In the spring, millions of Buddhists around the world prepare for one of the most significant celebrations of the year: Buddha’s Birthday. Known as Vesak, Buddha Purnima, or Hanamatsuri depending on the tradition, this occasion commemorates the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, who would later become the Buddha. Buddha’s Birthday is celebrated on different dates depending… Read more »
Still Sitting Meditation Blog
How Meditation Shapes Elite Athletes
From NBA coaches to the Olympic village, meditation shapes how elite athletes compete. When most people think about improving athletic performance, their minds jump to physical training—more repetitions, heavier weights, longer distances, or faster times. Yet sports psychology has increasingly revealed that peak performance isn’t just about physical capabilities. The mental aspect of sports—focus, resilience,… Read more »
What is a Bodhisattva?
On home altars, devotees gather to venerate the serene figure of Kuan Yin, “she who hears the cries of the world” or the flaming-sword-wielding Manjushri. Along roadsides in Japan, small stone statues of Jizo, a diminutive bald man carrying a staff, dot the landscape. They say that he protects the souls of children and travelers.… Read more »
The Koyo Zafu: a wide, grounding meditation cushion
Finding the right meditation cushion for your body is essential to building a strong practice. At Still Sitting, one of our goals is to make meditation as accessible as possible by offering a range of diverse products for every body type and experience level. The Koyo Zafu is the latest addition to our meditation cushion… Read more »
Do Meditation Apps Really Work?
In recent years, meditation has undergone a digital transformation. What was once a practice predominantly taught in person with guidance from experienced practitioners has now become widely accessible through smartphones, tablets, and video conferencing platforms. But do meditation apps really work? Or Zoom? As these digital meditation tools become increasingly integrated into our daily routines,… Read more »
Nirvana Day: Commemorating the Death of the Buddha
Nirvana Day, also known as Parinirvana Day, is a significant observance in the Buddhist calendar. It commemorates the passing of Shakyamuni Buddha into Parinirvana, the final state of enlightenment. Celebrated on February 8th or 15th, depending on the Buddhist tradition, this day is an opportunity for reflection on impermanence, the nature of suffering, and the… Read more »
A Meditation Cushion For Kids: The Junior Zafu
Introduce your child to the world of meditation and mindfulness with the Junior Zafu, a specially designed meditation cushion for kids. Whether your little one is just beginning their mindfulness journey or needs a cozy spot for reading and quiet time, the Junior Zafu provides a comfy seat that helps build good posture. Crafted with… Read more »
New Meditation Products For 2025
It’s a new year and we are excited to introduce a few new things for 2025! We’ve been listening to your feedback and looking for opportunities to offer new meditation products for 2025 that will enrich your practice. Each item has been thoughtfully curated, from beautifully crafted statues to innovative cushions. Here’s a closer look… Read more »
Osechi Ryori: The Sumptuous Foods of Japanese New Year
Every year, as the clock strikes midnight on January 1st, households across Japan celebrate the arrival of the New Year with a feast unlike any other. This feast, known as osechi ryori, is not only a culinary tradition but also a reflection of Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Steeped in history, osechi dishes are prepared… Read more »
Daruma Dolls: A Whimsical New Year Tradition
The New Year, or Shōgatsu, is one of the most important holidays in Japan, filled with traditions that signify renewal, reflection, and hope for the future. Celebrated from January 1st to 3rd, the holiday season is marked by a variety of customs, including visiting shrines, enjoying festive foods like osechi ryōri, and exchanging greetings with… Read more »
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