What Is Zuochan?

What Is Zazen? What is “zuochan” or “zazen”?  Westerners have become familiar with the terms “mindfulness”  and “meditation.”  Often, they are used interchangeably. Studying each, even within a secular framework, soon makes one realize they are actually two slightly different methods for bringing a person into . . .

Read More

Qigong For Self-Healing

Qigong For Self-Healing  Qigong combines simple movements with focused breathing. Physically, anyone could do it. It is so easy, it’s hard to believe the powerful effects it has on our health. Let’s break down the simple ways this ancient exercise assists our overall well-being. Proper . . .

Read More

Listening To The Cries Of The World

Here is a dharma talk by Reb Anderson, senior dharma teacher at Green Dragon Temple (Green Gulch Farm)  near Muir Woods, CA. Shaolin Kung Fu sprang up in the middle of zen practice.  The Shaolin Temple today still sees zen as an integral part of the practice. . . .

Read More

Dharma Talk On The Intimacy Of Practice

What can it mean to be intimate with another person? How do our practices help us realize that intimacy? Forms and exercises allow us to “just be” with each other and help us find that intimacy in daily life. 

Read More

Damo’s Turning Away – A Lesson In Social Engagement

Dharma talk on one of Damo’s adventures in China. Damo (or Bodhidharma) is the 28th Patriarch of Buddhism and the first patriarch of Zen.   He brought his practice and teachings to China in 527 CE and is widely known for sitting in a cave . . .

Read More

The Original Sacrifice – Damo & Huike

Dharma talk on the fortuitous acceptance of Huike as Damo’s student. In 527 CE, an Indian monk the Chinese call Damo (Bodhidharma) came to Shaolin. The legend says he sat in meditation in a cave near the Temple for nine years. But this alone was . . .

Read More