Zen Yoga refers to a blend of yoga and Zen practices, as taught by several modern teachers.
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Aaron Hoopes combines the different philosophies of various Eastern health and fitness traditions, creating this form of yoga to increase accessibility to people who are less athletic.[1] The philosophies of yoga, qigong, and tai-chi are combined to help increase flexibility, improve the flow of breathing, and open joints. The philosophy of Zen is incorporated through being mindfully aware of the present moment.[1] The basic principle of Zen Yoga is that simple breathing, movement and stretching exercises are available to anyone regardless of age, fitness, or health.[1]
Oki-do yoga, which was developed by Japanese master Oki Masahiro (1921–1985) based on "Indian Yoga, the Chinese Yin-Yang principles and the Japanese Zen tradition," is also referred to as Zen Yoga.[2]
The Zenway Sangha, a lay Rinzai organisation founded by Shinzan Miyamae, has integrated yoga practices in their teachings.[3][4] According to Zenway teacher Julian Skinner, Zen practice in general, and Zen Yoga in particular, emphasize three intertwined areas – physical alignment, the flow of energy in the body and awareness or mindfulness (Japanese “nen” 念).[5]
The Zenyoga association in Croatia founded by Žarko Andričević and his senior students offers a combination of Zen and yoga.[6] International affiliates include groups in Celje (Slovenia), Berlin (Germany) and Cape Cod (USA).[7]
References
edit- ^ a b c Hardach, Sophie (2008-02-25). "Zen Yoga founder adds Japanese twist to ancient practice". Reuters News Agency. Retrieved 2012-03-10.
- ^ Okido Yoga UK
- ^ Open Way Zen Brisbane, Zen Master Hogen-San
- ^ Daido Hogen Yamahata (1986). K. Carne (ed.). The Other Shore. Oxford: Parchment Press. p. 40.
- ^ Skinner, Julian Daizan (May 2014). "A View on Zen and Yoga". The Middle Way. 89 (1): 31.
- ^ "School Profile | Yoga Alliance". www.yogaalliance.org. Retrieved 2017-10-02.
- ^ "Zenyoga". zenyoga.hr. Retrieved 2017-10-02.