Shunryu Suzuki Explains Zen in Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind

Hello, everyone! Today, we have an extraordinary gathering of some of the greatest spiritual teachers of our time. Imagine sitting in a serene, quiet space, learning from the masters of mindfulness and presence.

Well, today, we bring you an imaginary conversation that will open your heart, expand your mind, and leave you with insights that can transform your life. We’re diving into topics that go beyond the cushion—mindfulness in daily life, embracing impermanence, and the continuous practice of being fully present.

Leading this conversation is the revered Shunryu Suzuki, who wrote Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind, a guide that has changed the way the world understands Zen meditation. Joining him are the brilliant minds of Thich Nhat Hanh, Eckhart Tolle, Pema Chödrön, Jon Kabat-Zinn, and so many others.

Together, they will share their thoughts on mindfulness, presence, and how to live a life of purpose and connection. So, sit back, breathe in, and get ready for a discussion that will stay with you long after it ends.

Beginner's Mind and Non-Attachment

Nick Sasaki: "Welcome, everyone. Today, we're diving deep into the heart of Zen with the topic of Beginner's Mind and Non-Attachment. Joining us for this insightful discussion are some of the world's most profound spiritual teachers: Shunryu Suzuki, Thich Nhat Hanh, Pema Chödrön, and Jack Kornfield. Let's start with you, Suzuki-sensei. Could you explain the significance of beginner's mind in Zen practice?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Thank you, Nick. In Zen, we emphasize the importance of beginner's mind—approaching each moment with the openness and curiosity of a beginner. When we free ourselves from the clutter of our preconceptions, we open up to the full potential of the present moment. Often, people approach life with fixed ideas or experiences, which narrows their perspective. But in beginner’s mind, everything is fresh, and possibilities are limitless. This mindset is not just for meditation; it’s for all of life."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s a powerful insight. Thich Nhat Hanh, you've often spoken about mindfulness and presence. How does beginner's mind connect with mindfulness in daily life?"

Thich Nhat Hanh: "In mindfulness, we train to be fully present in each moment, just as Suzuki-sensei described. Beginner's mind allows us to approach each experience with openness, without judgment or expectation. For example, when we practice mindful breathing or walking, we breathe as if it’s the first time, with full awareness. We let go of any attachment to the past or worries about the future. This is a form of non-attachment—releasing our grip on what we think we know, and simply being present. Mindfulness and beginner's mind are deeply intertwined."

Nick Sasaki: "Beautifully said. Pema, your work often focuses on embracing life’s difficulties. How does beginner’s mind help us deal with challenges, particularly in the context of non-attachment?"

Pema Chödrön: "Yes, Nick. When we cultivate beginner’s mind, we train ourselves to meet life’s difficulties with openness rather than resistance. Challenges are inevitable, but our suffering comes from attachment—clinging to our ideas of how things should be or holding on to outcomes. Beginner’s mind invites us to let go of these attachments and approach life’s struggles as opportunities for growth. It encourages us to embrace uncertainty and change, rather than fight against them. This is where non-attachment comes in. We learn to release the need to control or fix everything and instead, we remain present with whatever arises."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s a powerful perspective. Jack, you’ve spoken extensively on the role of non-attachment in meditation and life. Can you elaborate on how non-attachment pairs with beginner’s mind?"

Jack Kornfield: "Certainly. In meditation, and in life, non-attachment doesn’t mean indifference or detachment from the world. Rather, it means we let go of clinging—whether to thoughts, emotions, or even ideas of ourselves. When we cling, we close off the possibility for something new to emerge. Beginner’s mind offers us the antidote to this clinging by encouraging us to stay open and curious. In this space, non-attachment naturally arises. We let go of the need to define ourselves, our experiences, or our desires. With beginner’s mind, we can be with what is, without grasping or aversion."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you, Jack. It seems that beginner's mind opens the door to non-attachment by allowing us to be fully present and open to possibilities, without needing to control the outcome. Suzuki-sensei, could you expand on how this practice impacts daily life?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Of course. When we bring beginner’s mind into daily life, we allow ourselves to experience the world anew, without the constraints of past experiences or future expectations. We let go of the small self—our ego—and embrace the present moment in its fullness. This practice extends beyond meditation. Whether we are cooking, talking with a friend, or even stuck in traffic, we can meet each moment with curiosity and openness. Non-attachment frees us from unnecessary suffering because we are not bound by rigid ideas of how things should be. We simply experience things as they are, with a clear, open mind."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you for that, Suzuki-sensei. This has been such a rich conversation. To close, what advice would each of you give to someone who’s just beginning their journey into beginner’s mind and non-attachment? Thich Nhat Hanh, let’s start with you."

