INFORMATION FOR BEGINNERS AND NEWCOMERS TO THE CZC

First and foremost, welcome. The goal of the CZC is to provide a place and the support of community for those interested in the contemplative practice of Zen. Our intention is that you feel welcomed and that much mystery and discomfort that is perceived to be part of this practice is set aside.

GETTING STARTED

When getting into a swimming pool, there are those who dip their toe and those who dive. Zen is not different and neither way is better.

You are welcome to just show up for any of our regular Thursday or Sunday sitting periods, the schedule for which you will find on both our Schedule page and our Events Calendar. Please come 15 minutes early and let someone know it is your first time, and you will receive a brief orientation to our practice forms. Dress is for comfort, although wearing dark or subdued colors is helpful to the spirit of practice. You will be welcome to stay after practice to ask questions.

For a more in-depth orientation to the practice, as well as more opportunity for questions and discussion, please join us for one of our quarterly Intro to Zen workshops. These workshops are typically held on a Saturday morning from 9 am to noon. See the Events Calendar for dates.

HOW TO PRACTICE

As part of our orientation or Intro workshop, you will be shown a variety of sitting postures, including cross-legged on cushions, kneeling on cushions, kneeling on a bench, and sitting in a chair. All of these postures support one in sitting upright and still, and offer a variety of options so that discomfort can be minimized.

Some people prefer to read about Zen as part of an orientation to the practice. You will find many good titles in most bookstores and libraries. Here are titles that have been helpful to some of our Sangha members:

But while reading is fine, doing is necessary, so orientation from someone experienced with the practice is especially helpful.

STUDENTS & CLASSES

We welcome all visitors, however if you plan to visit as part of a class, please contact us beforehand so that we may plan to have folks available to answer your questions. Special arrangements should be made to accommodate 3 or more students during regular sitting practice. Representatives of the CZC are also available to speak to classes and organizations curious about Zen.