The Himalayas: Source of life for half the world’s population
One glance at the mighty landscape and towering snow-peaks, and we are mesmerized forever. Stunning mountains, dense temperate forests, dazzling snow reflecting the sunlight, deep alluring chasms, winding rivers, rich varied biodiversity, and innumerable legends; all these describe the incredible Himalayas. ‘Hima’ meaning snow and ‘Alaya’ meaning ‘abode’ in Sanskrit, the mountains are a major part of the lives of Tibetans, Indians, Nepalis, and many others who live in proximity to these grand mountains.
Whether it’s the Shivaliks (the foothills of the mountains) or the highest peaks (Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and others), the Himalayas have inspired poets, fascinated tourists, and sustained more than half the earth’s population.
A Source of Livelihood
According to the World Wildlife Federation (WWF), the combined drainage basin of the Himalayas is home to some 3 billion people in 18 countries, almost half the world’s population. The mountain range is the source of 6 of Asia’s great rivers, including the Yangtze, Indus, and Ganges, and home to thousands of species of animals and plants. The importance of perennial rivers like the Ganges and Brahmaputra is well-known, and billions depend on the great Himalayan basin for agriculture. With nearly 15,000 glaciers, several lakes, streams, and small rivers, this range hosts the source of livelihood for countless people.
Biodiversity of the Himalayan Range – Flora
The Himalayan range is a unique geographical area where rich biodiversity exists. There is a permanent ‘snow line’ at the highest altitude which gives rise to perennial rivers like the Ganges and the Brahmaputra. The altitude, rainfall, and soil conditions along with snow result in distinct and diverse flora and fauna.
Oak forests, Pine forests, apple trees, dwarf pomegranate trees, orchids, deodar trees, blue bamboos, coral berry plants, Himalayan birches, and several herbal plants are found here…
Biodiversity of the Himalayan Range – Fauna
Whether it is the elusive endangered mountain snow leopard or the unique Himalayan marmot, these majestic mountains house a number of reptiles, mammals, birds, and insects like the Grey wolf, Tibetan fox, Eurasian lynx, Asian gold cat, Red panda, Grey langur, and Wood mouse apart from Jackdaws, Ravens, Bar-headed geese, and Peacocks which add colorful diversity and beauty to this region.
Two unique reptiles found here are the Indian Rock Python and Tibetan Spring snake.
Recently, the melting of glaciers and erosion of the soil of this mountain range have been a cause for concern for the entire world. Efforts to conserve the biodiversity and ecological balance of the Himalayas have been initiated on a global scale, with conservationists and scientists from various domains joining hands. It’s an endeavor that will have a great impact on the future of humankind itself since it will work towards the preservation of this beautiful region which is a giver of life to countless species, including human beings.
Words by Sterling Holidays
Walking meditation - Joy of the moment with hima jomo
In monasteries deep in the Himalayas, monks walk in groups, quietly through the woods, listening to the sound of the wind blowing through the leaves, walking through the snow-clad land, listening to the soft sound of the snow against the soles of their shoes.
Walking helps us create a wonderful connection with our own senses. We come closer to inner peace, joy, and the present moment, allowing us to nourish our hearts and minds. Walking with awareness brings calm consciousness and a deep healing power.
First, open yourself: Adjust your breathing during the walk, gently lift your feet, and feel the sensation of a deep connection between your feet and the earth as they touch the ground.
Take little conscious walks: Most walks are almost automatic, largely oblivious to your surroundings. Take a little conscious walk, connecting with what is around you, observing the natural shapes and temperature of things or objects.
Try to focus your attention: Concentrate on the energy that travels from your feet to the ground and the energy given back to you by the earth. How does that connection between the heart and the earth make you feel? Are you willing to accept this feeling?
Continue to observe your surroundings: Feel the wind on your skin as you walk, the warmth of the sun, the sound of the stones under your feet, or the sobering smell of the earth around you after it rains. Remember to allow yourself to feel, to touch, and ponder what you are feeling. Are you happy or depressed, cool or warm?
The power of thoughts: You may notice that after a short period of time, your attention is quickly drawn to other thoughts, perhaps the thought of what you should have for dinner that day, or tomorrow’s schedule, or a memory. At this time, your connection with nature is weaker, and you may find it more difficult to pay attention to what is in front of you. Allow yourself to stay in this state and don’t let it get you down.
Bring back awareness: Try to bring back the awareness of your senses, feeling the connection between your left and right foot hitting the ground in harmony, transforming your thoughts into sensations. Focus on how you are feeling in this moment, realizing that life is so delicate and rich, that there is infinite beauty in nature to keep you company.
We all come from nature, and in the hustle and bustle of life, we sometimes forget the power of it.