More on Mushin: double attention

Part of capturing the flowing feeling of Mushin (no-mindedness, or empty mind) is having double attention. Instead of being fixated on what is outside of ourselves, we keep mindful - through our mindfulness we are not detached from what is around us. We take integral part in our reality, the hear-now. We focus on what is around us, as well as on our own physical, mental and emotional experience.

In this short video, James Traitz, author of Don't Stop Your Mind, encapsulates the practice methods and the experience of Mushin.



Self remembering is a excellent way for a daily practice. Beside generating awareness, it brings about many other important lessons, such as humility, compassion, and clarity. We learn our part in the ever-changing cosmic web, on which we are all interconnected. It is a way to deeply examine our behavior and habits, and watch when we are "on automatic". This is a tool that sharpens our ability to create change, fills us with courage, and helps us to face our fears. The practice being fully present in the moment enables us to live a fuller, more enjoyable life.

Mushin: mind-of-no-mind

Mushin (無心) or "No mindedness" is a mental state into which very highly trained martial artists are said to enter during combat. The term is shortened from mushin no shin (無心の心), a Zen expression meaning mind of no mind. That is, a mind not fixed or occupied by thought or emotion and thus open to everything. (from Wikipedia)

This state may be attained after many thousands and thousands hours of practice, until the forms are fully embodied and become a second nature, at which point they may be performed flawlessly and fluently, without conscious thought.

The legendary Zen master Takuan Sōhō said:

The mind must always be in the state of 'flowing,' for when it stops anywhere that means the flow is interrupted and it is this interruption that is injurious to the well-being of the mind. In the case of the swordsman, it means death. When the swordsman stands against his opponent, he is not to think of the opponent, nor of himself, nor of his enemy's sword movements. He just stands there with his sword which, forgetful of all technique, is ready only to follow the dictates of the subconscious. The man has effaced himself as the wielder of the sword. When he strikes, it is not the man but the sword in the hand of the man's subconscious that strikes.

In this movie, the famous Karate teacher, talks about a a similar attitude used in daily life. As Master Kanazawa puts it, with an attitude of 'flowing' we may achieve happiness and balance. Allowing life to flow with the least amount of disagreements and conflicts. Acting from a place of humbleness will bring more contentment, peace and abundance into our lives. Striving to walk our path as centered and concentrated as possible, we continue our practice, whatever it may be. By doing so, we create a positive influence, not only in our own lives, but on everything around us, naturally rippling away...