Meditation Instruction

Meditation Practice

in our tradition follows

the classical forms of the ancient Chinese and

Japanese Zen meditation schools. ZEN is the

Japanese pronunciation of the word CHAN,

the Chinese pronunciation of the Sanskrit

word DHYANA. Dhyana means one pointed,

effortless, compassionate awareness. Our

meditation is aimed at the realization and

experience of this compassion and awareness.

This realization is accomplished in two

simultaneous practice efforts. Samadhi

(Unreasonable Enjoyment) is the result

of these two practices.

Concentration

or

Dharana

is the first form

of meditation practice in Hollow Bones Zen

training. Examples of concentration

practices are counting the breath,

repeating a sound, or reciting a Koan inquiry.

Recognition of pure silence during

concentration practice is essential!

In experiencing the deepest silence

we discover our true nature.

These foundational concentration practices

are designed to bring the ego mind

to a “single point” in order to enter and

experience silent mindfulness. In this school

of thought, all concentration practices,

although effective and powerful, are

ultimately preparatory. They prepare us

for the fullest realization of Dhyana.

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