Samu Zen Samu in Zen refers to voluntary work performed as part of the practice at a Zen center. The word “samu” comes from Japanese and means work carried out with mindfulness, serving as a form of moving meditation. Samu is an essential part of Zen monks’ lives and offers an opportunity to apply the…
Details
Why a Meditation and Mindfulness Instructor Certification? The Meditation and Mindfulness Instructor Certification is a theoretical and practical training that equips us to guide others in these practices. Sharing and teaching meditation to others is an act of generosity and compassion, offering undeniable benefits. However, if we are not properly prepared to teach, those we…
Details
On Sunday, February 2, 2025, the Zazen (Zen Meditation) course begins. This is undoubtedly an opportunity to explore and deepen your practice of this ancient spiritual tradition. In this sense, Zazen (Zen meditation) opens the path to seeing inner reality in the present moment, allowing us to rediscover peace and calm our minds. With consistent…
Details
Mindfulness Karma is a module of the Zen Mindfulness course at the Zen Kannon Center, designed to teach the application of mindfulness to actions and their consequences. Psychological distress and suffering are often caused by our own thoughts, words, or actions in the past. Likewise, our thoughts, words, and actions in the present will shape…
Details
February Retreat in Barcelona: Zen Meditation, Zazen The Zen Kannon Center in Barcelona is organizing a Zen meditation retreat, Zazen, this upcoming February. Zazenkai is an opportunity to deepen your Zazen practice (seated meditation) in a calm and harmonious environment. The retreat is open to participants of all levels, from beginners in Zen to more…
Details
Guen Mai Rice Soup Guen Mai is the rice soup consumed every morning after the first zazen. The preparation of this traditional dish from Zen monasteries is an excellent exercise in attention and concentration. After the morning meditation, we can have tea, and then get to work. Keep in mind that the total cooking time…
Details
This Bright pearl koan is one of the many paradoxical stories or enigmas that form part of the Zen tradition. Koans are used in Zen practice to help practitioners transcend rational thought and access a deeper understanding of their true nature and reality. Origin and Meaning of the Bright Pearl Koan of Ikka This koan…
Details
Origin of the Zen Kesa The origin of Zen kesa sewing dates back to the time of Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. According to tradition, when Siddhartha attained enlightenment and became the Buddha, he began teaching his disciples. At that time, the disciples lived in community and wore the kesa to practice zazen, just as we do…
Details
Dokusan: The Private Meeting with a Zen Master In Zen practice, dokusan is a private encounter between a student and a Zen master. During this interview, the student has the opportunity to present their questions, doubts, or experiences directly to the master. This face-to-face interaction is a fundamental part of Zen practice, providing the practitioner…
Details
The Ten Stages of Ox Herding: A Zen Teaching The Ten Stages of Ox Herding is a well-known Zen teaching, and perhaps one of the first stories we encounter when beginning the study of Zen. In a conventional academic career, we acquire knowledge, complete courses, and earn degrees. However, in the Zen tradition, the use…
Details
