Extended Sittings
Sesshins—Extended Sittings
Coming together and supporting each other in the great work of delving into the deepest stratum of our mind to experience the inherent stability and joyfulness of our true base; this is what is most needed, most necessary in the world today. . . Please understand, you have inherent in your very Mind a huge potential, an incalculable brilliance, an ability to see the reality of this moment clearly. But without taking the time and putting forth the effort to penetrate to this deepest clarity of mind, without that deepest realization of this true Master, we will never be able to actually perceive who we really are, who it is that is actually alive, what are the characteristics of our true self, this boundless brilliance, this constant freedom and joy.
—Shodo Harada Roshi
Sesshins
Sesshins are extended periods of intensive, silent zazen for experienced meditators. They are held in seclusion, follow a rigorous schedule, and last from three to seven days.
Hidden Valley Zen Center is a place of deep Zen Buddhist practice. If you are interested in joining us for sesshin or a longer or shorter period of intensive residential practice, please write and tell us why, what your practice history is, and who you are. Because of the demanding and intense nature of sesshin, only people who have been sitting regularly should apply.
There are many hours of formal zazen each day; informal zazen is encouraged during breaks and rest periods. Other elements of sesshin are walking meditation, chanting, prostrations, work, exercise, and vegetarian meals. Sanzen (private instruction with Roshi or Sensei) is offered twice a day, and there are daily teisho (Zen talks).
Sesshin Fees
Please contact us for the latest information regarding sesshin fees.
sesshin schedules
| TIME | ACTIVITY |
|---|---|
| 5:30 am | Zazen, chanting, and sanzen |
| 7:00 | Breakfast |
| 8 – 1:00 pm | Work, with Tea Break at 11 am |
| 1:00 | Lunch |
| 4:00 | Informal supper |
| 5:00 – 6:00 | Golden Hour |
| 6:00 – 9:00 | Zazen/Sanzen, with Evening Tea |
| TIME | ACTIVITY |
|---|---|
| 5:00 am | Chanting, zazen and sanzen |
| 7:00 | Breakfast |
| 8 – 10:00 am | Work practice |
| 10:00 – noon | Zazen, (beginning with guided Metta Meditation) |
| 12:00 pm | Lunch, followed by rest period |
| 2:30 – 4:30 | Zazen, teisho |
| 4:30 – 5:00 | Exercise |
| 5:00 – 5:30 | Optional, informal supper |
| 6:00 – 7:00 | Golden Hour |
| 7:00 – 9:00 | Zazen, sanzen |
More Information
- Sesshin Application (pdf)
- What to Bring (pdf)
- Osesshin Schedule (pdf)
- Kosesshin Schedule (pdf)
- Rohatsu Sesshin Schedule (pdf)