GYOJI (uphold) It is a Japanese term of Zen Buddhism that refers to Continuous and sustained practice In daily life. Literally, “GYO” (OK) means “action” o “practice”, y “ji” (hold) implies “keep” o “hold”. On the whole, Gyoji expresses the idea of constant, No interruption, carrying the spirit of Zen to all daily activities.
In the Zen tradition, Gyoji is not limited only to formal meditation (zazen) or to specific rituals. It extends to all the actions of the day, how to walk, comer, work or clean. Each activity, however, becomes an opportunity to cultivate full attention (shikantaza) and live at the present moment.
The teacher Dogen, founder of the Soto Zen school in Japan, emphasized that Gyoji is The very essence of awakening. Para Dogen, There is no distinction between practice and lighting; Continuous practice is the very expression of enlightenment. via gyoji, the separation between meditation time and daily activity time is transcended, recognizing that each moment is a manifestation of the Dharma.
In Zen monasteries, The term gyoji can also refer to the collective discipline that sustains monastic practice.. This includes strict adherence to the schedule, participation in ceremonies and dedication to community work (find).
Gyoji reminds us that Zen is not something that happens only in the dojo or during retreats., but it is a way of life. Every breath, each step and each gesture become living expressions of the path to enlightenment.