Zen teachers stress a state of mind called mushin , which could be likened to a state of total absorption in a task. This concentration helps subdue the ego so that mind and body can work in a free, natural, and uninhibited way.

The renowned monk Hakuin had a favorite expression that meditation in the midst of activity was far better than meditation in stillness.

Zen tradition speaks of a beginner’s mind: those who keep their minds open to new concepts — those whose cups are always empty — will always move to higher levels of achievement and fulfillment.