The Order of
Clear Mind Zen

About Us

• About Us
• Lineage
• Consultation
• Mission & Membership
• Roshi's Blog
• Our Calendar

Teachings

• Great Heart of Wisdom Sutra
• The Six Perfections
• Hsin Hsin Ming
• Sandokai

Practice

• Daily Practice
• By the Numbers
• Retreat Schedule
• Zazen 101
• Suggested Readings
• Zen in the Park

Sanghas

• American River Sangha
• Both Sides / No Sides
• Buddhist Peace Fellowship
• Great Heart Blog
• Clear Mind Zen Temple
• My Teacher's Zen Furnishings
• Zen Peacemaker Sangha

Zen in the Park

Zen in the Park is a term we use in our Order to denote any practice of Zazen in public spaces. When practicing Zen in the Park understand the purpose is nothing other than Zazen. We are not protesting or even holding a vigil. We are bearing witness to serene reflection meditation, the practice of Zazen. Zen in the Park is the practice of being peace, period.

Make certain you are not trespassing and that the space you are using is clearly in the public domain. 

Use zabuton and zafu, your robe, beads, bell and incense. 

It is permissible to have a small sign that reads PEACE or Peace Witness or Earth Witness.

It is not permissible to seek converts to Zen as a religion.  It is permissible to offer instruction in the practice of Zazen.

If people address you during your practice period, place your hands together, bow and receive their question.  Answer simply and directly without politics or debate.  If someone is antagonistic, simply place your hands together, bow, and resume your Zazen.

It is a good idea to select a space and use that space on a regular basis at regular times.

It is a good idea to have identification with you, water, and sunscreen or hat.

You may make simple handouts with instructions for Zazen.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at harveyhilbert@yahoo.com

Be well.