Wanted VOLUNTEERS: A "Zen" Team for the 2027 "Meditation Olympics" in Brazil
Dear All,
Zen has no goals, yet we keep on striving for excellence! I am happy to report that, according to Tricycle Magazine (see link below), a "Meditation Olympics" will be held in Sao Paolo, Brazil in April, 2027, and five teams will be sent, sponsored by the magazine, with the teams divided by continent. There will be a North American, South American, UK/Europe, Asia, and NZ/Australian team. 10 members will be selected for each for different events, and the magazine will provide airfare and hotels for the week of competition. It should be a wonderful happening, with Zen and other Buddhist folks from around the world!
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I would love to see some members here try out for the various events, and maybe we can get one or two folks on the teams!
There are a couple of events in particular where I think I have a chance, with a little practice. How about you?
First, is "Speed Hannya Shingyo," or "Heart Sutra Sprints" ... a popular challenge in Japanese Buddhism, not so well known in the west ...
https://youtu.be/JW2wZVPrHHE?si=Bkmr_be-Fhq1ZSTw
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https://reddit.com/link/1s9bx6n/video/y8t8ueafoisg1/player
There will also be team "synchronized sand garden sweeping." (photo below) I have been told that the rules are not unlike "curling," so perhaps we have some folks from northern places with experience?
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There will also be incense races, where teams will make, roll and burn their own sticks ... seeing who can "stick" it out the longest ...
https://youtu.be/pfD_8AIuB1M?si=7zCI_3w7VxT3vIXD
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https://reddit.com/link/1s9bx6n/video/8f8c4fjhoisg1/player
Of course, the main event will be the meditation marathon ... who can sit and stay awake the longest ... and who can reach enlightenment the fastest!
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The "Goal" is always right here ... but let's kick some ass and show what's we've got!
Other events for those with special talent ... 100 Metre Floor Washing ... Team Oryoki ... "Free Style" Juzu Twirling ...
... and Full Contact "To the Death" Drum Fights (MMA rules, photo below) ...
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... plus Lotus Posture races (always neck and neck between TM-ers and various Himalayan yogis) ...
https://youtu.be/pJSXKnSq5sQ?si=fyl6ODcwY9rMCKo1
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https://reddit.com/link/1s9bx6n/video/ebjwf3tpoisg1/player
... and high speed prostrations (the Bhutanese are the defending champs, but the Koreans are strong here) ...
https://youtu.be/r0PnHtepXz8?si=jKg4CB0jPGAQeL9I
https://reddit.com/link/1s9bx6n/video/5lyj9o54pisg1/player
There is nothing to attain ... but a Medal would look great on your Altar. So, let us all know if you are interested.
Here is a video of last time ...
https://youtu.be/4_6M0iJdDfc?si=-FK-jFxiaUXsBGyX
The next competition will be held ...
APRIL 1st, 2027 ... ONE YEAR FROM TODAY
... and you'd be a FOOL not to try!
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DON'T JUST SIT THERE! GET YOUR ASS MOVING, GET THAT GOLDEN BUDDHA HANGING AROUND YOUR NECK!
Posted Apr 1, 2026, 5:47 AM UTC