Thich Nhat Hanh: "My advice would be to start small. Focus on your breath and simply be aware of it. Each breath is new, and each moment is unique. You don’t need to force anything; just observe. This simple practice of mindfulness can help develop beginner’s mind and ease you into non-attachment."

Nick Sasaki: "Pema, what about you?"

Pema Chödrön: "I’d say, embrace the uncertainty. Life is unpredictable, and that’s okay. Approach each moment with curiosity instead of fear. When things don’t go as planned, remind yourself that it’s all part of the journey. Stay open, and don’t hold on too tightly to how you think things should be."

Nick Sasaki: "Jack, your final thoughts?"

Jack Kornfield: "Be patient with yourself. This practice takes time. Start with simple mindfulness techniques like watching your breath or body sensations. As you practice, you’ll notice your mind’s tendency to cling or avoid. Use that as an opportunity to practice non-attachment and return to beginner’s mind. It’s about being present, and with time, you’ll see the beauty in letting go."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you all for such deep insights. It’s been an honor to have this conversation, and I’m sure everyone listening will find immense value in your words. Until next time, may we all continue to approach life with curiosity and openness, embracing each moment as it comes."

Zazen and the Practice of Presence

Nick Sasaki: "Welcome back to our continuing discussion, everyone. Today, we'll focus on Zazen and the practice of presence, which is central to Zen teachings. Joining us again are Shunryu Suzuki, Eckhart Tolle, Jon Kabat-Zinn, and Richard Rohr. Suzuki-sensei, let’s start with you. Could you explain the essence of Zazen and its significance in cultivating presence?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Thank you, Nick. In Zen, Zazen means 'sitting meditation.' It's more than just a technique; it's a way of being fully present. In Zazen, we sit with an upright posture, focus on our breathing, and simply allow whatever arises to come and go without attachment. It is in this stillness that we connect with the present moment. The goal is not to achieve something, but to be one with our surroundings, free from distractions and thoughts."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s a beautiful introduction. Eckhart, your teachings focus deeply on the power of the present moment. How does Zazen align with the practice of being fully present in life?"

Eckhart Tolle: "What Suzuki-sensei described is very much in line with the essence of presence. In Zazen, as in life, we focus on the now. When we sit in meditation, we let go of the mind’s habitual need to think about the past or future. In my work, I emphasize that the only true reality is the present moment. The mind often distracts us with stories and thoughts, but by simply observing those thoughts and letting them pass, we enter a state of deep presence—this is what Zazen offers."

Nick Sasaki: "Jon, you’ve pioneered the integration of mindfulness with science through your Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. How does Zazen and its focus on presence influence modern mindfulness practices?"

Jon Kabat-Zinn: "Absolutely, Nick. Zazen is one of the roots of mindfulness practice, especially in the way it teaches us to be present without judgment. In mindfulness, we pay attention to what’s happening in the moment—whether it's our breath, body sensations, or emotions—without trying to change anything. In this sense, Zazen and mindfulness are inseparable. Both teach us to sit with ourselves as we are and cultivate awareness of the present moment. This practice is immensely beneficial, not just in meditation but in reducing stress, improving mental clarity, and enhancing emotional well-being."

Nick Sasaki: "That connection between Zazen and mindfulness is fascinating. Richard, your work bridges contemplative prayer and modern spirituality. How does the practice of stillness in Zazen resonate with contemplative practices?"

Richard Rohr: "What’s striking is the similarity between Zazen and contemplative prayer. In both practices, we enter a space of stillness, not to escape the world but to become more fully present to it. In Zazen, as Suzuki-sensei mentioned, we allow thoughts and emotions to come and go without holding onto them. Similarly, in contemplative prayer, we rest in silence and allow ourselves to be in the presence of the Divine, beyond words or thoughts. This stillness connects us with something greater than ourselves. It’s a profound act of surrender, one that opens us to deeper awareness and compassion."

Nick Sasaki: "It seems that stillness and presence are fundamental, whether through Zazen, mindfulness, or contemplative prayer. Suzuki-sensei, could you speak more about how Zazen helps us cultivate a deeper sense of presence in everyday life?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Of course, Nick. Zazen teaches us that life is not separate from meditation. When we sit in stillness and focus on our breath, we’re not trying to escape from life’s challenges or distractions. Instead, we bring awareness to every moment. This practice doesn’t end when we get up from meditation; it extends into every part of life. We learn to carry the same presence and mindfulness into our daily actions—whether we’re walking, eating, or talking with someone. It’s about being fully alive in each moment, without getting caught up in thoughts of the past or future."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you, Suzuki-sensei. Eckhart, would you add anything on how Zazen and presence can transform how we engage with life?"

