The 7 Ways To Imitate A Zen Monk

Why imitate a Zen monk? The answers to this question can be many. But let’s choose the most practical. A Zen monk is an example of the capacity for attention and concentration, as well as productivity and stability.

Of course, when we talk about imitating a Zen monk, it is not a question of doing it in the strict sense. They lead such a disciplined and special life that it is impossible to reproduce it in a context like ours. What we are trying to do is highlight the patterns of behavior that they apply that are also valid in our environment.

They make simplicity and focus a way of life. They manage to maintain their internal balance. Their way of seeing things and dealing with reality is truly admirable. If you are drawn to the idea of ​​emulating a Zen monk, consider these patterns of behavior.

1. Surrender to what we do

This is something we all know by common sense, but which we forget when we live in such a hectic world. The best way to do something is to focus on it until it’s over. This facilitates concentration and allows for better results.

Multitasking is just a symptom of a lack of focus. This behavior reflects restlessness and dispersal. With this the only thing we get is to spend precious time on nothing and get results which are not always the best.

2. Imitate a Zen monk: do things slowly and deliberately

Although it seems contradictory, most of the time we reach a goal faster, when we get closer to it slowly. Indeed, hurrying often leads to error. In turn, error hinders progress.

When we do everything slowly, we facilitate the process of concentration. If there is focus, we also get the most out of each experience and are much more likely to make real progress.

3. Leave a space between two activities

It is not good to plan too many tasks to be accomplished in a short period of time. When we overload ourselves with activities, we only feel anxiety and stress. We may be able to finish them all, but we’re ruining our mood.

It is best to leave some time between activities. This way, we can keep everything under control, especially if for some reason the tasks we had planned get a little longer. And if not, we have a space to start over without worrying.

4. Imitate a Zen monk: adopt rituals, a way of imitating a Zen monk

One of the most interesting benchmarks for imitating a Zen monk is the one regarding rituals. A ritual gives special meaning to what we do. Its main function is to remind us of the importance of something.

We don’t need to do the Zen rituals, we just have to design our own way of celebrating certain moments. It is very convenient to do rituals at the beginning and at the end of the day. Also before exercising a particularly complex activity.

5. Give value to what we do

Each day is unique and it is necessary to give it the value it has. Sometimes we forget that and end up organizing our routines so that we completely separate the day from work, rest, enjoyment, etc.

Zen monks do it differently. They set aside part of the day for each of these practices. A time to work and a time to rest. Likewise, a time for pleasure and a time for meditation. All this in the same day.

6. Imitate a Zen monk: set aside time to do nothing

Doing nothing is of decisive importance. Setting aside time for this makes us more productive, more creative, and prevents fatigue. Idleness also helps us balance our emotions and cultivate a sense of accomplishment.

It’s just a matter of taking a moment to sit down and breathe, just like that. Monks do this in the lotus position and applying Zen meditation techniques. However, just sitting still, breathing, is enough to get what you want: stillness and relaxation.

7. Perform household chores

There is always someone who has to do the housework. It is a noble activity, which allows others to enjoy greater well-being. Zen monks attach great importance to domestic activities and encourage us to do them in order to grow spiritually.

Household chores are also a great starting point for meditation and concentration. It is also a good way to exercise the ability to do things slowly and methodically. In your daily life, there should always be a time to perform these tasks.

Imitating a Zen monk, even if only in the aspects described, is a great way to evolve. In this case, evolution means learning to live more simply and to make the most of every moment.

Our thoughts

The Zen legend of the pond tells us about emotions, our vices and our virtues, as well as their possible peaceful coexistence.