Real Zen for Real Life

Professor Davis introduces you to the concept of Zen by explaining that you need to clear your mind of anything you think Zen might be in order to understand what Zen actually is. He debunks common Western interpretations of what Zen is not, while introducing what we can take away from traditional Zen teachings and apply in modern Western culture.

Professor Davis first helps you move past superficial titles you might use to define yourself and understand more about who you really are through holistic meditation. As he walks you through a brief practice meditation, he’ll help you understand how to better empty your mind and leave the meditation with “less” than you came in with.

Professor Davis helps you achieve a better intellectual understanding of meditation by breaking down the different methods of meditation, providing tips on how best to prepare, and addressing how to overcome common blocks to meditating properly, such as anxiety about wasting time. He breaks down five benefits of successful meditation and reveals how it can help give rise to inner confidence.

Moving you from learning about Zen meditation to actually trying it, Professor Davis walks you through setting up an optimal time and place for your practice, determining which positions work best for you. He provides an in-depth explanation of the best ways to properly breathe and how to focus on your breathing, in order to calm the “monkey mind."

As Professor Davis notes, “It is impossible to understand Zen Buddhism without learning something about the teachings of the Buddha.” Professor Davis analyzes the traditional concept of the Middle Way through stories and diagrams and looks at how we have reinterpreted the meaning in the context of modern western culture.

Professor Davis breaks down the doctrine that became the framework for the Buddha’s other teachings: The Four Noble Truths. Through anecdotes, examples, and parables, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the goals of the Buddha’s teaching. Professor Davis will challenge you to examine and potentially reconsider desires you may have previously had.