Zen Things
What are Zen Things?
Twenty years ago while a graduate student at Columbia, I went on my first Zen retreat.
We sat in silence on the floor – no cushions, no talking.
I got no insights and a stiff back.
Was that a Zen Thing?
Maybe Zen Things aren’t acquired on a weekend away, or a crystallized moment of lucidity, but in the ordinary, and the everyday.
This is one of my favorite memes of all time.
Different phrases speak to me over the years.
Which one/s speak to you?
Given the events of the last 20 months, I find myself often thinking about the last two.
Think about what is necessary.
Live simply.
I’ve purged stale things, stale friendships and made space for the elemental.
It’s liberating.
I can enthusiastically recommend keeping all which elevates your existence–a mug you love, a friend who always has something insightful to say, a piece of clothing that gets worn often and brings joy.
Those are necessary.
Let go of the rest.
As we approach the Winter Solstice (December 21, 2021) – the quietest day of the year – I’ll be cooking and cleaning and drinking tea in cozy socks as I meditate on these Zen Things.
I encourage you to do the same.
Namaste,
Catherine
(Visited 356 times, 1 visits today)
Catherine Tingey
Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 33 years and teaching privately for 13 years.
About the Author
Catherine Tingey+ Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 33 years and teaching privately for 13 years.
Related Posts
Breath Is Life →
Leaning Into What Is →
Ode to The Ordinary Day →
