As If Serving Tea

This meditation is a companion to "The Tea Master and the Samurai," a Zen story about a man who faced the most dangerous moment of his life with nothing but the attention he had practiced over a teacup. If you haven't read the story yet, start with this week's newsletter. The meditation will be here when you're ready.

Before you press play:

• Find a quiet place where you won't be interrupted for twenty minutes, and close the door.

• Place a simple sign on the door that says, "Back in 20 minutes."

• Silence your phone completely — not vibrate, silent.

• Sit or lie down, whatever lets you be still without falling asleep. A chair with your feet on the floor works well. So does the floor itself with a cushion, blanket, or bolster.

• Use an eye mask or a folded towel across your eyes. Blocking the light helps your mind stop scanning the room and start settling inward.

• Use headphones or earbuds to minimize outside noise.

• Have a blanket nearby. Your body temperature may drop slightly as you relax.

• Keep a journal nearby to write down your reflections. I recommend keeping a dedicated one for these journeys within yourself.

That's it.

No special equipment and no experience necessary.

Just a quiet room and twenty minutes.