Over 50 years ago, Shunryu Suzuki came to North America and was deeply impressed by the quality of “beginner’s mind” in his Western students.  Their attitude of openness that included both doubt and possibility, was also, Suzuki Roshi taught, the essential quality of “Zen mind”.  His influential book “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind,” arose from a series of talks given to his new students but still provides inspiration and fundamental instruction in the practise of Zen Buddhism.

In this introductory class, we will explore how we, as long-time students, have come to appreciate teachings from “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind”.  We will touch on topics from the basics of posture to some of the philosophical concepts of Soto Zen, following the major chapter headings of Right Practise, Right Attitude, and Right Understanding.  The class will include periods of both sitting and walking meditation, with opportunities for discussion during and at the end of class.  We hope you can join us!

Suggested donation to Mountain Rain Zen Community $10-20

There will be an envelope for dana (donations) to the teachers.

Susan Elbe, Flo Rublee and Claire Talbot have each been practising in the Soto Zen Buddhist tradition for fifteen years or more. Each has been "shuso" or leader of a practice period, which is an intensive period of practice held every fall at Mountain Rain Zen Community. Claire lives and works in Vancouver, Susan in Delta and Flo on the Sunshine Coast.

To register please contact info@mountainrainzen.org