Skip to content

Bothered Quote by Shunryu Suzuki

“When you are practicing zazen, do not try to stop your thinking. Let it stop by itself. If something comes into your mind, let it come in, and let it go out. It will not stay long. When you try to stop your thinking, it means you are bothered by it. Do not be bothered by anything. It appears as if…” quote by Shunryu Suzuki
Download Open image
“When you are practicing zazen, do not try to stop your thinking. Let it stop by itself. If something comes into your mind, let it come in, and let it go out. It will not stay long. When you try to stop your thinking, it means you are bothered by it. Do not be bothered by anything. It appears as if something comes from outside your mind, but actually it is only the waves of your mind, and if you are not bothered by the waves, gradually they will become calmer and calmer.”

Shunryu Suzuki

About This Quote

In Zen meditation, thoughts should be observed without interference, allowing them to arise and fade naturally, leading to mental calm.

In simple terms: Do not try to stop thoughts; let them come and go.

Key Takeaway

Practice non‑attachment to thoughts for inner peace.

Themes

mindfulness Zen non‑attachment mental calm

Mood

calm centered

Type

spiritual practical

When to use this quote

  • daily meditation
  • stressful situations
  • creative work
  • emotional regulation
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

zazen meditation thought observation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you notice thoughts without judgment?
  • What practices help you return to calm after distraction?
A Different Perspective

Thoughts may persist if underlying anxiety is unaddressed.

2.4 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Shunryu Suzuki

Explore all 262 Shunryu Suzuki quotes

More Bothered quotes

Browse all 599 Bothered quotes