Learning in Bhutan

Bhutan was an incredible learning experience and part of that was visiting the various institutions that were a part of keeping the traditions and culture of Bhutan alive. The School of Astrology is where young monks train in the art of astrology and locals come for readings. I had the fascinating and slightly surreal opportunity to have my stars read which included the strangely accurate locating of an auspicious birthmark and the prediction that I will live between two places, be self sufficient and have 3 or 5 blessed children. A few more interesting things to hopefully look forward to as well! That, and to avoid travel on Wednesdays.

The Institute of Traditional Medicine is where doctors are both researching natural medicines and practicing ancient traditional approaches to health and wellbeing. It was great to see a place where people could come for preventative and restorative natural medicine practices.

A few years ago, the School of 13 Arts was established to promote the practice of traditional arts such as mask making, sculpture, weaving, painting, metalwork, embroidery etc. The work is, ofcourse, exceptionally traditional. The quality of the final year students work is incredible and its interesting to see behind the scenes of what goes into keeping an ancient culture alive.