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Ordination in Africa

Ordination in Africa

Nov 21, 2024 | Zen Buddhism

One of the apprentices at BEZA’s Zen Academy in Cape Town, engaged in mindfulness and spiritual growth through Shamanic Gatekeeper training and Zen meditation practices.

Ordination in Africa – By Ekan Nangaku Leisching

South Africa is one of the most diverse nations on Earth. It is a complex matrix of many languages, traditions, religions, economic and societal history and trauma. While diversity and complexity are the foundations of healthy human ecosystems, oftentimes emphasis can be focussed on these powerful illusionary differences causing separation, alienation and ultimately conflict. Zen’s Relative and Absolute Heart Wisdom practice can create a strong spiritual Way here, because unity and diversity is inescapably obvious in South Africa. Hence the Buddha Way is already present for all South Africans, even if it isn’t called that. Like water, it reflects diversity while at the same time heals and holds unity.

“Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.” – Buddha

I was first introduced to Buddhism 35 years ago when I attended my first retreat at the Buddhist Retreat Center in South Africa. I learned to meditate regularly from a Tibetan Buddhist monk. A few years later I immigrated to the United States of America. Soon after arriving in Maine I was introduced to Daido Loori Roshi of Zen Mountain Monastery in New York state, and studied with him from 1997 until his passing in 2010.

Upon my return to South Africa, I deepened my lay practice on my own, occasionally holding Zen style meditation retreats. I kept in touch with Esho Sudan, who I had met at ZMM, and we often talked about her monastic life at Toshoji and her study with Seido Suzuki Roshi – who had assisted Daido Roshi in establishing Zen Mountain Monastery in the 1980’s. I was no longer married and my children were grown. I realised that my heart’s calling was to do what I can to bring the Sōtō Lineage to Africa. I asked Seido Roshi to ordain me, and surprisingly, he suggested coming to South Africa to hold the ordination here.

Roshi and Esho arrived in Cape Town on 16 September 2022. It was the first time to meet Roshi. Upon greeting him and seeing Esho, I struggled to contain my emotions. We travelled to my home in the village of Stanford, in the Western Cape, where we began preparations for my ordination. The curious Stanford community were intrigued by our visitors from Japan.

The evening before the Tokudo Ceremony, dear one’s close to me gathered to shave my head. As they began, the electricity went out, leaving us in darkness for the duration of the shaving. Just as they finished the lights came back on.

September 20th, the Spring equinox in the Southern Hemisphere, was a beautiful day filled with fresh blue sky and bright flowers. The night before, Roshi and Esho had transformed the house into a temple with a shrine room. Roshi found an auspicious sign in the visiting two doves (happiness birds as he called them) that seemed to greet us on the gate just prior to the ceremony.

Before departing Roshi gave me a precious teaching. He encouraged me to greet life with open hands – that the Buddha’s work is best done through hands that are open – fully open in their giving and in their receiving.

So as I stumble on, slowly finding a modicum of grace as a novice monk, I trust the Heart of Buddha and Zazen to guide me in the Way. In alignment with my vows, I dedicate my life to bringing the Dharma to life wherever I find myself. There is both a great need for the Dharma here, and a generous and large-hearted South African spirit that is ready and appreciative – and I will be continuously planting seeds, so that the Sōtō School will find a welcoming soil in which to germinate, root and flower in Africa. I trust Zen will find its unique way to thrive on this continent.

Gassho
Ekan Nangaku
Mountains, Rivers, and the Song of Zen: A Journey Beyond Perception

Mountains, Rivers, and the Song of Zen: A Journey Beyond Perception

Oct 24, 2024 | Earthen Zen, Stone

Discover the timeless teachings of Zen as we explore the profound connection between mountains, rivers, and the nature of all things. Learn how Zen practice deepens our awareness, guiding us beyond perception to the essence of life.

The Mountains and the Rivers sing eighty-four thousand verses. Do you hear them?

An ancient master once said:

Thirty years ago, before studying Zen, I saw mountains as mountains and rivers as rivers.

