Discover inner peace and tranquility at Hidden Valley Zen Center Retreat, nestled in the serene rural setting of San Diego’s North County. This spiritual sanctuary offers a sacred space for the practice of Rinzai Zen meditation, guided by experienced teachers Mitra-roshi and Sozui-sensei. Whether you are a seasoned Zen practitioner or new to meditation, Hidden Valley Zen Center welcomes individuals from all backgrounds who seek a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.

Key Takeaways:

• Hidden Valley Zen Center Retreat provides a serene environment for spiritual growth and self-discovery.
• Guided by Mitra-roshi and Sozui-sensei, the center offers Rinzai Zen meditation.
• All sincere Zen practitioners, regardless of ethnic background, are welcome at the center.
• Hidden Valley Zen Center offers a variety of meditation opportunities and discussions through Zoom.
• Prior arrangements are recommended for visiting the center and attending formal sittings.

About Hidden Valley Zen Center

The Hidden Valley Zen Center, nestled among the historic California Oaks, is a serene sanctuary dedicated to the practice of Rinzai Zen. Led by Mitra-roshi and Sozui-sensei, the center follows the Zen traditions established by Lola Lee, Osho, a student of Dr. Henry Chikuen Kugai Platov. At Hidden Valley Zen Center, the emphasis is on the transformative power of zazen, supported by the techniques of susok’kan (extended out-breath) and koans.

Zazen, the practice of seated meditation, forms the core of the center’s teachings. By cultivating stillness and calmness, practitioners can tap into their innate wisdom and develop a deeper understanding of their true nature. Working with susok’kan helps participants extend their exhalation, facilitating relaxation and focus. Koans, on the other hand, are enigmatic questions or statements intended to provoke profound insights and break through conceptual thinking.

Working with Susok’kan and Koans

• Susok’kan: By consciously extending the out-breath, practitioners can establish a rhythm that calms the body and mind. Susok’kan helps release tension and promotes a sense of inner peace.
• Koans: These paradoxical questions or statements challenge conventional thinking and invite practitioners to transcend the limitations of rational analysis. By engaging with koans, individuals can experience moments of direct perception and deep insight.

The Hidden Valley Zen Center invites sincere Zen practitioners from any ethnic background to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. Through the practice of Rinzai Zen, the center offers a peaceful space for individuals to explore the depths of their being and find profound stillness amidst the busyness of everyday life.

Zen Meditation Schedule and Offerings

Hidden Valley Zen Center offers a variety of meditation opportunities and discussions through Zoom. Whether you are new to Zen meditation or an experienced practitioner, the center provides a welcoming space for all. Take a look at the schedule below to find the sessions that suit you:

These sessions provide a great opportunity to deepen your meditation practice and gain insights from experienced teachers. Whether you have a specific question, want to explore Zen philosophy, or simply sit in silent meditation, the Zoom sessions at Hidden Valley Zen Center offer a supportive and enriching space.

In these troubled times, the center understands the importance of connection and support. The teachers at Hidden Valley Zen Center are committed to providing guidance and assistance to individuals on their Zen meditation journey. Don’t hesitate to join the online sessions and experience the transformative power of Zen in your life.

Visiting Hidden Valley Zen Center

Before planning your visit to Hidden Valley Zen Center, there are a few protocols and requirements to keep in mind. The center aims to provide a peaceful and focused environment for Zen meditation practice. To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, it is recommended that you arrange a meeting prior to participating in a formal sitting. During this meeting, you will receive instruction in the zendo protocol, which will help you navigate the center’s customs and traditions.

If you have little or no experience with Zen meditation or Rinzai Zen, it is mandatory to attend a half-day Introduction to Zen Meditation workshop. This workshop will familiarize you with the fundamentals of Zen meditation and prepare you for the practices at Hidden Valley Zen Center. To attend the workshop, you will need to complete an application form and submit it via email or mail. The center will provide you with the necessary information to access the form.

To ensure a comfortable meditation experience, it is recommended to wear loose, comfortable, and dark clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This attire allows for ease of movement and is in line with the traditional clothing worn during Zen meditation. By respecting these guidelines and protocols, you can fully embrace the atmosphere of tranquility and focus that Hidden Valley Zen Center provides.

Visitation Requirements at a Glance

By following these guidelines and requirements, you can make the most of your visit to Hidden Valley Zen Center. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to Zen meditation, the center offers a serene atmosphere and dedicated teachers to guide you on your spiritual journey.

Daily In-Person Sitting Schedule

Hidden Valley Zen Center offers a variety of daily sittings for individuals interested in practicing Zen meditation. These sittings provide an opportunity for participants to cultivate mindfulness, stillness, and inner peace. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, the center welcomes you to join these sessions and deepen your meditation practice.

Regular Sittings

The center conducts regular sittings on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. These sessions provide a structured environment for individuals to engage in zazen, the practice of seated meditation. By immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the zendo, you can develop concentration, clarity, and insight.

