The Very Gradual A to Z guide to Zimmer Zen - plodding on again...

Time to move on a bit further...

L is for Lotus (flower power)
In Buddhism, the lotus is seen as a symbol of purity as its roots are immersed in mud but it blossoms above the water. Traditionally, the mud represents greed, hatred and delusion and the blossom signifies enlightenment. Quite a lot of Zimmer Zen practitioners are avid gardeners so they get the connection straight away.

Zim-Zen Tip: The Zen tradition has a strong horticultural connection but if you are one of those who feel that all you can grow in your garden is tired try not to despair. Just take a power nap and dream of lotus blossoms.

M is for Mara (the devil on your Zimmer frame)
Mara is traditionally seen as the voice of temptation. It's the voice we hear when we'd rather be down the pub or breaking any of the other precepts rather than practising Zimmer Zen.

Zim-Zen Tip: Ignore the voice if you can. If that doesn't work you could try singing out loud to drown out Mara's whisper - or as a last result try switching off your hearing aid (if you have one).

N is for Nirvana (the last breath)
This is another tricky issue for Zim-Zen practitioners. There are many ways of understanding it but Nirvana is usually translated as the blowing out of the flame of desire - mind you, blowing anything out takes a lot more effort as you get older, so do take care.

Zim-Zen Tip: Practitioners who have problems with breathing should be mindful about blowing out things (including the flame of desire) - however, if you have a puffer to help you breathe it could be helpful.

O is for OM (a spiritual work-out for your voice)
Om is an ancient Indian sacred sound thought to have great spiritual power. It's used to help you focus your mind but I've no idea how it works - if you know how it works I'd love to know.

Zim-Zen Tip: Reciting OM for too long may bring on a coughing fit so do be careful if you take up this practice. Reciting UM is a a little less stressful, but it may also connect you to a Buddhist website called "Unfettered Mind" so do remain mindful.