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
Zen Meditation Circle Mondays
Please join us. We are a welcoming group who have been meeting for two years. About 6-10 of us gather together weekly on Mondays for silent meditation, walking meditation, ending with shared reflections, tea and poetry. No RSVP needed; just show up!
We start and end on time. Enter the front door and look for a sign. Someone will greet you. No experience necessary.
Schedule:
**4:30** a brief instruction or reading about meditation and silence
**4:35-4:45** silent meditation (10 minutes)
walking meditation
**4:55 -5:15** silent meditation (20 minutes)
**5:15-5:30** poetry, tea, reflections, departing
***This is a good place to rest and refresh on the way home from work and before dinner.*** Free. Try it.
Sahaja Yoga Meditation - In person workshops
This is introductory meditation for people who wants to learn basics of meditation. It's a free event held every week and everyone is welcome to join.
Beginner-Friendly Japanese Speaking Practice & Study Group [FREE]
This meetup is for Japanese learners who want to practice speaking in a relaxed, supportive environment without pressure or perfection. It's also a great place to meet people with similar interests!
If you’ve studied vocabulary or grammar but freeze when it’s time to speak, this session is designed to help you bridge that gap.
**What we'll do:**
* Simple self-introductions in Japanese
* Guided speaking prompts (you won’t be put on the spot)
* Light pair or small-group practice
* Optional review games or activities to support speaking
Mistakes are expected and encouraged. You’re welcome to use notes, look things up, or listen more than you speak.
**Who this is for:**
* Beginner to early-intermediate learners
* People who want to practice speaking without pressure
* Anyone who feels like they “know the material” but struggles to use it
No high-level Japanese required. Just come as you are.
Kali and FMA training at OSMA in Herndon, VA ⚔️
Learn Kali at OSMA in Herndon, VA: a beginner-friendly Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) class that builds coordination, timing, and confidence. 🔥
Experience FMA training through **partner drills**, **movement flow**, and **practical self-defense applications**.
In this session you’ll:
* Train classic **FMA weapon systems** such as **rattan sticks**, **training knives**, and **empty-hand applications** of Kali and Arnis.
* Develop **coordination**, **timing**, **range awareness** and **reflexes** through **practical drills** drawn from Filipino Martial Arts traditions.
* Improve your **conditioning**, **speed**, and **agility**: FMA’s weapon-based flow patterns and hand-to-hand transitions push both **mind** and **body**.
Join a supportive community of martial arts enthusiasts in [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) \-\- whether you're new to weapons training or experienced\, this class is designed to **challenge** and **reward**.
This class is **open to all levels** and emphasizes **safety**, **precision**, and **continuous learning**.
Whether you’re looking to explore **Filipino Martial Arts** (FMA) for **[self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense)**, **coordination training**, **weapons fluency**, or simply finding a **unique**, **dynamic workout** in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) -- *this is your class*.
👉 Come build real **skills**, boost **conditioning**, and ***train with great people*** \-\- j**oin us today and explore the flow and discipline of [Filipino Martial Arts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_martial_arts)!**
The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20**, **payable on-site**.
We are located in **Suite #130** — let us know when you arrive and we’ll take care of the rest.
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
Queer Circle
Specifically catering to those in the LGBTQIA+ community (though Allies are welcome), Queer Circle is a place to gather safely where space is held for everyone. Led by Ginny, the circle focuses on empowerment, individuality, and how our practices entwine with it all. Prepare to work with queer/androgynous deities and beings, and our queer/trans-cestors!
HATE HAS NO HOME HERE. Please be conscious of shared experiences and how it may impact fellow circle members.
🏳️🌈 fee is $25 🏳️⚧️
Soto Zen Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Meditation Session
Join us every Thursday for Meditation and Chanting. No prior experience required, and all are welcome.
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.
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.
Portrait Photography Workshop with International Model Cordelia
Join an exclusive hands-on portrait photography workshop at **Sarosh Photography & Studios** where creativity meets professional guidance. This immersive studio session will give photographers the opportunity to learn lighting techniques, posing direction, composition, and creative storytelling while working with **International model Cordelia**.
Participants will gain real-world experience capturing elegant portraits in a controlled studio environment, while also learning practical tips on working with professional models, styling, and creating portfolio-worthy images.
This workshop is designed to help photographers refine their artistic vision, improve technical skills, and elevate their portrait photography through guided demonstrations and live shooting sessions.
Dharma Talk & Meditation
Join us at 11:30 a.m. for a meditation class led by Khenpo Karze, followed by a public talk and Q&A.
The meditation focus varies from class to class. We are currently learning how to meditate on the Four Immeasurables: loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity.
The class begins with 30 minutes of meditation instruction, followed by 5-10 minutes of meditation practice, and then continues with discussion and Q&A. Each session concludes with a brief Chenrezig practice in which we recite Om Mani Padme Hung (a prayer of compassion), and a dedication prayer that our efforts benefit all beings.
This class offers a strong foundation in meditation, helping cultivate inner peace and compassion amidst busy lives.
All are welcome!
This program is open to anyone with an interest in Buddhism and you can come to all or any part of the program. Families are welcome. There is no fee, but donations are encouraged.
Join us!
Class is offered IN-PERSON in our Prayer Room and ONLINE on [Facebook Live](https://www.facebook.com/KPCBuddhistTemple/) and [YouTube Live](https://www.youtube.com/@KunzangPalyulCholing/streams).
