These gathas, or poetic verses are collected to help practice mindfulness. Reciting these poetic, yet practical verses can help us to slow down and enjoy each moment of our lives. They are designed to use while doing ordinary daily activities such as washing the dishes, driving the car, or standing in line, as an opportunity to return to a state of mindfulness.
When we focus our mind on a gatha, we return to ourselves and become more aware of each action. When the gatha ends, we continue our activity with heightened awareness. As exercises in both mediation and poetry, gathas are very much in keeping with the Zen tradition. When you memorise a gatha, it will come to you quite naturally, for example, when you turn on the water or drink a cup of tea.
Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh is a global spiritual leader, poet and peace activist, revered around the world for his pioneering teachings on mindfulness, global ethics and peace.
More info at Parallax Press Publication Date: December 10, 2006 Publisher: Parallax Press ISBN: 9781888375619
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