Introduction to Zen Workshop (Ottawa)

Ven. Saigyo tando will present the next
Introduction to Zen Workshop at Dainen-ji
on Saturday, June 1st, 2013
Upcoming Workshops
Saturday, June 1st, 2013
Time and Location
The workshop begins at 2:00 p.m. and ends at about 4:00 p.m., although participants are asked to arrive by 1:45 p.m. for orientation and are welcome to stay for an informal discussion following. Dainen-ji, Zen Centre of Ottawa, is located at 240 Daly Avenue (on the corner of Daly Avenue and Friel Street) in Ottawa's Sandy Hill District.
Workshop Purpose
The workshops are designed to give people a formal introduction to Zen practice, the basis of which is "sitting", or "zazen". Instruction in posture and basic elements of mindfulness practice is provided, which includes some explanation of the difference between Zen practice and commonly used meditative techniques. During the workshop we spend a portion of the time actually doing the practice and so by the end of the workshop people have enough information to begin to establish a practice at home, which is essential if it is to be effective.
Further Instruction
Following the workshop those who wish to continue can make arrangements to meet privately with a practice advisor or Dharma Teacher to discuss their practice and ask any questions they may have. This would be the beginning of a series of meetings for the purpose of clarifying the student's practice to prepare them to apply for the first level of enrolment, that of an associate student.
A Note About Enrolment
Dainen-ji is a monastery and so we have a very intensive schedule of practice throughout the year. In addition to monastic training we provide training to a large number of lay people, some of whom live in the Ottawa area, but also to many who live overseas. In order to make the Teachings available to as large a number of people as possible we have a structure of enrolment which corresponds to the time constraints and needs of students.
Appropriate Clothing
When you arrive you will be met at the door and asked to remove your shoes and socks. Men and women alike are asked to remove and store unnecessary jewelry with the exception of perhaps a ring which cannot be removed. It is also requested that participants wear loose, comfortable clothing, preferably in muted or dark colours, free of patterns or distracting logos, that will allow them to sit comfortably on the floor. The fabric of blue jeans is too thick and will bunch behind the knee, cutting off the circulation, as will belts. Shorts, tank tops, and track suits are too casual for the formal environment of the monastery. Please do not wear "special clothing", such as martial arts outfits.
Registration Details
There is a suggested contribution of $35.00 to register for the workshop. White Wind Zen Community is a registered charity and donations are tax-receiptable. To confirm your workshop registration, please send a cheque or money order made payable to "White Wind Zen Community" to: White Wind Zen Community, 240 Daly Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6G2. Or if you are in the neighbourhood, you can leave the cheque in a sealed envelope in the mailbox at the front door of the monastery. Cheques should be made payable to "White Wind Zen Community". Please include your name, address, and the date of the workshop you will be attending. If for some reason you are unable to attend the workshop, please let us know this in advance by sending an email to info@wwzc.org or by calling the Zen Centre office to leave a message on the answering machine at 562-1568. If your contribution has already been received, it will be applied to a workshop you attend at a later date.
To Register
For more information concerning the workshop or to register, please email info@wwzc.org or telephone the Zen Centre office (613) 562-1568. For those living outside of commuting distance of the monastery, instruction in Zen practice is available through our Long-distance Training program
Further Suggested Reading List
Beginner's Mind Workshop This is the transcript from a Workshop presented by Ven. Anzan Hoshin roshi in 1991, shortly before he retired from public appearances. His time is now dedicated to the training of monks and senior students. Workshops are presented by Dharma Teachers and practice advisors trained and authorized by Roshi to guide people through the beginning stages of Zen practice.
Entering the Gates of Practice by the Practice Council
The Posture of Zazen presented by Ven. Anzan Hoshin roshi
Five Styles of Zen presented by Ven. Anzan Hoshin roshi
The Posture of Practice presented by Ven. Shikai Zuiko osho
Thinking About Not Thinking presented by Ven. Jinmyo Renge osho


