Zen Buddhism is rooted in several core principles that guide its practice and philosophy. Here are some of the key principles:

1. **Mindfulness and Presence**: Zen emphasizes being fully present in the moment, focusing on immediate experience without distraction or attachment to past or future concerns.

2. **Simplicity**: Zen values simplicity in thought and action. This principle is reflected in its minimalistic approach to life and practices, aiming to strip away complexities and distractions.

3. **Direct Experience**: Zen teaches that enlightenment and understanding come from direct, personal experience rather than theoretical knowledge or scholarly study.

4. **Meditation (Zazen)**: Central to Zen practice is zazen, or seated meditation, which involves sitting in a specific posture and focusing on the breath or a koan (a paradoxical question or statement used to provoke insight).

5. **Non-Duality**: Zen promotes the understanding that dualistic concepts like self and other, or good and bad, are illusory. It emphasizes the interconnectedness and unity of all things.

6. **Self-Discovery**: The path to enlightenment is seen as a journey of self-discovery and self-realization. Zen encourages individuals to look within themselves to understand their true nature.

7. **Non-Attachment**: Zen teaches the importance of non-attachment to desires, outcomes, or personal ego. Letting go of attachments is seen as a way to achieve inner peace and clarity.

These principles collectively guide practitioners towards a direct, experiential understanding of reality and a life of mindfulness and simplicity.