Sometimes, we must look into the past to solve the problems of today. The solutions for environmental problems, for instance, can be found in some traditions from the past. Shinto is an ancient Japanese philosophy and practice that teaches people how to appreciate and live in harmony with nature. Shinto emphasizes worshiping and thankfulness to the land, and natural elements, simultaneously reminding us that we are a part of nature and that we can elevate our spirit only if we reconnect to our surroundings.
What is Shinto?
Shinto is the oldest religion practiced by the indigenous people of Japan, which can be traced back to the 3rd century B.C.E. Shinto has no religious text or a founder, it represents a set of principles that can be practiced side by side with any other religion. In the 6th century with the arrival of Buddhism from China, Shinto began to incorporate some Buddhist practices. In more recent years, people consider Shinto more as a tradition than a religion, partly because Japanese society is very non-religious.
Unlike many other religions, in Shinto, there is no right and wrong, per se. People are considered good and evil is…
