The Zen practice of Samu is an integral part of Zen training and is often referred to as “work practice" or “meditation in action." It involves engaging in various physical activities with a mindful and concentrated state of mind. Samu is designed to integrate Zen practice into everyday life by bringing mindfulness and awareness to routine tasks. Here is an outline of the Zen practice of Samu:
1. Purpose and Intent:
– Understand the purpose of Samu: Samu is not just about completing tasks but rather cultivating mindfulness and presence in every action.
– Set your intention: Before engaging in Samu, clarify your intention to remain fully present, attentive, and focused throughout the practice.
2. Preparation:
– Physical preparation: Ensure you are physically ready for the task at hand, such as wearing appropriate clothing and being adequately rested.
– Mental preparation: Take a few moments to centre yourself and bring your attention to the present moment. Let go of distractions and mental chatter.
3. Mindful Engagement:
– Start with awareness: Bring your attention to the task at hand, whether it’s cleaning, gardening, cooking, or any other activity.
– Cultivate presence: Engage in the task with full awareness, focusing on the sensations, movements, and details of what you are doing.
– Non-duality: Dissolve the sense of separation between yourself and the task, fully immersing yourself in the activity. Let go of any judgments or preferences.
4. Concentration and Focus:
– Single-pointed attention: Develop concentration by maintaining your focus on the task without getting carried away by distractions.
– Eliminate mental wandering: Whenever you notice your mind wandering, gently bring it back to the present moment and the activity at hand.
5. Mindfulness in Motion:
– Embrace the rhythm: Allow your movements to flow naturally and harmoniously with the task, synchronizing body and mind.
– Sensory awareness: Be attentive to the sensory experiences associated with the task, such as the feeling of water, the sound of tools, or the aroma of cooking ingredients.
6. Letting Go:
– Non-attachment: Practice letting go of expectations, desires, and attachments to the outcome of the task. Focus on the process rather than the result.
– Acceptance of imperfection: Recognize that perfection is not the goal, but rather the practice of being fully present in each moment.
7. Integration:
– Carry the practice beyond Samu: Extend the awareness and mindfulness cultivated during Samu into other aspects of your life, maintaining the same level of presence and attention.
Throughout the practice of Samu, the aim is to develop a seamless integration of meditation and daily life, blurring the distinction between formal meditation sessions and everyday activities. By bringing mindfulness and presence to even the most mundane tasks, Samu helps to deepen one’s understanding of Zen principles and fosters a state of interconnectedness between body, mind, and the world.