England: Jeremy Alfred (Forest Bathing)
Program: UW Global Launch in London
When I had learned of The Kyoto Garden in Northern Kensington, I knew that I had to see it with my own eyes. The journey took me through Holland Park, where I traversed through the veridian forest and slightly muddy ground. Smelling the natural air transported me away from the city to a little oasis, hidden away.
As I walked closer to the entrance of the Kyoto Garden, this oasis became even more vibrant, as I heard rushing water from the small waterfall that flowed into the Koi fishpond.
The area was beautifully cared for, with trimmed trees and freshly trimmed grass, a contrast to the surrounding untamed forest. The stillness of the garden resembled a refreshing escape from the bustling city just a few yards away.
And as I walked along the stone path that lay across the pond, I looked in the distance, seeing a flutter of shining, iridescent feathers. It was a peacock!
This creature, so rare and mystical, was mindlessly and peacefully strolling, just as I. Maybe I questioned why there was such an animal in this park surrounded by an urban landscape, but the shock was only temporary, as I swiftly grew accustomed to its presence, in the same way that I have assimilated to this wonderful city.
Jeremy Alfred
Program Name: UW Global Launch in London
Major: International Studies
Hometown: Waunakee, Wisconsin
At UW-Madison I will be studying International Studies in the hopes of someday becoming a US Diplomat. While in London, I hope to experience a wide variety of cultures from the extremely diverse population and immerse myself in this new city while also learning about its deep history and current society. I am especially looking forward to learning about the political system of the UK as it is something I find fascinating! Excited to be a Global Launcher!