Folks often ask how to begin a meditation practice and how to maintain it. Everyone is welcome at Clear Water Zendo, regardless of race, nationality, class, gender, sexual preference, age and physical ability.
To begin, if possible, come to the introduction/orientation that is held every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. At that time you will receive basic instruction in zen meditation and an introduction to our form of practice. Please try to arrive at 9:25 and wear loose comfortable clothing.
If you can not come on Saturday morning, please speak with Mary to arrange another time. Call her at 707-649-1972.
The next step is to attend the lecture that begins at 10:10 a.m. on Saturdays. This lecture is intended to be accessible to everyone, including beginners.
After lecture, we offer informal tea and that is a good time to ask questions about zazen in general or about the zen center.
To continue practice, consider coming on Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. and/or Wednesday evening at 5:40 p.m. You can deepen your practice by attending the introductory evening where there will be further instruction in posture, Zen forms and basic Buddhist concepts.
Once you have begun to sit on a regular basis, the next step is to begin to establish a relationship with a teacher. You can sign up to talk to Mary on the zendo bulletin board.
Also, to deepen your practice, consider doing a short-schedule, one-day sitting, perhaps from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.