Beginners Night

Every Wednesday, Hidden Valley Zen Center holds a beginners night specifically designed for newcomers to Zen meditation. This session offers guidance and instruction to those who are unfamiliar with the practice or are just starting their journey. It provides a supportive environment for beginners to learn the basics of meditation and ask questions.

It is important to note that the daily in-person sitting schedule may be modified during sesshins, workshops, and special events. Therefore, it is advisable to check the center’s website or contact them directly for any updates to the schedule before attending.

Payments and Personal Retreats

At Hidden Valley Zen Center, we believe in the power of generosity and appreciate your support. While our teachings are offered free of charge, we encourage individuals who have practiced with us for a few sittings to become donating members. Your donations help cover the maintenance and upkeep costs of the center, allowing us to continue providing a peaceful sanctuary for spiritual practice.

In addition to our regular meditation sessions and workshops, we also offer personal retreats for those seeking a deeper experience. During a personal retreat, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in quiet contemplation and draw inspiration from the tranquil surroundings. Please note that retreatants are responsible for providing their own food during the retreat and are expected to follow the guidelines and rules set by the center.

Table: Rates for Personal Retreats

Please note that room availability may vary, as the center periodically closes for sesshins and other activities. We recommend inquiring about room availability before planning your personal retreat. Payments for personal retreats can be made in cash, check, or money order. We kindly ask that payment is arranged in advance to secure your reservation.

Things to Know Before Visiting

Before planning your visit to Hidden Valley Zen Center, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the center’s guidelines and rules. These are in place to create a conducive environment for practice and promote a sense of harmony among all participants.

The following are some essential things to keep in mind:

• Vegetarian Food: Hidden Valley Zen Center serves only vegetarian meals. The center believes in the importance of non-harm and compassion towards all sentient beings.
• No Alcohol and Drugs: Consumption of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited on the premises. This helps maintain a clear and focused mind during the practice of Zen meditation.
• No Smoking: Hidden Valley Zen Center is a smoke-free zone. Smoking is not allowed anywhere on the premises, including outdoor areas.
• Scent-Free Environment: To create a harmonious space, visitors are encouraged to refrain from using strongly scented perfumes, colognes, or cosmetics.

Additionally, the center kindly requests that retreatants tidy up after themselves and take care of the facilities, ensuring the space remains clean and welcoming for all.

Accommodations at Hidden Valley Zen Center

If you’re planning a visit to the Hidden Valley Zen Center, you’ll be delighted to know that the center provides accommodations for individuals interested in staying on-site. The rooms are designed to create a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for your retreat experience.

Room availability at the center is subject to change, so it is advisable to inquire about availability before making your plans. Rates for the rooms are $50 per day per person for stays of up to one week. Payments for accommodations can be made in cash, check, or money order.

Whether you’re attending a personal retreat or participating in the center’s meditation programs, staying at Hidden Valley Zen Center allows you to immerse yourself fully in the serene atmosphere and tranquility of the surroundings. It’s a wonderful opportunity to deepen your practice and find inner peace.

Accommodations Rate Table:

During your stay, please remember to respect the center’s guidelines, including maintaining a quiet and mindful environment. This includes refraining from using alcohol, drugs, and smoking on the premises. Additionally, the center serves only vegetarian meals, so please plan your dietary preferences accordingly.

By offering accommodations, Hidden Valley Zen Center strives to provide a seamless and supportive experience for all visitors. So, if you’re considering a personal retreat or attending one of the center’s programs, take advantage of the accommodations available and discover the tranquility and transformative power of Zen meditation.

Conclusion

Hidden Valley Zen Center Retreat in San Marcos offers a serene haven for individuals seeking inner peace through the practice of Zen meditation. With its tranquil rural setting and dedicated teachers, the center provides the perfect environment for spiritual growth and self-discovery. Whether you choose to attend in person or participate in the online sessions, you will find solace and guidance on your mindfulness journey.

Immerse yourself in the teachings of Rinzai Zen and experience the transformative power of zazen, working with susok’kan and koans. The center’s daily schedule caters to practitioners of all levels, with dedicated time for introduction to meditation, Q&A sessions, dharma talks, and daily zazen. The center also offers personal retreats, allowing you to enjoy quiet contemplation and spiritual inspiration.

When visiting Hidden Valley Zen Center, it is important to familiarize yourself with the visit protocol. Attendees with little or no experience are required to attend an Introduction to Zen Meditation workshop. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended to ensure your comfort during practice. The center follows certain guidelines, such as serving vegetarian food only and maintaining a strict no alcohol, drugs, and smoking policy.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery at Hidden Valley Zen Center Retreat. Indulge in the peace and serenity that this sanctuary provides, and embrace the teachings of Zen meditation. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, the center welcomes you with open arms and offers the guidance you need to cultivate mindfulness and tranquility in your life.

Source Links

• https://staging.hvzc.org/
• https://staging.hvzc.org/visiting-hvzc/
• https://staging.hvzc.org/center/