When I had more intimate knowledge, I came to see mountains not as mountains and rivers not as rivers.

But now that I have attained the substance, I again see mountains just as mountains, and rivers just as rivers.

“The zazen of a beginner is innocent. It’s free, open, and receptive. But after a while, it becomes rote. It’s one thing to really practice this incredible Way with the whole body and mind, and quite another to simply look like a Zen practitioner. Much of our practice involves maintaining this freshness, this receptivity.”

Daido Roshi, the late abbot of Zen Mountain Monastery, illuminates further…

“This teaching is not saying that mountains are mountains; it says that mountains are mountains. The river sings the eighty-four thousand verses. Do we hear them? The mountain reveals the form of the true dharma, the virtue of harmony. Can we see it?

This is the mountain of the nature of all dharmas, the ten thousand things, the whole phenomenal universe. It pervades all time and space, from the beginningless beginning to the endless end. In other words, it’s the body and mind of the ten thousand things—and, it’s just a mountain.

Thus, we should thoroughly study these mountains. When we thoroughly study the mountains, this is the mountain training. Then these mountains and rivers themselves spontaneously become wise ones and sages.

When Dogen says, “thoroughly study the mountains,” he means for us to take these mountains and rivers as the koan of our lives. Whether we look at these mountains and rivers with the eyes of a biologist, a geologist, a hydrologist, a sage, a deer, as the mountain, as the river, the fact is that they are constantly proclaiming the dharma. The river sings the eighty-four thousand verses. Do we hear them? The mountain reveals the form of the true dharma, the virtue of harmony. Can we see it?

When we go deep into ourselves, when we engage Zen practice fully, that practice becomes the practice of all buddhas past, present, and future. It is the verification and actualization of the enlightenment of Shakyamuni Buddha and all of the subsequent buddhas. It is also the practice and verification of these mountains and rivers, and of your life and my life, the life of wise ones, sages, and ordinary beings.”

~ John Daido Loori: from Lion’s Roar

“These mountains and rivers themselves spontaneously become wise ones and sages.”

Traveling deeper into the unknown spaces of ourselves, we naturally expand in relationship with the mystery of everything. Our ideas of how things appear begin to dissolve. We become more intimate with what is beyond what ‘seems to be’.  We pick up a scent of what those ideas and things actually are. Tending ourselves now toward a truer reality the scent of seeing life just as it is without our conditioned projections – their is-ness, becomes stronger.

Simultaneously, an intimacy with the mystery continues with what lies beyond this unadorned is-ness. Our mind, becoming less tainted and more innocent, we begin to see the simple ordinariness of phenomena while continuing to expand and open to what has birthed the ten thousand things.

To truly hear the songs of the rivers and mountains, to communicate and be intimate with the grasses and trees, to develop sincere, love-filled exchanges with all our relations, a maturing intimacy is called forth. For this, a deepening connection and grounding supports our movement beyond the edge of what our minds have framed this life to be. Meeting life with the practice of going beyond, we polish ourselves into the spotless place steadily dissolving into this unknowable source of being.

We cannot hear the eighty-four thousand verses when framed in what we think we know of what it all ‘seems to be’. However, the edges we experience in the mind, the frame, can become a gateway, as starting place from the ‘known’ into the absolute unknown where the “mountains and rivers are not mountains and rivers”. Yes, we can confine ourselves in what seems to exist and in so choosing accept a particular kind of restriction or barrier.

Or, in practicing oneness and interconnectedness, begin to hear the song and walk the path with increasing presence and awareness, becoming aware of its edges, as we follow the scent of the path’s edge-less-ness.

Beyond the edges, the edges that define ‘things’ – the path invites a letting-go of the edges that define and separate it from the unknown. Going beyond the edge of separation ultimately dissolve the path. Here is where the mountain is no longer a mountain. This edge-less-ness is an empty spaciousness of no-thing-ness, the primal womb of creation, the being we call Mother, the mother of all Being.

