SHAOLIN MEDITATION
Chan (Zen) meditation is a practice method for cultivating both body and mind through stillness, mindfulness, and breath regulation. Originating from Buddhism, it aims to help practitioners transcend distracting thoughts and attain inner peace and wisdom.
At the Shaolin Temple, Chan meditation is not only a key aspect of spiritual cultivation but also one of the core philosophies of Shaolin Kung Fu. During meditation, practitioners regulate their breathing and let go of distracting thoughts, allowing the mind to become clear. This process leads to an emotional balance in which body and mind are united and attachments are transcended.
Long-term meditation not only relieves stress, enhances concentration, but also develops wisdom and compassion. This brings about harmony both internally and externally, leading to the unity of body and mind.
SHAOLIN MEDITATION
Chan (Zen) meditation is a practice method for cultivating both body and mind through stillness, mindfulness, and breath regulation. Originating from Buddhism, it aims to help practitioners transcend distracting thoughts and attain inner peace and wisdom. At the Shaolin Temple, Chan meditation is not only a key aspect of spiritual cultivation but also one of the core philosophies of Shaolin Kung Fu. During meditation, practitioners regulate their breathing and let go of distracting thoughts, allowing the mind to become clear. This process leads to an emotional balance in which body and mind are united and attachments are transcended. Long-term meditation not only relieves stress, enhances concentration, but also develops wisdom and compassion. This brings about harmony both internally and externally, leading to the unity of body and mind.
The purpose of Chan (Zen) meditation
Chan meditation is not about escaping reality, nor is it a pursuit of mysterious or supernatural experiences. True Chan practice is a path of returning to one’s original nature and seeing reality as it truly is. People in the world are often influenced by external circumstances—their minds shift with the changing environment, and many worries arise. A practitioner of Chan, however, turns inward, seeking to recognize the true nature of the mind. The purpose of Chan is to find a clear, free, and unshakable mind amidst noise and chaos.
明心见性
Ming Xin Jian Xing
Recognizing the mind and seeing one’s true nature
In Buddhism, it is often said: “Recognize your mind and see your true nature; to see your nature is to become Buddha.” Chan is a direct path that points straight to one’s heart and nature. Through sitting in stillness, mindful observation, and working with “koans” (meditative questions), the practitioner gradually detaches himself from words and concepts. Instead of clinging to distinctions, one directly experiences the original purity of the mind. When the mind becomes clear, all dharmas are passed through.
脱离烦恼，得大自在
Tuo Li Fan Nao, De Da Zi Zai
Freeing oneself from afflictions – True inner freedom
Afflictions and worries arise from the mind, stirred by restless thoughts. Chan meditation helps to recognize the origin of these thoughts and to no longer be controlled by them. When a person truly sees the illusory nature of their thoughts, they are no longer trapped by greed, anger, and ignorance. Body and mind become free and life unfolds with natural ease. True freedom is not doing whatever one wants, but remaining internally clear and peaceful under any circumstance.
生活中修行，当下即是道场
Sheng Huo Zhong Xiu Xing, Dang Xia Ji Shi Dao Chang
Practicing in everyday life – Every moment is the way
Chan is not limited to sitting meditation. Eating, walking, washing clothes, sweeping the floor —all can be practice. When we bring mindfulness and awareness into daily life, we discover that Chan is not hidden in mountains and forests—it is found within every moment of life. In this way, practice and daily living become one; both movement and stillness are expressions of the path.
了脱生死，究竟解脱
Liao Tuo Sheng Si , Jiu Jing Jie Tuo
Transcending birth and death – Ultimate liberation
The ultimate goal of Buddhism is liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Chan meditation exists for this very purpose. It does not offer theoretical liberation, but direct realization of a wisdom that transcends birth and death. When one recognizes their true nature, without ego and without forms, one breaks through the illusion of “birth and death” and attains the true freedom of Nirvana.
Chan meditation is a journey of return— a path of awakening from confusion back to the original light.
It is not far, but present in every moment. Those who are willing to turn back can encounter their true self.
Do you have questions?
If you have any questions or want to book a lesson, feel free to contact me!
Do you have questions?
If you have any questions or want to book a lesson, feel free to contact me!