The 7 ways to imitate a Zen monk

Why imitate a Zen monk? The answers to this question can be many. However, let’s go for the most practical one. 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 we are not doing so in the strict sense. They lead such a disciplined and particular life that it is impossible to replicate in a context like ours. What it is rather about is highlighting these patterns of conduct that they apply and that are also valid in our environment.

They make simplicity and focus a way of life. They manage to maintain their balance internal. His way of seeing things and facing reality is truly admirable.

If the idea of ​​imitating a Zen monk catches your attention, take these behavioral patterns into account.

1. Dedicate ourselves to what we do

It is something that we all know through common sense, but that we forget when living in such a hectic world. The best way to do something is to give ourselves to that until it’s finished. This facilitates concentration and allows for better results.

Doing several things at the same time is only a symptom of lack of concentration. This behavior reflects restlessness and dispersion. With this, the only thing we achieve is to spend valuable time on nothing and achieve results that are not always the best.

2. Do things slowly and deliberately

Although it may sound contradictory, most of the time we reach a goal faster when we slowly advance towards it. This is because haste often leads us to error. In turn, error prevents progress.

When we do each thing slowly, we facilitate the concentration process. If there is concentration we also make the most of every experience and we are much more likely to actually make progress.

3. Leave a space between two activities

It is not good to schedule too many tasks to do in a short period of time. When we gorge ourselves on activities the only thing we achieve is fill ourselves with anguish and stress. We may manage to complete them all, but it ruins our mood.

It is best to leave a reasonable amount of time between one activity and another.. This way we keep everything under control, especially if for some reason the tasks we had scheduled take a little longer. And if not, we have a space to start again without worry.

4. Carry out rituals, a way to imitate a Zen monk

One of the most interesting points of reference to imitate a Zen monk is the one that has to do with rituals. A ritual gives a special meaning to what we do. Its main function is to remind us of the importance of something.

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

5. Give value to what we do

Every day is unique and it is necessary to give it the value it has. Sometimes we forget and end up organizing our routines in such a way that We completely separate work days, rest days, fun days, etc.

Zen monks do it differently. They allocate a part of the day for each of these practices. A time to work and another to rest. Likewise, a time for fun and another for meditation. All within the same day.

6. Reserve time to do nothing

Doing nothing is something that is of decisive importance. Allocating moments for this makes us more productive, more creative and prevents us from fatigue. It also helps us balance emotions and cultivate a feeling of fulfillment.

It’s simply about taking a moment to sit and breathe, without further ado.. The monks do it in the lotus position and applying Zen meditation techniques. However, the mere act of staying still, breathing, is enough to achieve what you want: stillness and relaxation.

7. Carry out housework

There is always someone who must do the housework. This is a noble activity, which allows others to enjoy greater well-being. Zen monks deeply value domestic activities and encourage doing them to grow spiritually.

Housework is also an excellent starting point for meditating and practicing concentration.. Also to exercise the ability to do things slowly and methodically. May there always be a time in your daily life to do those tasks.

Imitating a Zen monk, even if only in the aspects described, is an excellent path to evolve. In this case, evolution means learning to live more simply and making the best of every moment.

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