In recognition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s 95th birthday on October 9, Plum Village released a statement sharing updates about his health and wellbeing over the past year.
According to the statement, Thich Nhat Hanh has experienced increasing weakness over the past year, with special difficulty with his lungs and overall health during wet seasons. His difficulties are exacerbated during heavy rains in Spring and Autumn, which limit his capacity to go outside. The statement reported:
“In recent months, Thầy has been resting for most of the day with his eyes closed, yet he is often very alert, present and at peace. When the weather is fine, the attendants help Thầy to go out onto the veranda of the Deep Listening Hut to enjoy the sun. The pandemic has meant that this past year has above all been a year for the young monastics in Huế to spend time with Thầy in a very quiet yet joyful atmosphere, with many new young disciples taking turns to assist the attendant team.”
The statement from Plum Village also included some other updates from the community, including the release of Thich Nhat Hanh’s latest book, Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet, which addresses how to collectively combat global climate change. The post also included information on how to virtually participate in the Plum Village community, including through their annual 90-day Rains Retreat, and the Plum Village App which offers free meditations, practices, and other resources from Thich Nhat Hanh and his monastic community.
