Chozen-ji

Intro to Zen Program

Short term monastic stays at Chozen-ji emphasize zazen meditation, physical labor, martial/fine arts and immersion in a 24/7 training community.

Intro to Zen at Chozen-ji

Sep1-8, & Nov 10-17, 2024

 

Chozen-ji’s Intro to Zen Program is a new offering for those interested in experiencing our unique, physical approach to Zen. It will also give new students a chance to familiarize themselves with our method of training and community.

Through a rigorous daily schedule of zazen (seated meditation), okyo (chanting), Kendo (Japanese fencing), and boxing, Intro to Zen participants can expect to feel exhausted—but also sharper, more clear, and inspired to reset patterns in their lives.

Those interested in doing residential training at Chozen-ji long term (e.g., 3 months, 1 year, or 3 years) must start with one of the two Intro to Zen programs offered in 2024.

 

Sample Daily schedule

Watch our video showing how Western-style boxing matches the spirit and tradition of martial arts and Zen training at Chozen-ji.

5:00AM Wakeup
5:30AM Zazen
6:15AM Okyo (Chanting)
7:00AM Breakfast & Cleanup
8:00AM Training—Boxing
9:30AM Outside Work
12:00PM Lunch & Cleanup
12:30PM Outside Work
3:30PM Guest Speaker
5:00PM Dinner
6:00PM Zazen
6:45PM Zazen
7:30PM Training—Kendo, Boxing, or Okyo
9:00PM Cleanup / Talk Story
10:30PM Bedtime

 

Costs

USD $1,200 inclusive of all accommodations, training, equipment, and meals
(Participants are responsible for providing their own transportation.)

 

Application

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • After completing the online application on this page, you’ll be invited to participate in a video interview with members of the Intro to Zen organizing team. This call is required, and is a chance for both parties to make sure you are able and prepared to complete the program.

    In most cases, we will be able to notify applicants within a week about whether they can participate in the program.

    A 50% deposit will be required within two weeks of being accepted into Intro to Zen to hold your space, with the remaining program fee required by the start of the program.

  • Intro to Zen is for every ability level, and we are able to scale up and scale down the physical training to fit individual abilities. Please consult your doctor about participating in Intro to Zen if you have any diagnosed conditions or are under any sort of medical or mental health care.

  • There will be a chance at the end of the week to talk with Chozen-ji teachers about longer stays and future opportunities.

  • The program fee covers all program activities and your stay at Chozen-ji, including all meals and accommodations. It also supports purchasing training equipment and groceries, the costs of running the facilities, and basic amenities.

  • We’ll provide a packing list to individuals who’ve been accepted into the program.

  • If you have a relationship with another Zen teacher, please obtain their approval to apply for the Intro to Zen before submitting the online application. To maintain good relationships with the Zen community, we will also ask to speak to your teacher.

  • We’ve been collaborating for over 10 years with a world champion boxer and have found that boxing is a good complement to the existing martial arts training at Chozen-ji. It particularly helps people address anger, ego, and other habits in the context of Zen training. For individuals interested in more intensive boxing training, the Intro to Zen program is a good way to understand our approach and pursue participation in our more intensive Zen and Boxing training.

  • Since this is an introductory program, what we're looking for in participants is not the same as what we expect of our Zen students (i.e., this is NOT Zen training). However, you'll get the most out of your experience (and demonstrate potential for live-in training, if that’s something you’re pursuing) by displaying strong commitments to:

    - Taking initiative in the training, as well as in executing work and tasks that support the group and the successful operation of the program

    - Bringing a positive attitude and energy, even or especially when you are uncomfortable

    - Taking negative feedback and constructive criticism as valuable opportunities to become aware of harmful or limiting behaviors you can't see yourself

    - Taking care of others before yourself—this includes valuing others' time, playing the role that's needed in the moment (not the one you necessarily want to play), and pushing yourself to get the most out of your short time at Chozen-ji