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DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261121T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261121T123000
DTSTAMP:20260729T222554Z
CREATED:20260510T214857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260729T222554Z
UID:10003575-1795258800-1795264200@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Dancing with Chronic Illness and Pain: Ongoing Group\, Online 6/20–11/21
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nMonthly on third Saturdays\, 11 am–12:30 pm PT\nJune 20\, July 18\, August 15\, September 19\, October 17\, and November 21 \nIf you have previously participated in any of the “Dancing in the Dark Fields” series\, we invite you to consider this ongoing monthly practice group\, which will expand on those teachings and community. \nZenshin Florence Caplow\, who will be teaching the class\, has “danced” with auto-immune illness for the last two decades\, including rheumatoid arthritis. She is also a Zen priest and teacher\, co-editor of The Hidden Lamp: Stories from Twenty Five Centuries of Awakened Women\, and a Unitarian Universalist minister. \nZenshin Florence Caplow’s book\, Tend to Your Spirit: Mindful Living With Chronic Illness\, is available to order from the SFZC online bookstore. \nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/dancing-with-chronic-illness-and-pain-ongoing-group-online-6-20-11-21/2026-11-21/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261122T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261122T160000
DTSTAMP:20260925T000954Z
CREATED:20260815T031355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T000954Z
UID:10004590-1795357800-1795363200@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Deeper Rest: Exploring Relaxation in Daily Life\, Online 11/8–11/29
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Sundays\, November 8–29\, 2:30–4:00 pm PT  \nDeep Rest is a skill that we all need. With regular practice\, we can learn how to allow mind and body to easily transition from their usual activated (sympathetic) state to a relaxed  (parasympathetic) mode. This is a state of body and mind that is mentally and physically restorative\, one that brings balance and ease. Deep Rest is repose—a profound stillness of bodymind that is sustained without strain\, that cultivates refreshment and ease. It is the basis of meditative absorption. \nThis series builds on the foundation introduced in Deep Rest: Learning to Let Go\, while also welcoming newcomers who wish to cultivate a deeper relationship with rest and relaxation. \nIn Deeper Rest\, we will continue the practice of letting go in restorative yoga postures\, expand our breathing practice into pranayama (yogic breathing)\, and explore Buddhist teachings on the practice of tranquility on and off the cushion. \nPlease wear comfortable\, non-restrictive clothing and\, if possible\, have the following props available: \n\nYoga mat\nTwo blankets\nYoga strap\nBolster or firm cushion\nEye covering\nYour usual meditation support (cushion\, chair\, or bench)\n\nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/deeper-rest-exploring-relaxation-in-daily-life-online-11-8-11-29/2026-11-22/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261123T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261123T110000
DTSTAMP:20261008T234436Z
CREATED:20260815T031356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T234436Z
UID:10004207-1795424400-1795431600@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:The Zen of Poetry and the Poetry of Zen\, Online 11/16–12/21
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSix Mondays\, November 16–December 21\, 9:00 am–11:00 am PT (View in your time zone) \nHow can reading and writing poetry illuminate and uplift our Dharma practice? How does Dharma practice give rise to expressions of poetry? How can both poetry and Zen offer new and refreshed ways of seeing the world around us? \nPoetry has been a means of expression for Zen practitioners for centuries\, as well as a way of teaching the Dharma. In a tradition that aspires to go beyond the words and norms of ordinary language\, the forms and eloquence of poetry have helped generations of Zen students to illuminate the path of practice. \nOver this six-week course\, we will encounter the ancient poetry of Buddhist practitioners in China and Japan\, as well as the work of contemporary poets from around the world today. \nDuring each class\, we will read poetry along themes of Nature\, Perception\, Not-Knowing\, the Everyday\, and we will also experiment with writing through structured exercises. Additional reading and optional writing assignments will be offered between classes\, and participants of the class will have the opportunity to share their work with the class if they so wish. \nThis class is suitable for those approaching the reading and writing of poetry for the first time\, as well as for people more familiar with reading and writing poetry\, who might already have a writing practice in place. \nAnyone hoping to establish or re-ignite a regular poetry-writing practice in conjunction with their meditation practice\, might find this course a useful starting point. \n\nDon’t you know the poems of Han-shan?They’re better for you than scripture-reading.Cut them out and paste them on a screen\,Then you can gaze at them from time to time.