Calligraphy art
When I was an undergrad at University, I arrived early to one of my classes to find the previous demonstration was still wrapping up. At the front of the auditorium was a Zen Buddhist monk. He was in full robes, sitting on the floor, in front of a large, blank, white, scroll of paper.
He dipped a large brush in some black ink. Then, in one fluid continuous movement, proceed to paint a Chinese character on the paper. His movement was so fluid and beautiful. He and the brush and the paper had become one in this expression. In a short moment he was done. He held up the painting to the auditorium to some applause, and then he packed up and was on his way.
Zen-Mind
This demonstration stayed with me. For a long time I looked for ways in my own life to be able to embody this act of creation. Totally immersed in an activity, becoming one with it. It even inspired me to study brushwork. I did not know Chinese characters well enough, (they can get pretty complicated), but I did have some success with painting just circles.
Archery is another activity famous for being a Zen activity. Again, it’s all about the “way” in doing. The mindset you have during the activity. The closest I can come to explaining it in modern terms is “flow-state”. It’s about mastery of an activity. An activity that’s simple enough to repeat over and over, but complex enough that a different part of the brain takes over and integrates the coordination involved.
That’s one of the reasons I’ve decided to take up golf.
Everyday Enlightenment
Beyond these art-forms, zen-mind can be found in many everyday activities. You don’t need calligraphy tools or expensive golf clubs. It comes from being present, and fully engaged in the activity on hand. Think, while washing dishes, or gardening, or doing Sudoku; these can all be opportunities for practicing zen-mind.
If you are engaged in a creative activity; performing music, or sketching a portrait; let go of your judgment on whether it’s “good” or not. See the outcome you want, and do the task, but don’t berate yourself. You can see it and say, “hmm, this could be better,” or “this turned out well”, then let it go and try again. Stay in the flow. Engaged in the moment.
This brings peace, and even enlightenment. The Buddha once held a sermon where he simply lifted and held up a flower. Only Mahakasyapa understood. This is why Zen Buddhism is considered teaching that goes beyond words to direct experience. The truth of enlightenment is beyond words.
What are your thoughts on this? Share in the comments below.
Thank you,
Michael Savalli LAc
Image by freepik (No, I didn't paint this circle)
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