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Getting Started

Introductory Workshop

Whether you are completely new to Buddhism or already have a spiritual practice and want to sit at the Casa Zen, the way to get started is to attend an Introductory Workshop.

• If you are curious about Buddhism—Workshops give an overview of the life of the Buddha and the development of the Buddhist Path.
  
  
• If you want to learn how to meditate—Workshops have in-depth instruction in the postures, practices, and forms of Zen meditation (zazen).
  
  
• If you are new to Zen and looking for support— Workshops introduce you to the senior students and community of the Casa Zen. It is the first step for receiving meditation instruction from an authorized teacher.
  
  
• If you are experienced in Zen and looking for a place to practice—Workshops are our point of entry. By coming to a Workshop you have taken the first step to membership in the Casa Zen.
  

Reading

Reading List —There are many excellent books on Buddhism and Zen. We have a short reading list to get you started.

FAQs

Are newcomers welcome? Newcomers are always welcome to attend morning sittings. However, it is a good idea to call ahead and let us know you are coming. Occasionally the Casa Zen is closed due to retreats.

What should I wear? Loose, comfortable clothes are recommended. Please do not wear shorts or sleeveless shirts. Jeans are usually too tight for comfortable sitting.

I already belong to a house of worship. Is that okay? Yes, it is. Zen practice does not require believing in specific doctrines. There are members of the Casa Zen who also attend church or synagogue.

Is Zen practice compatible with Twelve Step Programs? Absolutely. The practices of Zen are both similar to and enhance Twelve Step Programs.

Is it necessary to have some background in Zen Buddhism before coming to the Casa Zen? No, it is not. Zen practice is not about learning or knowing in an intellectual, conceptual sense. Rather, it is the direct, concrete experience of life just as it is.

What about reading? The best way to learn about Zen is to practice Zen. If, however, you would like to do some reading, we have a short recommended reading list.

I am unable to fold my legs and sit on a cushion. Are there any other options? Yes. Many people sit on chairs rather than cushions. There are always chairs in the meditation room.

Do I have to become a member to sit at the Casa Zen? If you wish to sit regularly at the Casa Zen, attend ceremonies and retreats, you will need to become a member. If you want to attend the occasional sitting you can become a friend. If you want to attend morning sittings only, it is not necessary to be a member or friend.

If I don’t live in the area can I still participate? Many of our members do not live in the San José area. Out-of-town members come to sit at the Casa Zen when they are able, attend retreats as their situations permit, and maintain their sitting practice with groups in their area or on their own.