1/17/2024 0 Comments Zen buddhist meditation![]() Many other videos (tutorials) to deepen zen meditation are available on this page: Videos, Zen meditation. Kodo Sawaki 1880-1965 Video : learn how to breathe better with Master Wang-Genh This spirit eliminates misfortune and creates absolute joy." Thus, in each moment, we realize the truth about existence. Our inhilation is that of the entire universe. Our exhalation is that of the entire universe. ![]() Consciousness becomes as clear as a cloudless sky. This deep, calm, slow exhalation washes away mental complications. The body becomes strong, the brain fresh, and the blood pure. The inhalation, which is shorter, follows the exhaltion naturally no force or intention is required. Zen masters compare it to the lowing of a cow. It is peaceful and assumes a slow, strong, natural rythm. The breath is a fundamental aspect of zazen. As such, it is important to practice with others, particularly in a dojo ("the place of the way") where it is possible to receive the advice of an experienced practitioner. It is impossible to see one´s own posture, so it is easy to fall off track without knowing it. Naturally and unconsciously the ego´s willpower becomes inactive and no longer searches for a goal. Thoughts arise, as is their nature, but if the attention is still focused on the posture, then thoughts disappear without leaving a trace. The usual flow of inner monologue is interrupted. This attention creates unification of mind and body. The insides of the hands touch the abdomen.ĭuring zazen, the practitioner must pay vigilant attention to every detail of the posture as well as the breath. ![]() The palms face upwards and the thumbs touch gently and firmly at their tips. The wrists rest on the upper thighs, with the fingers of the left hand placed on top of the fingers of the right hand. The eyes are half open, half closed, and the gaze is lowered at an angle of about 45 degrees. The shoulders, the rib cage, and the inner organs are also relaxed such that the breath becomes unimpeded and natural. The correct position of the pelvic bone and the ideal sized zafu allows the spinal cord the space to stretch toward the sky without causing detrimental tension in the back and spine, and for the head to be relaxed and straight. The legs are placed in either lotus, half lotus, or another of the positions pictured below. The correct balance is achieved when sitting on the middle of the zafu with both knees planted firmly on the floor. The positions of the pelvic and hip bones are key. Zazen is practiced while seated on a round cushion known as a zafu, and the size of the zafu required will depend on the physiology of the practictioner. Instead, there is balanced relaxation in the vertical position of the body during zazen. ![]() It is important to understand the different aspects of zazen posture to avoid forcing the body into static rigidity contrary to its natural physiology. Then, spring breezes will gently coax the marvelous flowers of the plum tree to blossom. Instead, demonstrate the aspects of zazen posture. If somebody should ask you what true zen is, it´s not necessary to explain using words. The secret of zen is to simply sit, without goals or expectations of profit, while focused on the seated posture. Regular practice of zazen generates a peaceful mind, a clear spirit, and can create true stability in the midst of the many challenges inherent in human existence. Zazen is also known as Shikantaza or simply sitting. It is the heart of zen Buddhism, during which attention is placed on the exact alignment of the posture, the natural flow of the breath, and the rise and fall of thoughts. Zazen, seated meditation, is the practice which allowed the Buddha to attain enlightenment 2600 years ago. ![]()
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