How does Zen meditation differ from other forms of meditation?

To most people, meditation is something used to reduce stress. It makes us feel relaxed and energized. But when we return to work or to any stressful situation, we find that we need another massage a few hours later. This is because we may have relieved the symptom of the stress, but we have not addressed its source. 

Zen meditation is not so much about reducing stress as it is about preventing stress. Because it is a practice of awareness, Zen meditation helps us develop our capacity to notice the state of our own mind, so that we become aware when we start to feel a negative emotion. That gives us the opportunity to consider how to respond positively to the tense or difficult situation, to let go of the emotion, and not let stress arise.