Our “zen, ken, sho” tradition emphasizes the integration of Zen training and embodied activity through the practice of complementary activities beyond just seated meditation. Ken, meaning “sword,” stands for the cultivation of intense energy through vigorous physical practices, e.g. martial arts, chanting, and the hojo described below. Sho means “brush” and symbolizes the fine arts, including calligraphy, flower arrangement and any other means used to develop focus through physical and aesthetic refinement. Ultimately, the goal is to take advantage of opportunities to unite the body, breath and concentration in embodying the Zen way of being.
Zazen (seated Meditation) AND Koan Training
Hojo (Sword forms)
Shodo (Calligraphy)
Okyo (Chanting)
Zazenkai, Sesshin and Shojin Ryori
RECOMMENDED TEXTS FOR BEGINNERS
An Introduction to Zen Training by Omori Sogen
The Rinzai Zen Way by Meido Moore