Where it's from
The practice of “Inviting the Bell” originates from the Plum Village tradition established by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. This mindfulness practice is deeply rooted in Zen Buddhism and emphasizes returning to the present moment through the sound of a bell. The bell is seen not just as an object but as a friend that helps practitioners connect with their inner peace and mindfulness.
What you need
- A meditation bell or ringing bowl, ideally one that resonates beautifully.
- A wooden stick or mallet to sound the bell.
- Typically, a few minutes, depending on the context (e.g., daily practice, ceremonies, or group meditation).
- Calm your mind with mindful breathing before inviting the bell. Learn and optionally recite the gathas (short verses) associated with this practice.
How it's done
Settle into Stillness
Sit or stand in a comfortable position. Hold the bell with respect, treating it as a friend or a jewel. If using a hand bell, place it on your palm like a lotus flower.
Take a few deep breaths to calm yourself. Recite this gatha silently or aloud:
Body, speech, and mind in perfect oneness,
I send my heart along with the sound of this bell.
May the hearers awaken from forgetfulness
and transcend all anxiety and sorrow.
Waking Up the Bell
Lightly tap the rim of the bell with the striker to produce a soft “half-sound.” This is called “waking up the bell.” It signals readiness and invites listeners to be present and mindful.
Inviting the full sound
After waiting for one full in-breath and out-breath following the half-sound, gently but firmly strike the bell to produce a full, resonant sound.
As you listen to the sound fade away, focus on your breathing. If you like, silently recite:
Listen, listen.
This wonderful sound
brings me back
to my true home.
Allowing Space for Breathing
After each full sound of the bell, allow time for three in-breaths and out-breaths before inviting it again. This gives space for mindfulness to deepen.
Ending Practice
At the end of meditation or ceremony, “wake up” the bell softly twice before inviting one final full sound.
Take it further
Adapting for various contexts
- For Groups
Ensure everyone is seated quietly before inviting the bell. Allow time for collective breathing between sounds. In formal settings such as retreats or memorials, follow traditional Plum Village protocols by incorporating multiple rounds of bell invitations at key moments. - For Personal Rituals
Explore additional gathas in the Plum Village tradition like:
Breathing in, I feel calm and relaxed.
Breathing out, I smile.
- Daily life integration
Use a mindfulness app or timer with a bell sound to pause throughout your day and reconnect with your breath.
The practice of inviting the bell is not merely about creating sound; it is an act of mindfulness that brings tranquility and joy into one’s life while fostering connection with others and oneself.