Eckhart Tolle: "Yes, Suzuki-sensei is absolutely right. The key to transformation is to recognize that presence is always available to us, not just during meditation but in every moment. In Zazen, we sit quietly, observing the breath and letting go of the mind’s noise. When we practice this regularly, we begin to realize that we are not our thoughts. This shift in awareness allows us to approach life with a sense of inner peace and spaciousness, even during difficult moments."

Nick Sasaki: "Jon, in your work with MBSR, you’ve helped people manage stress by cultivating this kind of awareness. How does the practice of Zazen and presence help individuals deal with everyday stress?"

Jon Kabat-Zinn: "The essence of stress reduction lies in learning to respond to life’s challenges with awareness, rather than reacting out of habit. Zazen teaches us to pause and observe, rather than becoming entangled in our thoughts and emotions. When we practice being present, we create space between a stressful situation and our reaction to it. This allows us to respond more skillfully, with clarity and calm, rather than being overwhelmed by stress. By cultivating this kind of presence, we not only reduce stress but also improve our overall quality of life."

Nick Sasaki: "Richard, your thoughts on how this practice of presence influences our spiritual lives?"

Richard Rohr: "When we cultivate presence through practices like Zazen or contemplative prayer, we open ourselves to a deeper connection with the Divine, with others, and with the world around us. Presence is the gateway to compassion and love, because it helps us see things as they are, without the filters of ego or judgment. It’s a transformative practice that changes not only how we see ourselves but how we relate to others."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you all for such profound insights on Zazen and the practice of presence. To conclude, what advice would you give to someone just beginning their journey into meditation and presence? Suzuki-sensei?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "I would say, simply sit. Don’t expect anything. Just breathe and be present with whatever comes. That is enough."

Nick Sasaki: "Eckhart?"

Eckhart Tolle: "Recognize that presence is always available. You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment or circumstances—presence is here, now."

Nick Sasaki: "Jon?"

Jon Kabat-Zinn: "Start small. Practice mindfulness in the little moments—when you’re eating, walking, or even brushing your teeth. Presence begins in everyday life."

Nick Sasaki: "And Richard?"

Richard Rohr: "Practice silence and stillness. In those moments, you’ll find the presence that connects you to something far greater than yourself."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you all for such deep and valuable insights. Until next time, may we all find the stillness and presence that allows us to live with awareness and compassion."

Mindfulness in Daily Life

Nick Sasaki: "Welcome back, everyone. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s central to living with presence—Mindfulness in Daily Life. We’ve explored meditation in formal settings, but now we’ll talk about how to extend that mindfulness into every aspect of our lives. Joining us once again are Shunryu Suzuki, Thich Nhat Hanh, Eckhart Tolle, and Matthieu Ricard. Suzuki-sensei, could you start by sharing how mindfulness goes beyond sitting meditation?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Of course, Nick. Zazen is the foundation, but Zen is not limited to sitting meditation. We practice mindfulness in everything we do—whether we are walking, eating, or working. The goal is to bring the same level of attention and presence we cultivate in meditation to each moment of our lives. This practice allows us to experience life fully, without distractions or attachments to outcomes. It is not something we switch on during meditation and then turn off in daily life."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s a wonderful way to frame it. Thich Nhat Hanh, you’ve written extensively about mindfulness in every action, particularly in your concept of 'engaged Buddhism.' How does mindfulness manifest in everyday tasks?"

Thich Nhat Hanh: "Mindfulness is the art of being fully present in every action. Whether you are washing the dishes or taking a walk, you can practice mindfulness. The key is to do each activity as if it were the most important thing in the world. For example, when you wash dishes, you focus entirely on the act of washing—feeling the water, the texture of the plates, and being aware of your movements. This is how we bring mindfulness into daily life. We engage fully with the present moment, and this engagement transforms even the simplest tasks into opportunities for peace and awareness."

Nick Sasaki: "Eckhart, your teachings focus on the power of the present moment. How do you suggest people bring mindfulness into their daily lives, especially in the face of modern distractions?"

