On the train home this evening I sat next to a mother and her young son, who was probably about four or five. What struck me when I sat down next to the three-seater row was that they were each reading a book. It was such a refreshing sight to see a parent and child holding a hard copy book instead of being absorbed in their phones watching some video or playing an online game.

The little boy was reading a two-colour tone (orange and black) picture book which had drawings of funny looking creatures accompanied by some short narratives. He was absorbed in his book and I just found that so nice to see. So much so that I turned to his mum and said, “It’s so nice to see him reading a book instead of looking at a screen.” His mother smiled at what I said and as I finished my sentence the boy turned his head up to ask his mum what I had said and she told him exactly what I said to her a moment ago.

If I had a kid, I’d definitely read a lot to my child. My child would have grown up with books. Sadly, children are not a part of my life. Oh well, that’s how life has played out.

In any case, below’s a book I read recently.

The book is about shinrin-yoku, or what the Japanese call “forest bathing”. It talks about the significance of trees and the forests in Japan.

Komorebi – what a beautiful word! The book also talks about forest and nature therapy and the benefits that can be derived from reconnecting with nature. That is, a calmer and more relaxed state of mind.

In addition, the book tells how urban dwellers can bring the forrst into our lives for better well-being. For example, having potted plants in the home, having wooden furniture (hence my dining table), diffusing essential oils etc.

The book has beautiful pictures of forests and leaves – just looking at those pictures puts me in a better mood!

I love libraries and my neighbourhood library is probably the place I go to most often apart from my home and office! It’s the only place where I’m actually benefitting from the high taxes I pay. I’ve also been reading Chinese books which I borrow from the library. I’m currently reading a book originally published in Hong Kong about the different areas in Hong Kong of literary significance. The book is resonating with me as I have been to most of the places that are written about in this compilation of short essays. More on that later!