A Zen Practice Period is designed to support a student’s practice and gives one opportunity to reflect on one’s intentions.

This Spring’s Practice Intensive will have various occasions for zazen, walking and moving meditation, eating meditation (oryoki), as well as ceremonial and ritual practices. It deals with two foundational texts of Soto Zen: Eihei Dogen’s FUKANZAZENGI and Shunryu Suzuki’s ZEN MIND BEGINNER’S MIND.

The study of these texts will be valuable for novices as well as seasoned practitioners, since both subject matters give one an introduction as well as food for deepened practice. I cannot remember how many times I have chanted the Fukanzazengi, heard dharma talks about it and studied for myself, as well as having read Suzuki Roshi’s book countless times. Still, both reveal new depths when I am confronted with them anew.
I wish you a similar enjoyment of our ancestors’ teachings and fresh insights!

Participants of the Practice Intensive are expected to commit to regular zazen practice, the Opening and Closing sittings and attend the Monday class (in person, or by zoom). Other events, such as the Precepts Class, Wednesday morning oryoki breakfast, Sunday Dharma talks etc. are recommended, but voluntary. There will be opportunity for private interviews with the teacher and discussions with fellow members.

Please contact Reirin if you are interested in participating in this intensive practice period. You will receive a commitment form that I ask you to fill in and return to me.