Practice period is a tradition going back to the time of the Buddha, when the monks would cease their wandering in the forests and gather during the rainy season to practice together as a community. In the tradition of Japanese Zen, they tend to be three-month periods of time and are known as “ango,” which is often translated as “Peaceful abiding.” It offers an excellent opportunity for deeper study and practice.

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Visiting teachers Greg Fain and Linda Galijan will be joining us in person for the last two weeks of the practice period, and will be zooming in throughout for dharma talks and an 8 part class that helps inform our teaching and practice for the duration. 

We will be studying the six paramitas, sometimes known as the six perfections. These are classic teachings of Mahayana Buddhism that can be found throughout many traditions, including Zen. In Sanskrit they are dana, śila, kshanti, virya, dhyana, and prajña; typically translated as generosity, ethical behavior, patience, energy, meditation, and wisdom. Despite the often-used translation “Perfections,” these are not states of mind to be achieved, but rather techniques and practices for liberation for those on the Bodhisattva Path, to help us to help ourselves and others become free from the three poisons of greed, hate, and delusion. We are especially interested in exploring how these liberative techniques can be put to use in our lives today; helping us to meet the challenges we face in our personal lives, in our communities, and in our society, not in theory but in practice. Our Mid City Zen spring practice period will begin on February 26 and end on April 23. We look forward to coming together as a community in peaceful abiding.

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We are asking each participant to commit to intensify your practice in whatever way you can. This might mean sitting zazen at home each day, or more study. Visiting Teachers Greg Fain and Linda Galijan will also be available for Dokusan (one-on-one practice discussions) while they are here. 

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We are asking folks to commit to as much of the practice period as you can. Please fill out this registration to express your intention and your availability. Attendance is available via Zoom and in-person. If you are not able to attend some of the events, please indicate this on the application form: