Before You Come
When to come
Our practice periods are Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30 PM. Please use the contact page or email us to let us know you plan to attend, or simply arrive at 7:10 PM for a brief orientation and instructions.
If you are new to Zen
The Wednesday evening 7:10 PM orientations offer a brief introduction to zazen (Zen meditation), meditation hall forms and etiquette, Zen liturgy, and to the Boundless Way Zen school. If any of that is new to you, consider coming to an orientation. Please make every effort to arrive promptly at 7:10 PM, out of courtesy to your fellow attendees.
You may also want to read this book
Zen Meditation in Plain English by John Buksbazen
If you are experienced in Zen
If you are comfortable with stillness and are familiar with meditation in the Zen tradition and with Zen liturgy - you are welcome to just show up before 7:30 and dive in. Nonetheless, we do encourage even old hands to come for an orientation, if only to introduce yourself and get acquainted.
What you should bring and what you should wear
You needn’t bring anything at all except, ideally, an open mind. If you wish to bring your own meditation cushion or bench, please do so. Some chairs, cushions, and benches will be available. You needn’t wear anything special, though you may wish to choose somewhat loose-fitting pants.
Is it free?
All orientations and all regular Wednesday evening practice sessions are offered free of charge. Boundless Way Zen Northampton does make a contribution to the Unitarian Society for the use of our sitting space, so we welcome your donations.