Mindfulness Bell, Upper Hamlet, March 19, 2006 -Photo Jerome Freedman
The bell of mindfulness is one of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh‘s most remarkable teachings. He teaches us to stop and take three breaths whenever we hear the sound of the bell.
The bell could be our doorbell, our cell phone, or the beautiful bell that you will find in all Buddhist monasteries and practice centers. It could even be the silent bell of the traffic light turning red.
In all these occasions, stopping and taking three breaths is recommended.
Whenever we hear the sound of the bell, we could recite this little poem:
Listen, listen,
this wonderful sound brings me back to
my true home.
When we gather together to meditate, we recite the following verses:
Body, speech and mind in perfect oneness,
I send my heart out with the sound of the bell.
May the hearers awaken from their forgetfulness
And banish all anxiety and sorrow.
This video contains only the ringing of the bell of mindfulness. It is best to listen with headphones, as the recording is of such a high quality.
What do you experience when you listen to the bell of mindfulness? Does it inspire you to stop and listen?
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