The episode introduces Doing Zen, a practice of sonomama (as-it-is-ness) that extends Zen from meditation into every moment of daily life. The core instruction is to do what is in front of you now, giving the task at hand your full attention and letting go of unrelated thoughts. This transforms daily activities into a 24-hour invitation to be fully present with what is.

This episode explores the radical simplicity of the present moment through the Zen teaching of sonomama—as-it-is-ness. Keiko invites you to loosen the grip of judgment, stop chasing change, and return to the only reality there is: now. Let thoughts and feelings arise and pass. Just sit, breathe, and be.

In this episode of the Inner Sanctuary podcast, Keiko explores a question many meditators ask: “What do I do with all these thoughts?” Rather than trying to silence or control them, she introduces the Zen practice of sonomama, which means as-it-is in Japanese. With over 20 years of experience, Keiko gently guides us to see thoughts not as problems, but as passing visitors—like clouds drifting across the sky.

Through this practice, we learn to meet the moment with openness, compassion, and presence. You are the sky. The thoughts will pass.

Why is it that the more we try to control our thoughts, the louder they seem to get? In this episode, Keiko introduces the Japanese concept of Sonomama—leaving things exactly as they are. Through humor and relatable metaphors, we learn why our thoughts are like "spam emails" or "farts": natural occurrences that only gain power when we judge them or try to change them. Join us for a practice of loosening the grip and finding freedom in the "as-is."

In this episode, we explore the essence of SONOMAMA—meeting each moment just as it is. Through simple sitting, without trying to change or control experience, we begin to see the difference between reality and the stories we create. This practice gently softens self-judgment and reveals a quiet sense of peace already present. A short reflection invites you to notice one illusion you may be holding onto today.