Practice Periods are an integral part of traditional Buddhism, and trace their origins back to the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, when the nuns and monks would take time during the monsoon seasons of India to devote themselves to intensified meditation, study, and community building.
Participants are expected to attend the eight weekly meetings (Wednesday evenings from 7:15 – 8:45 pm OR Thursday mornings from 7:30 – 9:00 am), commit to regular zazen practice, attend at least one day of retreat (for which there is an additional cost) and one work practice day, read the assigned text(s), and have regular meetings with an assigned practice partner.
Spring Practice Period:The Dharma Gate of Non-Thinking: Entering the Path of Shikantaza Practice with Ted O'Toole and Mark Turbak Offered online and in person Wednesday evenings, April 3 – May 22, 7:15 – 8:45 pm OR Thursday mornings April 4 – May 23 , 7:30 – 9:00 am Suggested donation: $150 Register Click here to see an overview of the practice period, including readings.
During this spring’s practice period, participants will embark on an eight-week journey to explore the historical roots and philosophy of shikantaza practice. Often sighted as a cornerstone of Soto Zen, the concept of shikantaza, or "Just Sitting practice," is said to illuminate the bare essence of the Soto Zen tradition. The eight-week session will offer participants a variety of avenues to explore shikantaza practice, including large group discussions facilitated by experienced Zen teachers, opportunities for ongoing peer-to-peer dialogues, hands on meditation practice, and an exploration of a variety of written sources that span revered Buddhist teachers to contemporary voices. In addition, participants will be offered a rich variety of exercises that embody shikantaza and apply the teachings of shikantaza to daily life.
Fall Practice Period: Topic TBA with Ted O'Toole and Evan Britzius Offered online and in person Wednesday evenings, October 2 – November 20, 7:15 – 8:45 pm OR Thursday mornings October 3 – November 21 , 7:30 – 9:00 am Suggested donation: $150 Register