Why not spend some time just sitting?
At Shounji Temple, we hold a Zazen (seated meditation) session once a month.
Zazen is very simple. Beginners are always welcome.
On the day of the session, we carefully explain how to sit, how to breathe, and what to expect, starting from the basics.
Please feel free to join us with ease and curiosity.
Contents
What is Zazen? — “Just Sitting”
Stepping Down from the Ring
Zazen in a Natural Setting
Zazen Experiences for Groups, Companies, and Individuals
An Introduction to Zen
What is Zazen? — “Just Sitting”
In Soto Zen Buddhism, Zazen is called Shikantaza, which means “just sitting.”
You do not need to think about anything special.
You do not need to clear your mind or do it well.
There is nothing to achieve.
Simply sit, here and now.
That alone is enough.
Stepping Down from the Ring
In everyday life, we are constantly playing many roles —
at work, at school, at home, and on social media.
It is as if we are always standing in a sumo ring, competing and being evaluated.
Zazen is a moment to step down from that ring.
Leaving roles and expectations behind,
you spend quiet time simply being yourself.
Zazen in a Natural Setting
Shounji Temple is located in a calm and peaceful environment.
You may hear the sound of water, the wind, birds, or insects.
Zazen here is practiced while feeling close to nature.
There is a Zen saying:
“Zazen is the gate to ease and peace.”
Please do not feel pressure.
Join us with a relaxed and open mind.
Zazen Experiences for Groups, Companies, and Individuals
Shounji Temple also offers Zazen guidance for groups, companies, and individuals.
It can be used for training, reflection, or simply as a time to reset and refresh.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.
An Introduction to Zen
Zen is about facing yourself as you are right now.
It means valuing “this moment, this time, this self.”
In Zazen, we focus on breathing and simply sit.
In Zen practice, this attitude continues beyond meditation.
Cleaning, eating, and daily activities are also considered part of practice.
Living everyday life with the same awareness as Zazen —
that is the heart of Zen.