We meditate for a few minutes every session. This calms and focuses the mind and helps to improve breathing control.
Meditation has been common across many traditions for millennia. It provides another angle to achieve the aims of Shorinji Kempo, which are to develop the self and learn to live in harmony with others. It is a practice with benefits for the mind, body, and soul.
Mind
Calming the mind and improving our mental functioning by letting go of the everyday thoughts which constantly revolve in our heads. In some ways this is similar to the state of mind we should have while training – concentrating on the here and now rather than worrying about the past or future.
The focus required to achieve this while “doing nothing” helps improve our ability to focus at other times.
Body
Zazen, or seated meditation, is not supposed to be easy. Maintaining the body in the correct posture – back upright and chest open, but relaxed – can be difficult at first. However it is vital to ensure good airflow and circulation.
The breathing techniques are designed to be active processes which fill the body with energy while also calming the mind.
Soul
Chinkon-gyo literally means “soul-calming discipline”. Calming the mind allows the spirit to flourish, allowing us to see beyond our grasping, analytical minds and see nature as it truly is.
Seeing reality is a quest which has been undertaken by countless people for countless years, so don’t worry if you don’t manage it on your first class! Every time you sit, you will make some small progress towards the goal.
Bristol Shorinji Kempo 