Sit-a-Long with Taigu: Zazen for Beginners (Part XV)

**Jundo** · 09-28-2010, 01:51 PM

Sitting the body-mind, there is neither inside nor outside, says Rev. Taigu. Both, and none of them.

Not caught by distractions, forms, not sucked into inner dreaming, we are the open gate, open threshold of both eyes settled in a serene gaze, not trapped by the world, nor away from it. Looking at nothing in particular, we are looking at everything.

CLICK HERE for today’s Sit-A-Long video.

[youtube] [/youtube]

Remember: recording ends soon after the beginning bells; a sitting time of 15 to 35 minutes is recommended.

**kalesi** · 07-18-2012, 06:37 PM

Thanks Taigu,

You've answered some of my questions in this one video concerning what to do with one's eyes. Also, sometimes when I have no choice but to sit in a chair to meditate due to health concerns, what a difference I notice when I go back to the cushion. The zafu really helps to position my spine much more than sitting erect in a chair.

**dharma7154** · 02-07-2013, 04:16 PM

Thanks for the video Taigu!
The one thing I notice in my zazen practice is my eyes are shut halfway and soft, but they always seem to get softer and softer till they start to close then I feel drowsy. When I catch this I focus back on my posture untill this happens again. Is this common for beginners especially if switching from a closed eye meditation practice?
Gassho
Lee

**Taigu** · 02-07-2013, 07:58 PM

Yes, Lee. Nothing to worry about.

gassho

T.

**dharma7154** · 02-07-2013, 08:58 PM

Thanks Taigu!
Gassho,
Lee

**Jennie** · 04-17-2013, 07:08 PM

Thanks Taigu.
I have found this very helpful as I am so used to sitting with eyes closed.
I have found that my practice in daily life is missing the sit, there is generally a reason, I don't have time or the kids are too noisy and I'm too tired. But I long to sit (daft really!). So I'm feeling that now is the time for Zazen and life to co-exist, I think one without the other is just incomplete.

Gassho,
Jennie