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Curiosity, Healing & Adventure
  • Nina Mizuno
  • Nina Mizuno

Curiosity, Healing & Adventure

Australia, Bali, Malaysia, Nepal, Japan... Read more
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  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Changing tides in Gili Air

    July 12, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F

    Since I arrived in Gili Air, I have been struggling with bed bug bites🤕. My night in Pandang Bai left me with what looked like a rash on my left leg and back. The hive like breakout had me confused about what it's cause was. To make matters worse, I could not go in the ocean without feeling the sting of jellyfish🪼.

    With discomfort and inflammation in my body, I also started to lose my mind🤯. Feeling a breaking point, I surrendered😞.

    My mind was able to see the disharmony and went into manager mode to find relief. Immediate and long-term plans began to morphe into refuge and healing.

    Today feels like the first day of ease in over a week.

    I broke out my skin suit and enjoyed a day of snorkeling. I am aware that the people I love are in a massive heat wave. I am grateful. Today, I could truly feel the many blessings in my life.

    While last week I was in a low, I likely appreciate today's high more because of it.

    I've been reflecting on whether hardship is needed for transformation and growth, as I am tired of the combo. Why has my growth tested my resolve? Was it to build my resilience?

    My upcoming three week retreat, my hardest (based on observing 8 precepts - no eating after lunch🥴) and longest, has me anxious and already resistant. It will likely be my most humble accommodation in my life based on their description.

    My biggest concern is their ban against toilet paper 🧻. I've been seeing hoses near the toilet since I arrived in Asia. I even tried one as a bidet and got water everywhere. They are, in fact, used for cleaning oneself. I guess that is why Indonesia does not like to give out toilet paper either.

    I imagine the hose aim and pressure combo will take some practice. Anyways, wiping myself clean is not something I want to get that intimate with - resistance!!!

    I think of other spiritual quests like the Native American Vision Quests or Aboriginal Walkabout. These practices are far more difficult than any Buddhist retreat, right? Well, if you knew what is on my mind, you might think twice 😱👹🙈.

    With that as motivation, I feel it necessary to challenge myself in hopes of reaching my growth tipping point that I have been chasing.

    Also, if you are the praying type, please send some love to animals on this island. They suffer.

    I also hope this island would do more to educate on coral care. It really annoys me to see so many ignorant people step on these beautiful living creatures. May they see their harm.

    Today was a good day! I feel better. Thank you!    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Ubud

    July 18, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ⛅ 82 °F

    Back in Bali and in the frenetic city of Ubud. I'm tempted by all the commerce available here. It seems that is what you do here, eat and shop.

    I've already spent more than I planned. See my pic of new ring-I can't resist a lotus. I best spend more time enjoying the pool. Besides, I plan to go crazy shopping in Nepal where the prices are likely less than here. It's all very tempting.

    I visited a museum today and not surprised by the quality of art. As I said, there are beautiful clothes and crafts that line these streets.

    I also found a warung (local casual dining) on a cute pathway. Ubud has many roads that can only be accessed on foot.

    I did a terrace hike that was suppose to have views but didn't.

    A long day out, and 21,132 steps/8.52 miles! I think my stamina is better here because of the cooler temperatures. The high today was 82 degrees.

    The best part of my day was my healing session with Kadek. I'm going to post separately about that.

    Excellent day!! Gratitude swelling!!!    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Healing with Kadek

    July 18, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F

    I did a lot of research to find authentic traditional healers. Today, I had a session with Kadek Sutarna.

    He begins with an energetic scan. Then, he intuitively offers areas that can be improved.

    Kadek first words are, "As I see you have a great strong power, to influence your power in communications. I also see you have a healing power of energies. You need to help more people. Spirit world is where you have power, very good. Be mindful of your thoughts. I see they are still overwhelming... "

    I've been hearing about my healing abilities at almost every intuitive session I've had, and I have had a lot. In the last two years, I have finally surrendered to it, meaning accepting that is my path.

