Contemplation: a state of mind that few of the seething centres of Far Eastern metropoles can claim to foster
In central Hà Nội the peace around Hoàn Kiếm Lake is as good as it gets, despite it being next to a four lane one-way traffic system. Early in the day especially, a great number of people avail themselves of this relative peace.
The small island in the Lake (Tháp Rùa) with its monument forms one of the most popular prospects
The lamps around the lake form perfect seats for contemplation
Contemplation by Hoàn Kiếm is egalitarian: school-boy or octogenarian makes no difference to the pleasure
Seats are provided, many of these are in the shade of the specimen trees that surround the Lake
Walking or sitting by the Lake is the pleasure of local residents and visitors alike. And for many of these there is also a more specific intention, that of meditation - most especially at dawn.
Buddhists monks are not common in Hà Nội but sometimes they may be seen near the Lake - standing in contemplation for long periods with their alms bowls
Fishing is a form of contemplation never seen at Hoàn Kiếm for the turtles and fish which live there are vigorously protected by everyone. This photo was taken on the larger Hồ Tây Lake three miles away.
Some snatch a quiet session of meditation while out on their errands
Palms upwards and finger-tips touching
A woman sits normally, only her complete lack of movement showing her meditation
Hands with palms upwards
The forms of meditation are numerous; some walking, some standing and some sitting. The attention to the arms and hands is noticeable, maybe showing the form of meditation being practiced.
...or on the head
Standing allows the arms greater scope: behind, stretched out...
The gardeners and park keepers ensure the context for one's reflections, whatever these may be, are second to none
The time to be by Hoàn Kiếm Lake is at dawn. A delightful place to quietly welcome the new day The next page has more images of Hoàn Kiếm Lake in central Hà Nội.
The last page visited Lý Thái Tổ Square
Another place for contemplation - Edinburgh's Botanic Gardens
To some cool water in Iceland
