Shaolin Ch'an Buddhism

"... a form of Buddhism that emphasized on self cultivation through seated meditation ... 'Dhyana' in Sanskrit or the investigation of one’s mind is called “Ch'an” in Chinese. The Japanese later pronounced it as “Zen”. ... a series of physical and breathing exercises. ... These movements—derived from Indian yogic practices of hatha and raja—were classified according to the 18 main animals in Indo-Chinese iconography, and evolve into Shaolin Gungfu. ... While the practice of Ch’an points directly to the mind, and emphasizes self-awareness and self-motivation, the practice requires self-discipline. ... To the the student of Shaolin Gungfu, it should be similarly emphasized that the introduction of movements and breathing exercises are entry points to develop self-discipline, and concentration that is required to begin the investigation of one's mind to seek wisdom ... " - Traits of Ch'an Buddhism

This post is one more step that provides me many more hours of thought and analysis as to my practice and what it may mean or could have meant to Tatsuo Sensei. As I continued to connect dots in my studies I came across a reference to the "Ch'an Buddhist" practice of the Shaolin monks where it is believed our roots to martial systems from Chinese influences originate.

As I continued to research the topic I read a few sources that described the practice of Ch'an Buddhism in many ways that I believe are relevant to my practice and the intent/spirit of Tatsuo's teachings via references us to the ken-po goku-i.

The fundamental thoughts of Ch'an Buddhism seem to follow my past studies in one area of the "Tao-te-ching." Many of the traits mentioned here seem to fall right into what many martial systems of Okinawa and Japan teach/instruct as to the opposite, esoteric, side of the coin - Martial Art, Budo!

Although it began with emphasis on seated meditation, think mokuso, it does go on to how a series of physical and breathing exercises, the lohan of Chinese boxing, to achieve a more enlightened state of living. It exemplifies the way to self-awareness, self-motivation, self-discipline, mindful awareness, and so on. All of these I have posted on in the past as a part of my practice.

It finishes up with a partial quote on how it all comes to the "one" or "wholehearted" delving into the mind to seek wisdom. To investigate the mind is to investigate it through the actions of the body which includes meditative practices with a greater emphasis on breathing. I have also posted with many references to the practice and use of breathing to achieve goals in karate-do which extend to our daily lives.

In addition they refer to Ch'an Buddhism as it was translated into the Japanese practice of "Zen." Apparently the word Zen is the Japanese pronouncement of Ch'an.

Yes? No? Maybe? Comments ... this begs the question for me, am I actually practicing a version of Ch'an Buddhism?