Meditation at Ekoji

Our Thursday meditation practice begins at 8 pm, in the hondo (temple) building. We start the evening with a short sutra (Buddhist scripture) chant, then have a 10 minute walking meditation session, during which we perform the ritual of Oshoko (burning of incense), which reminds us of impermanence.

We then have a 30 minute sitting meditation session, which will either be silent, guided or possibly both. At the completion of the sitting meditation session, we end the formal meditation with another sutra chant.

Most participants sit in chairs, but any comfortable position is OK, either in a chair, on the floor or even standing. If you’d like to use a cushion or mat you are invited to bring one along with you.

After the conclusion of the formal meditation session, we have a voluntary, informal social gathering that lasts about an hour in the building next door to the temple (sangha hall), where we enjoy tea and various snacks. Please feel free to bring something to share.

If you are new to meditation, or Ekoji, we suggest you arrive 30 minutes early to receive some direction and guidance on what to do and expect during our meditation. If you have questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact the facilitator, Frank Swithers, at meditation.ekoji@gmail.com