Shunryu Suzuki in Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind
Zazen is the sitting meditation practiced in Zen Buddhism. It is very simple. Here is how you do it: When you sit, just sit.Easy to say, hard to do. One can learn the techniques of zazen; the sitting posture and way of breathing, in a few minutes. It is what to do with the wandering mind that catches us up. We may think that our essence is in our thoughts. Zen teaches that the essence is found between thoughts.
When you practice zazen seek clarity of mind unattached to thinking. Sit in alertness free of anticipation. Sit in awareness without analysis. Welcome the empty space between breaths, between thoughts. Sit with a clear mind.
Practice diligently. Practice without attachment to attainment of any goal. How does one practice without attachment? You just practice.
- The Zen Mountain Monastery website offers a detailed explanation of the techniques of zazen.
- Fundamentals are also explained at theFrequently Asked Questions from alt.zen.
© 2002 Tom Barrett