    In 2024, I have been told by three shamans/healers that I do not need to acquire knowledge. I need confidence.

    Kadek asked what I did, and I shared that I have been practicing Buddhism and trying to develop my healing powers over the last three years. I explained that I am waiting for a transmission to step into it.

    Kadek was pleased and said no waiting. I need to love and believe in myself. That's all. He offered a prayer/affirmation/intention to say daily, basically expressing gratitude for my gifts and ability to help people. There were also many statements of self-love and compassion.

    He instructed me to do a cleanse/fast for 24-48 hours, as he saw some of my issues are in my 3rd chakra (digestive system and lower back). I've known that since I was a kid with my nervous stomach and as an adult how stress impacts my digestion.

    He did some energy work on my. He gave me blessed water to drink and state intentions with over the course of a week.

    Water is my purifier per Kadek, while the Mayan shaman told me it was breath. Luckily, I have been doing both with intention.

    He gave me a bracelet for protection with three intertwining strings with mantra om mani padme hum, my goto mantra when I chant.

    It was all beautiful and sweet.

    I love myself. I'm sorry for my shortcomings and to those I have wronged or hurt. I
    I forgive myself. I forgive all those who have harmed me. I release my pain and sorrow and make room for more love and light. I love you, and I am grateful for you.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler
    1

    Pura - Purification

    July 20, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ⛅ 77 °F

    A must on my list was visiting the holy water temples. My driver first stopped at a lovely rice field and waterfall along the way. Then we arrived at Pure Tirta Empul.

    Although the most known, I opted not to go into the water as it just seemed like a tourist event. You'll see the filled pools with people in green sarongs.

    I opted to do my purification at the Pura Mengening. This was less crowded and mostly locals.

    The process was to start in one pool by rinsing in a main channel followed by 4 other spouts. This is followed by another pool with 3 spouts and ending with another main channel. Before bowing to the water, I stated an intention. I purchased offeringsof flowers and incense to leave around the temple.

    It was amazing. This was the first time I went into water with intention of devotion and ceremony.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Monkey Forest

    July 21, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ⛅ 81 °F

    The monkey forest was another tourist spot that I felt mixed emotions. I enjoyed seeing the monkeys and their grooming and reproductive rituals. I took issue with foreigners breaking rules like giving them inorganic items for the sake of a picture.

    The exploitive nature of Bali saddens me. Much of the beautiful nature and wildlife are treated as mere commodities. May all living beings receive the care and respect they deserve 🙏.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Heavens Gate

    July 22, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 72 °F

    The night before my scheduled tour of the Heavens Gate, I read the reviews and understood it is a major tourist trap. Too late to change plans, I tried to keep an open mind.

    Having to leave at 4:00am for a 2 hour drive to avoid long lines did not excite me. 😐

    I will spare you the details, but I did wait 3 hours to take a picture at the gate. From my arrival, I was apprehensive but kept saying to myself I made it this far don't give up. In the end, it wasn't worth the effort.

    Now, when I look at the photos, I realize I didn't get the 4+ poses everyone else did. The one I wanted most wasn't captured. An hour a pose 😣 .    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Tirta Gangga

    July 22, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ⛅ 77 °F

    Tirta Gangga was an image from my 2024 vision board I made in December.

    I haven't looked at it since then until now. I realize this whole travel adventure is what I asked for. Asian temples and holy sites, hot springs, snorkeling, and shamans are all represented.

    Wow... I totally forgot about it.

    And the koi were massive.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Nusa Dua

    July 24, 2024 in Indonesia ⋅ ☀️ 82 °F

    My last night in Bali and I decided to treat myself to the resort area of Nusa Dua. It is arguably one of the best beaches on Bali. I paid a whopping $27 on the splurge.

    It did not disappoint. Everything was nicer than what I have had in Bali. It made me consider the cost of comfort.

