Yoga BLOG
by Nick
on Feb 22 2016
Zen meditation Stress and hecticness often dominate everyday life. This constant strain wears on our nerves over time, which is why we long for more peace and relaxation. One of the most effective meditation techniques is Zen meditation, also called zazen , which relaxes the mind and body. Many people feel overwhelmed by everyday life. When the stresses of daily life take their toll on the body, burnout is only a matter of time. Relaxation and meditation exercises can help prevent total exhaustion. One of the best-known and most popular meditation techniques is zazen, which originates from Zen Buddhism. In zazen, the mind and body finally find peace. You find an inner stability that defies daily stress. Zazen – sitting & waiting
Even the Buddha practiced daily sitting meditation to control his thoughts and strengthen his mind. Zazen, a sitting meditation from Zen Buddhism, is also known as "Shikantaza." Zazen doesn't seem that difficult. However, the practice often looks different because thoughts are reluctant to silence. Zazen means "silent sitting." It focuses attention on the breathing in order to become fully aware and mindful. Zazen by no means achieves a dreamlike state. You are in the here and now, in a space where your thoughts play no role. The goal of Zen meditation is to sit without thinking about anything. Those who practice this meditation technique regularly will not achieve enlightenment immediately, but they will experience significantly more peace and relaxation. Calm through everyday life
What exactly happens during zazen is still unclear. However, researchers have discovered that the density of gray matter increases. Gray matter is a component of the central nervous system responsible for memory, language, and attention. Therefore, zazen appears to be a kind of training program for the brain. Regular meditation, however, has a positive effect not only on the mind but also on the body. More and more studies prove that meditation is an effective antidote to stress. Zen meditation can not only relieve headaches, but also
fatigue
Neck and back pain
inner restlessness
Heart palpitations
Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
Although Zen meditation is not a panacea, it does alleviate many symptoms, especially those that are physically noticeable. Meditating while sitting – posture & breathing When practicing zazen, it's important to maintain an upright, but not rigid, posture. A zafu, a round cushion that's also considered a symbol of zazen, is particularly helpful. Because the zafu is 10 to 15 centimeters thick, you can sit upright naturally without unnecessarily straining your back muscles. Your left hand rests in your right, with both thumbs lightly touching. Traditionally, zazen is practiced in the lotus position, with both legs crossed so that you first place your right foot on your left thigh, before placing your left foot on your right thigh. If the lotus position causes pain, you can also place one foot on your thigh or sit cross-legged. Your posture should always be relaxed and not tense. Breathing plays a crucial role in zazen. During Zen meditation, you breathe particularly deeply and calmly. Your breath flows into your belly before slowly leaving your body. Thoughts that occupy your mind during meditation should drift by like clouds. If you find it difficult to let go of thoughts and images at first, you can also count your breaths. Conclusion
Zen meditation is an excellent way to calm the mind and reduce stress. Those who practice Zazen regularly approach the stresses of everyday life with calm and serenity. Zazen is not only beneficial for the mind, but also for the body, as typical stress symptoms are alleviated after just a few sessions. Image © og_vision / 123rf.com