What is Zen?

Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that originated in China during the Tang dynasty, known as Chán Buddhism. Zen emphasizes meditation and direct insight to reach enlightenment (satori). It's often used to cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and gain a deeper understanding of oneself and the nature of reality. While it is primarily a religious philosophy, the principles of Zen are also applied in various fields such as art, martial arts, and design, promoting simplicity, balance, and harmony.