Sesshin Guidelines

Buddhist practice is based on the three principles of sila, samadhi, and prajna. The first of these, sila or moral conduct, is the basis from which samadhi (meditative absorption) is developed and this, in turn, leads to prajna, or the wisdom of awakening.

The purpose of these sesshin guidelines is to help create an atmosphere and conditions that are optimal for each participant’s practice, so that we can all make the best of this opportunity for intensive practice.

SILENCE 

We do our best to maintain silence throughout the sesshin. “Silence” here refers to body, speech, and mind. Move around calmly and quietly, trying not to make too much noise. Avoid unnecessary communication with other participants, including gestures and writing notes. Try to keep your eyes down; it is usually not necessary to look at other people to be aware of what is going on.

If you have simple questions during the work period try to use notes to ask your work leader for  instructions. If the matter is more complicated it’s ok to step aside to speak. 

For anything urgent it is ok to signal one of the Zendo Leaders to speak during kinhin, otherwise  please use notes. Notes to the Zendo Leaders should be placed visibly (i.e. with a corner sticking out)  under the 1st Zendo Leader’s seat in the Zendo. Please sign all notes with your name.

NO WASTING

Sesshin is a time when we try to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and mindfulness through not wasting natural resources. Do not leave water running unnecessarily; turn off the light if you are the last person leaving your bedroom et cetera. This is particularly important in regards to food. Try not to serve yourself more than you intend to eat.

ZENDO ETIQUETTE

Each sesshin participant will be assigned a seat in the Zendo. Use only this seat during all formal rounds of zazen. Please try to be on time. The wooden moktok is played ten minutes before each block of formal sitting. Five minutes later, the dokusan bell is struck, and one minute before the zazen starts, the wooden block is struck. At this time you should be seated in the Zendo. If someone is asleep in your room and doesn’t seem to hear the bell, it’s ok to wake that person. When entering and leaving the Zendo, put your hands together palm-to-palm and make a bow towards the altar. (gassho) If several people are leaving the Zendo at the same time it’s fine to simply put your hands together as you step out. Whenever you are walking in the Zendo, keep your hands folded in front as during kinhin.

Make sure your seat is neatly arranged before leaving the zendo – straighten the mat and plump up  your cushion(s). (This is not necessary when going to dokusan.) Try to be still during all formal rounds of zazen (it is ok to wipe your nose if needed.)

BEDROOMS

Please make sure the bedrooms are adequately aired during sesshin by regularly opening the windows to let some fresh air in. It is ok to wake a person who is snoring. Please do not use a personal alarm clock.

FOOD AND MEALS

Please let us know  ahead of time if you have any food allergies! 

It is ok to skip any food items that you don’t like, but please do not leave anything left on your plate.  It is important that everyone comes to the first formal meal of the sesshin as detailed instructions will be given at that time.

The meals are a time for practice. Keep your back straight and take the time you need; there is no need to rush through meals, or to eat excessively slowly.

Water is always available at the table downstairs by the dokusan line, and by the zendo entrance, refreshments are available after 10 p.m and in the morning before outdoor kinhin.

CLOTHING

Clothes should be neat and clean. Dark, solid colours without print are preferable. Do not wear shawls or hoodies in the zendo as these make it harder to give kyosaku.  It is ok to wear socks in the zendo. If you are using a Zen robe, it should be worn also during informal zazen. Change to street clothes if you go for a walk in the hills or along the road.

CONTACT WITH THE OUTSIDE

Participants should generally stay on the premises during the sesshin, although it is ok to take walks during the breaks. Please do not write messages or make phone calls - best to have your phone off completely! An emergency contact number will be available which you can give to anyone who might need to reach out to you in case of emergency. The Zendo Leaders will monitor this regularly and let you know if anything comes up.

Unexpected visitors sometimes show up during sesshin. Avoid elaborate conversations if you are approached. Simply explain that you are participating in a silent retreat and that you cannot talk to the person. If necessary, you can go and get one of the Zendo Leaders.

MUSIC, READING, WRITING, AND OTHER DISTRACTIONS

Playing or listening to music is not allowed during sesshin. Also, do not read or write during this time. Even keeping a journal or diary can become a great distraction and should be avoided.

WORK

There is a work period immediately following breakfast, as well as a second one after dinner. Change to work clothes and go to your assigned workplace when the dokusan bell sounds. Make sure to go through work instructions with your work supervisor before the sesshin starts. Notify the work supervisor if you can’t participate or if you finish before the work period is over. Please note that some people work at different times during the sesshin.

EXERCISE

The yoga period is a mandatory part of sesshin. Make sure to bring loose fitting, comfortable clothes. If you can’t participate for any reasons, please let one of the Zendo Leaders know.

GENERAL

Any concerns regarding your practice should be brought up with the teacher in dokusan and questions about work assignments with your work supervisor. Any other issues should be discussed with the Zendo Leaders. Do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have before the sesshin starts!