Zen By Design Blog

Mindfulness

Mindfulness

Mindfulness, put simply, is the intention to practice presence in every moment.  When we practice being more present with everything that we do and experience, we change our perspectives almost immediately.  Mindfulness brings us into the present moment and calling ourselves to presence can enrich every moment of our lives. Compassion It is important to … Continued

kundalini

What is Kundalini?

Many of us have never heard of the word “Kundalini” and even fewer of us have ever experienced its full potential.  Kundalini can be described as untapped energy that exists within all of us.  It lives at the base of the spine and when activated, rises through all of our chakras.  It is an extremely … Continued

colorful clouds

Nirvana

“Nirvana” is a name that pops up, ever so often, in conversations of rock/grunge music fans, intellectuals, and those wannabe intellectuals. The meaning of Nirvana (not the band) can be found in Buddhism and Hinduism and is basically the beatitudes that transcend the cycle of suffering and rebirth. Or in other words, Nirvana is a … Continued

meditating woman

Meditation Mantra

While meditation is often referred to as the practice of tuning out of everyday strife by relaxing the mind and body, the fact is that meditation is actually used to tune in and get in touch with our inner selves at both a spiritual and personal level. What is a meditation mantra? Mantra “Mantra” is … Continued

Buddha Statue

The Buddha

Calmer than anyone anywhere, the Indian Sage Siddhartha Gautama became known as “The Buddha” by practically inventing pacifism. Born a rich prince and into a life of luxury, the young Gautama bailed on his birthright and all the trappings that came along with society and decided to go on his own journey. Buddhism Initially, Buddhism … Continued

Monk walking towards the lake

Zen Koan

As human beings, part of our nature is to be the best in whatever it is we do. Our constantly questioning mind is what has helped us evolve through the centuries and is responsible for placing us at the top of the food chain. Since our deepest emotions are buried within the fabric of our … Continued

Pink Lotus Flower

The Eightfold Path

“The Eightfold Path” is basically a guide for adherents of Buddhism to follow, practice, and explore. It is considered one of the most common Buddhist traditions, which is still taught and practiced by secular Buddhists as well. The important teaching of the ‘The Eightfold Path’ allows its followers to free themselves from all desires, cravings, … Continued

middle-aged man meditating outdoors

Meditation Effects

What are meditation effects? Meditation has been used for calming the mind and improving a person’s well-being for centuries. Everybody knows that reducing stress levels has a dramatic impact on a person’s overall health and all it takes is concentration and a bit of time. Some of the benefits of daily meditation are the reversal … Continued