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Soto Zen

Meet other local people interested in Soto Zen: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Soto Zen group.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out soto zen events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the soto zen events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find soto zen events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Soto Zen Events Today

Join in-person Soto Zen events happening right now

Monday Meditation Circle
Monday Meditation Circle
**Join us for quiet and simple practice, grounded in community. Suitable for beginners. We sit in chairs for 10 and 20 minutes and do 5 minutes of walking meditation. Followed by tea and a poem shared. We start and end on time. Join us!** **Who we are** We meet weekly since 2024. We typically gather with 6-12 of us for seated and walking Zen meditation. Brief meditation instruction offered at the beginning. **What we do** **Mondays 4:30-5:30 pm**: We do 10 minutes of meditation, then 5 minutes walking meditation, then 20 minutes of silent meditation. We end with 15 minutes of conversation, poetry, tea and snacks before heading home. No obligation; come try it!
Deep Conversations at Bethesda Library
Deep Conversations at Bethesda Library
***“I am struck with how rare it is to find a few good friends on the path. It is easy to find people who simply want to sit and be entertained by teachers, or who want to sit and entertain by playing the role of teacher. In other words, the quest for affirmation often outweighs the quest for truth.*** ***Yet you may have one or two good friends, and definitely have one or two waiting to be discovered. Find them; be thankful.”*** ***— Shawn Nevins*** 'What will make me happy in life?' ... 'Am I my thoughts?' ... 'What is Enlightenment?' ... We meet every week to ask questions like these in the pursuit of Self-Knowledge and Truth. We are interested in topics like: Zen, stoicism, spirituality, psychology, mindfulness, Nisargadatta, non-violent communication, Socrates, existential philosophy, Alan Watts, taoism, Eckhart Tolle, meditation, Ramana Maharshi, etc. But we are not affiliated with any dogma, philosophy, or religion. Our goal each meeting is to serve as mirrors for one another using question-based inquiry in a safe environment. In a session, every participant takes turns discussing the week's question or topic, and the group asks reflective questions without any agenda besides trying to understand the person's beliefs. A few other guiding principles of our group: * No one is obligated to share * Be honest with yourself and others * Do not try to convince others to believe or think as you do * Keep the focus on the person being questioned We meet at the [Bethesda Library](https://maps.app.goo.gl/GWMozF8zpY1m1PY26) every Monday. The library is a 5 minute walk from the Bethesda Metro on the Red Line, approx 25 minute Metro ride from Metro Center and Gallery Place stations. The library has a a parking lot with metered parking for $1/hour. \*\*\* WE WILL BE IN MEETING ROOM 3 UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ----- THE MEETING ROOM IS IN THE BACK OF THE LIBRARY \*\*\* Please contact us with any questions!
Soundbath — My Body Don’t Rest That Way - Sound Healing + Meditation
Soundbath — My Body Don’t Rest That Way - Sound Healing + Meditation
Do you find yourself showing up in meditation sessions wondering why your mind won’t settle down?Are you trying to figure out why your body seems to become so uncomfortable in meditation sessions? Join Marsha, non-conventional meditator, certified yoga therapist, trauma sensitive yoga facilitator, and energy and sound healing facilitator, as we show up and unpack ways of meditating that uniquely resonate with you. Whether you find comfort in standing, sitting in a chair or on a yoga mat, or lying on the floor, eyes open or closed, you are welcome to show up just as you are, as we seek peace through movement and compassionate sharing experiences, while embodying the physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual benefits of meditation, energy + sound healing, and yoga therapy. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered both InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St. Discount is available to seniors, teachers, students, emergency responders, and military. All can save by purchasing class packs.
Mobile Market (Fresh Food): Potomac
Mobile Market (Fresh Food): Potomac
In collaboration with Capital Area Food Bank, Potomac Library will host a food market for those in need. Fresh produce will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Profs & Pints DC: The Happiness Workshop
Profs & Pints DC: The Happiness Workshop
[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Happiness Workshop,”** a look at what recent research and centuries of wisdom tell us about bringing more joy and contentment to our lives, with Eric Zillmer, professor of psychology and the director of the Happiness Lab at Drexel University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-happiness-workshop](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-happiness-workshop) .] Are you happy? If not, how do you get there? Gain insights into happiness with Eric Zillmer, an award-winning teacher who leads a creative think tank that investigates the ingredients for happiness among individual people and communities. You’ll learn how the study of happiness is a growing, evidence-based field known as positive psychology, which aims to find solutions to happiness challenges that can bring positive change to our lives and environments. Dr. Zillmer will discuss the meaning of happiness and its place in our lives and society. He’ll draw from recent science and great thinkers in discussing how we can increase our own happiness and well-being, throwing out a few practical tips as well. He’ll talk about whether happiness can be measured and where in our brain happiness is located. We’ll look at the influence of socializing and social media on our happiness and about the roles that music, humor, adversity, and regret have in happiness research. Dr. Zillmer will discuss what we learn about happiness from competitive sports, and he’ll suggest ten actions that you can engage in that will make you happier. Among the questions he’ll tackle: What is the happiest day of the week? Can a specific place make you happy? What can we learn about happiness from travelling the world? (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Happiness in the face of a Tibetan Buddhist monk. (Photo by Wonderlane / Wikimedia Commons.)
Class: Developing Your Intuitive/Energy Skills (via Zoom)
Class: Developing Your Intuitive/Energy Skills (via Zoom)
Class: Developing Your Intuitive/Energy Skills Contents: Clearings, empath work, meditation, learning and enhancing energy work skills for working on self and others For further information, please contact Madhu 301-760-7491, info@stress-reliefcenter.com
Morning Movement & Grace
Morning Movement & Grace
[Book Your Classes by Clicking This Link! ](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/) Kick off your week from **11:00 AM to 12:00 PM wit**h focusing on the smooth, elegant foundations of Ballroom dance. This session is perfect for seniors and families looking to improve posture and balance through the Waltz, Foxtrot, and Tango in a low-pressure, welcoming environment. Price: $25 Drop-in, Membership **DOES NOT** include this class!

