We ask that everyone wishing to attend priory activities first come to the Introduction to Zen Meditation session. This is a general introduction to our teachings, practice and meditation followed at the Eugene Buddhist Priory and within the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives.

 

The meditation that we practice is called Serene Reflection Meditation (or Soto Zen in Japanese). We discuss the three general types of meditation posture – cross-legged, kneeling, and sitting in a chair; and how to sit in a very still, relaxed, and alert manner. We then talk about how we work with our minds during meditation to keep our focus on ‘just sitting’ while also maintaining a calm awareness of thoughts, feelings and physical sensations so that we neither push them away nor get involved in them. The meditation instruction is followed by a 15 minute meditation period to give everyone an opportunity to put it in to practice. Following the meditation period we talk about how we can bring the ‘mind of meditation’ in to the rest of our daily life through practices such as every-minute meditation, mindfulness training and working meditation. We also look at the deep support and help that is offered in following the Buddhist Precepts and the role of ceremonial in a meditative practice. During the introduction there is plenty of time for questions and discussion.

 

We hope the information given in our introduction will give you a good sense of our form of Buddhist meditation and what the priory has to offer in supporting your meditation practice. If you would like to come to an introductory session, please phone or email the priory ahead of time. We look forward to meeting you.