We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track. If this problem persists help us by reporting it so we can investigate it.
Watch this talk
Login or create a free account to watch this talk and discover other teachings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Log in or create an account
Peaceful Steps to the East Vol 01
The Buddha taught that all practices—including counting the breaths—are means, not ends. Before touching the bell, calm yourself with three in-and-out breaths. The bell is the voice of the Buddha calling you back to your true home—your heart—where peace and joy reside. When it sounds, breathe in saying “I listen, I listen,” and breathe out “This wonderful sound brings me back to my true home.”
The four core exercises offered are:
-
In-Out
• Label each in-breath “in” and each out-breath “out” to stop thinking. -
Flower-Fresh
• Breathing in “I am a flower,” breathing out “I feel fresh” to restore your natural vitality. -
Mountain-Solid
• Breathing in “I see myself as a mountain,” breathing out “I feel solid,” focusing on the rise and fall of your abdomen to steady strong emotions. -
Walking Meditation
• Take two or three steps per in-out cycle, focus on the soles of your feet as if “kissing the earth,” and arrive fully in each present moment.
By practicing these four exercises regularly, body and mind merge in the here and now, stopping the “cassette tape” of endless thinking, healing emotions, and cultivating deep peace, joy, and compassion. These simple yet powerful methods are Dharma seeds that, once planted and watered, will grow strong and transform your daily life.