Background:
Until recently, I had never given much thought into ways of improving my life. An Eastern Philosophy class has introduced me to the concept that living well derives from clear thinking. My professor has suggested a type of Zen meditation (zazen) to help us improve focus and concentration. I have been experimenting with it and I find that I do, in fact, have trouble maintaining my focus. I am intrigued by the idea that improving my thinking can vastly improve other areas of my life. However, I remain skeptical.
Do any of you Dopers have some insight into eastern philosophy? Particularly, does "thinking well" necessarly lead to "living well?" I am curious to hear from anyone who has explored this idea. So, the Big Questions:
How do you live? Why would you recommend it? If you are not satisfied, why do you continue to live the way you do?
I am interested in anyone’s personal philosphies, as long as you explain WHY you live the way you do. Hopefully, this debate will help to clue me in on why people choose their various paths. Even though I am an atheist, I also gladly welcome the case for a
religious life.
So bring it on. What’s the best way to live?
*be warned…I will have questions.