The temples in Kyoto and Nara attract many visitors. Their gardens have existed for hundreds of years. When we see these gardens, we automatically find ourselves sitting down. Although we can view them while standing or walking, for some reason we find that we want to sit. Sitting encourages contemplation.
What we think about will differ from person to person, but when we encounter a garden, some of us may reflect upon the garden itself. By doing so, we transcend hundreds of years and are able to enjoy a quiet dialogue with the people who created it.
Within the relaxed flow of a contemplative state, we try to discover our own existence. It presents an opportunity to reexamine our everyday self.
It is very important to make time for this kind of experience. You need not go all the way to Kyoto or Nara—a garden, temple, or church in your neighborhood will do just as well.
Try sitting and having a dialogue with nature.