Concept in Definition ABC
Miscellanea / / July 04, 2021
By Javier Navarro, in Jul. 2016
Buddhism as religion It has diverse branches and one of them is Zen Buddhism. Zen Buddhism is considered to be original Buddhism, as it is inspired by the direct teachings of the Buddha. In fact, when Buddha retired to meditate he did so under a fig tree for forty-nine days and the physical posture he adopted was the Zen position, that is, sitting cross-legged. In this sense, the word Zen literally means to sit down to meditate.
Zen meditation
When we think of the idea of ​​meditation, the following comes to mind scheme: a subject meditates on something, an object. In the case of Zen meditation it is another approach: the thinking subject and the thought object become a unit. This implies that there is no dichotomy between subject and object and, on the other hand, there is not the classic distinction between good-bad nor any form of duality, since in Zen meditation transcendence or transcendence is sought. overcoming of duality.
Zen meditation is based on mind control, body position, and
breathing leisurely. As a consequence, the heart rate drops and the brain activity decreases and this leads to a state of peace inside.The purpose of Zen meditation
Zen meditation does not seek concrete solutions to problems, but must be understood as a way of life. The human being performs four basic activities: eating, sleeping, working and entertaining. If we incorporate Zen meditation into our daily life, we will be aware of our every action. In other words, it is about being aware of our own existence in order to live it fully.
Zen meditation can be practiced individually or in a group, but in any case the purpose is the search for oneself, that is, self-knowledge. According to the approaches of Zen Buddhism, physical stillness leads to a state of spiritual well-being and from here it is possible to make appropriate decisions about our own life.
Zen Buddhism starts from a general principle: our life is in our hands and what we do with it depends on us. This idea or principle is not reached in a mysterious way but a process of mental preparation is necessary and this process can be trained through the practice of Zen.
On conclusion, Zen meditation is the search for the Balance between body and mind. This proposal is eminently individualistic, but according to Zen Buddhism the change of society must begin with oneself.
Photos: iStock - fourseasons / PeopleImages
Topics in Zen