Dharma Rain provides many opportunities to take workshops and classes ranging from introductory workshops for those new to Dharma Rain to seminary classes for those ready to delve more deeply in the Buddhist teachings.
Introductory Workshops
Three introductory workshops are offered regularly throughout the year. These workshops provide basic information and helpful tips, allowing attendees to ask questions to personalize the experience and find their way into the practice.
- Intro to Zen Meditation – This class introduces zazen, which means “sitting meditation.” This workshop is designed for complete beginners, but it is also recommended for anyone who has not received instruction in the Soto Zen style of zazen. No previous experience is necessary. The workshop presents the purpose of zazen, fundamentals of posture, and specific techniques, including how to modify posture for physical limitations. The workshop includes a period of meditation and an opportunity to ask questions.
- Starting A Practice – This workshop explores cultivating insight by looking at our own actions in the light of the Buddhist Precepts and emphasizes that the principles of meditation apply to every activity. We also look at the forms used at Dharma Rain, including an explanation of the altar and other items found in the zendo (meditation hall), and the use of chanting, bowing, and other practices encountered during retreats and services.
- Cultivating Compassion explores how to integrate compassion into Zen practice and everyday life.
- Dealing with Stress teaches a variety of simple but effective techniques that reduce stress and emotional reactivity.
Wednesday Evening Classes
On Wednesday evenings, a series of classes are offered that focus primarily on Buddhist teaching, particularly from the Soto Zen perspective. Courses in the Foundational Teachings of Buddhism and the Bodhisattva Precepts are offered annually. Wednesday evening classes provide a good opportunity to explore basic Buddhist teachings, and emphasize personal experience with the material. They also involve discussion, which provides opportunities for interaction with others in the sangha. This is a great way to learn and meet others.
Taking Your Seat
Taking Your Seat is a program designed to help newer members of Dharma Rain establish their meditation practice, create warm relationships with other members, and become part of the temple community. This program is for active members of Dharma Rain in their first two years of practice. The program usually begins in September and includes about six meetings over the course of four months. Registration opens a few weeks before the program begins.
Meetings include discussions and exercises, as well as informal social time and chances to practice forms. Topics are based partly on what the group wants and needs, but may include a review of foundational teachings, practicing oryoki, investigating mondo, exploring the purpose of formal practice, learning how Dharma Rain is organized, and investigating gateways for practice at Dharma Rain — or just having dinner together.
Term Student Program
The Term Student program provides a three-month structure for members of Dharma Rain Zen Center who wish to intensify their practice and strengthen their sangha connections. A Term Student program takes place every year in the fall and sometimes in the spring as well. Each program includes three one-day retreats.
Committing to a three-month term provides a clear beginning and end to a period when Zen practice and involvement at Dharma Rain take a higher priority in your life. Because you are not making a long-term commitment, and because you are joining others in the term, the chances of following through on your intention to intensify practice can be greatly improved. Registration opens a few weeks before the program begins.
More about the Term Student program…
Other Classes
If you are ready to move beyond basic courses, consider engaging in a Fall or Spring Term Student Program or investigating taking seminary classes.
In addition, there are sometimes extra Study Groups. Examples include a study group for Dogen’s Shobogenzo and others looking at various contemporary Dharma books.