Meditate
Meditation has been practiced by cultures on every continent from ancient times to the present day. While much technology has been introduced to this meditative concept (from biofeedback to isolation tanks), the process of simply sitting in quiet silence remains the most effective way of contacting one’s inner world and emotions to release tension, activate the immune system and stabilize blood pressure.
I am a Soto Zen Buddhist, practicing since the 1970’s. I was the director of Master Peace Dharma Center for 4 years in the 1990’s and literally dozens of University students “sat” with us twice a week. I hosted Sesshin – multiple day and night sitting practices and found that the young students benefited from all meditation and brought much thoughtful conversation to our sittings.
To meditate we only require a quiet room (outside distractions can actually help to train the mind – dogs barking, traffic, etc.) and chairs and/or cushions. Participants should sit comfortably; I would give guidance for the Zen practice of “mindful breath” and we would sit quietly as a group. There is much direction to be given about how to find non-attachment to thoughts and “itches” and distractions. This deliberate focus helps train the mind for calm, compassionate observation of the world and awareness of all that surrounds us.
This has no religious basis. I do not do “guided meditation” unless specifically asked or if it is a part of a hosted conference, etc. There is the possibility of using simple tones (a chime or my bowl) to focus upon if it fits with a group’s needs.
We want simple, quiet, breath motivated meditation that calms and focuses the clients.
The walking meditation takes this state of calm clarity up from the cushion and helps us learn to bring our meditative state to all circumstances.
