Zazen is commonly practiced in Zen temples and monasteries, as a form of meditation that focuses on concentration. Breathing for this meditation is done from the hara, or your navel area, the center of balance, and helps beginners focus by using a counting method. One, inhale to the count of ten; two, exhale to the count of ten; three, inhale to the count of ten; four, exhale to the count of ten and so on until your reach ten, then repeat, beginning at one. This process can continue upwards of twenty to thirty minutes. Your position for Zazen should be in a lotus, or half lotus position, with your spine straight, but relaxed. It seems impossible right? You can do. Trust me, if I can, you can. You got this.
The concentration factor of Zazen is to allow your thoughts, judgments, words, idea's or anything passing through your head to do just that, pass through, while you keep your mind clear and focused on your breathing. I feel it is a very good beginner meditation, but I can understand why they placed it towards the end of the thirty day meditation, since it is a rather long one. If you have soft music, I would play that while doing your counting meditation, if it helps you focus.
I am going to make this short, because I think it is beneficial to fit in all twenty to thirty minutes of this meditation. If you're having a particularly bad day, Zazen will help you find your center once again. If you have time in the morning, perhaps do it then, if this is a meditation you would like to adopt. I think it will help vitalize your day and put you into a frame of mind that will allow you to face your day with enthusiasm and a clear mind.
Until tomorrow....Just breathe. Focus and let your troubles, judgments and cares slip away.
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