Welcome to New York Zendo
If you are visiting our temple for the first time, please attend one of our weekly Thursday evening Introduction to Zen Meditation classes. This program is open to all and provides basic instruction in our sitting meditation technique, an introduction to the temple’s ritual form, and a chance to meet some of our regular practitioners. Additionally, we offer an online Introduction to Zen Meditation most Wednesday evenings. After attending either of these introductory programs, you are welcome to join any of our other recurring weekly practice meetings. See the calendar for more details.
Our meditation practice thrives in an environment with minimal distractions; many elements of our form and etiquette are designed to create an atmosphere of mutual respect and non-distraction. We aim to behave inconspicuously to avoid calling attention to ourselves, allowing everyone to focus on their breath and concentration practice. When visiting the Zendo, please consider the following guidelines for temple etiquette:
Before coming to the temple:
- Attire should be clean, dignified, and low-key (please leave shorts, tank tops, distracting patterns or colors, and skin-tight clothing at home).
- Avoid wearing perfume, aftershave, or other fragrances.
- Arrive early, allowing enough time to transition to the dynamic stillness of the Zendo.
- If you do bring food to the temple, please ensure it is vegetarian.
Once you’re here:
- Silence your cell phone.
- Remove watches, noisy jewelry, and any electronic accessories before entering the Zendo.
- Leave all your personal items in the dressing room, not in the Zendo entryway.
- Observe silence. Moving during zazen not only disturbs others but also hinders your concentration and creates more discomfort.
- Participate! You’ll find that the more you give yourself to the practice, the deeper your understanding grows.
- Our practice takes place in accordance with the ethical guidelines of our sangha, please familiarize yourself with them.
