Introductory Workshop

Description

The workshop starts at 9:00 a.m. with a welcome and talk by Sensei Amala Wrightson on the basic principles of Zen Buddhism. At 10 a.m. we move to the floor for detailed instruction on the sitting postures employed in Zen meditation (zazen). Besides the traditional Lotus posture, other cross-legged positions as well as Japanese-style kneeling or seiza, and the use of a chair are shown. Proper breathing is demonstrated, as well as walking meditation (kinhin), and procedures for group sitting. How to bring meditative awareness into one's daily activities is also discussed.

Following morning tea at 11:00, participants sit for two short guided periods of zazen, during which each person's sitting posture receives individual attention. The morning ends with instruction on practicing Zen at home and a Q&A period focusing on practical issues that arose during people's zazen, wrapping up by 1:00 p.m.

Information for Participants

Helpful background reading is The Three Pillars of Zen by Roshi Philip Kapleau, a Western Zen classic still in print and available in many libraries.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing suitable for sitting on the floor. Mats and cushions are provided (as well as chairs for those who need them.)

Directions to Pah Road

A donation is requested. We suggest $30 for the waged, but feel free to pay less (or more) according to your circumstances. (The AZC relies completely on donations from participants to cover expenses.)

Some books and incense will be available for sale after workshops, and sitting cushions and benches may be ordered.

Everyone who completes the workshop is invited to attend the sitting and talk the next day, (or on another Sunday). Someone will meet you at 8:15 a.m. and give you a few minutes instruction on using the zendo that we don’t have time to cover in the workshop. If you’d like to start off with an evening sitting, please call first so we can arrange for someone give you the orientation when you come.

Upcoming workshop dates:

7 June, 2008
6 September, 2008
1 November, 2008
20 December, 2008

Workshop Reservation

Send your donation, or a deposit of at least $10, to secure your reservation for the workshop. We are happy to refund the full amount if you cancel by the Wednesday before workshop, or re-book you for a subsequent one. After that $10 cancellation fee is charged. Cheques may be made out to the Auckland Zen Centre and sent to PO Box 109 729, Newmarket, Auckland 1149.