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Clear Water Zen Center | Clear Water Zen Home |
About Us
The practice at the CWZC follows the traditions and teachings of Roshi Philip Kapleau (1912-2004), whose book The Three Pillars of Zen was instrumental in introducing Zen Buddhism to the West. What to Expect When You Arrive
We start on time, promptly at 8:30 AM on Sunday morning, see the calendar page for more details. The Han, a wooden percussion instrument, is played, signaling that it is time to find a place to sit. Next three rings of a small bell is heard, signaling that it is time to seat yourself and get comfortable for the coming round of meditation. After the third ring, we hold our posture (as best we can) without moving for the next 35 minutes. It is acceptable to move a bit; just do your best. Zen masters say: When the body is moving, the mind is moving. After 35 minutes, the small bell rings again and everyone stands up and faces outward, away from the wall, on the floor in front of the cushion, bench, or mat. At the second ring of the bell and we perform a simple bow to one another. On the third ring we begin a clockwise walk around the zendo. This is kinhin, or walking mediation. Simply turn to the left and follow the person in front of you. We walk in single file for five or six minutes, after which the bell rings again. Continue walking until you get back to your place and face outward. When everyone has arrived at their place, the bell rings again and everyone is seated. The cycle then repeats itself. We sit for three rounds of 35 minutes each. The third round may sometimes be replaced in whole or in part with a live or recorded dharma talk, or by a chanting session. We recommend that you attend a number of Sunday sittings before attending an intensive meditation retreat (sesshin). Find Out More... We welcome any comments or questions that you may have! Feel free to contact us via our online email form or call us at (727) 391-5735. We look forward to seeing you at the Zen center! The Clear Water Zen Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible. |
We are a group of Zen meditators started in the 1980's by Ken
Rosen. 
When
arriving at the zendo for the first time, ask for Ken and he will
show you around and explain the simple routines that are followed.
For example, we take off our shoes before entering the building
and there is no assigned seating except for the monitor's and
timer's places which are marked with bells and wooden clappers.
We sit facing a wall. Favorite cushions can be brought from home
if desired but it is not necessary to bring anything; the zendo
is fully equipped with cushions, benches, and chairs. Use the
cushion, bench, or chair of your choice.