Eckhart Tolle: "In today’s world, people are often lost in thought, distracted by endless activities, technology, and future worries. The key to mindfulness is to be aware of when you are not present. As soon as you realize you are caught in thoughts of the past or future, you can gently bring yourself back to the present moment. You don’t have to wait for ideal conditions to practice mindfulness—it can be done in any situation. Even while standing in line or driving, you can focus on your breath or your surroundings. By doing so, you reconnect with the present and free yourself from the constant mental noise."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s powerful advice. Matthieu, you’ve spoken about the intersection of science and mindfulness. How does mindfulness improve our well-being when we practice it throughout the day?"

Matthieu Ricard: "Science has shown that regular mindfulness practice has a profound impact on both mental and physical well-being. When we practice mindfulness, even in daily activities, we reduce stress, increase emotional regulation, and improve our focus. Mindfulness changes how our brain responds to negative experiences. Instead of being reactive, we become more resilient. By bringing mindfulness into every action—whether it’s eating, walking, or working—we engage fully with the present moment and cultivate a sense of peace. This not only improves our emotional health but also strengthens our relationships and our ability to enjoy life’s simple pleasures."

Nick Sasaki: "It’s fascinating how mindfulness can reshape our experience of everyday life. Suzuki-sensei, do you have any practical advice for someone just starting to integrate mindfulness into their daily activities?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Start by focusing on simple tasks—drinking tea, walking, or even breathing. Pay attention to every detail of the task without rushing. As Thich Nhat Hanh said, engage fully in each activity as if it were the most important thing. Over time, you’ll find that mindfulness naturally extends to more complex areas of your life. The practice is continuous, and with time, it becomes part of who you are."

Nick Sasaki: "Thich Nhat Hanh, what’s your advice for beginners?"

Thich Nhat Hanh: "Begin with your breath. Every time you inhale or exhale, focus on the sensation of the air moving in and out of your body. You don’t need to set aside extra time—just be mindful of your breath throughout the day. This practice alone can bring you back to the present moment whenever you feel distracted."

Nick Sasaki: "Eckhart, how can someone stay mindful when life gets overwhelming or stressful?"

Eckhart Tolle: "When life becomes overwhelming, take a moment to pause. Focus on your breath or feel the sensations in your body. This brings you out of the mind and into the present. Often, stress comes from our thoughts about the future or judgments about the past. By reconnecting with the now, you realize that in this moment, you are okay. This shift in awareness is the essence of mindfulness."

Nick Sasaki: "And Matthieu, any final thoughts for those just beginning their mindfulness journey?"

Matthieu Ricard: "I would suggest keeping it simple. Start with a few moments of mindfulness every day—whether you’re eating, walking, or even brushing your teeth. The more you practice, the more you’ll notice the positive effects on your mind and body. Remember that mindfulness is not about perfection; it’s about being present with what is, without judgment."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you all for such practical and profound insights on bringing mindfulness into daily life. To our listeners, remember that mindfulness isn’t just something we practice on the meditation cushion—it’s something we can integrate into every moment of our lives. Until next time, be present and embrace the simplicity of the moment."

Impermanence and Interconnectedness

Nick Sasaki: "Welcome back, everyone. Today, we’re exploring the concepts of impermanence and interconnectedness, which are central to both Zen and broader Buddhist teachings. Joining us for this conversation are Shunryu Suzuki, Dalai Lama, Pema Chödrön, and David R. Hawkins. Suzuki-sensei, could you start by explaining how impermanence plays a role in Zen practice?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Certainly, Nick. Impermanence, or mujō, is the fundamental truth that everything is constantly changing. In Zen, we observe this in our meditation practice and in life. By understanding and accepting impermanence, we free ourselves from the suffering that comes from clinging to things as if they were permanent. In Zazen, we practice being present with the flow of life, recognizing that thoughts, emotions, and even circumstances come and go. This realization of impermanence is what helps us live with greater ease and detachment."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you, Suzuki-sensei. Dalai Lama, impermanence is also a key aspect of Tibetan Buddhism. How do you explain the concept of impermanence to your students, and how can it help us live more fulfilling lives?"

Dalai Lama: "Impermanence is a reality that affects all beings. Nothing in life is fixed; our bodies age, our emotions fluctuate, and the world around us is in constant change. When we understand that all things are impermanent, we begin to see life differently. Instead of holding on to what we desire or fear, we learn to appreciate the present moment without attachment. This realization helps us cultivate compassion and wisdom because we understand that everyone is affected by this impermanence. It also encourages us to live mindfully, knowing that each moment is precious."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s beautifully said. Pema, you often teach about embracing uncertainty and change. How does understanding impermanence help us deal with life’s challenges, especially the difficult ones?"

