Welcome to the Zen Center in San Diego, a meditation center dedicated to supporting you on your path towards awakening. Our mission is to help you live a more fulfilling life filled with kindness, compassion, and appreciation. Whether you’re new to Zen or an experienced practitioner, our center offers a welcoming space for you to explore the transformative power of meditation.

At the Zen Center in San Diego, we understand the importance of in-person connection and have recently updated our COVID-19 policy to have a “mask optional” policy for in-person attendance. We offer newcomer orientations to help you get started on your Zen journey. In addition, we rely on donations from the community to support our practice and would be grateful for any contribution you can make.

Key Takeaways:

• Explore Zen meditation at the Zen Center in San Diego
• Find support on your path toward awakening
• Join our in-person retreats and newcomer orientations
• Updated COVID-19 policy with “mask optional” for in-person attendance
• Support our practice through donations

September Announcements

The Zen Center in San Diego has some exciting announcements for the month of September. Please take note of the following updates:

1. The center will be closed for sesshin from September 8-11. Sesshin is a period of intensive Zen meditation practice, and this closure will allow participants to fully immerse themselves in the retreat experience.
2. An in-person newcomer orientation will be starting from July 1. This orientation is designed for individuals who are new to Zen meditation and would like to learn more about the practice and the Zen Center in San Diego.

If you are interested in participating in any of these events or would like more information, please visit our website or contact us directly. We look forward to sharing the practice of Zen meditation with you.

Zen Center San Diego COVID-19 Policy Update

The Zen Center of San Diego is committed to the safety and well-being of our community, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We have recently updated our COVID-19 policy in accordance with the guidance from the California Department of Public Health.

Mask Optional Policy

Effective immediately, we have transitioned from a “mask required” policy to a “mask optional” policy for in-person attendance at our center. While we still encourage the use of masks, especially for individuals who are unvaccinated or have health concerns, we respect personal choices regarding mask usage. We kindly request that all attendees be respectful and understanding towards one another’s choices regarding mask wearing.

Vaccination and Virtual Sessions

We strongly recommend that all individuals attending in-person sessions be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination greatly reduces the risk of transmission and severe illness. For those who are experiencing symptoms or are unable to attend in-person, we continue to offer virtual sessions to ensure everyone can participate in our community.

Stay Updated

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and adapt our policies as needed to ensure the safety of our community. Please visit our website or contact us for the latest updates on our COVID-19 policies and guidelines.

Zen Center San Diego – Request for Donations

The Zen Center of San Diego relies on the generosity of its community to sustain its practice and support its mission. As a non-profit organization, donations made to the Zen Center may be tax deductible, providing an opportunity for individuals to contribute to a meaningful cause while potentially receiving a tax benefit.

There are various ways to donate to the Zen Center. You can choose to make a donation by check, which can be sent to the center’s mailing address. Alternatively, online donations can be made through Paypal, providing a convenient and secure way to support the Zen Center’s work.

Ways to Donate

If you wish to make a donation to the Zen Center of San Diego, you can consider the following options:

• Donate by check: Mail your donation to the Zen Center’s mailing address, ensuring it is made payable to the Zen Center of San Diego.
• Donate online through Paypal: Visit the Zen Center’s website and look for the donation link, where you can securely contribute using your Paypal account or a major credit card.

Your Support Matters

Donating to the Zen Center of San Diego helps sustain its practice and enables the center to continue offering its services to the community. Your generosity allows the Zen Center to provide a space for meditation, retreats, and teachings, fostering mindfulness, compassion, and personal growth. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference and is greatly appreciated.

Announcement Concerning Litigation Against the Zen Center

The Board of Trustees of the Zen Center of San Diego takes claims of sexual harassment and abuse seriously. In response to actual claims of sexual abuse, they immediately suspended the person involved from teaching and conducted an independent investigation. After receiving the findings and analysis from the investigation, the board dismissed the accused individual and presented a summary of the investigation’s findings to the Zen Center membership. The litigation filed against the Zen Center and the individual has been resolved in a global settlement.

The Zen Center of San Diego remains committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all participants. They encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed any form of misconduct within the Zen Center community to come forward and report it. The board is dedicated to addressing issues promptly and ensuring the well-being of their members. The center’s priority is to continue providing a space where individuals can practice Zen meditation and cultivate mindfulness in a respectful and nurturing environment.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the litigation or the Zen Center’s response to it, please reach out to the Zen Center of San Diego directly. They are committed to transparency and open communication with their community.

Zen Center San Diego Retreat – SWZC COVID-19 Guidelines

At the Sweetwater Zen Center (SWZC) in San Diego, the safety of attendees is a top priority. To ensure a secure environment during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the center has implemented specific guidelines. If you plan to visit the SWZC, please adhere to the following:

COVID-19 Symptoms

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms or symptoms related to COVID-19, we kindly ask that you refrain from coming to the center. Your health and the well-being of our community are of utmost importance.

Mask Availability and Social Distancing

Masks are available in all indoor practice spaces at the SWZC. We encourage participants to wear masks, especially when inside shared areas. Social distancing is also encouraged to maintain a safe distance from others.