Having dissolved into, and re-emerged from the emptiness beyond form we “gain the substance”. We return with insight into diversity in its multitudinous and specific forms and their interdependent oneness. Returning with this substance we are sovereign, liberated and henceforth engage life as it is, free of conditioned entanglements. This is the practice of being intimate with just what is – where “a mountain is just a mountain”. Here we see the true medicine nature, the dharmas of all being and beings, of life’s diverse existence – the defined and undefinable existing together. Gaining the substance, our true nature, restored with our gift received from that intimate place where a mountain is not a not mountain, we are liberated, free from our entanglements, and see that it is “just” a mountain.

Oftentimes it can be challenging to live in the moment in this way because we are limited in our mind of comparison, in the rational part of our self that divides everything into this and that, into self and other, and so we bring our hands together, the left and right, into gassho (prayer), and unify the separateness within with what is without.

Bowing with gratitude, we receive the healing nectar of forgiveness, abundance and generosity waiting for us in our hearts. We open the channel for the oracle of love, the Dharma, to sing its true song in the sacred choir of life, into being.

~ Ekan Nangaku

Participants sharing their stories of authenticity during a workshop at BEZA’s Zen Academy in Cape Town, Western Cape, fostering personal growth and genuine connections through mindfulness practices.

Experiencing Depression? How Meditation can help.

To help understand how the brain changes during meditation, we look at the brain’s neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences and environmental changes. In order for the brain to adapt and change, new neural pathways need to be created. Originally believed to only happen in childhood, it has been proven that new neural pathways are created throughout one’s lifetime. During bouts of depression, the creation of new pathways are disrupted. This is where meditation comes in.

Read more
Poetry as a medium for mindfulness and self-expression at BEZA’s Zen retreat in Cape Town, connecting spiritual growth with Zen meditation and creative exploration.

There are Mountains Hidden in Hiddenness.

Stones hold a storehouse of secrets. Our evolution has depended on them. They were our first tools; our first art; symbolised our first myths; and the first sounds and languages. Stones have oriented our human collective from conception through to memorialised immortality. Gatekeepers to unknown realms, they inspire us to their noblest peaks and, they become barring barriers and porous boundaries.

“When we connect with our bones, the stones of our bodies, we connect with the powerful medicine of the mountains.”

Read more
Poetry as a medium for mindfulness and self-expression at BEZA’s Zen retreat in Cape Town, connecting spiritual growth with Zen meditation and creative exploration.

Ask the Earth and the trees and plants, soil, rocks, rivers and mountains.

Ask the weather systems for guidance.

How can I help you?

How can I serve you?

Ask the birds. Honour and tend all beings.

Let them know with your kindness that you are an ally.

Then listen carefully, with your whole body.

Ears of your hands.

Frequency detector of the heart.

Listen for the subtleties that ripple beneath.

Listen for the new stories rising.

Purify. Open up. Free yourself of yourself. Become empty. Hollow body.

A dancing bag of bones.

The new ways will come through us.

The ancient ways will come through.

~ Red K Elders

Expressive art as a form of mindfulness and spiritual exploration at BEZA’s Zen retreat in Cape Town, blending creativity with Zen meditation and personal growth.

Japanese Rock Wrapping

 

Rocks and Stones have travelled with human evolution right from the beginning of time. In the early 9th Century in China an interest in learning from the ancient wisdom of rocks and stone was initiated. Later the Daoist sages and medicine people considered rocks as the bones of the Earth. Confucianism honoured the natural world in its’ ability to embody human qualities, holding in great regard the reciprocity between the human and nonhuman worlds. In Zen Buddhism stone has a significant

Mizuhiki (水引 which literally translates to ‘water-pull’) is an ancient Japanese artform of knot-tying. ssociated with sacred ceremonies, offerings, and gift-giving, the Mizuhiki has evolved in importance and significance. When a gift is tied with a Mizuhiki, it suggests it has been safeguarded and shielded from prying eyes and creates a sense of “cleanliness and purity”.

