Still Sitting is proud of the relationships it forms with organizations and individuals around the world as they engage in meditation and mindfulness practice. Occasionally, we like to share their stories in our Spotlight Series. Gendo Allyn Field is as much at home sitting among the Trappist monks of Saint Joseph’s Abbey as he is… Read more »
Still Sitting Meditation Blog
What is a zabuton?
In the Zen tradition, seated meditation requires two cushions: a zafu and a zabuton. If you go into almost any meditation center, you’ll see these two cushions paired together, lined up in neat, parallel rows for students. Today, a variety of traditions and practices beyond Zen use these cushions. However, zafus, those puffy, cloud-like seats,… Read more »
Hakuin Ekaku: Brushtrokes of Zen
What is the sound of one hand clapping? You’ve likely heard this enigmatic riddle before, but probably aren’t as familiar with the man behind the words. The Japanese Zen master Hakuin Ekaku, who is credited with that famous koan, is a man whose teachings, art, and influence resonate deeply, even today. Hakuin’s life, legends, and profound… Read more »
5 Simple Breathing Exercises for Relaxation
Meditation is a pretty simple idea: sit down, breathe, and try not to get too distracted. If you can manage that, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself beginning to relax. Your body and mind will slow down. But that breathing part isn’t always as easy as it seems, so here are 5 simple breathing… Read more »
The Best Meditation Products for Tall People
If you’re tall, the idea of folding your long legs up like a pretzel to sit on a meditation cushion probably sounds intimidating. So, we’ve put together a list of the best meditation products for tall people. From difficulty maintaining proper posture to discomfort due to inadequate joint support, tall people often encounter unique obstacles… Read more »
Kuan Yin Statues and and Iconography
Kuan Yin (also known as Guanyin and Kannon) is the bodhisattva of compassion, a revered figure in East Asian Buddhism known for her boundless mercy. Throughout the centuries, artists across China and Japan have depicted Kuan Yin in various forms, including statues and art, each infused with rich symbolism and spiritual significance. Here we’ll delve… Read more »
Who is Bodhidharma?
In Buddhist lore, few figures loom as large and enigmatic as Bodhidharma, a man whose fierce scowl, framed by deep vermillion robes, is pervasive from East to West. Revered for transmitting the teachings of Chan Buddhism, the predecessor of Zen Buddhism, from India to China and becoming one of the patriarchs of Zen and Shaolin,… Read more »
What is a zafu?
When you meditate, you must, almost invariably, sit on something. Thus the idea of a meditation cushion was born: an inconspicuous accessory that can not only improve posture, but also offer a modicum of comfort. Whether you practice Buddhism or are merely dipping your toes into meditation, you are likely to encounter a squat, circular… Read more »
What are mala beads?
If you do meditation or yoga, you’ve probably seen mala beads before. These beautiful beads, often worn around the wrist, are not just fashion accessories; they can hold spiritual significance and serve as an aid to mindfulness practice. Mala beads have a rich history deeply rooted in the religions of India, including Buddhism and Hinduism.… Read more »
How to Start Meditating in the New Year
As we enter 2024, turning the page on another year, many will set resolutions for personal growth and well-being. Meditation can help with these goals, so here is no better time to begin your journey. Whether you’re interested in helping with stress, pursuing some mental clarity, or just looking for a bit of calm, meditation is… Read more »
Recent Comments