In order to explain this concept, I have had to sit within and really pay attention to what I do to get to this ‘Zen’ state of mind. Some will say one requires all sorts of tools or a certain type of environment to achieve this level of awareness, I say it requires only the emptying of ones mind from the external and internal distractions to enter into the Zen Mind-state…
I now know through the process of trying (almost) all of the method/tools offered through various Souls, that the best tool for me to use is not only Free but it is Unconditionally in Love with Me… and that is the Power of my Heart.
Yes it may upset many people who will try to ‘sell’ us their tools, however it is your journey and no-one can travel it’s path but you. You may be drawn to using certain tools to help you to relax but don’t get caught up in the wild promises that vendors can glamour you with, use your Heart in determining if their products will help or hinder your journey.
Zen Mind and Mushin Mind are both the same in my understanding only the when using the term Mushin it generally refers to the Warrior and maintaining a certain state of mind during battle where no doubt enters ones mind and one is the weapon. As per these quoted words by the legendary Zen master Takuan Sōhō
The mind must always be in the state of ‘flowing,’ for when it stops anywhere that means the flow is interrupted and it is this interruption that is injurious to the well-being of the mind. In the case of the swordsman, it means death.
When the swordsman stands against his opponent, he is not to think of the opponent, nor of himself, nor of his enemy’s sword movements. He just stands there with his sword which, forgetful of all technique, is ready only to follow the dictates of the subconscious. The man has effaced himself as the wielder of the sword. When he strikes, it is not the man but the sword in the hand of the man’s subconscious that strikes.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mushin_(mental_state)
In order for me to explain how I enter this state of mind or no-mind as some say it, I have recorded a video and also outlined some steps which may or may not work for you. Again, this is a process of letting go of the distractions of ‘How’ and to just ‘Be’… It is not an easy concept to explain but I will do my best… Enjoy x
Blood Flow Zazen (Meditation)
Once one knows how to enter Zen, One should not require tools for entry… However some bodies are helped to relax with tools such as:
- A Silent Room or Safe Space
- Calming Music
- Incense or Essential Oils
- Candles and Crystals
- Bed or Floor or Comfy Chair
If tools are required for you, I recommend that as you ready each tool a Clearing request to dispell past energies and to place a Blessing for positive healing to be cast upon it, ready for your journey to Zen. Doing this will put one in a state of Gratitude for each items involvement.
Steps
- Enter your Space and get comfortable (on Bed, Chair, Floor)
- Close your Eyes and start the Deep Breathing (4 counts in… Hold… 4 counts out… Hold… repeat)
- Place fingertips together against the side or underneath of your legs or atop your chest/tummy or just hold your hands together (the position you find most comfortable will depend on the position of your body)
- Feel for your Heatbeat at first with your mind and then only with the touch.
- Allow your awareness to follow your Heartbeat up and down your body wherever the veins go so does your mind
- Sink into the Beat and go back to the beat if your Mind starts to wander away
- Once you are here allow all to disappear and you are only left with the feeling of your body filling your senses
- At this point One can feel the connection to all, as all have the Lifeforce of an internal Heartbeat
- Realise that each living being is attached to a Great Overall Heartbeat of life and each being is experiencing a different Heartbeat from the singular Source of all Creation.
- Each time Mind or Ego interrupt the flow of connection, remind them gently of their job to maintain the connection and they will go back to the task. The Subconscious directing the Conscious.
- It can be intense when one walks through their day with their Heart beating so loud within their Mind – This is when you acknowledge the Beauty and Grace of your Heart and say Thank You for reminding me to go within, to breathe slowly and deeply, to enter the sanctuary of your Heart.
In Love and In Light
May you find your Way
Home to your Heart
Love to All
Elnishka – Alicia Smith
9th of March 2021
Elnishka - Alicia Smith 