    Trying to stay economical, I've observed myself getting stressed out over a couple of dollars. I associated part of that to the 1 to 1,600 conversions, as the prices were so big. I imagine my empathy also kicked in. I felt the poverty mentality and perhaps demonstrated it myself.

    As I explored Nusa Dua and swam at the beach in front of Club Med, I noticed the laid-back mentality there. No one accosted me as they did in other towns. No one begged or laid a guilt trip for me to spend money. It was relaxing to just enjoy. Did this have to do with the luxury vibe the resorts brought to the town? Were employees and business owners successful enough to not have to pressure themselves or others? It was very curious to me.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Kinabalu, Borneo: Tanjung Aru Beach

    July 25, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ ☀️ 88 °F

    Yay! I'm in Malaysia. It was a long day of travel. I had to connect in Jakarta with a flight delay, almost missing my connecting flight. I fortunately hooked up with a Malaysian woman from the US and her family to guide me through the terminals and gates. It was the first conversation with Americans since I've been traveling. They were relaxed in spite of how late we arrived. With 6 of them, the airline would not leave us. And in their company, I didn't panic. Whew!

    Getting off the plane, I noticed it is hotter here. Excessive heat warnings are throughout the country for the next day. Then showers arrive in the weekend to cool things down.

    After dropping off my bag, I headed to Tarjung Aru Beach. It is the best beach in Kota Kinabalu. I only booked one night on this side of town, so I must check it out.

    The beach has a night market with food stalls and a little souvenir. The beach was filled with hundreds of people there to watch the sunset, too.

    So far, I can see there are some things that are cheaper, like rideshare drives, water, and food. I paid $2 for rice and 5 satay sticks. I paid $.25 for a liter of water. I paid $1.5 for a 5 km ride from the airport.

    But fresh juice drinks were $5 compared to $2 on Bali. I'm sure I'll be comparing and contrasting in the beginning.

    I can already see that Malaysians speak better English. In Bali, it was about a 40% understanding rate. I had to use simple sentences.

    It is much cleaner here. Driving is more civilized. And sidewalks are not death hazards.

    I'm grateful because I don't think I could have continued with more frenzy and chaos. I know I'll be back in it when I get to Katmandu so this is a nice break.

    Day 1 of6 weeks, 5 cities/towns in Malaysia.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    KK Ming Garden

    August 2, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ ☁️ 82 °F

    After 3 nights in a crowded hostel, I booked another accommodation for comfort. I spent the last few days in KK in a hotel like room. With a fridge, knife, and cutting board, I ate salads every meal. It was great.

    And I went out with my new friend Judith from Germany. All my connections have been with European women. I have yet to meet an American solo traveler.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Georgetown Penang

    August 4, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ ☁️ 86 °F

    I'm in the colonial town of Georgetown. It is famous for its food and street art.

    This town is influenced by Chinese and Indian immigrants.

    Spiritually, I feel the diversity of faith from mosques, temples, and churches. 🕌 🛕 ⛪️

    I arrived on Day 1 of the hungry ghost festival to see Buddhist and Chinese burn offerings to appease the unrested.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Penang Hill & Botanical Gardens

    August 6, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ ☁️ 79 °F

    On my last full day, I had to visit Penang Hill. Unfortunately, it was rainy and cloudy,so the famous view was not visible. Before leaving I stopped at the Hindu temple. I love the colors and attention to detail they offer.

    I decided to walk to the botanical gardens. I knew it was 5.2 kilometers, but nothing mentioned the steep grade and slippery surface. I ate it once, and it stung!

    So tired by the time I arrived at the gardens I barely explored. My feet were burning! I did enjoy the monkeys 🐒.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Kek Lok Si Temple

    August 6, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ ☁️ 86 °F

    A trip to Penang would not be complete without visiting the towering statue of Quan Yin.

    Previously, I burned an offering for my ancestors at the Temple of Mercy, a smaller temple in town.