Soto Zen Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Zen Meditation Sunday Evenings
Zen Meditation Sunday Evenings
Join us for a quiet, grounded Sunday evening practice in community. We typically gather with 6–12 practitioners for seated and walking meditation, along with a short Dharma talk or practice instruction offered by one of our teachers or senior students. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. **Schedule** * Please arrive by **6:45 pm** to settle in * First bell rings at **7 pm sharp** *(If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell.* *Someone will greet you)* * 25 minutes of silent sitting * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting * We close with tea and informal conversation On **first Sundays**, we offer a relaxed meet-and-greet with tea, discussion, and light snacks. Newcomers are especially encouraged to attend—teachers are available for orientation and basic instruction. **Experience** No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge. **Location** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of Rockville United Church: [355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9) After parking in front, please do **not** enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors. Guiding map: [https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy](https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy) **Who we are** [Joyful Mind Zen Community ](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/)offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo. If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.
Meditation Session
Meditation Session
Join us every Thursday for Meditation and Chanting. No prior experience required, and all are welcome.
Tuesday Zen Meditation Afternoons
Tuesday Zen Meditation Afternoons
Join us for a quiet, grounded Tuesday afternoon practice in community. We typically gather with 4–10 practitioners for seated and walking Zen meditation or practice instruction, along with brief Dharma instruction. **Schedule** * Please arrive by **4:30 pm** to settle in * First bell rings at **4:45 pm sharp** *(If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell. Someone will greet you)* * 25 minutes of silent sitting * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting * We close at **6:00 pm** with tea and informal conversation, sometimes followed by a simple soup dinner **Experience** No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge. **Location** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of Rockville United Church: [355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9) After parking in front, please do **not** enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors. Guiding map: [https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy](https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy) **Who we are** [Joyful Mind Zen Community](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/) offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.
Sunday Morning Meditation
Sunday Morning Meditation
**Weekly Sunday Meditation Classes with Sanema Naomi Hardrick** * Each class begins with **guided breathing meditation**, to help settle the mind, let go of distractions and cultivate inner peace. The meditation is followed by a brief, traditional Buddhist prayer, called *Liberating Prayer.* * The Teacher will then give a **practical teaching** based on the topic of the class series and explain how we can integrate Buddha’s timeless wisdom into our busy daily lives. * The teaching is then followed by a **guided meditation** to help us mix our mind with the teaching and take it to heart. * Time permitting, at the end of the meditation class we spend a few minutes in **group discussion** and the teacher will take any **questions** that the class might have about the topic. **COST:** Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| [Register](https://meditation-dc.org/sunday-mornings/) \*\*[Member Pricing: ](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/)\*\*FREE & Available as an online class. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard
Weekly Zen Meditation in Annapolis
Weekly Zen Meditation in Annapolis
Weekly Wednesday evening Zen meditation. You are invited to arrive at 7 to arrange your seat. Our practice includes 25-minute meditation periods, walking mediation, Dharma talks, and encouragement. Meet with a teacher for individual instruction. No experience is necessary, but enthusiasm is a must! We have an array of cushions and chairs, and if you have a preferred meditation cushion or bench, you are invited to bring it. Wear any comfortable clothing you'd like to meditate in. [Harbor Light Zen Sangha](https://sites.google.com/view/hlzs) meets in the Gampopa Buddhist Meditation Center, 1831 Forest Drive, Suite C, Annapolis, MD 21401. All are welcome. If you have questions, please feel free to email Josh KūHai Sensei at kuhai@gampopacenter.com
