Zen Practice at the Bodhi
The essential practices at Bodhi Manda Zen Center are based upon a beautiful monastic system that evolved over many centuries in India, China, and Japan. Most everyone who trains in this system is moved by its simplicity, formality and rigor, all of which support practitioners in their study of Zen Buddhism.
For more information about daily practice, zazenkai, sesshin, and special events please contact the Bodhi office at (575) 829-3854 or email office@bmzc.org. If you are new to the Bodhi or new to zazen practice, the Abbess and staff will be happy to help you.
Daily Practice
Daily practice at The Bodhi starts early with zazen (sitting meditation) and chanting in the morning. It also includes other traditional elements of Zen Buddhist monastic life, such as kinhin (walking meditation), and samu (work practice). Throughout the day, residents are involved in maintaining the kitchen, grounds, and gardens. Daily life is calm yet engaged, and promotes self-realization through mindful work, meditation, and communal activities.
Zazenkai: Introductory Weekend Retreat
A zazenkai (座禅会), literally meaning “to come together for meditation,” is a Zen Buddhist meditation retreat that is less intensive and of shorter duration than a sesshin, lasting three or four days. The Bodhi typically hosts a zazenkai once a month on weekends throughout the year.
Sesshin
Sesshin (接心) is a period of more intensive zazen than regular daily practice or Zazenkai. Sesshin lasts for one week and includes a rigorous meditation schedule, interviews with the teacher (dokusan), silent formal meals, and daily dharma talks. Sesshin is traditionally offered in the spring and fall seasons, but often throughout the year. See our Events page for the most recent schedule. The fees for Sesshin retreats can be found on our Fees and Rates page.
Spring and Fall Monastic Period
Monastic training is a special time for putting aside the concerns of the everyday world to enter pure Zen Buddhist practice. The daily activities during these retreats are designed for deep contemplation and manifestation, especially weeklong sesshins.
Committed Zen students are encouraged to enter the entire two-month program, offered at Bodhi Manda twice a year, during the spring (April – May) and fall (mid October – early December). Bodhi Manda also offers an abbreviated one-month winter program (“Zen Winterim”).
Full Moon Meditation
Come join us in The Bodhi’s Zen garden to meditate under the full moon. The sit begins before moonrise and continues until the moon rises over the cliffs of the Jemez Valley. Often a community dinner is held with participants before the event. Please contact the Bodhi for details. Afterwards, the hot springs are available to enjoy under the moonlight.