand or Gravel: Raked into patterns to symbolize water or waves. 

Petlove looks contemplative

Yana Dakota: Minimalism: Simple, clean designs with natural materials. Stepping stones encourage mindful walking. Plants: Sparse vegetation like moss and small shrubs. These gardens offer a serene space for meditation and connection to nature. Their simplicity and beauty inspire tranquility and mindfulness. 

Forest is ready for any weather

Forest Azure: so who is going to rake all this after our visit?

Yana Dakota: okay next one   ready  this will be a bit scary... straight  down   peeps, you can not fall...

 Yana Dakota: Hidden Zen Garden As you descend the ancient stone stairs through the thick mist, the sound of the waterfall beside you grows stronger, its soothing presence guiding you downwards. The mist creates an ethereal, calming atmosphere, wrapping you in a sense of serenity and anticipation. 

Yana Dakota:  As you reach the bottom, the mist begins to clear, revealing a beautifully designed Zen garden. Instead of sand patterns, the ground is covered in soft, mossy greenery that invites you to walk barefoot and feel the cool, natural texture beneath your feet.  The large stones are artfully placed to create a harmonious balance, symbolizing mountains and islands.

Yana Dakota: The waterfall to your right cascades down smoothly over the rocks, feeding into a tranquil pool surrounded by lush plants and delicate flowers.  This hidden sanctuary, with its misty descent, verdant ground, and soothing waterfall, offers a perfect escape for quiet reflection and inner peace. 

Cherry B: what beautiful japanese place this is - this is your best work

Yana Dakota: I could live here

Sun Tzu: `Very nice... Very relaxing here too

Yana Dakota: Thank you Cherry

Dings Digital: this has a wonderful immersive quality

Tina Bey: wau

James Atlloud: Such beauty

Petlove Petshop: everything is really exquisite

Sunshine Szavanna: love the sounds

Star Ravenhurst: I could stay in this place forever. I try to meditate at least a few minutes daily. It has really helped with some challenges in this past year.

Mal Burns: Beautiful and so much of kit -[ will need a later ramble

Thirza Ember: do you have a favorite part of all this Yana?

Yana Dakota

Yana Dakota: uhmmmm... I need to think ...  yes, i do...  the dancing  women at   some other place  here on the region  i can sit there  for hours and watch them... and there is  also a woman playing the  koto

Cherry B: i love your whole place *smiles*

Dings Digital: a wonderful place

Tina Bey: I love the atmosphere, the mist... everything is very beautiful

Thirza Ember:  it's interesting how a place takes on a different identity when there are many people, or when you are also

Yana Dakota: yes it is Thirza, and I love all the comments, so great, and the questions

Well, it wouldn't be Safari if we weren't on a schedule...

Thirza Ember: this has been a joy Yana, thank you so much for showing us a  tiny part of this creation... we have to go, but wow what a dreamy visit this has been

Clifford Hanger: oh my that passed so quickly... ty Yana, very impressive

Lavia Lavine: My goodness where has the time gone?

Cherry B: i am so happy to join the tour today

Sunshine Szavanna: thanks Yana, will be back :)

Yana Dakota: yes anytime,  there is a shop here as well

Star Ravenhurst: Oh no! Time to go already! Thank you so much for showing us around Yana! It has been a real delight!

Yana Dakota: you're so welcome Thirza and for being here, I am very honored with your visit to Samsara

Forest Azure: ty so much for the great tour, Yana

James Atlloud: wow, yes, thank you Yana - this is amazing.  Such attention to detail and emotion.

George Equus: 素敵なツアーをありがとうございました。とても素晴らしいツアーでした！

HG Address: alternatemetaverse.com:8002:Samsara