INTRODUCTION AND INSTRUCTION ON ZEN PRACTICE

MONDAY AFTERNOONS PRACTICE PERIOD 4:30-5:30 PM at Rockville United Church, 355 Linthicum Street, Rockville. We offer shorter periods of sitting Zazen sitting in chairs in the sanctuary. We start with 10 minutes Zazen, followed by a reading, and 20 more minutes of Zazen, followed by tea. We welcome newcomers and beginners, or anyone who wishes more time to sit Zen. More information here. If you wish instruction, let us know in advance and meet at the church at 4:00 pm by appointment.

TUESDAY AFTERNOONS AND EVENING INSTRUCTION before our regular Zazen period. Come for instruction from 4:00-5:15 PM at the Aspen Hill Zendo, or 6-6:45 pm Tuesdays. Please let us know you are coming and register here. Or stay for ZAZEN 4:45-6 pm on Tuesdays.

We welcome visitors with or without prior experience in Zen. The best way is to attend one of our weekly sittings, or attend our Newcomer Orientation.

  • What to Expect: We will start with short periods of meditation, on a cushion or in a chair., Wear comfortable clothing, nothing special. We offer basic instruction in Zazen, walking meditation, and other Zen forms.

  • Questions are important and inquiry is encouraged. You may wonder: Is Zen something anyone can do? How can I practice meditation at home? How does one practice in the middle of a busy life? How can I practice meditation with my own Faith tradition?

There are few ways to Get Started Practicing Zen:

  • Zazen Home Practice. Start a home daily sitting practice of 10 minutes a day. Build up to 25 minutes. Consistency is best. Zazen can be practiced anywhere. Basic Zazen Instructions are Here.

  • Sit with a Group. Zen is best done in community, where you have a chance to speak with a teacher and be supported by others.

  • Become a student and work with a Teacher. If you have questions on practice, or wish to start formal Zen study, speak with the Teacher. Contact Sensei Martine at SenseiMartine@joyfulmindzendo.org

  • Study Groups. You can also join one of our online Practice Study groups, Tea Ladies study, Text Study