It is my passion to help people find their Zen. This is Part 1 of a series that will explore many ways for you to find your Zen!
What is Zen?
By definition it can be a few different things. It is a type of Buddhism, a Japanese practice focusing on meditation and intuition. The literal meaning of the word traced back to it’s source, the Chinese word Ch’an meaning “meditation”. I like the dictionary.com definition of Zen as a slang term for feeling peaceful and relaxed and urbandictionary.com ; a total state of focus that incorporates a total togetherness of body and mind, a way of being, a state of mind. What do I mean by “find your zen”? I consider it a peaceful and calm stillness that exists inside us where our mind, body and spirit are all connected in harmony. It is something that is difficult to achieve in the busyness of our lives but I dare to say it is possible and vital to achieving happy and healthy lives. So, let’s go find it!
How to find your Zen
The first step in finding your Zen is by getting to know yourself at the deepest level. You must start by setting aside time to disconnect from your normal responsibilities. Even if you only have a small amount of time start there. I love the Arthur Ash quote, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” It truly applies to starting this journey. I recommend meditation as the best way to reconnect with your true self. If you have never meditated before I recommend starting with guided meditations. You can find free ones on you tube or download an app on your smart phone. Some Yoga studios offer Meditation classes as well. There are indeed a lot of options. Meditation is an important step in the process. You cannot find your Zen without finding yourself first!
Start a Meditation Practice
Start by setting aside at least 10 minutes each day (if you can swing it, I recommend 20 minutes) but again, do what you can. I do challenge you to create some time as our health is so worth a sacrifice. If you normally watch a TV program, consider doing the mediation instead. Listen to either a guided meditation or do it on your own with peaceful music or sounds of nature. Find a quiet place to sit or lay comfortably. You can use ear buds to listen to whatever meditation you have chosen. Do this for 21 days as it is proven it takes three weeks to create a habit. That is what we want! A new habit that offers so many benefits. Meditation is proven to rewire your brain for happiness and peacefulness!
I will be back next week with another way to find your Zen! In the mean time, I hope you find your Zen in meditation and message me if you have any meditation questions.
Enjoy this journey and always be true to yourself!
~Jen
Enjoy this short video clip with the sounds of a mountain creek to inspire your meditation.