Entering the gate - the best way to begin your practice at SMZC is with our free Zazen Instruction and orientation. (Zen students use the word Zazen rather than meditation.)  This instruction is held weekly by appointment only - .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call us at (310) 572-9070 to schedule your participation.

During Zazen Instruction you’ll learn how to sit Zazen comfortably, and hear a brief overview on Zen Buddhism, SMZC history, our programs and our community.  After completing Zazen Instruction you are welcome to participate in our weekly schedule as a guest for two months free of charge. If you choose to continue after that time, you will have the opportunity to become a Member and contribute to the Center’s operations through your monthly dues (see Membership tab).

Zazen Instruction is a great preparatory step for our Introduction To Zen Training, which is typically offered 3-4 times a year.  Please email or call for details.

Join us for our first Sesshin of 2010 - (Feb 17th thru 21th)

Explore the Dharma of the Hungry Ghosts, and train around the Gate of Sweet Nectar - a powerful ceremony wherein we feed the Hungry Ghosts in all of us, and throughout the Dharma world.

To Register or Learn more about February Sesshin - The Gate Of Sweet Nectar, click here.