About the London Zen Group
The Group
The London Zen Group meets four times weekly at two locations in London. Our groups are run by a small group of dedicated practitioners who have received ordinations either as Zen Monk/Nun or who have recieved the zen precepts. We are affiliated to the Association Zen Internationale based in France and founded by Zen Master Taisen Deshimaru as well as with the International Zen Association United Kingdom (IZAUK) with headquarters in Bristol.
Soto Zen and Zazen
Soto Zen is the school of Zen Buddhism founded by Zen Master Eihei Dogen in 13th century Japan. Traditionally, Soto Zen has always emphasised the practice of zazen. Zazen, sitting in a posture of stillness and silence, is both the practice and the teaching of the Buddha; it is not seperate from enlightenment.
"True Zen means sitting quietly in the right posture. Zen means setting the mind at rest, concentrating intuition and reasoning together. Zen is not some special state, it is our normal condition, silent, peaceful, awake, without agitation"
~ Taisen Deshimaru 1914 - 1982
Zazen Days and Sesshins
Once per year (often more), London Zen Group hosts a zazen day where we invite one of our Teachers from France to come and lead our practice.
Several times per year, IZAUK organises longer sesshins (1.5 - 6 day retreats) at various locations in the UK.
Within the UK, there are often other events organised by UK groups such as zazen mornings, and opportunities to practice the sewing of rakusus and kesas. You can check our calendar of events for information on all forthcoming events which we think may be of interest to the London Sangha.
Internationally, there are many events held across Europe throughout the year. These include the Summer Sessions (9 day practice periods) held at our main Temple of La Gendronnèire. Check the AZI Website for further information on these.