Zen Ritual and Forms

Practicing mindful movement in the zendo helps bring one’s awareness in harmony with one’s surroundings. Practices help us slow down and come into the present moment awake and fully embodied. Attention is paid to our movements, hands and feet, and how we care for the items and people around us with kindness and respect. Newcomers are not expected to know these practices but be willing to learn over time. If you have any questions, feel free to ask anyone with a rakusu after any gathering. Below are a few tips on getting started.

Practicing Presence

When taking off shoes outside the zendo entryway, place your shoes neatly beside others. This ritual initiates our intention to slow down, practice mindfulness, and respect the harmony of the group.

When entering the zendo, make a standing bow with palms together toward the center of the room. This is a recognition of putting aside the distraction in our minds and entering sacred space.

When you approach your cushion, make a standing bow, then turn and bow again to the seat across from you, even if no one is sitting there at the time. When you are seated and someone sits next to you or in facing inward, across from you bows, you return their bow in respect and greeting.

When leaving one's sitting space after sitting, it’s customary to brush off the surface of the zabuton and fluff the zafu, or center the chair and chant book in consideration of the next practitioner who will use them.

Be mindful of the sutra chant cards or books during sitting. They should be handled carefully and placed under your cushion when not in use. When you leave your seat, please return the chant book to where you found it, either under your cushion or on top of the chair.