Real calmness should be found in activity itself. http://amzn.to/2iZOLK7
Book: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind
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Finding real calmness in activity
Shunryu Suzuki challenges a common idea about peace. Real calmness should be found in activity itself, he writes. Many people imagine calm as something separate from daily life, found only on retreats, holidays or in silent rooms. Suzuki suggests that true calm can exist in the middle of work, conversation and movement.
Calm that depends on quiet surroundings is fragile. It disappears as soon as the phone rings or a problem appears. On the other hand, calm that exists within activity is more resilient. It travels with us into busy offices, crowded streets and difficult meetings.
Building real calmness in daily life
Meditation builds the foundation, but the real test happens in everyday tasks. Practise doing one thing at a time with full attention. When walking, walk. When typing, type. Therefore, the mind gradually learns to stay steady while the body is busy.
Breath helps as an anchor. During stressful moments, a few slow breaths can restore balance without stopping the activity. For example, a surgeon or pilot may use controlled breathing to stay calm during complex procedures.
Athletes often describe this state in peak performance. They move quickly, yet feel calm inside. Moreover, that calm improves precision and decision-making under pressure.
Calm in activity also improves relationships. People who stay composed during conflict help others calm down too.
Practice is gradual. At first, calm may last only seconds during busy moments. With time, it grows.
In the end, Suzuki’s teaching makes peace practical. We do not need to escape life to find calm. We can discover it right in the middle of what we are doing.
In short, calm travels with you. Therefore, practise it in small tasks first. As a result, it will be ready when life gets busy.
