Zen Body?

-- from Rama's tapes

"So in Zen we strive to bring both the mind and body into perfect condition and integrate the two."

"There's a joy in moving the body when you seek perfection."

Rama

Balance is a key to this practice of self-discovery. It is easy to get lost in the lofty teachings and introspective work. Remember to care for you body. Nourish it with proper foods and activity.

As you continue to practice meditation and focus your point of awareness on enlightenment you will run more chi or kundalini energy through your body. Your body therefore needs to be strong to handle this powerful energy.

Since we have just started a new Millennium we think about setting new goals. Look at the kind of physical activity that is part of your daily or weekly routine. Consider refining that activity, or changing your choice of activity.

Martial Arts, Weight Lifting, Bike Riding, Surfing, Snowboarding, Skiing, Jogging, Diving, Climbing, Hiking, Walking, Dancing, or Team Sports. The choice that sounds like fun is probably a good choice. Some may want a choice that offers a challenge.

I have participated in a wide variety of sports from beach Volleyball and surfing, to weight lifting and biking. The other day I was in the gym. When I lift I get into the zone. I pull the mindfulness tools into practice, and it becomes just another part of my Zen practice. My movements are slow and fluid, my mind is focused on the specific muscle or muscles in motion, and my full attention is in the moment. Precision of movement is important, even in the placement of equipment, and setting of pegs in weight machines.

The other day a woman who was new to the gym came up to me and said, "You know, I have been watching the "way" you work out, and I want to learn to do it like you." What she was observing that was "different" was the Zen in the practice.

So consider a new activity, knowing that it will help strengthen your body for that kundalini energy. Bring balance and grace and focus to the activity. Move into that zone where you and the activity are one, and then, well, snowboard to . . .Nirvana!

Listen to the talk on The Zen of Sports and Athletics

Drawn from Dr Frederick Lenz's Teachings

Rama presented thousands of techniques that were intended to help students along their own pathway to enlightenment. Techniques presented here may be useful for you. The teachings are meant to be used by students who are serious about their practice, and their own enlightenment.

A special thanks to
Lynne (Samadhi) for her writing, and the inspiration to begin this feature.

Let Dr Lenz's Tapes Teach