Starting Green Living from Within: NSYSU and Mu-Yu Zhong-Lin Lead "A Date between the Inner Universe and Nature"

The Earth's ecosystems are under increasing threat from human activities that cause air, ocean, and soil pollution, biodiversity loss, and extreme weather driven by global warming. Many of these environmental crises stem from a lack of awareness about how human actions impact nature—or from a loss of emotional and scientific connection to the planet. To rekindle that inner bond with nature, the Aerosol Science Research Center (ASRC) of National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) collaborated with Mu-Yu Zhong-Lin Mindfulness Education Institute to host "A Date between the Inner Universe and Nature." The event integrated the core principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Inner Development Goals (IDGs), guiding participants through mindful breathing and eating in a natural setting to reflect deeply on the interconnections among self, others, and the natural world.

Professor Chia C. Wang, Director of NSYSU's ASRC, remarked that the human body is like a microcosm of the universe, constantly perceiving light, sound, and chemical signals from nature at the microscopic level of quantum mechanics. Yet people often overlook the profound interconnectedness between humanity and nature. The "A Date between the Inner Universe and Nature" workshop integrated key IDG competencies such as self-awareness and presence, guiding participants to explore their inner universe through the five senses and rediscover their intimate bond with nature and its unconditional support. Wang emphasized that only through mindful gratitude and awareness can people truly resonate with nature, cultivating empathy and taking meaningful action to address the ecological crises facing the planet—embodying sustainability from the inside out.

The ASRC at NSYSU also leads AeroMUSIC, an international co-learning network dedicated to inclusive and adaptive education, promoting sustainability education across diverse communities. For this event, the ASRC partnered with Ms. Yi-He Li, founder of Mu-Yu Zhong-Lin Eco-Spiritual Farm—a pioneer in sustainable green living and recipient of Pingtung County's Excellence in Environmental Friendliness and Sustainable Operation awards—and Ms. Yu-Ling Chen, leader of the Earth Music Elves Ensemble. Together, they guided participants through rich sensory experiences—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch—immersing them in nature's rhythms. Through music and mindful interaction, participants experienced the harmony between their inner universe and the natural world, embracing the beauty of coexistence with all living beings.