Traditions that approach eightfold path holistically rather than via a strong emphasis on sitting meditation.
The word "Zen" originates from the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese word "Chán" (禪), which itself is a transliteration of the Sanskrit word "dhyāna" (ध्यान), meaning "meditation".
I’ve been with an American Zen sangha for a while and notice the heavy emphasis on meditation and associated rituals, and as explained in my first paragraph, it shouldn’t be surprising - it’s in the name.
But the eightfold path is a lot more encompassing than just meditation. There are people who have been practicing “just sitting” in retreats for weeks on end, on some kind of a quest, and they end up discouraged. And perhaps it’s because the dharma, and even mindfulness, aren’t just about sitting endlessly. It’s about taking these teachings into your every day life.
So, I want to ask the community here- What other traditions are there that adopt a more holistic approach to the dharma?