The Heart of Zen is Zazen

Practicing Zen is zazen.

Set aside all involvements and let the myriad things rest.

Zazen is not thinking of good, not thinking of bad.

It is not conscious endeavor. It is not introspection.

Let all things drop away.

Zazen is the dharma gate of great ease and joy.

~ Zen Master Dogen, 12th century Japan

In zazen, we take a simple seated upright posture and pay attention to our body and breath. Here are basic Zazen instructions. Students should develop a daily home sitting practice. When a group gets together, zazen is usually done in 2-3 periods for 25 minutes each and is alternated with 5-10 minutes of walking meditation, called kinhin.

Zen encompasses more than just a seated meditation practice. We develop a Zen mind and Zen spirit that encompasses our daily life. We practice the Zen Precepts, guidelines on living in a harmonious way.

Dokusan is a brief private one-on-one meeting with a teacher, offered during sitting practice periods. Teachers offer instruction and encouragement.

Our lineage is that of the White Plum Asanga which was established by Taizan Maezumi Roshi and draws on the teachings of the Soto School of Zen.

To join our mailing list, or for general information about our programs, or to receive our monthly newsletter, email information@oneheartsangha.org.