In Zen Buddhism practices, rocks have a special place. The karesansui or “dry gardens” are particularly famous for their representation of still or moving bodies of water using pebbles. Unlike the Daoists who would admire nature for its wild wisdom, the Zen Buddhists were looking to go beyond it.

A Zen practitioner herself, Betsy brings her mind to a meditative state with each piece of wrapping. Sometimes it might take her weeks before she achieves the level of perfection she seeks. The natural, organic qualities of shape, size, and texture of the rocks inspire her.

“The fact that they are infinitely older than we are is humbling and opens up soulful creative energy for me to work with from the start. Some nights I go to sleep just seeing different rock shapes and forms and wake up excited to begin a day in the studio with the rocks” she said in the American Craft Council interview.

Poetry as a medium for mindfulness and self-expression at BEZA’s Zen retreat in Cape Town, connecting spiritual growth with Zen meditation and creative exploration.

I was introduced to Born As The Earth Zen Academy over a year ago. I have been a student / apprentice in their Gatekeeper Training program. I have also participated in their Meditations, Community Council, and have had several Divination sessions with Ekan Nangaku.

I hold Gil, Raine, and Nangaku in high regard. My life has been forever changed as a result of the outstanding teaching and warm welcome from the BEZA community!

I encourage anyone interested in expanding their own spiritual practice to reach out to BEZA to find out more about the Academy and how they can participate in such an incredible place of healing and learning.

May BEZA continue to grow and expand worldwide. Blessings and love to all of those that I was able to meet along the way. I look forward to continuing my studies with BEZA. The Academy has proven to be an outstanding teaching facility and now, my new found spiritual partner.

Apprentice Training

The Academy Medicine Wheel at BEZA’s Zen Academy in Cape Town, South Africa, used for spiritual growth and healing, integrating mindfulness, Zen meditation, and Shamanic practices.

BEZA’s Medicine Wheel

Training includes:

  • Personal development within a spiritual community

  • Zen and Elemental Meditation training

  • Private Mentoring sessions

  • Community Council (talking circle) training

  • Private Divination sessions

  • Embodiment practices: breath work, qigong, art, rituals and so much more….

It takes 12 months to complete the journey around the Medicine Wheel comprised of 5 Elemental Bodies – Fire, Water, Earth, Nature, & Stone.

Join Apprentice Training cycle at the beginning of any Elemental Module

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What is Mindfulness?

Beyond Meditation Apps & Beyond the ‘Mindfulness Movement’ & its commoditization?

Without context, there is no mindfulness! Joshua from The Emerald says that without context, “we are swimming in our own detritus”.

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Exploring the Element of Fire at BEZA’s Zen Academy in Cape Town, Western Cape, symbolizing transformation and passion through mindfulness practices and fire ceremonies.

Module 1

Visionary Fire Module

Way of the Ancestors

1 February – 16 March 2025

Work with what inspires – your dreams, aspirations and passion for life. Transmute all that stands in the way of your spiritual potential. Channel your purpose into realities that align with your truth. In this gateway you work with light & vision; alchemical illumination; dreams & myth; divination; and ancestral healing.

Practical Spirituality

Dreams | Vision | Ignition | Transmutation | Ancestral Connection

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Poetry as a medium for mindfulness and self-expression at BEZA’s Zen retreat in Cape Town, connecting spiritual growth with Zen meditation and creative exploration.

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Way of Balance

Zen Meditation Training

29th Oct: 7-9PM(SAST)

Master Dogen said, “To study the Buddha Way is to study the self, to study the self is to forget the self, and to forget the self is to be enlightened by the ten thousand things.” 

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, engage this precious and easily accessible opportunity to awaken to your True Nature.

Find revelation, joy and solace in the serene landscapes of your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual body.

We tend to see body, breath, and mind as separate, but in zazen we begin to see how they are one inseparable reality. 

