Spaciousness and Connection
I want to share a couple of simple practices that help me release and relax, even in the midst of a busy life.
A Tender Approach to Zen Retreat
The combination of steady rigor and cryptic philosophy seemed to really inspire some people, but for those of us that are marginalized in any way, or even simply hard on ourselves, that mode of practice can really reinscribe harm.
Pop! Goes The Dharma: Liberation Day and the Paradox of Exclusive Love
n my experience, “love” is a word not often used in Zen, though other Buddhist traditions tend to place more emphasis on it.
The 100th Anniversary of Soto Zen Buddhism in North America
I am beyond happy that a woman finally was placed in this position of honor and deeply humbled that the woman was me.
The Zen Kitchen: Unopening the Gift of Tenzo Practice
For me, the work in our Zen kitchen was a deep opportunity to collaborate with others and call upon “don’t know mind,” all while strengthening my understanding of giver, receiver and gift.
Mindfulness in Daily Life
Rather than seeing mindfulness practice as an addition to our self-improvement list, I hope we can set an intention, keep it close, and let it ripen and flower.
Lost and Found
In Buddhism (our preconceived ideas of) "gain and loss" are considered two of the main things that continually drag us into unhappiness.
Coming Home
When I return to my seat for zazen in the early morning, I feel at home; settled, connected with myself and the world.
What the rain teaches us
Consciousness gives us the ability to have an awareness of how our actions affect others and ourselves.
On ‘Down by the Riverside’
Through singing and communal expression, we find solace and strength in the present moment, transcending suffering through music and transforming pain into wisdom.
Working With A Teacher
The way we do it here is that the teacher is more like the cup into which the student can pour out whatever they need to express so that they can find their way.