Ahhh, So THAT’s the Problem

“…In the light of these observations on the interaction of the body and mind, we can now consider in fuller detail the reasons why Zen masters have always stressed an erect back and the classic lotus posture.  It is well known that a bent back deprives the mind of its tension so that it is quickly invaded by random thoughts and images, but that a straight back by strengthening concentration lessens the incidence of wandering thoughts and thus hastens samadhi.  Conversely, when the mind becomes free of ideas the back tends to straighten itself without conscious effort.

Through a sagging spine and the consequent multiplication of thoughts, harmonious breathing often becomes superseded by quickened or jerky breathing, depending on the nature of the thoughts.  This soon reflects itself in nervous and muscular tensions.  In these lectures Yasutani-roshi also points out how a slouching back saps the mind’s vigor and clarity, inducing dullness and boredom.”

—The Three Pillars of Zen, Philip Kapleau

As someone with a 100+ degree spinal kyphosis, I believe I speak not only for myself but for similarly challenged people everywhere when I say:  “Swell.”

So what am I supposed to do?