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The role of mindfulness in Zen meditation is to cultivate a heightened awareness of one's thoughts and actions from "summary" of Dogen's Manuals of Zen Meditation by Carl Bielefeldt
The function of mindfulness in Zen meditation is to develop an acute awareness of one's thoughts and actions. This involves paying close attention to the present moment without judgment or attachment. By cultivating this heightened state of mindfulness, practitioners can observe their thoughts and emotions as they arise, without getting carried away by them. This allows for a deeper understanding of the workings of the mind and a greater sense of clarity and control over one's mental processes. Through the practice of mindfulness, individuals can learn to recognize patterns of thought and behavior that may be causing suffering or discord in their lives. By observing these patterns without reacting impulsively, practitioners can begin to break free from habitual ways of thinking and acting that no longer serve them. This process of self-inquiry and self-discovery is central to the transformative power of Zen meditation. Mindfulness also plays a crucial role in helping individuals to stay present and focused during meditation. By anchoring their awareness in the present moment, practitioners can cultivate a sense of inner stillness and concentration that allows for deeper states of insight and realization to arise. This heightened awareness can also help individuals to see through the illusion of a fixed sense of self and to connect more fully with the interconnectedness of all beings.- The practice of mindfulness in Zen meditation is about cultivating a sense of openness, curiosity, and acceptance towards one's experience. By approaching each moment with a sense of beginner's mind, practitioners can let go of preconceived notions and expectations, and engage with the world with a sense of wonder and receptivity. This attitude of mindfulness can lead to a greater sense of peace, compassion, and wisdom that extends beyond the meditation cushion and into all aspects of one's life.
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