Author Description

In a poetic reflection from an awakened insight, the 13th-century Zen master Keizan Jokin wrote, "Most people want to have pure clarity, but sweep as you will, you cannot empty the mind." On Breath Sweeps Mind, Jakusho Kwong-roshi presents his inspired response to this Zen teaching to offer you a "Zen that lives with you in your everyday life." You can practice this right now. Join this dharma successor to the late Shunryu Suzuki-roshi as he opens you to the world as seen through the eyes of a true Zen master, and the liberation we find in just sweeping. A Return to Your Original Nature The enso, or Zen circle, demonstrates the intimate heart of Zen, illustrating how the spiritual journey is actually already complete no matter where you begin. From this perspective, Zen practice is not so much about learning something new, but simply returning to the wisdom or light that you originally possess: your Buddha nature. Through clear instruction in zazen meditation, in walking and bowing practice, poetry, story, and likewise, Jakusho Kwong-roshi invites you to return to your own profundity, a depth that is always with you in the richness of this very moment A Zen Retreat in Your Own Home Recorded live at Sonoma Mountain Zen Center in California, Breath Sweeps Mind is a complete nine-session curriculum of dharma talks you can revisit time and again. With nearly 50 years of traditional Zen practice, Jakusho Kwong-roshi exemplifies the presence of an authentic roshi (Zen master): sometimes serious, sometimes playful, and open to the experience at hand. Join him for a refreshing and easily accessible transmission of Zen to help you "turn your radiance inward," and bring the gifts of wisdom, compassion, and love to yourself, your family and friends, and all of society and humankind.