“…those whose lose mindfulness, lose.”
From Shakyamuni Buddha, down through generations of ancestors, including Dogen Zenji, and into the present moment have come a series of teachings on the eight awarenesses of awakened beings. One is called Maintaining Right Mindfulness or Not Neglecting Mindfulness. Practicing this in the midst of our tumbling and turbulent lives, while certainly not easy, is worth all the effort and commitment we can offer.
In this dharma talk, Koshin Sensei challenges more common understandings of mindfulness by reminding us that this practice is actually about staying grounded and connected during all of life’s experiences. Neglecting mindfulness means cutting oneself off from everything within and around us. When we fail to maintain right mindfulness, we create separation. Koshin asks us to reflect on what it takes to practice not losing connection? Can we bring new awareness to everything we meet and keep coming back into relationship, even when things are scary and uncomfortable?
ZENTALK NOTES
Koshin Paley Ellison Sensei Zen teacher, Jungian psychotherapist, leader in contemplative care, and co-founder of an educational non-profit called the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care. His books, grounded in Buddhist wisdom and practice, have gained national attention. Through its numerous educational programs, contemplative retreats, and Soto Zen Buddhist practices, the New York Zen Center touches thousands of lives every year.
MUSIC
Heart Sutra by Kanho Yakushiji – Buddhist priest and musician of the Rinzai sect and Imaji temple in Imabari, Japan. In 2003, he formed “KISSAQUO”, a songwriting duo based in Kyoto.
NYZC PUBLICATIONS
- Untangled here: https://bit.ly/untangled-book
- Wholehearted: Slow Down, Help Out, Wake Up here: https://amzn.to/2JTKF1t
- Awake At The Bedside here: https://amzn.to/3aijXdL
CONNECT WITH US
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