Initially an assemblage of monks in a Zen temple silently meditating appear vastly unrelated to that of a group of fitness-goers holding erratic poses in a yoga studio. At the surface level, it is easy to examine the differences between the practice of Zen Buddhism/zazen meditation and modern day yoga. However, when examined more deeply both groups have comparable audiences, techniques, applications and ultimate objectives in each practice. Although seemingly different in geographical origin and purpose, the practice of silent seated meditation and yoga are notably similar. In this paper, I aim to elucidate the conceptual parallels of zazen meditation that originated in the East, compared to the popularized practice of contemporary Vinyasa …show more content…
In previous Buddhist schools of thought such as the Tendai School at Mt. Hiei, the imperially connected or the political elite predominantly practiced Buddhism. Contrastingly, in the Soto school of Zen founded by Dogen, an important aspect of zazen meditation was its unrestricted audience. The openness of Zen enabled its prevalence among peasants and village people. Moreover, the teachings of Zen emphasize that Buddha-nature, which according to Dogen is also synonymous with zazen, is innate in everyone. Thus, anyone no matter what skill or literacy level can practice zazen.
In the same sense, yoga also has an inclusive audience because anyone with determination or interest can participate. Even though a vivid image of only young and physically fit individuals practicing yoga may come to mind, it is a viable practice to all ages and levels of fitness. The vast forms of yoga generate ease for finding a suitable style akin to the diversified practices that are available in Zen Buddhism. Consequently, both yoga and Zen Buddhism are able to reach widespread audiences, which has facilitated its current