What is Zen? Visual and Clear Guidance at Denchuji Temple in Tokyo
What is Zen? A Simple Answer, Hard to Grasp: Visual and Clear Guidance at Denchuji Temple in Tokyo Exploring the Simple Complexity of ‘What is Zen’: Insights from the Soto Zen Sect For many travelers, both foreign and Japanese, understanding ‘What is Zen?’ really means is a challenge. Even the Japanese find it difficult to articulate. However, according to the website of the Soto Zen sect, the answer is remarkably simple: ‘Shikantaza’, or just sitting. This practice involves sitting earnestly without any secondary purpose. Although simple, understanding that Zen sitting, ‘Shikantaza’, is about more than just sitting idly can be complex. Soto Zen teachings explain that sitting in meditation is not a means to an end but an expression of enlightenment itself. This practice helps us detach from selfish desires and the superficial distractions of daily life. Achieving Harmony in Zen: Balancing Posture, Breathing, and Mind Another crucial aspect of Zen is achieving harmony between body (posture), breath (breathing), and mind (adjusting your mind) through stabilizing the body and focusing the mind during sitting. However, visualizing this harmony and deeply comprehending it can be challenging without proper guidance. Visualizing Zen: Tailored English Instruction for Foreigners at Denchu Temple At