Rochester Zen Center Teisho (Zen Talks) cover image

Rochester Zen Center Teisho (Zen Talks)

Establishing and Sustaining Zen Practice

Oct 15, 2023
Explore the importance of integrating Zen practice into everyday life and staying mindful. Learn how to cultivate presence by listening to natural sounds and focusing on immediate sensations. Discover the power of letting the mind fall silent and the role of insights in surpassing logical thought. Explore the functions of the right hemisphere of the brain and the importance of relaxation in gaining insights. Learn to let go and make changes in order to establish and sustain a Zen practice. Cherish the present moment like a musician cherishes their instrument. Enjoy the importance of Zen practice and the fortunate opportunity to have maps and a supportive community.
47:51

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Quick takeaways

  • Zen practice extends beyond meditation sessions to being fully present in every moment of life.
  • Meditation requires perseverance and actively focusing on the breath to weaken the power of thoughts.

Deep dives

The key to practicing Zen: Integrating practice with life

The key to practicing Zen is to not separate practice from life. Practice is not confined to formal meditation sessions, but rather extends to being fully present in every moment of life. Zen has always emphasized direct experience and being awake to the present moment. It is not about following a specific cultural or aesthetic style, but about returning to direct experience and letting go of narratives and attachments. Practice involves developing a reverence for life and embracing the here and now.

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