In The Mood For Zen

Gulp. Did everybody hear how loud that was? I thought to myself. My saliva was building up in my mouth and in any other circumstance, I never notice. Last Wednesday was the exception.

Photo credit: Salem Zen Center

I’ve been trying to find an activity where I can unwind. I’ve tried zumba- way too crowded. Traditional exercise- just can’t do it. After searching for fun (free) activities in town, I stumbled upon the Salem Zen Center website. Free weekly meditation, every Wednesday evening. Perfect! I was determined to go. I didn’t want to go alone. What if this was sketchy? Luckily, my friend Hanni was willing to go with me. Thanks Hanni!

We arrive to the location, not really sure what to expect. At this point, we are in an extremely giggly mood. To the point we are having laughing attacks. How in the world we composed ourselves as we walked into the room, I’m not sure. Everyone was already sitting- it was obvious they were in their Zen-like state. I felt we were louder than a tractor-trailer as we walked towards our chairs.

We started off with chanting- that was a first. After chanting, we had an introductory conversation with the instructor, followed by walking mediation. This is where it gets good, folks. I knew the next 27 minutes were going to pass by very slowly. Sitting in silence; trying not to think is way harder than it sounds. The room is dead silent and every single possible sound is magnified by 20.

 My mind is going a mile a minute. I’m thinking about the ambient noises I hear, the motorbike that just zoomed by on the street, I have an urge to wiggle and crack my toes. Then I start to think about how I’m not supposed to be thinking. 1…deep breath…2…deep breath 3 deep…that iPad was really nice. Yikes, I have to start over and focus. Our meditation was broken by enjoying a cup of tea silently and a Dharma talk discussion. The whole adventure lasted two hours.

   

Photo credit: Salem Zen Center

We live in a culture where we are programmed to live an on- the-go lifestyle. It’s good to take a moment and slow things down. This doesn’t necessarily have to be done through mediation because it’s not for everyone. Personally, I like the concept of meditation. Am I good at it? No. Do I want to lead a balanced life? Yes.