For thirty years I searched for the master swordsman
How many times did the leaves fall
and the branches break into bud?
But from the moment I saw the peach blossoms,
I've had no doubts. ~ Lingyun
As winter slowly fades into the past and spring looms in front of us, signs of new life and new possibilities suddenly appear. Lingyun, one of our meditation ancenstors, while walking one day came across peach blossoms, suddenly, his heart opened and everything changed for him. A Zen meditation retreat creates a place for us to discover, just like Lingyun, our own new beginnings and possibilites.
Sesshin is a gentle and extended Zen meditation retreat. There are healthy vegetarian meals, interviews with the teacher, Zen talks and discussions, and lots of quiet warmth and community to settle into. No experience is required and this retreat is open to everyone.
The retreats are both residential and non-residential. If you would like a more intimate experience of sesshin, there is room to stay at the Centre during the retreat. Please let us know what your preference is. Participants will receive an email after registering with information on what to bring and FAQ reference guide.
Retreat Schedule
Thursday 7-9pm: welcome, introductory talk, meditation
Friday, Saturday 5am-9pm: meditation, interviews with the teacher, body movement, music, Dharma talk
Sunday 5am-4pm: meditation, interviews with the teacher, closing talk
Cost: LZC Members $175, Non-members $295
This retreat is led by Raymond Gaudry, Roshi. Raymond is a Zen teacher in the Pacific Zen School Lineage and the Director of the London Zen Centre. Using meditation, koans, art, conversation and a deep intimacy, Raymond explores a modern, no nonsense, way to step into a more open and direct way of experiencing your life.