SEE THE PERFECTION Sometimes we get so caught up in our ideas about how we think things should be that we fail to stop and appreciate the beauty in how things are. Moment by moment, our lives beckon us to see the wonder that is always unfolding right before us. When you get carried away, just come back. It’s always right here! #zen #buddhism #sotozen #oneriverzen #pickusottawail

This gentle workshop will leave you feeling amazing. 😌 Restorative poses and stretching, loving-kindness meditation, and Yoga Nidra (yoga sleep! 😴) — open your heart and restore your soul… oneriverzen.org/class to register for this Saturdays event!

∇VII ∆VIII FALL SEVEN TIMES - RISE EIGHT During the Edo period (1603-1868), Bodhidharma was often depicted in paintings seated in meditation, staring straight ahead at the viewer, concentrating so intensely and single-mindedly during his nine years of meditation “facing a wall” at Shaolin Monastery. This led to the widespread production and popular embrace of “Daruma” dolls: round or oval-shaped figurines, made of wood or papier mâché, that are painted all in red except for a flesh-colored face with black eyebrows and beard. Some papier mâché versions are weighted at the bottom, such that the dolls always rights themselves when pushed over. Stay with it, don’t give up! Persevere! #zen #wisdom #pickusottawail #meditation #sotozen #oneriverzen

Let me respectfully remind you Life and death are of supreme importance Time swiftly passes by… …and opportunity is lost Each of us should strive to awaken Awaken! Take heed! Do not squander your life!

Another beautiful morning and a reason for boundless gratitude! #zen #meditation #oneriverzen #sotozen #pickusottawail

UJI | THE WAY OF FREEDOM SERIES BEGINS THURSDAY, MAY 2nd oneriverzen.org/classes Join us for a transformative eight-week journey into the heart of Zen wisdom with our UJI class series at the One River Zen Center. What is Uji? ‘Uji,’ meaning ‘being-time,’ explores the timeless nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Delve into Dogen’s insights and learn how to apply them to your own life, gaining a deeper understanding of the present moment and the nature of reality. Join us on this journey of self-discovery and awakening. What to Expect: Engaging Talks: Join us for engaging and informative lectures that unravel the timeless wisdom of Uji. Sensei Michael will guide you through this classic text, making its teachings accessible and relevant to your modern life. Daily Readings and Commentary: Between classes, you’ll receive daily readings from Uji, complemented by insightful commentary from Sensei Michael. This will help you integrate the teachings into your daily life. Vibrant Online Community: Connect with like-minded individuals through our online forum, where you can discuss your learnings, share insights, and ask questions. This supportive community will enrich your experience and provide a space for meaningful dialogue. Missed a Class? No Problem: Life can be busy, and we understand that. That’s why we record each class, so you can catch up at your convenience and stay on track with your learning journey.

Fireside Zen at our Weekend Meditation Retreat. Come join us: oneriverzen.org/retreats #meditation #mindfulness #zen #buddhism #retreats #pickusottawail #sōtōzen

Doing some gardening to focus the mind during our weekend retreat #zen #buddhism #samu #sotozen #pickusottawail

We do more than meditation during retreat! Here Kyōkan Vanessa leads the group in a relaxing yoga session. #zen #yoga #zenyoga #buddhist #pickusottawail

Beautiful morning on the first full day of retreat! #zen #meditation #oneriverzen #pickusottawail #sotozen