Virtual Opportunities

If you prefer to practice from the comfort of your own space, the SWZC also provides opportunities for virtual participation through Zoom. For more information on Zoom events and to obtain the password, please contact us via email at [email protected]

By adhering to these guidelines, we can create a safe and supportive practice environment for all Zen enthusiasts at the Sweetwater Zen Center in San Diego. Whether you choose to join us in person or virtually, we look forward to sharing the transformative journey of Zen meditation with you.

SWZC Programming and Schedule

The Sweetwater Zen Center (SWZC) offers a diverse range of programming and schedule options to accommodate both in-person and virtual participants. Whether you prefer to practice Zen meditation in the center or join remotely via zoom, there are opportunities available for you to deepen your practice and engage with the SWZC community.

In-Person Schedule

For those who wish to attend the SWZC in person, the center offers a weekly schedule that includes zazen (seated meditation), dharma talks, and group discussions. The sessions are led by experienced teachers who provide guidance and support throughout the practice. In addition, the center hosts monthly events and workshops that delve into specific aspects of Zen practice, allowing for a more immersive experience.

Virtual Participation

If you prefer to participate in Zen meditation from the comfort of your own home, SWZC provides the option to join their sessions through zoom. They offer a password-protected zoom schedule that includes meditation, Q&A sessions, and dharma talks. By joining virtually, you can still benefit from the guidance of experienced teachers and connect with the SWZC community, regardless of your physical location.

Introduction to Meditation Class

If you are new to Zen meditation or would like to refresh your understanding of the practice, SWZC offers an introduction to meditation class during their weekly Sunday Program. This class provides a comprehensive overview of Zen meditation, its principles, and techniques. It is a great opportunity to learn the fundamentals and get started on your own meditation journey.

Hidden Valley Zen Center – Rinzai Zen Practice

Hidden Valley Zen Center, located in San Diego’s North County, offers a serene and tranquil environment for sincere Zen practitioners. With a focus on Rinzai Zen, the center provides a space for inner spiritual quest and the cultivation of mindfulness through various practices.

The core practices at Hidden Valley Zen Center revolve around zazen, which is seated meditation, working with susok’kan, an extended out-breath, and koans, which are spiritual riddles. These practices enable practitioners to delve deep into their consciousness, fostering self-inquiry and self-transformation.

Practice Highlights at Hidden Valley Zen Center:

• Zazen: Engage in the foundational practice of Rinzai Zen meditation, allowing for deep stillness and self-reflection.
• Susok’kan: Explore the transformative power of an extended out-breath, aiding in the cultivation of mindfulness and inner clarity.
• Koans: Embark on a journey of awakening through the contemplation of spiritual riddles that challenge the intellect and invite intuitive insight.

Since its establishment in 1968, Hidden Valley Zen Center has remained committed to providing a supportive and inclusive space for individuals of any ethnic background. Through their practices, teachings, and community, the center aims to guide practitioners towards a profound understanding of themselves and the nature of existence.

Hidden Valley Zen Center Schedule and COVID-19 Guidance

At Hidden Valley Zen Center, we are committed to providing a comprehensive schedule of events and practice opportunities for Zen enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to Zen meditation, our center offers a variety of sessions to deepen your practice. From daily zazen (seated meditation) to Q&A sessions and dharma talks, there is something for everyone on their spiritual journey.

During these challenging times, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our community. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have implemented strict guidelines to ensure the health of our attendees. We encourage individuals to join our virtual sessions whenever possible, but for those attending in-person, we have established the following protocols:

1. Wear a mask: Masks are mandatory for all in-person attendees, regardless of vaccination status.
2. Maintain social distancing: We ask everyone to maintain a minimum of six feet of distance between themselves and others.
3. Practice good hygiene: Regular handwashing and sanitizing are encouraged to minimize the risk of transmission.
4. Stay home if unwell: If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, please refrain from attending any in-person sessions.

Hidden Valley Zen Center Schedule:

For more information on our schedule and how to join our virtual sessions, please visit our website or reach out to us via email. We look forward to practicing together and supporting each other on the path of Zen meditation.

Conclusion

Explore the path of awakening and experience the benefits of Zen meditation in San Diego at the Zen Centers. Whether you are a newcomer or an experienced practitioner, these centers offer a safe and supportive environment for you to deepen your practice and cultivate mindfulness. Engage in Zen meditation, retreats, and community practice to live a more fulfilling life with kindness, compassion, and appreciation.

With both in-person and virtual sessions available, you have the flexibility to participate in Zen meditation and retreats that suit your preferences and schedule. Immerse yourself in the teachings and practices of Zen, guided by experienced instructors and fellow practitioners. Join the Zen Center San Diego Retreat and discover the transformative power of meditation.

Donations are crucial to support the Zen Centers’ mission and ensure their sustainability. Your contribution helps these centers continue their valuable work and provide resources to the community. Consider making a donation today and become part of a community that empowers individuals to live more mindfully and authentically.

Start your Zen journey today at the Zen Centers in San Diego. Whether you choose the Zen Center San Diego, Sweetwater Zen Center, or Hidden Valley Zen Center, you’ll find a welcoming space to connect with your inner self, cultivate peace of mind, and embrace the present moment. Begin your exploration of Zen meditation, retreats, and community practice in San Diego and embark on a path of self-discovery and spiritual growth.

Source Links

• http://www.zencentersandiego.org/
• https://staging.hvzc.org/
• https://swzc.org/