How Zen Meditation May be Difficult for Some

When it comes to Zen meditation, many people find that it is not as easy as it looks.  In fact, most people that try Zen meditation will admit that it is a very difficult thing to master!  However, all you have to do is allow yourself to want to meditate!

Before you start Zen meditation, there are some important things that you will want to do.  In fact, one of the most important things is to allow your self to be in a very quiet and comfortable room/spot; where it is not too cold or hot or bright or dark.  Also, if you have any type of telephone around you; you will want to shut that off, as well.  Once you are in complete silence, you will then be able to get your meditation cushion, bench or mat and put it on the floor (if you don't have any of them, a regular couch cushion will work also).   You will then want to sit on the cushion in a proper Zen meditation posture; which are in a full-lotus posture, half-lotus posture, quarter-lotus posture, Burmese posture, kneeling/seiza posture or sitting in a chair.  No matter which posture you choose, it will keep your spine straight and your hands close to your body (which is very important).  It is very important that you allow your body to be relaxed yet tense at the same time.  If you are on a mat, there should be no space between the knees and the floor; and if you are sitting in a chair then your feet should be flat on the floor and your legs slightly apart.

If you have never had the experience of Zen meditation, then it is suggested that you count your breaths (as you taking deep breaths allowing your lungs to fully expand in every breath).  While breathing, you will want to let all your thoughts out of your mind and focus only on your breathing.

Along with knowing how to breathe properly, it is also suggested that you only sit for a short period of time when you are first learning.  Usually, it is only recommended that you meditate for 10 minutes and as you learn you can then go up to 30 minutes at a time without a break.  If you are one that does not want to take a break, then you may be able to meditate while walking, during the break.

For some people, they are not sure of what exactly the point of Zen meditation is; however, for many it is a way of how they see true nature, and how it enables them to live in a life that is awakened.  In fact, they think of themselves as being "pure".