How do I ensure a way of keeping Buddhism practices in my everyday life, almost as a habit?
Yes, it is out of habit, but we also need reminders. The basic practice of all Buddhists is to follow the Three Treasures of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
But it can take many forms.
For many traditional Shin Buddhists, there are home reminders. Among the reminders is to have a home Butsudan—a small home Buddhist altar (I really dislike the word altar since it comes from meaning a site of making sacrifices). Each morning, open the Butsudan, place our hands together (Gassho) with our Nenju (mediation beads) around our hands, and bow (Raihai). And do this while thinking about the Three Treasures of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, and then saying the Nembutsu, “Namu Amida Butsu” (taking refuge in Amida Buddha). And at the end of the day, we close the Butsudan with Gassho, Raihai and Nembutsu.
Another reminder is to take a moment before we eat a meal, to put our hands together (Gassho) and to bow (Raihai) and say “Itadaki-masu” (I humbly accept this food with gratitude). And when we finish a meal, we do Gassho and Raihai, and say “Gochiso-sama” (I acknowledge the benefits of eating).
On a side note, Itadakimasu and Gochiso-sama are Japanese words, and you can alternatively say “Thank for the nourishment.”
Of course, another reminder is to attend our Sunday morning service when we can be among other Fellow Travelers (to be among the Sangha), either in person or virtually.
Some of the guideposts for everyday living.
- To be respectful of others, we might have different jobs and professions
- To be humble and not expect everyone to think the way I do
- To be kind toward others who might not agree with me
- To be grateful for the benefits we receive
In our everyday life, we should always try to be mindful of what we are doing and to be mindful of others.
There is not one way to practice Buddhism, and it should be both comfortable and comforting.
Gassho (with palms together), Rev. Ron