Zazen is a meditative discipline that is typically the primary practice of the Zen Buddhist tradition. It is a form of seated meditation that is meant to give insight into ones true nature of being. The meaning and method of zazen varies from school to school, but in general, it is a quiet type of Buddhist meditation done in a sitting posture like the lotus position. The practice can be done with various methods, such as following the breath (anapanasati), mentally repeating a phrase (which could be a koan, a mantra, a huatou or nianfo) and a kind of open monitoring in which one is aware of whatever comes to our attention (sometimes called shikantaza or silent illumination). The posture of zazen is important, and it helps to keep the awareness on the body and the present moment. The essential aspects of zazen are fairly easy to communicate and are important for both beginning and mature practitioners. Zazen is considered the heart of Japanese Sōtō Zen Buddhist practice, and it is usually coupled with study and teaching to help develop greater clarity in practice.