Atisha: 7-doors to Meditation with Videha
Atisha: 7-doors to Meditation with Videha
**Atisha: 7-doors to Meditation: Osho Meditation Retreat** *Osho Nirvana is delighted to invite you to this deep inner exploration and meditation retreat with Videha.* Based on “The Book of Wisdom”, Osho’s commentary on Atisha teaching “Seven Points of Mind Training” These ‘Seven Points of Mind Training’ are the fundamental teaching that Atisha gave to Tibet. They are of immense value. They are the whole of religion condensed. They are like seeds, but they contain the infinite. The moment you move into the statements deeply, when you contemplate and meditate and start experimenting with them, you will be surprised, you will be going into the greatest adventure of your life… *“…Meditate on Atisha, listen to His advice; they are of immense value. It is not a philosophy, it is a manual to discipline yourself, it is a manual of inner transformation. …These sutras are golden. Keep them in your heart; they will nourish you, they will strengthen you, they will transform you. … It is the teaching that can help you grow into Wisdom.”* Osho **Some of the main topics in this retreat** * The Preliminaries * Atisha Meditation, “Tong-Len” (“Giving and Taking” in Tibetan), also known as “Heart Meditation.” * The arising of Bodhicitta * The base of mind functioning and the illusion of the ego * The four bodies (Kaya) * The essential meaning of witnessing * The difficulties and fundamental points of the awareness process * The meaning of “Compassion.” * The meaning of “Wisdom.” * The transcendental function of the five senses * The “Three principal causes” and “The three treasures.” * The authentic meaning of “Freedom.” **About Videha:** Osho disciple since 1980. Initiated into the Mevlevi Sufi Order of Konya (“The Whirling Dervishes”), Videha integrates the Sufi Path into Osho’s vision and love. For years as a Zazen practitioner, he has traveled and trained in Turkey, Mongolia, China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, India, Central Asia, and Tibet, where he received many initiations. He has been leading groups, seminars, camps, and meditation retreats around the world for more than 35 years, uniting the path of Love with the path of Meditation. ​ **How to Participate?** Dates: May 9 (7:30 PM) – 16 (12:30 PM), 2026 Register [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJdX8kHAuDzKWZnNEx5EpUGxOpp1oEBMa5wtzKKOyV-cLqKQ/viewform?usp=dialog) Participation Contribution: $849 Link to pay: [https://bit.ly/atisha2026tickets](https://bit.ly/atisha2026tickets) (on the final page, for platform support fees (they are optional), select “other” and type 0) **Full participation is required!**
Photo Class: Exploring Street Photography
Photo Class: Exploring Street Photography
THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-05-09-exploring-street-photography Street photography is very popular now more than ever because photographers have access to high quality cameras in mobile phones and smaller high resolution digital cameras. A camera’s ease of access and proliferation raises the issues of ethics and privacy in public places and the difference between a snapshot and a street photograph. This hands-on class will explore the unique aspects of the street photography genre. Michael Koren will be your guide as you create compelling photographs that go beyond the ordinary snapshot. First, you’ll learn pro level tips and techniques and discuss privacy issues associated with street photography. Then, with Michael’s guidance and direction, the group will head out to photograph near the White House in Lafayette Square. You’ll create photographs that demonstrate your personal vision while using your own gear optimized for street photography. We'll then head back to the classroom for image reviews and feedback. Topics include: -Proper techniques and settings for street photography -Pro tips and techniques for capturing compelling images -Create captivating images using anticipation, patience, composition and visualization -Hands-on image capture -Privacy and ethics concerning street photography -Image review and feedback Recommended gear: -Although any camera will do, for best results we recommend a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual exposure controls -Lenses in the range of 28mm - 70mm (zoom or prime) -Fully charged camera battery with an optional spare -Camera instruction manual (paper or electronic) -No tripod, no flash Class size is very limited *** • Important to know **THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-05-09-exploring-street-photography

