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Blue Ribbon

Guidelines for Sesshin

The purpose of sesshin is to move inward and outward toward awakening through slow, deliberate movement, sitting, and deep silence.

There will be little to no talking during the entire period of sesshin.    If you must speak, do so quietly and with deep respect for both yourself and others.

It is good to keep a smile available to orient yourself to the beauty that is in each moment of your practice.

You may continue to sit Zazen through the night and through the breaks built into the schedule, if you wish.

Gassho and bowing practice are requested.  Gassho is to place your palms together as a lotus blossom with elbows extended outward. Bowing practice is a practice in humility and respect for the Buddha in all things.  We bow from the waist.

When walking among the grounds please do so with slow, deliberate steps. No hurrying allowed!  Walk with your hands loosely clasped together and not dangling.

When eating:  We will eat in traditional style with oryoki bowls.  Open the bowls following the leader.  As the server serves you, please indicate with a flat palm that you have enough food.  A cupped palm gently moving toward you indicates that you desire more food.  Be advised that you should eat all that is served.  After eating, we will ceremoniously clean our bowls and re-tie them.

May your heart, mind, and body be as one.

Page last updated 2/22/2008