Training Programs

 

Training Programs at the Zen Center offer the discipline of Zen training through total immersion. Though the Zen Center is not a monastery, trainees are in a monastic-like environment.

 

Each day trainees take part in the following activities:

• Zazen
• Chanting
• Work practice
• Private Instruction or Dokusan
• Teisho (talk by the teacher) or talks by senior students
• Guidance in bringing Zen practice into everyday life
  
  

Purpose

Training Programs help anyone—no matter their age, occupation, or previous exposure to spiritual disciplines—learn more about Zen practice. Trainees strengthen their Zen training while learning to practice meditation “in the midst of the world of desire.” The ancient master Yung-chia said: “The power of the wisdom attained by practicing meditation in the world of desire is like the lotus that rises from fire; it can never be destroyed.” The ultimate aim of Training Programs is to develop the mind of the lotus rising from the fire.

 

Dates

COSTA RICA: Wednesday, March 5 through Sunday, March 11, 2012

VERMONT: Sunday, July 29 through Friday, August 3, 2012

 

Daily Schedule

During the Training Program there is an enhanced daily schedule of sittings, private instruction, and talks. Attendance at all activities is required for trainees. Please read “Information for Trainees” before arriving for the Training Program.

 

Who May Apply

Anyone who has previously attended an Introductory Workshop at the Vermont Zen Center or another Center in its lineage (e.g., Toronto, Rochester) and who is in good physical and emotional health may apply. Please call or e-mail the Zen Center about your application if you have any questions.

 

Register

The Application Form is in pdf format. Please read “Information for Trainees” before arriving for the Training Program.

Training Program Daily Schedule

SUNDAY
9-11:00	Zazen
11:00	Work period
11:30	Brunch
6 pm	Start of TP
MON-THURS
5:30	Wake up
6-7:00	Zazen
7:00	Chanting
8:00	Breakfast
8:30	Meeting
8:40	Work begins
10:30	Tea break
10:45	Work
11:45	Zazen
12:15	Lunch
1:30	Exercise
2:15	Work
3:45	Chanting
4:45	Supper
6:30	Zazen
8:30	End of zazen
FRIDAY
Same schedule until noon. Closing Ceremony, lunch, end of program.

If You Apply

Please download and read carefully: “Information for Trainees” (pdf)