ABSTRACT
The word Za means “sitting” and the word Zen comes from the Sanskrit word dhyana meaning meditation. This “sitting meditation” is not a passive technique, but rather an active exercise which requires hard work. For the therapist who wishes to learn meditation, there are similar options: taped or written instructions or a specific program/ workshop from a “meditation” teacher or organization. Instruction in a meditation technique for more advanced practitioners is offered, as well as a way in which formal meditation may be practically combined with behavioral self-management skills. The instructions are in three parts: the introduction of the technique to the client; the actual training in and practice of the technique; and generalization of the new response. This model is similar in conceptualization to the one presented by Meichenbaum on cognitive factors in biofeedback therapy.
