Health is the ultimate Profit
Lord Buddha, while residing at the Jetavana Monastery in Savatthi, India, uttered this verse in response to an episode involving King Pasenadi. The king had overeaten and was experiencing discomfort, which led to a teaching moment where Buddha emphasized the values of health, contentment, trust, and Nibbāna.
Arōgyā paramā lābhā
Santuṭṭhiparamaṃ dhanaṃ
vissāsa paramā ñāti
Nibbānaṃ paramaṃ sukhaṃ
Health is the ultimate profit,
Happiness the ultimate wealth,
A trusted friend your best relative,
Nibbāna the supreme bliss
I truly understood this when illness struck. About a decade ago, I received a dire warning during my annual check-up. Overweight closing in on 200 lbs, with high blood pressure, on the brink of diabetes and cholesterol out of control—I was a mess. The doctor prescribed a list of medications, and I knew I was in deep trouble.
The urgency for change hit me. My life had been all work, with everything else secondary. One evening, I reminisced about the peaceful family afternoon tea ritual of my childhood. We drank tea in silence, all five of us basking in pure tranquility. I realized that was exactly what I needed at that critical moment.
That evening after work, I began the ritual and made it a habit; every evening, sipping tea with intent. Initially, my mind raced, but I persisted. Week by week, I found calm, became mindful of my eating, and started exercising.
A year later, my check-up was transformative: cholesterol down, blood pressure stable, diabetes risk eliminated, and 35 lbs lighter. I was calmer, more present.
The tea’s antioxidants cleansed my body, enhancing my meditation.
This journey inspired me to create my own tea blend, embodying health, peace, and mindfulness.
