The purpose of the gaze in Zazen, where the eyes are kept half-open, is to maintain a balanced state of awareness. This technique helps practitioners stay connected to their surroundings while also turning inward. Unlike closed eyes, which can lead to drowsiness or excessive daydreaming, and fully o...
Zazen, or seated Zen meditation, is a powerful practice for connecting deeply with your emotions. By cultivating mindfulness and stillness, Zazen allows you to observe your emotions without judgment, creating space for understanding and acceptance. This practice is rooted in the Zen Buddhist traditi...
Progress in Zen meditation is not always measured by dramatic shifts or sudden insights, but rather by subtle changes in awareness, focus, and emotional resilience. One key indicator of progress is an increased ability to observe thoughts without attachment or judgment. Over time, you may notice tha...
Feeling bored during Zazen, or seated Zen meditation, is a common experience, especially for beginners. Boredom often arises because the mind is accustomed to constant stimulation, and sitting still without distraction can feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable. However, boredom in Zazen is not a problem ...
Staying consistent with Zen meditation requires a combination of discipline, practical strategies, and a deep understanding of the practice. Zen meditation, or Zazen, is a form of seated meditation that emphasizes mindfulness, breath awareness, and the observation of thoughts without attachment. To ...
The half-lotus position in Zazen, a foundational practice in Zen meditation, serves multiple purposes. It is designed to create a stable and grounded posture that supports both physical and mental stillness. By positioning the body in a way that minimizes movement and maximizes alignment, the half-l...
Properly positioning your hands in the Zen meditation mudra, known as the cosmic mudra or hokkai-jōin, is essential for cultivating focus, balance, and energy flow during meditation. The mudra is a symbolic hand gesture that helps align the body and mind, creating a sense of unity and calm. To begi...
Handling distracting thoughts during Zen meditation is a common challenge, but it is also an essential part of the practice. Zen meditation, or Zazen, emphasizes observing thoughts without judgment and returning to the present moment. The key is not to eliminate thoughts but to acknowledge them and ...
If your mind feels too restless to meditate, it’s important to remember that restlessness is a common experience, especially for beginners or those under stress. Zen meditation, or Zazen, emphasizes observing thoughts without judgment, which can help you work with a restless mind rather than fight...
A meditation cushion, often called a zafu, plays a crucial role in Zazen, the seated meditation practice central to Zen Buddhism. Its primary purpose is to support proper posture, which is essential for maintaining focus and comfort during long periods of meditation. The cushion elevates the hips, a...