Flor de Nopal Sangha ( Rio Grande Valley )

Approaching Zazen (seated meditation)

2009-11-30T11:01:00.000-08:00

This is a good introductory video to meditation techniques in Buddhism.

Please take in mind that different Buddhist traditions may approach meditation in different manners or techniques. Also, the seating positions presented in the video are suggestions on some postures that may be used during meditation. Google for "zazen" and you will find more detailed information. The seating postures are for meditation and not about physical endurance. Nevertheless, this video is a good starter.

The Heart Sutra

2009-09-30T06:46:00.001-07:00

Meditation and Books

2008-10-30T08:20:00.001-07:00

Our group often get asked by new members about how to meditate. I have posted some videos previously here that give you some idea. Nevertheless, new meditators want something more concrete. A book that explains it all. Unfortunately, there is not one book. There is no "bible" of mediation. Buddhist meditation has different traditions with their own approaches. Also, meditation is a practice. You can read about it. Learn from a book. But, in the end, you have to practice. Yet. There is hope. There are some good books that give the beginner a good idea about the ABC's of meditation.

One book I highly recomment is "Zen Meditation in Plain English" by John Daishin Buksbazen. Short. To the point. Free of jargon. It's from a Zen Buddhist perspective.

Another good source is "Mindfulness In Plain English" by Ven. Bhante Henepola Gunaratana from the Theravada tradition. You can get a .pdf dowload version here:

If your browser doesn't allow you to open it, try this link.

It's a big longer than the first book mentioned, but a very good source of what is Vipassana meditation practice.

No matter what book you choose. No matter what Buddhist tradition feels best for you. In the end, quoting Dongen Zenji, "Be mindful of the passing of time, and engage yourself in zazen as though you are saving your head from fire."

Why Meditate?

2008-10-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

This is probably one of the top questions we get asked often...."Why medidate?." Well. Here are some videos that explore that question (and more) at Ask A Buddhist (Clear Vision).