I try to practice zen, but without most of the Buddhist elements.

zen and the art of minzoku NEO-shintô, if you will.

It's mainly about holding mindfulness — about living in the moment — being in the now, and not in the past (which can lead to regret) or in the future (which can lead to fear). Regret and fear will trap your mind and prevent you from experiencing the present.

It is as Oogway from Kung Fu Panda says, "Yesterday is history, Tomorrow is a mystery, but Today is a gift, that is why it is called the Present."

My zen is more a spiritual practice and as such does not require a Budddhist religious form. In fact, most zen centers do not insist you to become a Buddhist to engage in their practices.

Unlike in meditation, which tends to focus on the mind, I try to focus on both the body and mind, to become aware without thought or judgement.

And I try to practice in my everyday actions. It's easier to be a monk on an isolated mountain top; much harder to do it in a bustling city.