VHO - In recent times, air pollution in Hanoi has been on the rise, consistently ranking among the most polluted areas in the world. Prolonged exposure to airborne pollutants significantly increases the risk of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and strokes. Furthermore, it contributes to skin damage, eye diseases, and negatively impacts the nervous system, immune system, and even mental health.
The dire state of pollution atop the Himalayas is a stark warning for humanity. With the relentless escalation of environmental degradation, how can individuals protect themselves against the adverse transformations of our living conditions? Vashna Thien Kim, standing atop Kala Patthar, Nepal, offers her answer.
In December 2024, amid the harshest winter conditions of the Himalayas, this Vietnamese woman embarked on a perilous journey to deliver an urgent message about the environment. Far from being merely an adventurer, she is an ardent environmental advocate who has poured her heart and soul into raising awareness about climate change and the importance of living in harmony with nature to preserve life for future generations.
“I believe that if we cannot reverse the current trajectory, we must at least find ways to help humanity survive the extreme conditions that are certain to come. This is why, after extensive research and dedication, I undertook my challenge: meditating for 60 minutes on the Himalayas at -25°C without any supportive equipment or thermal clothing. I was willing to face danger to test my self-developed method under the most extreme conditions.
This method enabled me to endure the severity of the environment and survive in what would typically be impossible conditions for a normal body. I believe it can help others strengthen their health and protect themselves from diseases. This way, people can avoid living helplessly amidst pollution, constantly questioning when their own turn to face illness will come.
Through this success, I hope individuals, scientific organizations, medical institutions, and environmental advocates will take notice and collaborate to refine and widely implement this method. It could provide hope for proactive health solutions during this era of worsening climate change,” Vashna Thien Kim shared after completing her challenge.
This was not Vashna Thien Kim’s first endeavor for the environment. As the official ambassador of the Vietcombank Mekong Delta Hau Giang International Marathon in 2022, she joined thousands of runners to amplify the message of environmental protection for areas ravaged by drought, salinity intrusion, and unsustainable resource exploitation.
However, her journey and challenge at Kala Patthar marked a monumental leap forward—a willingness to risk her life to sound the alarm that nature is paying the price for humanity’s apathy.
Kala Patthar is one of the Himalayas’ renowned spots, known to thrill-seekers worldwide. While not among the tallest peaks, its altitude of over 5,600 meters above sea level brings harsh conditions. During winter (December to February), temperatures can plummet below -30°C, with fierce winds, severe oxygen shortages, and the constant risk of blizzards. Even professional climbers advise against journeys during this period due to high risks of hypothermia, altitude sickness, frostbite, and dangerous weather, even with full preparation.
Nevertheless, Vashna Thien Kim overcame all obstacles to reach the summit of Kala Patthar in the dead of winter to undertake an unimaginable feat: meditating for 60 minutes in harsh conditions with no supportive equipment and wearing only a thin layer of clothing.
Such acts are typically associated with Tibetan monks and spiritual masters who have spent years mastering their bodies and minds through extraordinary disciplines. For an ordinary person from the warm, tropical climate of Vietnam like Vashna Thien Kim, this was nothing short of "insane."
“For years, I have devoted my energy to warning everyone about the existential threat of climate change to human survival. Scientists have provided countless studies and evidence showing that within less than 30 years, our planet may become uninhabitable. Yet, people remain indifferent and dismissive of this reality.
Climate change has already led to dire health consequences, weakening immune systems and increasing the prevalence of diseases. While people struggle to secure a future for themselves, what is the point of such efforts if the very foundation of life collapses in the near future? Will the bright future we envision for our children and grandchildren even exist?
My actions are a call for everyone to recognize that climate change is no longer a distant issue—it is here, now,” she emphasized.
Every day, alarming pollution levels—such as Hanoi frequently ranking among the most polluted cities globally—are undeniable. People unknowingly poison themselves with every breath. Yet, the collective response is passive acceptance, treating disease as an inevitability.
“I knew this challenge would be dangerous. But if it helps people understand how vital the environment is to life—if it inspires hope that we can still change and salvage the future for generations to come—then it is entirely worth it,” Vashna Thien Kim shared.
This challenge was not about personal achievement; it was a symbol of courage, creativity, and commitment to a greater cause. Her goal was to alert humanity that unless we act urgently—or at least prepare ourselves with survival methods—we will soon face extreme conditions akin to those she voluntarily endured.
Her actions were not for self-glory but to remind the world that climate change is no longer a problem for the future—it is a crisis unfolding in the present.
“Nature is not an enemy to conquer or escape from; it is the source of life that must be protected. Humanity has forgotten that we are part of nature. When nature collapses, we cannot survive. Even the smallest actions rooted in awareness and carried out with sincerity can contribute to reversing this trajectory. Each of us can do something for this planet—for our survival and the lives of future generations,” she reflected.
On January 8, 2025, Vashna Thien Kim reported the successful completion of her journey from Nepal. She overcame an impossible challenge and delivered a powerful message to those following her journey.
This challenge was not a competition but a reminder that every individual possesses an innate strength to overcome adversity. Even in the harshest moments, humanity can find light, hope, and resilience.
Vashna Thien Kim’s journey and challenge atop Kala Patthar symbolize determination, faith, and dedication. Her actions demonstrate that if a single individual can develop methods to survive under such harsh conditions, it provides hope and extra time for humanity to correct its mistakes, save nature, and preserve life for future generations.
This Vietnamese woman stepped out of her comfort zone—not to be a hero, but to sow the seeds of hope. She reminds us that, though small, humanity can stand strong against even the greatest challenges.
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