Just as it is
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If you're visiting for the first time, here's what you need to know to feel comfortable and prepared.
We're located at 1275 Cherryvale Road, Boulder, CO 80303. Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to find parking, settle in, and prepare for practice. This gives you time to remove your shoes, find your space, and quiet your mind before we begin.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to sit cross-legged or kneel comfortably. Avoid tight jeans, belts, or anything restrictive. Remove your shoes in the entrance area before entering the zendo. We provide shoe racks for storage.
Morning practice begins with a bell. We arrive a few minutes early to settle onto our cushions, quiet the mind, and arrive in the zendo with care. The schedule is simple and repeats the same rhythm each morning:
Our Sunday program is extended and includes a dharma talk. The schedule follows the morning pattern but with an additional component:
Newcomers are especially welcome on Sundays, when we take time to answer questions and help you find your place in the community.
Zazen is the heart of Zen practice. It is simple in form but profound in depth. These instructions will help you begin:
Sit upright on a meditation cushion (zafu) or a flat bench (seiza). Your spine should be naturally straight, not rigid. If sitting on a cushion, cross your legs in the half-lotus or full-lotus position. Your knees should rest on the ground. Keep your head level, chin slightly tucked.
Keep your eyes slightly open, looking downward at about a 45-degree angle toward the floor. This helps you remain alert and present. Do not close your eyes completely, as this may lead to drowsiness. Your gaze should be soft and unfocused.
Rest your hands in your lap with your left hand placed on top of your right palm. Your thumbs should touch lightly in front of your body, forming a mudra (hand gesture) that keeps your hands from moving about.
Breathe naturally through your nose. There is no special technique—simply let your breathing be easy and unforced. Pay gentle attention to the sensation of breathing, but do not try to control it. Your breath will naturally become calm as your mind settles.
The purpose of zazen is not to achieve a blank mind or some special state. Simply sit and observe whatever arises—thoughts, sensations, emotions. When you notice your mind has wandered, gently return your attention to your breath. This is the practice.
Begin with whatever duration feels manageable—even 10 or 15 minutes is valuable. As your practice deepens, you may sit for longer periods. We recommend sitting for at least 25 minutes to begin experiencing the settling that comes with practice.
The zendo is a sacred space dedicated to practice. These guidelines help us maintain an environment of respect and focus:
Please arrive 10–15 minutes before the start time. This gives you time to settle and adjust to the practice space. Remove your shoes in the entrance area.
Please generally maintain quiet in the Zendo. During Zazen or practice periods, please enter and exit as quietly as you can. During Sesshin, silence is observed.
Move slowly and deliberately in the zendo. This is called "mindful movement." Whether entering, leaving, or adjusting your cushion, do so with care and attention. Avoid sudden or loud movements.
Bowing is an expression of respect and humility. We bow at various points in practice—when entering the zendo, to our teacher, and at the end of the session. Bow from the waist at about 45 degrees, with hands pressed together at the chest.
During kinhin, walk in single file around the room at a very slow, deliberate pace. Coordinate with others and maintain a meditative state. Place each foot carefully and mindfully.
If you need to adjust your position or leave the zendo during sitting, do so slowly and mindfully. If you must leave early, please do so quietly.
After the closing, we often share tea and conversation. This is a time to get to know the community, ask questions, and deepen connections. Join us if you can.
The sound of the bell (kin) guides the flow of practice. Learn these signals:
If you are unsure about a bell signal, watch others and follow their lead. No one expects you to know everything your first time.