Soto Zen Events Near You

Connect with your local Soto Zen community

Libera Animae - Freeing the Soul
Libera Animae - Freeing the Soul
Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.
Monday Night Meditation Practice
Monday Night Meditation Practice
Join us on Monday nights at 7pm for two 25 minute quiet meditations, with one short walking meditation in between. There will be a brief and informal conversation afterward. Stay for as long as you like and feel free to bring or share whatever is on your mind. All Zen Center events are also available via Zoom at bit.ly/IndyZen.
COLUMBUS SPIRITUALITY MEETUP
COLUMBUS SPIRITUALITY MEETUP
We are excited to host Guided Meditations on Sundays at 6 pm in our Ashram/Gallery/Home! !! !! Everyone wants to know what kind of God we worship and what kind of meditation we do. We worship the GOD that LOVES US! We understand that god is an energy and it lives in us as us. Our meditations guide others to actually experience that energy! xoxo We don't just talk about peace, love and affection, we experience it :) Also we are a home not a business, so we enjoy building community one friend at a time. We always build in time for people to mingle & develop friendships! xoxo Much Love, Frank Tennyson Namaste, Frank Tennyson http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/9/9/600_447824953.jpeg
Wednesday Night Meditation Practice
Wednesday Night Meditation Practice
Join us on Wednesday nights at 7pm for two 25 minute quiet meditations, with one short walking meditation in between. There will be a brief and informal conversation afterward. Stay for as long as you like and feel free to bring or share whatever is on your mind. All Zen Center events are also available via Zoom at bit.ly/IndyZen.
Sunday Brunch
Sunday Brunch
Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!
Mindful Photography Walk – A Gentle Pause in Nature
Mindful Photography Walk – A Gentle Pause in Nature
Join me for a small, mindful photography walk in nature. (**NOTE Time is 9:00 AM EST(Meetup is having technical Issue))** This is a slow, intentional gathering — not focused on fitness or perfect photography — but on simply pausing, observing, and being present. We’ll walk at a gentle pace, with moments of quiet, and a few light prompts to help you notice details you might normally miss. 📷 You don’t need any photography experience — a phone camera is enough. This is also not a business networking event. It’s a calm space to connect with nature and, if it feels natural, with like-minded people. 🌿 What to expect: • A slow-paced, relaxed walk • Moments of silence and observation • Simple reflection prompts 📍 Location: [ Red Trabue Nature Preserve] ⏱ Duration: \~60 minutes This is a small, initial gathering as I begin creating this space through WellGratiVibes — a blend of mindfulness, nature, and quiet connection. If this resonates with you, you’re welcome to join.
Fundamentals: by do Jung Ishu/ the art of fighting
Fundamentals: by do Jung Ishu/ the art of fighting
We are a real world Martial arts group. \ Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \ Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \ We have been around a while. \ Every week we get together and work technical skills and full contact spar. \ Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from street fights to the ring and some still compete in cage fighting. \ If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \ We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 Outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295 Saturday 1:30pm Wednesday 5:45pm From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \ Wear workout clothes. \ Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \ WE HAVE GLOVES. \ $10 per class $5 per class if you are wearing a club shirt Club shirts are $25 Hope to see you soon. \ let me know if you have any questions :)