Pema Chödrön: "When we deeply understand impermanence, we realize that nothing stays the same—not even our most challenging emotions or situations. This awareness gives us hope because we see that no matter how difficult something is, it will pass. In my teachings, I encourage people to lean into uncertainty rather than resist it. Impermanence reminds us that change is natural and inevitable. By accepting this, we soften our resistance to life's ups and downs. It doesn’t mean we don’t feel pain or grief, but it allows us to hold those experiences with more spaciousness, knowing they are part of life’s natural ebb and flow."

Nick Sasaki: "That idea of spaciousness is really profound. David, your work often bridges spirituality with science, especially around consciousness. How do you see impermanence relating to the broader understanding of interconnectedness?"

David R. Hawkins: "Impermanence and interconnectedness are two sides of the same coin. When we realize that nothing is permanent, we also begin to see that everything is connected. In the flow of change, nothing exists in isolation; every action, every thought, every event is interconnected with everything else. In quantum physics, this is similar to the understanding that all particles are in constant motion and influence each other. On a spiritual level, we see that this interconnectedness means that our lives are part of a much larger, dynamic web of existence. When we accept impermanence, we naturally begin to understand that our personal experiences are not separate from the greater whole."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s fascinating—so interconnectedness isn’t just a philosophical idea, but a reality we can observe on different levels. Suzuki-sensei, how do you teach students to recognize this interconnectedness in their daily practice?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "In Zen, we often use the phrase, 'no self, no separation.' When you sit in Zazen, you let go of your sense of a separate self and begin to experience the world without barriers. The breath you take in is connected to the air around you, the food you eat is connected to the earth, and even your thoughts arise from countless interactions and influences. In this way, you start to see that nothing exists in isolation. Through meditation and mindfulness, we develop a deeper awareness of this interconnectedness, and it changes how we relate to the world and to others."

Nick Sasaki: "Dalai Lama, could you add to this? How does the understanding of interconnectedness influence how we treat others?"

Dalai Lama: "When we realize that all beings are interconnected, we naturally develop compassion. If we see that we are not separate from others, we understand that their suffering is also our suffering. This awareness helps us move beyond self-centered thinking and encourages us to act for the benefit of all. It also helps us to let go of anger and resentment because we see that harming others only leads to more suffering for everyone involved. Interconnectedness fosters empathy, kindness, and a sense of shared responsibility."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s so powerful. Pema, how do you encourage people to embrace both impermanence and interconnectedness in their relationships and in difficult emotional situations?"

Pema Chödrön: "I often tell people to look at their emotions and experiences like the weather—always changing and always part of a bigger system. When we’re upset or facing conflict, it’s easy to feel like those feelings are permanent or isolated, but in reality, they are not. By recognizing the impermanence of our emotions and the interconnectedness of our relationships, we can begin to soften around difficult situations. We start to see that everyone is going through similar struggles and that we’re all part of the same human experience. This makes it easier to approach situations with more kindness and less rigidity."

Nick Sasaki: "David, your final thoughts on how these concepts can impact our day-to-day lives?"

David R. Hawkins: "Understanding impermanence frees us from the need to control everything, and recognizing interconnectedness helps us see the bigger picture. When we embrace both, we live with more acceptance, gratitude, and awareness. Life becomes less about holding on and more about being present with what is. This shift in consciousness leads to a more peaceful, compassionate, and fulfilling life."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you all for such profound insights. To our listeners, remember that impermanence and interconnectedness are not just abstract ideas—they are truths that can transform how we live, love, and interact with the world. Until next time, let’s embrace the flow of life and our deep connection to everything around us."

The Path of Continuous Practice

Nick Sasaki: "Welcome, everyone. Today, we’ll conclude our exploration by discussing The Path of Continuous Practice. We often talk about the importance of persistence in spiritual and meditation practices, but what does it really mean to live a life of continuous practice? To guide us through this conversation, we have Shunryu Suzuki, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Dalai Lama, and Tara Brach. Suzuki-sensei, could you begin by explaining the Zen view on why continuous practice is essential?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "Of course, Nick. In Zen, we say that practice is not something you do once and achieve mastery; it is ongoing. Zazen, for instance, is something you return to again and again. The mind is always moving, and life is always changing. Through continuous practice, we learn to meet each moment with fresh awareness. There is no end to this path, because enlightenment is not a fixed state—it is a way of living, moment by moment. The key is to keep returning, whether it’s to the cushion in meditation or to mindful awareness in daily life."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s a profound way to frame it. Jon, you’ve introduced mindfulness into medical and stress-reduction settings. How do you view the concept of continuous practice, especially in the context of modern life?"

