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Expert: - 12/19/2010


Question
While learning Reiki, I read few books that relate to Buddhism, though Reiki itself has no roots in any religion. I also read few articles on Zen and inspired with it.

Since last two years, due to few unfortunate things that happened in my life, I am in a deep depressed state and lost happiness altogether.

I want to know what is Zen and the Tao philosophy and how it can bring balance in my life. What is the essence of Zen and how it improves life?

Answer
Hi Rohit,
Sorry to have been a bit slow replying. Really, Zen is not my particular field. I would say one thing, though: yes, if you practice Buddhism seriously you should start to find some peace, but only if you take it steadily, and take each step for the right reason, not because you hope to get out of depression. It is based on being very realistic, and the reality is that there is a lot wrong with life.
So while I would encourage you to gradually take up the study of Buddhism, I have a suspicion that it will only help when you feel able to let go of the depression anyway, Buddhism or no Buddhism.
Not very helpful of me, I know, but those are my thoughts.
All the best
AW

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Alex Wilding

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I have practiced and studied Tibetan Buddhism in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions since the early 1970s, and have a good knowledge of theory, history and of the struggles of trying to practice the teachings, including meditation, while leading a normal, modern life. I am also available to provide background information for journalists.

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I have been a practitioner since the early 1970s; have run a small Buddhist centre in the English Midlands and was vice-president of Kagyu Benchen Ling e.V. in Germany, for whom I managed three large Buddhist summer-camps. More importantly, I maintain a habit of personal practice. I am the "owner" of the Kagyu list at Yahoo.

Education/Credentials
My first degree was an M.A. from Oxford. I later obtained a Master of Philosophy degree for a research thesis in "Initiation in Tibetan Buddhism" from Leicester University. I also have engineering and educational qualifications.

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