ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Chan Buddhism

Chan Buddhism is a type of Buddhism that focuses on meditation and mindfulness. It is also called Zen Buddhism. You know when you sit very still and quiet, like in meditation time at school, and just close your eyes and take deep breaths? Well, Chan Buddhists believe that doing this kind of quiet meditation can help you be mindful and aware in your everyday life.

In Chan Buddhism, a really important thing is finding a teacher or someone who can help you learn and understand the teachings. This person is called a "master," and they've usually been practicing Buddhism for a long time. Masters can help teach you about the different ideas behind Chan Buddhism, like the importance of paying attention to your thoughts and feelings, and finding balance and peace in your life.

Chan Buddhism comes from China and was developed over a long time by different people. They wrote down all their ideas about Buddhism and meditation in really old books called sutras. These sutras are still important to Chan Buddhists today. They also have some cool traditions, like drinking tea and having a special ceremony to become a monk or nun.

Overall, Chan Buddhism is a type of Buddhism that encourages you to find peace and understanding through quiet meditation and mindfulness. It's a really interesting way to look at the world and can help you feel more settled and calm in your everyday life.