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The Transformative Power of Talismanic Art

The Transformative Power of Talismanic Art

Sep 28, 2023 | Earth, Nature, Zen Buddhism

~ by Alison Evans

In May 2023 I went to a talk in Stanford, WC. A sign caught my eye – “Born as the Earth – a Zen Heart School”. I went over for a closer look and landed up in a conversation with Nangaku, its founder, who is a Zen monk and initiated shaman.

A 6 month course was starting in July. Little did I know, my life was about to change forever. We kicked off with the Visionary Fire Module.

I set an intention for the month. We were given instruction on how to practice Zazen Meditation. Then I was trained in the Protocols and the Agreements of Community Council. My first Council was amazing. I cried my way through it and felt so supported. The guidance was just lovely – like a warm hug. I learnt the importance of speaking from the “I”.

We received a whirlwind of information about our relationship to our ancestors, inspiration, passion and the transmutational power of Fire. I was tasked with building a home-altar. The ritualistic creativity was right up my street! I learned how to communicate with my ancestors by using the rhythm of a stick drumming on a stone to mimic my heartbeat.

We were encouraged to grieve with them – healing tears are gifts for the ancestors. It was as though someone had uncorked all that I had been suppressing for so many years. The tears came, and with them my healing began. Gathering up sticks of all I needed to transmute, I placed them on my altar. I burnt my sticks in a powerful healing ceremony. I released, and again cried and cried.

I received 2 monthly coaching sessions, and a divination – which was intriguing. I listened to my divination 6 times before I started integrating what had being communicated. We closed off our Fire Module which allowed my healing to marinate before starting the Compassionate Water Module.

Slightly more educated and better prepared, I packed up all my altar pieces and photos of my ancestors to create my Water shrine while travelling through Italy. I created temporary altars every second day. I set a new intention for the month.

Water and I resonated immediately – it all made so much sense. Water, the great balancer returns to equilibrium as fast as possible with its medicine of solving dilemmas, compassion, reflection and transparency.

I meditated my way across Italy, practising observing what my internal waters were doing. I experimented with my emotions and how they affected my water and felt very empowered to regain control over external influences.

I had 2 fantastic coaching sessions with Nangaku when I learnt that my angels always look out for me. I learnt too, that “those” demons are mine. They dedicated to keeping me safe – a big lesson for me. While people come into my world as angels they may leave as demons. Others may experience me as both an angel or a demon depending on how they respond to me. The lesson here for me was Oneness.

I loved my Water ceremony to whom I offered eggs, milk and honey, along with messages and symbolic gifts to release old blockages.

We closed off our Water Module and allowed the medicine of Fire and Water to deeply integrate.

The Grounded Earth Module began in September. I am collecting sacred items, as I have always done (though more consciously now), to create new altars for each month’s Elemental Training.

My altar is becoming my safe space. As I find my voice and become more empowered I am loving the Wednesday evening Community Council. My tears are drying up. I feel calmer, more grounded and centered. I learnt a valuable lesson on how to stay in balance by being in my centre. When off-balance, I can simply return to my centre and detach from my constant internal dialogue.

My intentions are more resolute and clear. Through meditation I am creating longer pauses between triggering stimuli and my habitual responses to them. My emotional waters are calming and my intuition is sharper!

We are about to end our Grounding Earth Module, and I am preparing to gift Mother Earth my homecoming collections.

“I have become aware that the art I had been instinctively creating using sticks, stones, feathers and bones, is my unique medicine gift to the world. I completed my first “conscious” Talismanic Art Piece. I based it on my journey with Born as the Earth School so far.”

The unlocked padlock and key represents the Gate of the Gatekeeper Apprentice Training.

This wisdom is made readily available and generously shared by Nangaku and his apprentice Raine.

The circle represents the medicine wheel as experienced in my divinations with Nangaku.

I bring the ancestors and a candle in as tribute to the Fire Dragon.

Seashells and yin-yang duality, purposely off-balance, represent the Water Dragon.

The centre piece, Mother Earth, is connected to the other 4 Modules.

Although I haven’t completed the Nature Module yet, I have chosen a feather and seed pods as representation.

