Blue Heron Zen Community offers a variety of events to inspire your Zen practice and encourage the development of a supportive community. Regularly scheduled events include:
Introduction to Zen
If you would like to learn Zen meditation or are new to our Zen center, we invite you to attend an Introduction to Zen at one of our weekly Guest Nights or an introductory workshop. You'll learn the basics of Zen meditation and see how this simple, ancient practice can help you and those around you. If you'd like more thorough instruction, we offer an Introdution to Zen Workshop every few weeks.
Please wear comfortable clothing such as T-shirts, loose-fitting long pants and socks. In cooler weather, you might also bring a sweater. Muted tones are preferred.
Group Meditation
If you're a seasoned Zen student or have already attended one of our Guest Nights, you may join any of our regularly scheduled group meditation periods. There is never a charge for regularly scheduled practice.
Retreats
Blue Heron Zen Community offers 1-day and 3-day retreats throughout the year. Retreats allow us to look closely into our lives and recognize our inherent compassion and wisdom. The days pass in silence as we live, work and practice together. Our Zen Master or Resident Teacher gives interviews and provides encouragement. Retreats are suitable for both beginning and experienced students, and include vegetarian meals. You may participate in as little as 24 hours of the retreat. Retreats are held at our Seattle practice location, unless otherwise noted. Fee.
Public Talks
Experienced students give public talks that combine wisdom and wit in an informal setting. The student shares life and practice experiences and a Zen teacher will answer audience questions.
Kong-An Interviews
Kong-Ans are an important part of Zen training. They are questions that are given to each individual student during a private interview with one of our teachers. Kong-ans teach us to cut through our conceptual ideas and perceive the truth of each moment.
Consulting Interviews
Consulting interviews give students a private opportunity to discuss personal practice and life issues with a senior dharma teacher. No charge.
Ceremonies
Blue Heron Zen Community celebrates two traditional Zen Buddhist ceremonies every year. We honor Buddha's Birthday with a special ceremony and potluck vegetarian dinner. We celebrate Buddha's Enlightenment Day. A potluck vegetarian dinner will follow. Everyone, including Zen students, families, friends, and any interested person, is cordially invited to attend any of our ceremonies.