You are invited to sit with us…

Sesshin is designed to intensify and clarify our practice in ways that are difficult to do in our everyday lives. Characterized by silence and deep contemplation, sesshin is recommended to anyone who is sincerely interested in experiencing intensive Zen training. We wake up each day before dawn to begin a schedule that includes zazen, chanting, services, formal silent meals (oryoki), work practice and talks.

To understand the nature of our formal retreats, and to be clear about the details of the practice, please consult with the sesshin director, Mark Orrisch (831) 659-7138. We ask those who attend sesshin to commit to following the guidelines and participating completely in the schedule. Students who are interested in attending sesshin must have some experience with sitting over an extended period of time.Those attending for the first time are encouraged to join the half-day sitting on Saturday, Feb. 9, from 8 a.m.–noon. An orientation to oryoki will be provided on a day to be announced.

Students are encouraged to attend the entire retreat; however, single day presence is permitted following breakfast, lasting through evening refuges.

The suggested donation is $270 for the full sesshin, $100 per day for residential students or $75.00 per day for non-residential students. Meals are included in the cost of sesshin. MBZC offers a few scholarships for people with limited income. Please contact Mark Orrisch at (831) 659-7138 or complete the registration form and include your inquiry.