Greek Shaolin Cultural Organization
少林希腊文化組织

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In an age of constant information, relentless connectivity, and external noise, turning inward is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. On Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Hellenic Shaolin Cultural Center (EPOKES) in Artemida, this necessity was transformed into experience through a rare and deeply moving practice: seated Chan meditation - Zuo Chan [Chin.: Zuòchán 坐禅], held as part of the 4th Shaolin Duan Pin Seminar.

The experience was led by Master Alexandra Stavridou, under the supervision of Masters Dimitris Katakalos and Iordanis Stavridis, all from EPOKES. Within a respectful and serene setting, participants were given the opportunity to explore one of the most essential and quiet aspects of the Shaolin tradition: the harmonization of body and mind.

The Power of Stillness in Action

Chan meditation is not merely a relaxation technique. It is a deep, experiential return to the inner self—where silence is not absence, but presence. Through seated meditation, the body finds its stillness, and the mind its clarity. There is nothing to “achieve”—only observation, acceptance, and a return to the simplicity of being.

Guided patiently and mindfully, participants touched the core of Chan: the art of sitting, breathing, observing—without interfering. To watch thoughts rise and fall like clouds in the sky, and to remain centered.

The Body as Gateway, the Mind as Mirror

This practice does not separate body and mind—it unifies them. The body, through posture, becomes an anchor of awareness. The mind, instead of scattering into distraction, becomes a mirror: observing without judgment. It is a courageous act—to face oneself without masks or roles.

Though silent, the impact of the experience was profound. Many described it as “revelatory,” not through spectacle or mysticism, but through the unfamiliar sense of simply being present—without effort, without noise, without the need to become something.

The Way of Shaolin: A Living Philosophy

The seminar continued with martial and spiritual practices, but the morning meditation left a quiet, almost sacred imprint on each participant. It became clear that the path of Shaolin is not a relic of the past, but a living way of being—one that weaves together discipline, self-awareness, physical balance, and inner cultivation.

The contribution of Master Stavridou and the guidance of Masters Katakalos and Stavridis were pivotal in transmitting this experience with authenticity and depth. Through their presence and example, participants did not just receive instruction—they were shown a way of living.

Breathing as Resistance

In a world that constantly demands we "do," Chan meditation invites us to be. To return. To feel. And this is not a passive act—it is deeply revolutionary. Because every time we choose silence over noise, awareness over automaticity, we introduce a new quality of life—and quietly begin to transform the world around us.

Participant Testimonials

“It was the first time I sat down without expecting anything. At first, there was restlessness, then emptiness—and finally… silence. A simple yet powerful experience.”
– Marianna P., 22 years old

“I felt like I learned how to breathe again. Not automatically, but consciously. I didn’t know silence could be so powerful.”
– Dimitris P., 34 years old

“The teachers guided us with respect and calmness. The space, the atmosphere, the people—everything was ideal for turning inward. Zuo Chan is a practice I’ll carry with me.”
– Anastasia K., 50 years old

“I left the seminar feeling calmer, clearer. It was like closing all the windows to the outside world and opening one inside me. I wish this could happen more often.”
– Nikos M., 50 years old