By: Livia Alexandra
Bright Way Zen recently hosted the first edition of our Introduction to Zen Meditation Workshop, and we’re feeling grateful for how it unfolded. What began as a simple offering—clear, welcoming guidance into the basics of Zazen—became a meaningful point of connection for people both new to Zen practice and already familiar with meditation.
The workshop was designed to be accessible and supportive, offering participants time to slow down, ask questions, and experience Zen meditation in a grounded, human way.
A Zen Meditation Workshop for Beginners and Longtime Practitioners
The workshop welcomed participants both in person and online, reflecting the blended nature of the Bright Way Zen sangha. As Soto Zen priest Domyo Burk, who leads the sangha, shared following the workshop:
“It was exciting to see 14 people in the Dirt Zendo and 10 in the Cloud Zendo. Most of them were brand new to Bright Way Zen, but a couple of people who were already members also appreciated the opportunity to get more detailed Zazen instruction.”
This mix felt just right. Many attendees were completely new to Zen meditation, while others welcomed the chance to revisit the fundamentals with more time and care.
An Introduction to Zen Meditation at Bright Way Zen
Bright Way Zen offers brief meditation instruction before every Tuesday and Sunday meeting, but those sessions are necessarily short. This workshop created space for a deeper introduction. Over the course of 90 minutes, participants explored the foundations of Zazen, including posture, breath, and the attitude of focused attention that supports practice.
Rather than striving to achieve a particular state or quieting the mind, the workshop emphasized something simpler: learning to sit upright with whatever is present. Questions were welcomed, and guidance was offered in a way that felt clear, practical, and kind.
For many participants, this was their first experience with Zen meditation in a group setting. The atmosphere was calm and encouraging, helping people feel that zen meditation is something they can realistically bring into their own lives.
Several workshop participants have since joined Bright Way Zen’s regular meditation meetings, and many expressed gratitude for the clarity and care they experienced.
Reflecting on the workshop, Domyo shared how meaningful it was to imagine the ripple effects of the day—that there are now 24 more people in the world with an appreciation for Zazen and the confidence to begin a meditation practice if and when they choose.
This workshop was also the realization of a long-held wish within the community. Special thanks go to Coral West, who for many years hoped to help make an in-depth introductory Zen meditation workshop a reality. Seeing it come together was a reminder that sangha is something we create together.
Joining a Future Introduction to Zen Meditation Workshop
The Introduction to Zen Meditation Workshop is offered every other month, on the second Saturday of the month, both in person and online. This beginner-friendly workshop is open to anyone curious about Zazen or interested in starting—or returning to—a meditation practice.
In the workshop, you can expect:
- guidance in basic zazen posture, breath, and attention
- time to practice sitting meditation in a supportive setting
- space to ask questions and explore Zen practice in everyday life
More information and registration details are available here:
• In-person workshop: https://introduction-zen-meditation.eventbrite.com
• Online workshop: https://introduction-zen-meditation-online.eventbrite.com
You’re welcome to join us, just as you are.
