Vietnamese Thiền, also known as Vietnamese Zen Buddhism, is a form of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes the practice of meditation to achieve enlightenment. In Vietnam, Thiền has a long history and is deeply ingrained in the daily lives of the people.

One of the key aspects of Thiền practice in daily life is mindfulness. This means being fully present in the moment and being aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. In Vietnamese culture, mindfulness is seen as a way to cultivate inner peace and happiness.

In the morning, many Vietnamese Buddhists start their day with a short meditation session. This helps them clear their minds and set positive intentions for the day ahead. Throughout the day, they strive to maintain a sense of mindfulness in all their activities, whether it is eating, working, or interacting with others.

Another important aspect of Thiền practice is the use of mantras or chants. These are short phrases or words that are repeated to help focus the mind during meditation. In Vietnamese Thiền, the most commonly used mantra is "Namo Amitabha," which means "I take refuge in the Buddha of Infinite Light." This mantra is believed to help purify the mind and bring about inner peace.

In addition to individual practice, Vietnamese Thiền also involves participating in group meditation sessions. These can take place in temples, monasteries, or even in public parks. These sessions are guided by a teacher and often include chanting, walking meditation, and sitting meditation.

One unique aspect of Thiền practice in Vietnam is the use of tea meditation. This involves mindfully preparing and drinking tea, focusing on the sensations and flavors of the tea as a way to cultivate mindfulness and inner peace.

Another important aspect of Thiền practice in daily life is the cultivation of virtues such as compassion, generosity, and kindness. Vietnamese Buddhists believe that by practicing these virtues, they can create a more harmonious and compassionate society.

In conclusion, Vietnamese Thiền is not just a form of meditation, but a way of life. It is deeply integrated into the daily routines and beliefs of the Vietnamese people, helping them to cultivate mindfulness, inner peace, and compassion in their daily lives.