The stones in the Stone Module are self-explanatory – they and the sand and seashell mix remind me of “As Above, So Below.”

The coins carry 2 messages. They represent coins from my divinations and the price paid for my impact on the environment.

The chain, symbolic of each one of us working together to carry the gift that is Earth School – its strength dependent on the weakest link. Each link the same, carrying the whole.

The “tree”, larger than life, grows out of the circle reaching out into new realms.

Nothing can be unheard or unseen. The wisdom I have already gained through this experience with Nangaku and Earth School has changed my very being. I know it will continue to do so – nothing will ever be the same again – thank God!

Artificial Intelligence vs Authentic Intelligence: A Zen Buddhist Perspective on Consciousness

Artificial Intelligence vs Authentic Intelligence: A Zen Buddhist Perspective on Consciousness

Sep 27, 2023 | Earth, Nature, Zen Buddhism

– Composed by Duane Steffens, and Edited Glenn Nangaku Leisching

Introduction

In the age of rapid technological advancement, the debate surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) versus authentic intelligence has gained considerable momentum.

While AI has transformed our world with its computational prowess, it is worthwhile to consider how Zen Buddhism views these concepts, especially concerning consciousness.

This article delves into the intriguing comparison between artificial and nature’s authentic intelligence from a Zen Buddhist perspective.

“Everything we are talking about, AI or computing power, will never be able to beat the complexity that nature presents to us. The real intelligence is Nature’s Intelligence. AI is good, but AI is just a tool to serve Nature’s Intelligence. Nature’s Intelligence is four and half billion years old. To think that something that is less than a hundred years old can beat something that is four billion years is a bit of an extension.” – Agam Khare

 

Understanding Artificial Intelligence

Defining AI

Artificial intelligence refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines, allowing them to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks encompass problem-solving, language comprehension, and even decision-making.

The Growth of AI

Over the years, AI has evolved significantly, thanks to machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning algorithms. These technologies enable AI systems to adapt and improve their performance based on data and experience.

AI’s Impact on Society

AI has found its way into various aspects of our lives, from virtual assistants on our smartphones to self-driving cars and recommendation algorithms on streaming platforms. It has streamlined processes and made our lives more convenient.

Nature’s Authentic Intelligence in Zen Buddhism

The Zen Approach to Consciousness

Zen Buddhism places a strong emphasis on mindfulness, meditation, and self-awareness. Through inner exploration in meditation (an ancient technology) practitioners de-condition themselves from the veil of mental programs to experience the pre-existing state of enlightenment – their authentic state of natural intelligence.

Consciousness and the Self

Zen views consciousness as a complex interplay of thoughts, emotions, and sensations. It questions the nature of the self and the concept of ego, seeking to transcend these barriers to attain a higher level of consciousness.

The Quest for Authentic Intelligence

In Zen, authentic intelligence is not about computational power or problem-solving abilities; it’s about the ability to perceive reality and respond with natural authenticity – without the filter of ego and desires. It involves being fully present in the moment and achieving a deep understanding of the self and the universe.

Bridging the Gap

Finding Harmony

While artificial intelligence and authentic intelligence may seem worlds apart, there is a way to find harmony between them. Zen teaches us to use all technologies mindfully, ensuring it enhances our lives without overshadowing our authentic experiences or causing harm.

The Role of Technology

From a Zen perspective, technology can be a tool to aid in our quest for authentic intelligence. Online meditation and self-awareness training, for instance, can guide us on our journey to awakening, making authentic intelligence more accessible in our fast-paced world.

It is important too, to remind ourselves that spiritual technologies and their instruments to support our human well-being have existed for thousands of years. Modern, digital technologies have at their root, these ancient, practical technologies which were created from the interconnection between humans and the intelligence of nature.

The Intelligence of Nature – Examples of Nature’s Authentic Intelligence

In contrast to current AI methods that focus on specific tasks and rely on large amounts of offline data and extensive, slow, and mostly supervised learning, natural intelligence is quick, versatile, agile, and open-ended.

