Getting started with a Zen practice is one of the most beneficial things a person can do to begin straightening out their life. Zen addresses the big questions and the small ones, too. Realization of the basic principles of the Buddhist world view, and putting them to work through a regular meditation practice, leads to a skillful actualization of day to day life with family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and the world at large. The Zen practitioner moves through life's ups and downs smoothly with Equanimity, Wisdom and Compassion in balance.

For the person new to Zen, learning Buddhist principles and practices can seem like a mysteriously shrouded wilderness. We're presented with 2,500 years of Buddhist history, culture and literature, filled with foreign words, unfamiliar concepts, and Eastern style ceremonies and dress. It doesn't seem like it's really suited to the stresses and strains of modern western life and culture.

And yet, it is! Once the veneer of Eastern culture is peeled away, the core teachings and practices of Buddhism are seen to be completely relevant and helpful.

How does the typical Western person navigate this seemingly impenetrable jungle? It doesn't have to be so hard.

Our Introduction to Zen classes are presented by our highly qualified and experienced Zen Teachers, Mark Esterman Roshi and Mary Ellen Sloan Sensei and other successor teachers of Genpo Roshi's. They have been all the way through and back again and are trustworthy guides to help you get the most out of your Zen journey.

The classes begin with lessons taken from lectures by famed Zen Master Yasutani Roshi, followed by Question and Answer time. They will answer your questions directly and clearly. We will also recommend reading materials, and refer you to videos in our Media Archive that you can study on your own between classes.

Conducted via Zoom Video Conference, the classes are held once a week on Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM (US Mountain Time). After you register you will be sent your Zoom links and other notifications automatically each week.

Introduction to Zen classes are offered in monthly packages of 4 classes for a tuition of $200.

In addition, you can sign up for Introduction to Zen Plus, which is the same regular 4-Week series, PLUS a 2-Day Big Mind Zen Retreat with Genpo Roshi on the 5th week of each series. The cost for Introduction to Zen PLUS is $300.

Introduction to Zen Classes are already included in all Membership Levels, Student, Student Plus, Active Student and Active Student Plus. These Members do not have to register here and will be sent all Zoom links and notifications automatically.

For more about Membership options click here...

Click a link in the box below to register for the series you would like to attend.