Jon Kabat-Zinn: "Continuous practice is about integrating mindfulness into every aspect of our lives. Many people think of mindfulness as something you do for a few minutes a day, but true practice means bringing that awareness into everything—work, relationships, even the way we handle stress. Just as Suzuki-sensei mentioned, there is no finish line. Each moment is an opportunity to practice. In the context of modern life, it’s about making mindfulness part of your everyday experience—whether you’re responding to an email or walking to a meeting, every action can be part of the path."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s a helpful reminder that practice is not separate from our daily experiences. Dalai Lama, you’ve spoken often about the importance of perseverance in spiritual practice. What advice would you give to those who struggle to maintain continuous practice?"

Dalai Lama: "The most important thing is to have compassion for yourself. Continuous practice doesn’t mean perfection—it means effort. We are all human, and sometimes we may feel that we are not making progress or that we are distracted. That is okay. What matters is that we keep coming back to our practice, whether it is meditation, mindfulness, or compassionate action. Over time, this effort builds resilience, and the practice becomes more natural. The key is to be kind to yourself and not to give up, even when it feels difficult."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s wonderful advice, especially about self-compassion. Tara, you integrate mindfulness with psychology in your teachings. How do you see the relationship between continuous practice and personal growth?"

Tara Brach: "Continuous practice is at the heart of both mindfulness and emotional healing. Often, we encounter the same challenges or emotions repeatedly—feelings of unworthiness, fear, or anger. When we commit to a path of continuous practice, we’re able to meet these emotions with awareness, again and again. Each time we do, we soften their grip on us. It’s in this ongoing effort that personal transformation occurs. We don’t have to achieve anything immediately; we just have to stay present, keep practicing, and trust the process. Over time, that dedication creates profound changes in how we relate to ourselves and others."

Nick Sasaki: "It seems that continuous practice is both about persistence and gentle self-awareness. Suzuki-sensei, how do you encourage your students to stay committed to the path, especially when progress feels slow?"

Shunryu Suzuki: "I often tell my students, ‘You are perfect just as you are, and you can use a little improvement.’ This is the essence of continuous practice. It is not about striving for perfection, but about continuing the effort, no matter how slow the progress seems. Each time you sit in Zazen, you are practicing. Each time you bring awareness to your breath or to a difficult moment, you are practicing. It’s the small, consistent steps that matter. Over time, they add up, but there is no need to rush."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s such a powerful and reassuring perspective. Jon, in your work with mindfulness-based stress reduction, how do you help people stay engaged with their practice over the long term?"

Jon Kabat-Zinn: "I encourage people to look at mindfulness as a way of life, not just a technique. When we see mindfulness as a lifelong journey rather than something with a set goal or endpoint, it becomes easier to stay engaged. We can also remind ourselves that every day presents new opportunities to practice, whether through formal meditation or simply being present in our interactions with others. It’s about weaving mindfulness into the fabric of our daily lives so that it becomes second nature."

Nick Sasaki: "That really echoes what Suzuki-sensei said about Zazen and practice being something we return to over and over. Dalai Lama, what role does patience play in continuous practice?"

Dalai Lama: "Patience is essential. Often, we want quick results, but in spiritual practice, results are not immediate. Continuous practice requires patience because growth happens gradually. It’s like planting a seed—you water it, give it sunlight, and over time, it grows. But you don’t see the growth each day. The same is true for our practice. Patience allows us to stay with the process, even when we don’t see immediate changes."

Nick Sasaki: "That’s a great analogy. Tara, would you like to add anything about how to maintain patience and persistence on this path?"

Tara Brach: "I’d add that it’s important to remember that the path of continuous practice is a compassionate one. We’re not just practicing to ‘get somewhere.’ We’re practicing because it brings us more alive, more present, and more connected. One way to stay patient is to bring a sense of curiosity and kindness to each moment of practice. Instead of being focused on the outcome, we can ask, ‘What is happening right now? How can I be present with this?’ That shift in focus makes the journey itself more fulfilling."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you all for such thoughtful and inspiring perspectives. To our listeners, continuous practice is a path that requires patience, kindness, and dedication. But as we’ve heard today, it’s a path that leads to deep transformation, both in how we experience the world and how we relate to ourselves. Until next time, keep returning to your practice, one moment at a time."

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