Understanding Zen
Zen as a Japanese word is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘dhyana’, which means meditation. Zen is a school of the Mahayana Buddhism. It is a school of thought that reduces the emphasis placed on theoretical knowledge. Instead, it throws light on the realization that one can have through meditation and dharma (righteous duties).
Zen focuses on integrating three aspects – body, mind and spirit. The roots of Zen lie in ancient Chinese philosophy. The concept was then borrowed by the Japanese, whose samurai masters helped perfect this school of thought.
Understanding Yoga
Yoga has its origins in India. The word, in itself, is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘yug’ meaning to ‘direct one’s attention’. Yoga, as a practice, can get individuals to turn inwards to find their spiritual essence. The underlying principle of yoga would tell you that there is wholeness to everything in the world.
The traditional greeting ‘namaste’ can be broken up into namas – te; which means ‘the divine within me greets the divine within you’.
What is Zen Yoga?
The art involves a blend of the flowing movements of Tai Chi, the breathing techniques of Qigong; and the relaxation methods of Yoga.
Zen yoga could best be described as a system of well-being; which endorses the practice of cultivating balance in life, calming the mind and nourishing the body. A practitioner is said to be in touch with his/her inner spiritual self, which helps control the ongoing matters in the outside world.
History
This school of thought was created by Aaron Hoopes, who studied closely the practices of tai chi, qigong, yoga and various other martial arts.
He then filtered out the best qualities, as according to him, which he put together to create Zen Yoga. The principles of this school have been designed to befit the contemporary world and its needs.
Benefits
Zen Yoga is based on the concept of peaceful stretching and breathing. You can practice it regardless of your age or gender. The basic idea being that it encourages you to go at your own pace.
It is a system that emphasizes on the feeling of ‘well being’. Working as a proficient healing system; this form of Yoga places importance on breathing techniques and gentle stretching movements.
This school of thought, if practiced regularly, is said to possess the ability to heal.
Flexibility is the keyword
Given the fact that the prime focus is on stretching exercises, it goes without saying that it helps you better flexibility. It is, however, important that this flexibility does not restrict itself to the body, and also fills the whole of the mind.
Just one session of this practice will leave you energized; with your once-upon-a-time-heightened levels of stress, anxiety and fatigue kissing the ground.
Zen Yoga is said to open up a world of opportunities to discover your whole potential. It helps you become more aware than you were before; and lets you become one with the sanctity of the universe.