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Batu Ferringhi

    August 9, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ 🌧 81 °F

    My last days before I start my 3-week retreat are in Batu Ferringhi. Based on reviews and guide books, it is the best beach on Penang.

    It's okay, but I haven't been in the water. After being here, I learned jellyfish are a big problem. The water isn't clean, as the straight if Malacca is one of the busiest ship lanes.

    The last two days, I see my overall disappointment with Asia. I see my own delusion and naivete. The reality is there is a lot of pollution. Health and hygiene standards are low.

    Yet, I can't judge. This is the way it is. All I can do is observe my discomfort for now.

    I no longer have the desire to explore Southeast Asia. As of right now, i feel Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam will have to be another time.

    If I leave Asia, then where will I winter?

    I have much to process and reflect during my upcoming retreat. I pray for clarity and guidance. May I be clear enough to receive it.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Sasanarrakkha Buddhist Sanctuary

    August 12, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ ☁️ 90 °F

    After 2 weeks, I was ready to leave this retreat center. A lot of my challenges arose out of my comparing mind. The differences in practice and culture were a constant challenge for me. The teachings emphasized causes and conditions, so I was constantly aware of my afflicted mind.

    The most beautiful places of the center were off limits, which didn't make me happy. The pictures of me at the waterfall were during a short group visit. I was not allowed to return.

    The monks had their own compound, which I got to visit once on a supervised group outing. It was so beautiful that it made me perceive our 'lay people' side was not important.

    The hardest part for me was the inconsistencies in the renunciation of precepts. Equality and fairness are a sticky point for me, so when rules feel arbitrary, it triggers my inner justice.

    With all of those mental formations, I was really grateful for the break. I slept deeply and rested.

    The weather was tricky as it rained daily. When it didn't rain, it was extremely hot. I learned to appreciate the rain in spite of the mosquitoes it gave birth to.

    The center was between a large cemetery below and a tropical jungle above. I, along with others, felt the presence of spirits regularly. On our first (recorded) dharma talk, Bante Agga Citta spoke of the demons in the forest that they converted to Buddhism. One night, I felt a malevolent energy as I got up to go to the bathroom. I'm usually not scared, but this feeling made me uneasy. We were taught to chant metta because spirits understand love; so I did. When I woke up the next morning, the dog was sleeping on my porch. He's usually sleeps on the other side of the center, so I took this as a sign of protection.

    Anyways, a lot of interesting stuff happened that was not typical to my previous retreat experiences.

    All in all, I appreciated the opportunity.    Read more

  • Nina MizunoCuriosity, Healing & AdventureTraveler

    Cameron Highlands

    August 28, 2024 in Malaysia ⋅ ☁️ 70 °F

    I added Cameron Highlands to my itinerary because it is known for its natural beauty.

    On a hike, the first hour was strenuous, straight uphill. Coming down was also tricky as the trail was slippery a steep. Feeling somewhat accomplished toward the end, I was swarmed by biting insects. Although I was covered head to toe and with a hat, I instantly felt the stings. They attacked my head first, which gave an instant rush of heat and pain. As I reactively started waving my arms to get them away, they began to attack my body and face. They were aggressive and relentless. It felt like a Hitckcock movie.

    Adrenaline rushed through my body. I ran, and they continued to attack me. Metta chanting didn't help. After about 500 meters, the attack stopped. My head was on fire and in severe pain. Afraid to stop, I kept on going. I had to hike another 30 minutes in extreme pain. I only stopped a few times to cry and wipe my nose.

    Once I got to the main road I called a taxi. I considered going to a health clinic. But the bites were not very visible despite the pain.

    I came home, took a shower, and took pain reliever and antihistamine. I dabbed hydrocortisone on the dozen or so bites. I fell asleep, still feeling pain on my scalp and arms.

    It was bizzare.

    I woke this morning and felt better. There is just minor irritation at the bite points, and now they are more visible. Still, I decided to take it easy and enjoy my accommodations.    Read more

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