Workshops at the Vermont Zen Center

Conducted by Sensei Graef and her students, Workshops are a practical and authentic introduction to Zen Buddhism. During the full-day schedule of lectures, question periods, demonstrations and guided meditation, participants are introduced to the body-mind disciplines of Zen Buddhism.

In addition to providing an introduction to Zen, workshops are an ideal time to see how spiritual training is carried on at the Center. Members are happy to answer questions about the Zen Center and its programs. People who wish to discuss their own spiritual practice can talk with Sensei Graef at the question-and-answer periods or during breaks.

 

Schedule

A vegetarian lunch is served at 1 p.m. There are refreshments at the end of the day. Workshop schedule:

• Morning: Sensei Graef begins the workshop with an introductory lecture about the teaching of Buddhism and the main principles of Zen. There is a discussion of Zen meditation—what it is and how it is done. Questions and answers follow. Meditation postures, methods of breathing and ways of concentrating the mind are taught, followed by two 20-minute periods of guided Zen meditation, called zazen.
  
  
• Afternoon: Exercises helpful to zazen are demonstrated and explained. There are two more 20-minute periods of zazen, after which Sensei Graef discusses how to relate Zen to daily life and how to deal with the different mind states that may arise during zazen. She also talks about how to find a teacher.
  
  
• Conclusion: At the end of the workshop there is a brief meeting for those who would like information about practicing at the Vermont Zen Center. Various books on Buddhism are available, as are order forms for purchasing sitting garments and cushions.
  
  

Sunday Sitting

On the Sunday morning following the workshop, participants are welcome to come to the sitting, which may also include a chanting service and Zen talk.

 

Registration

Open to all people 18 and over (under 18 if accompanied by a parent or older friend and with parental consent). As space is limited, reservations must be made in advance, including payment in full. When cancellations are made less than one week before the workshop, the contribution may be used for a subsequent workshop, but cannot be refunded. Assume you are accepted unless you hear to the contrary. Reservation Form.

 

Accommodations

The Center can provide overnight accommodations for a nominal fee if arrangements are made in advance.

 

What to Wear

Loose-fitting clothing is more comfortable for meditation and the exercise period. Skirts should be both long and full enough to sit with the legs crossed; pants should be quite loose. Best not to wear jeans. Please do not wear shorts or sleeveless shirts.

 

Next Workshop

Saturday 9/20/08

 

Time

9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Please arrive by 9:15.

 

Location

480 Thomas Rd.
Shelburne, VT

 

Contribution

$55

 

Registration

Reservation Form