Question
Hello Master,
First question: could you tell me whether pranayama has a connection or shared origin with Zen meditation? Is this method compatible with Zen meditation? More generally, does yoga complement zazen?
I noticed that during Zen meditation after a pranayama session, I felt much lighter, emptier...
Second question: which books on Zen, and especially emptiness, would you recommend in French, please?
Thank you.
Regards,
Nazgal
Master Kosen’s answer
Pranayama has the same origin as Zen. Shakyamuni, Buddha, practiced very strict yoga for six years.
He certainly practiced pranayama, among other things.
The zazen posture, called the "perfect posture" in yoga, is yoga's culmination.
Breathing must remain silent in a dojo. Still, when you feel the need, you can hold the breath after exhalation or inhalation during zazen, provided it remains silent and natural.
If you wish to explore other techniques more deeply, do so at another time.
As for books, I would recommend True Zen by Master Taisen Deshimaru.
Kosen