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Autumn Retreat - The Recorded Sayings of Linji

Thich Nhat Hanh · November 16, 2003 · Lower Hamlet, Plum Village, France
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This talk focuses on breathing and mindfulness in meditation. The lungs contain about 3 liters of air, with each breath taking in about 500 cm³. Air consists of 79% nitrogen and 21% oxygen. When exhaling, the oxygen ratio remains, supporting the process of oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide release. In a day, about 300 grams of water is expelled through breath. Practicing longer exhalations helps balance the breath and improve health. Thich Nhat Hanh explains that all phenomena are without self-nature, and both worldly and transcendental phenomena depend on each other. He emphasizes that liberation is not sought outside but found within oneself. He warns that seeking the Buddha outside can lead to misunderstandings. He tells the story of Tuệ Trung Thượng Sĩ and emphasizes that everything is interdependent, like flowers needing garbage to exist. He explains that the supernatural powers of celestial beings, gods, and asuras are not due to their powers but because of faith and personal experience.

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