Most people nowadays love their smart devices, they use them to keep up with daily news and with people. However this continues use that often requires multi-tasking is overwhelming for our brain and it increases cortisol – the stress hormone.
This example from the Shaolin Temple shows how they have found a middle ground, by using Zen methods to keep relaxed and still participate in modern world. These following tips will help you in keeping yourself together in this busy environment.
- Short but regular vacations
Turn off the phone or activate the airplane mode 2 hours before going to sleep, when you work out, when you meditate, and have your meals. This will aid you in restoring inner peace. - Have a cup of tea
Have a cup of tea instead of worrying about future plans and heavy thoughts. Concentrating fully on this simple action will help you in the communication within yourself, because being present in the moment is a very efficient way of eliminating anxiety as well as stress. - Have a Zen workout
Exercise is necessary for everyone, not just physically but mentally too. Discover the workout you love and make it your meditation. How to do this? By focusing on your breathing and your movements, without any other worries. Contemporary research points out that meditation leads towards a better harmony of lifestyle. - Carpe Diem!
In martial arts there is only the moment. Live now and if you take care of now, you take care of the future. Devote yourself to everything you do, leaving no reserves of energy. This is the only moment that you take in the fresh energy. Shaolin Monks carry a Jade amulet as a reminder to stay mindful. - Balance the Ying and Yang
Health and fitness go together, so you need both anaerobic and aerobic exercise and internal practices. Exercise is prevention of diseases, but you also need mindful practice for inner peace. In Shaolin Burn and Shaolin Fitness and Wellness both Qigong (yoga) and Kung Fu (exercise) are combined in one workout. - Ring the bell of now!
One great Buddhist Zen Master recommends that every time a person hears a bell (whether it is a phone or church bells), it should stop and take three deep breaths. You can try it and see the scope of your impatience. - Reminders
A brain that is at peace, is always a happy one. You should have at least one nourishment every day: ten minutes of shutting down everything, a cup of tea, a workout etc. These little moments will bring you back to the center of yourself and direct you towards health and happiness.