 

Fungi – The Original Internet?

With an estimated 1.5m species of fungi, their fine fungal threads called mycelium act as an underground, natural ‘internet’, linking the roots of different plants. Up to 90 per cent of land plants are in a mutually-beneficial relationship with fungi. By linking into the network, plants share nutrients and information with neighbours and can sabotage unwelcome plants by spreading toxic chemicals.

 

Birds have (GPS) Global Positioning Systems!

For centuries, scientists dismissed birds as being less intelligent than mammals. Now they’re finding a new place in the pecking order. Tests have shown rooks and crows to be better than eight-year-old children at reaching treats by making and using wire hooks. Birds can remember where they hid thousands of pieces of food even after landscapes are covered in a metre of snow. Birds can find their way home after migrating thousands of miles. Arctic terns, for example, travel an average of 44,000 miles per year.

 

Plants – The Sensorial Superconductors

Humans have five basic senses. Scientists believe plants have at least 20. Plants release pheromones to warn of insect attacks and other plants respond. They also send distress signals, attracting predators of the insects that threaten to eat them. Plants are sensitive. Every root apex can detect 20 physical and chemical parameters, from light and gravity to humidity and pathogens. There are at least 600 species of animal-eating plants, including the venus flytrap. Plants can survive even after losing 90 per cent or more of their biomass.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the essence of artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence aims to replicate human intelligence in machines to perform various tasks.

2. How does Zen Buddhism view consciousness?

Zen Buddhism sees consciousness as a complex interplay of thoughts and emotions, seeking to transcend the ego and attain higher awareness.

3. Can technology enhance our quest for authentic intelligence?

Yes, technology can aid in our journey toward authentic intelligence by providing tools and guidance for self-awareness.

4.Is it possible to balance technology and authentic experiences?

Absolutely, finding harmony between technology and authentic experiences is attainable through mindfulness and conscious use of technology.

Conclusion

In the clash of artificial versus natural, authentic intelligence, it’s vital to remember that they need not be mutually exclusive. Zen Buddhism teaches us that both can coexist harmoniously, with technology serving as a means to enhance our understanding of consciousness. Embracing this duality can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

What’s important to remember is that intelligence, like language, is a tool used by nature and humans. Be wise! Maintain your sovereignty by not allowing yourself to be used, limited or manipulated by any tool.

In today’s tech-driven world, the relationship between artificial and authentic intelligence is more relevant than ever. By integrating the wisdom of Zen Buddhism into our lives, we can navigate this complex landscape with mindfulness and a deeper understanding of consciousness.

Forest Bathing, Shinrin Yoku: What is it, and How to Practice it.

Forest Bathing, Shinrin Yoku: What is it, and How to Practice it.

Sep 27, 2023 | Earth, Nature, Zen Buddhism

– Composed by Duane Steffens, Edited Glenn Nangaku Leisching

In a world that is constantly on the move, where stress and anxiety seem to be an integral part of our daily lives, there’s a Japanese practice that offers a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace. Its called Shinrin Yoku, or forest bathing, and it’s a profound way to reconnect with the natural world while reaping numerous health benefits. In this article, we’ll delve into the essence of Shinrin Yoku, explore what it means, and learn how to practice this ancient Japanese art.

Introduction

 

The Healing Power of Nature

In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, finding moments of serenity can be a challenge. That’s where the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, or forest bathing, comes into play.

Imagine immersing yourself in the lush greenery of a forest near you, breathing in the crisp, clean air, and letting the soothing sounds of nature wash over you. It’s not just a leisurely walk in the woods; it’s a therapeutic experience that promotes physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Shinrin Yoku: Unpacking the Practice

 

The Origins of Shinrin Yoku

Shinrin Yoku traces its roots back to Japan in the 1980s when it was introduced as a part of their national health program. The idea was simple: encourage people to spend more time in nature to improve their overall health. This notion was inspired by, amongst others, ancient Japanese Zen traditions that emphasized the profound connection between humans and the natural world.

