The Very Gradual A to Z Guide to Zimmer Zen - almost there...

S is for Satori (seeing things the way they really are)
This is a Japanese Zen term for experiencing things directly for yourself, rather than relying on what you've been told or what you have come to believe about reality. One way of looking at this is to remember those moments in your life when you knew beyond any shadow of a doubt that your life is perfect just the way it is.

ZimZen Tip: In ZimZen we call these experiences those "a-ha!" moments when something you've experienced becomes perfectly clear for the first time. Making sure that you regularly clean your glasses may also help.

T is for Tea Ceremony (ritualised tea drinking)
In Japanese Zen this is a very formal and posh practice that some say was used as a way to combat drowsiness whilst meditating. It's been practised since the 12th Century and has now become something of an art form.

ZimZen Tip: If you choose to take part in a tea ceremony make sure you choose the right kind of tea. You need to use the best quality tea so try to avoid Tesco's own brand and definitely do not use tea bags. Earl Grey is probably OK.

U is for Upasaka/Upasika (lay Buddhist men and women)
This is a Buddhist term for those of us who have had to fit our practice into our busy lives going out to work and bringing up families, rather than deciding to become monks or nuns.

ZimZen Tip: Given the vow of celibacy that Buddhist monks and nuns take, they still need us lay folk to produce the next generation of Buddhists if the dharma is not to die out. So rejoice in the fact that you have enjoyed sex in your life and may have brought forth children, who in turn may also bring forth grandchildren for you.

V is for Vihara (a roof over your head when it rains)
This term literally means a temporary dwelling - a kind of Buddhist Bed and Breakfast - where monks can stay for a while when the weather gets bad. In modern times, a vihara is a Buddhist monastery, not so much a B & B as a permanent residence for monks and nuns.

ZimZen Tip: It can be very helpful to stay at a Buddhist vihara from time to time during bad weather, so do take the opportunity if it arises. These days they have comfortable rooms and (in the more upmarket vihara) a place to park your zimmer frame. All rooms are non-smoking.