Zen - a "living" solution during the pandemic?

WHAT IS ZEN?

The concept of Zen originates from Japan, which is the Japanese transliteration of禪(meditation). Zen emphasizes the ability to regulate oneself, meditate, understand oneself and all things around in a natural and balanced state. The Zen spirit aims for a slow, leisurely lifestyle, in harmony with the universe and nature. Contrary to some views that Zen is separating oneself from life, the Zen lifestyle allows people to calm down to enjoy and feel life in the present moment as it is.

As a Buddhist country, the Japanese Zen style is heavily influenced by Zen Buddhism, with its “no-letters” spirit, aiming for minimalism in all aspects of life. Zen Buddhism also emphasizes the importance of purifying the body and mind and living in harmony with the surrounding environment. The Japanese clearly reflect the Zen spirit in their tea ceremony, bonsai art, architecture, cuisine and most areas of life.

Zen has entered modern life all over the world, removing rituals and routines, keeping only the spirit of minimalism and mindfulness. Therefore, practicing Yoga, Eat Clean, Minimalism fashion style and architecture, although not all originated from Japan, are essentially the essence of the Zen spirit.

WHY IS ZEN BECOMING A TREND?

2020 and the first half of 2021 saw a wave, not too loud but significant, of Zen lifestyle. In the US, the number of people practicing yoga increased since March 2020 after 5 years of decline. Dieteat cleanandplant-basedWith organic, natural food options, “slow food” is also on the rise. In addition, search keywords for “Minimalism style” have also skyrocketed 140% in Vietnam in the past two years. The question is, why is Zen becoming a new trend, at this time?

For nearly 2 years, humanity has witnessed a “VUCA world” – a world full of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity caused by pandemics, natural disasters, political instability, etc. This disruption puts people in a state of insecurity and fear. In addition, long periods of social distancing and restrictions on gatherings also disconnect people from external factors, forcing them to spend more time sitting and reflecting on themselves.

Over the years, with countless efforts from corporations and advertising companies, humanity has been “trained” in hoarding and consumerism, gradually forming the habit of owning more things and assimilating it with happiness. However, a study from the American Psychological Association in 2004 showed that owning many things makes people overloaded, stressed and easily distracted. In the context of social distancing at home, facing piles of things, that frustration is even more evident.

Moreover, the pandemic has made many people realize the truth of the Buddhist concept of Impermanence. The fact that a series of economies have fallen into crisis and countless long-standing businesses have gone bankrupt clearly demonstrates the truth that all things are impermanent. In a way, the pandemic has helped people realize the unnecessary attachment to material things. Instead, turning inward, developing the body and mind and living in harmony with nature and the universe has become an important way to find happiness. In other words, the more volatile life is, the more immobile we must be.

ZEN PRACTICE, WHERE TO START?

Whether you are well versed in the roots and essence of Zen or are drawn to it as a trend, practicing Zen can bring you great benefits. Here are ways to find Zen in a few areas of your life.

1. Zen Eating

“Eating according to season” is at the core of Zen eating. Foods harvested in season tend to be more nutritious (due to following the full and complete growth cycle “designed” by nature) and contain fewer pesticide and growth hormone residues. You can read Masanobu Fukuoka’s book The One Straw Revolution to learn more.

2. Wear Zen

Zen dressing now not only revolves around minimalist designs in details, emphasizing comfort in materials and seams, but is also associated with the concept of Sustainable Fashion, focusing on reducing water, using environmentally friendly materials, paying fair wages to workers... This is the answer to the long-term direction of the fashion industry, as this industry gradually moves towards more harmony and kindness to the environment.

3. In Zen

“Less stuff & more greenery”. Start by asking the items in your home “Does this spark joy?”, purge unnecessary items and optimize the functionality of the remaining items. At the same time, don’t forget to add greenery to your home.

4. Zen Travel

Given the current situation, it is still a bit early to talk about travel. However, when the epidemic is under control, a trip to a Wellness Retreat or Yoga Retreat is also a good idea. Wellness Retreat offers participants trips that combine relaxation with physical, therapeutic or spiritual activities. In addition, some trips also help visitors experience a detox diet to rejuvenate the body. Coming to this new form of tourism, in addition to relaxation, you will have more time for yourself, immerse yourself in nature and recharge your physical and mental energy.

Hopefully, through this article, you will have a little inspiration to learn about Zen and apply Zen in your daily life. Wishing you a leisurely and joyful life, "unmoving" even though the world around you is full of potential changes.

Quang Minh