Zazen, or seated meditation, is the foundation of Zen Buddhist practice. Zazen calms the mind, opens the heart, catalyzes the healing of childhood and adult trauma, regulates emotional fluctuations, and creates a sense of stability and peace in one’s life. Ultimately, with enough meditation of many years of practice and working with a qualified teacher, meditation leads to what Buddhists call enlightenment, or realization of one’s true nature.
Seated meditation can be done on a cushion, meditation bench or chair. Kinhin, or walking meditation, is also an important part of our practice.
Short Introduction to Zen Meditation
5:30 – 6:30 pm, usually the first Tuesday of each month
In-person at Maitreya Abbey. An introduction to sitting postures, awareness of the breath and body, hand positions, walking meditation, and zendo etiquette.
Please see the CALENDAR to confirm dates. No charge or registration required. You are welcome to stay for some or all of the Tuesday meditation program afterward.
Please CONTACT US with questions or to arrange a different date.
Introduction to Zen Meditation – Half Day
A more in-depth introduction to the topics listed above, including periods of silent meditation. See the RETREATS page for dates and registration.
Private Interviews with a Teacher (Dokusan)
Members and trial members have the option of meeting with a teacher during the Tuesday and Saturday programs and on retreats. You may ask questions about your practice, discuss emotional and life issues, or pursue koan study. This is a precious opportunity to study with transmitted Zen teachers who have been studying and practicing Zen for decades.