What is Zen? Or Where is Zen?
Hello, I'm Jeff.
As a real beneficiary of Zen, I'm more than happy to recommend it to you. I'm going to introduce and discuss Zen with you as an ordinary person just like you, not as a mentor.
At first, Zen may sound mysterious, as if it were some kind of mystical magic recorded in ancient, dusty books with oracles. But trust me, Zen isn't actually that complicated. Although it was often associated with religions like Buddhism and Taoism, it has now generally been seen as an independent tool that everyone can try. So, you don't have to worry that Zen will conflict with your beliefs.
It's not easy to explain what Zen is because its definition is often abstract, and that's not conducive to its spread. For me, a more understandable way to ask is, where is Zen?
You'll find Zen when you throw yourself wholeheartedly into something.
For example, when you concentrate on savoring a fragrant cup of coffee, feeling the aroma of the coffee filling your nostrils, and experiencing the rich taste on your tongue, simply immersing yourself in this momentary enjoyment of taste, that is Zen. Or, when you take good care of the flowers in the garden, carefully watering and fertilizing them, observing the growth of each leaf, and listening to the subtle sounds when the breeze blows through the flowers, that is also Zen.
Zen is also present in our sports. When you're running, feel your breath, the contact between your feet and the ground, and every movement of your body. Don't be disturbed by the chaotic thoughts in your mind, and focus on your current state of exercise. This is the manifestation of the spirit of Zen.
I used to be deeply troubled by bipolar disorder, and my life was messed up. But since I came into contact with Zen and meditation, my will has grown stronger and stronger. In meditation, I learned to observe my thoughts and not be affected by them. Now when negativities tide up, I stand still like a reef.
Zen has also taught me to cherish every moment in the present. In the past, I was always too busy pursuing future goals and ignored the beautiful things around me. Now, I will feel the company of my family with my heart and appreciate the little joys in life. Whether it's the first ray of sunlight in the morning or the starry sky at night, they all make me feel grateful.
Perhaps you'll think it's difficult to reach such a state. But in fact, Zen is present in every aspect of our daily lives. It doesn't require us to search remote mountains and forests or perform complicated rituals. As long as we're willing to slow down and feel life with our hearts, we can find the trace of Zen in ordinary days.
I hope you can also feel Zen and experience the wonderful changes it brings to our lives. It's free anyway, so why not a bite?
May you enjoy Peace In Zen.