The story of the 2 arrows A few years ago, my first meditation teacher spoke of the Parable of the Second Arrow, and it was the first time I saw how the skills I was developing during meditation practice could translate into everyday life. The parable of the Second Arrow goes like this: The […]
Anxiety has a bad reputation Worries, anxiety and fear are, at different degrees, the mind-mad anticipation of a negative or positive future scenario. They can be imminent or anytime after. Everyday anxiety is a fact of life and can actually be helpful “How we use it makes all the difference,” As the world gets […]
The problem of living in autopilot “A wandering mind is an bored and unhappy mind.” Z.M. Suzuki When we are on autopilot- doing things automatically- the mind takes over and escapes. The routine of the day triggers the autopilot mode —making unconscious, automatic actions and decisions . At this point, our mind […]
Symptoms of Awakening There are few symptoms of Awakening/Enlightenment, indicating that a transformation is taking place within you towards the highest level of consciousness helping you to experience your true self and concrete reality of life. You are starting to control your mind-made illusions and negative emotions. Here are few cues in a […]
“3M Exercises” Multi mini mindfulness This week talk is practical. How to practice mindfulness at any moment, any time, anywhere on anything. Remember that the beneficial impacts of mindfulness are cumulative with practice even if it is not formal sitting /walking meditation. Focusing actively on anything is mindfulness practice in its spiritual sense […]
Meditation during difficult times Even during “normal times”, practicing solo daily meditation is not easy if not, sometimes, impossible. It requires commitment, time, discipline and a non-judgmental approach to your practice. Trying to sit still and being mindful to our breathing as an anchor to tame our restless mind is challenging all the […]
The Meaning of Serenity Serenity is defined as a state of being: Calm, peaceful, untroubled, restful Gentle, easy-going, quiet Free from disturbance or nearby state of agitation, unpleasant change, or violence. Having: Little motion or activity A disposition that is morally, mentally and ethically elevated. The word serenity refers to environments as much […]
Is perfection achievable? Despite being a Zen Master I strongly believe that perfectionism is self-abuse of the highest order and yet every religion talks about perfections. What are they? How to achieve and maintain them? What will happen if you are unable to achieve them during your life? Zen Buddhism is on the same […]
Key words and short expressions of Zen philosophy In non specific order. Suffering is part of life that we like it or not. It cannot be prevented but should be accepted. Acceptance to what we don’t want to accept is a big step towards serenity. Suffering is caused by attachments. Attachments are […]
Acceptance: accepting bad stuff. Key to serenity. In our pro-positive culture, the pressure to suppress our negative feelings is daily. However, psychological studies have shown that acceptance of negative events and emotions is the most reliable route to regaining and maintaining peace of mind. This was already shown by Zen 2,500 years ago. Acceptance […]