You can also watch online here: https://www.tara.org/kpc-maryland-events-calendar/
About the teacher:
Khenpo Tenzin Karze graduated from Ngagyur Nyingma Institute’s intensive Buddhist graduate course in 2006, and was awarded the degree of Khenpo, equivalent to a PhD in Buddhist Philosophy, in 2011. He has received teachings and empowerments from many great Nyingma masters, and taught extensively in various Palyul temples in Nepal, India, Europe and Taiwan. This is his first time in the USA. We are delighted that Khenpo is now in residence at KPC and will be providing traditional Dharma instruction to help us deepen our practice of wisdom and compassion.
Photograph Meadowlark Botanical Gardens - Sat. March 21
**Regular Garden admission and memberships apply.**
| Ages 5 & under | Free |
| -------------- | ---- |
| Age 6 - 17 | $5.00 |
| Age 18 - 59 | $9.00 |
| Age 60 and over | $5.00 |
**We will meet at the visitor center.**
**Bring Water, a tripod, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards**
**There is no specific route in this park. Folks are free to wander around the trails in the park at their own pace.**
**Check out Rob Trek's video from May 16, 2021: [https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y](https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y)**
**For lunch, after the field trip around 12:00 PM, we will head to The Virginian Restaurant, 169 Glyndon St SE, Vienna, VA 22180**
Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos.
Beauty, conservation, education, and discovery flourish throughout the year at this 95-acre complex of large ornamental display gardens and unique native plant collections. Walking trails, lakes, more than twenty varieties of cherry trees, irises, peonies, an extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms, and foliage create a sanctuary of beauty and nature.
https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/
By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.
In-Person Buddhist Meditation and Psychology Group
This group is for anyone who wants to explore Buddhist meditation in a relaxed and supportive setting. Each session includes a short meditation, a simple teaching from Buddhist psychology, and an open discussion about how these ideas show up in everyday life. While our foundation is Buddhist practice, we love weaving in wisdom from other traditions whenever it helps us grow, find peace, and support each other. Members of our community come from many different backgrounds, and you do not need to consider yourself a Buddhist to attend. All are welcome.
The session runs from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., with doors open from 6:30 to 9:00. Come early or stay after if you’d like to enjoy some quiet reflection or casual conversation with the community.
On the first Wednesday of each month, we share a potluck meal. Bring a dish if you’d like, but the most important thing you can bring is yourself. We look forward to seeing you!
Soto Zen Events Near You
Connect with your local Soto Zen community
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.
Zen Chat and Sit Meditation at 1801 Robert Fulton Dr
This is an **event at 1801 Robert Fulton Dr., Reston, VA 20191** (All participants must have RSVP'd).
We continue exploring the foundational Buddhist sutra: the **Heart Sutra**. This the shortest sutra but the most fundamental.
Our meeting schedule will be as follows:
* **40 minutes:** Sitting meditation
* **5 minutes:** Break
* **45 minutes:** Group discussion of the Heart Sutra.
During the sitting meditation session, we will provide you with a non-roller chair (or feel free to bring in your own meditation pad/pillow). If you are a first timer, detailed instructions will be provided when you are here at 1801 Robert Fulton Drive).
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
Join us every Thursday for Meditation and Chanting. No prior experience required, and all are welcome.
Zen Meditation Circle Mondays
Please join us. We are a welcoming group who have been meeting for two years. About 6-10 of us gather together weekly on Mondays for silent meditation, walking meditation, ending with shared reflections, tea and poetry. No RSVP needed; just show up!
We start and end on time. Enter the front door and look for a sign. Someone will greet you. No experience necessary.
Schedule:
**4:30** a brief instruction or reading about meditation and silence
**4:35-4:45** silent meditation (10 minutes)
walking meditation
**4:55 -5:15** silent meditation (20 minutes)
**5:15-5:30** poetry, tea, reflections, departing
***This is a good place to rest and refresh on the way home from work and before dinner.*** Free. Try it.
Zen Chat and Sit Meditation at 1801 Robert Fulton Dr
This is an **event at 1801 Robert Fulton Dr., Reston, VA 20191** (All participants must have RSVP'd).
We continue exploring the foundational Buddhist sutra: the **Heart Sutra**. This the shortest sutra but the most fundamental.
Our meeting schedule will be as follows:
* **40 minutes:** Sitting meditation
* **5 minutes:** Break
* **45 minutes:** Group discussion of the Heart Sutra.
During the sitting meditation session, we will provide you with a non-roller chair (or feel free to bring in your own meditation pad/pillow). If you are a first timer, detailed instructions will be provided when you are here at 1801 Robert Fulton Drive).
Zen Chat and Sit Meditation via Zoom
This is a **virtual event via Zoom** (Zoom link will be shared with participants who have RSVP'd the evening prior to this event).
We continue exploring the foundational Buddhist sutra: the **Heart Sutra**. This the shortest sutra but the most fundamental.
Our meeting schedule will be as follows:
* **40 minutes:** Sitting meditation
* **5 minutes:** Break
* **45 minutes:** Group discussion of the Heart Sutra.
During the sitting meditation session, please find a comfortable spot and preferably sit in a non-roller chair (or on your meditation pad/pillow). If you are a first timer, detailed instructions will be provided when we meet at 1801 Robert Fulton Drive).












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