 

What ‘Forest Bathing’ Really Means

The term ‘forest bathing’ may conjure images of taking a dip in a forest stream, but it’s not quite so literal. Instead, it refers to the practice of immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere, engaging all five senses to fully experience the natural environment.

Scientific Backing: Why It Works

Boosting Your Immune System

Research has shown that spending time in nature, particularly in lush green forests, can have a remarkable impact on your immune system. Phytoncides, natural chemicals released by trees, can enhance your body’s defence mechanisms, making you less susceptible to illnesses.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

The tranquil ambiance of the forest has a profound calming effect on the mind. Studies have demonstrated that forest bathing can significantly reduce stress hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Preparing for Your Shinrin Yoku Experience

Choosing the Right Forest

Selecting the ideal forest for your Shinrin Yoku adventure is crucial. Look for one that is rich in biodiversity and has a variety of trees and plant species. The more diverse the ecosystem, the greater the benefits you can reap.

The Art of Mindful Preparation

Before you step into the forest, take a moment to disconnect from the digital world. Leave your gadgets behind and focus on the present moment. Dress comfortably, wear suitable footwear, and bring along essentials like water and insect repellent.

The Practice Itself: How to Do Shinrin Yoku

Engaging Your Senses

Shinrin Yoku is all about immersing yourself in sensory experiences. Listen to the rustling leaves, feel the texture of tree bark, and inhale the earthy scent of the forest. Each of your senses will guide you deeper into the moment.

Mindful Walking (kinhin) and Zen Meditation

As you walk through the forest, do so mindfully. Pay attention to each step, the sensation of the ground beneath your feet, and the rhythm of your breath. Consider incorporating zen meditation into your practice to enhance your connection with nature. (Read Kinhin blog here)

The Benefits of Regular Shinrin Yoku

Physical Health Improvements

Regular Shinrin Yoku practice has been linked to a range of physical health benefits. It can lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and even boost your energy levels.

Enhanced Mental Well-being

On the mental health front, forest bathing has proven to reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. It can enhance your mood, increase your focus, and promote a sense of inner-peace.

Shinrin Yoku and Japanese Culture

Historical Significance

Shinrin Yoku isn’t just a modern wellness trend; it has deep historical roots in Japanese culture. Traditional practices like Shintoism and Zen Buddhism have long recognized the spiritual connection between humans and nature.

Modern-Day Relevance

Even in today’s fast-paced world, Shinrin Yoku remains relevant. Japanese corporations encourage employees to partake in forest bathing for improved productivity and well-being. It’s a reminder that the ancient wisdom of Shinrin Yoku can still benefit modern society.

 

Incorporating Shinrin Yoku into Your Lifestyle

Urban Forests and Green Spaces

If you don’t have immediate access to a dense forest, don’t worry. Many urban areas have designated green spaces and urban forests where you can practice Shinrin Yoku.These pockets of nature offer a respite from city life.

Shinrin Yoku at Home

You can even bring a touch of Shinrin Yoku into your home. Houseplants, nature-inspired decor, and indoor meditation can help you maintain a connection with nature in your everyday life.

 

A Worldwide Phenomenon: Shinrin Yoku Beyond Japan

Global Recognition and Adoption

The healing power of Shinrin Yoku has transcended borders. Countries around the world have recognized its benefits, leading to a global movement of forest bathing enthusiasts.

Cultural Adaptations

While the core principles of Shinrin Yoku remain the same, different cultures have adapted the practice to suit their needs and environments. This cultural diversity showcases the universal appeal of reconnecting with nature.

Conclusion

Embrace the Healing Power of Nature

In a world where screens dominate our attention and stress lurks around every corner, Shinrin Yoku offers a simple yet profound solution. By immersing ourselves in the natural world, we can find solace, healing, and a renewed sense of wonder. So, take a step into the forest, breathe in the fresh air, and let nature work its magic on your mind, body, and soul.