— Han Shan (China\, 9th Century) \n\n\nThe winds have died\, but flowers go on falling;birds call\, but silence penetrates each song.The Mystery! Unknowable\, unlearnable.The virtue of Kannon.— Taigu Ryokan (Japan\, 1758–1831) \n\n\nThat great calm being\,this clutter of soup pots and books—Already the first branch-tips brush at the window.Softly\, calmly\, immensity taps at your life.—from “Tree” by Jane Hirshfield (USA\, b. 1953) \n\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/the-zen-of-poetry-and-the-poetry-of-zen-online-11-16-12-21/2026-11-23/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261123T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261123T210000
DTSTAMP:20260925T010104Z
CREATED:20260729T024509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T010104Z
UID:10004193-1795462200-1795467600@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Heart Practices of a Bodhisattva: The Six Paramitas\, CC/Online 10/5–11/23
DESCRIPTION:Use this page to register for the class only. \nIf you would like to register for the full Fall Practice Period\, there is a Residential option or an Online/Commuter option. \nEight Mondays\, October 5–November 23 | 7:30–9:00 pm \nThe Six Paramitas or ‘perfections’ are foundational Buddhist practices that guide individuals on the path to awakening. When practiced deeply\, each of these paramitas\, or far-reaching attitudes\, helps one transcend personal suffering and support others on their journey toward wisdom and peace. According to Mahayana Buddhism\, a bodhisattva (“Buddha-to-be”) naturally follows and embodies these six transcendental virtues: Generosity (Dana)\, Ethical Conduct (Sila)\, Patience/Forbearance (Kshanti)\, Diligence/Heroic Effort (Virya)\, Concentration/Meditation (Dhyana)\, and Wisdom (Prajna). Indeed\, these virtues are considered the heart practices of a Bodhisattva. \nIn this eight-week class led by Abbot Tenzen David Zimmerman\, we’ll explore (through lectures\, readings\, group discussions\, and weekly reflections) each of the six paramitas and ways to cultivate and manifest them in our lives to effect transformation at the personal\, interpersonal\, and societal levels. We will also study examples of the perfections from Shakyamuni Buddha’s own previous lives\, drawn from the Jataka tales. \nYou can attend class in-person at City Center or online via Zoom.  \nNote: The October 12 class will be online for everyone due to a temple-observed holiday. \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/heart-practices-of-a-bodhisattva-the-six-paramitas-cc-online-10-5-11-23/2026-11-23/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261124T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261124T183000
DTSTAMP:20260828T215856Z
CREATED:20260815T031352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260828T215856Z
UID:10004205-1795539600-1795545000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:The Heart Sutra: Wisdom Beyond Wisdom\, Online 11/3–11/24
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Tuesdays\, November 3–24\, 5–6:30 pm PT \nIn this four-week online course\, we will explore the Heart Sutra\, or Sutra on the Heart of Realizing Wisdom Beyond Wisdom (Prajna Paramita)\, one of Buddhism’s most beloved yet challenging texts.  \nThis class will offer an approach for students at any stage of practice. We’ll trace the sutra’s philosophical roots in the two truths and the middle way—drawing on classical Buddhist teachings—while working through the text itself line by line. \nThe full text we will use\, Heart of Great Perfect Wisdom Sutra (PDF)\, is available on the Services\, Sutras\, Texts & Songs page of SFZC’s website. \nWhether you’re new to Buddhism or returning with deeper questions\, please join us to discover how this ancient wisdom teaching speaks to our practice today. \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/the-heart-sutra-wisdom-beyond-wisdom-online-11-3-11-24/2026-11-24/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261129T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261129T160000
DTSTAMP:20260925T000954Z
CREATED:20260815T031355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T000954Z
UID:10004591-1795962600-1795968000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Deeper Rest: Exploring Relaxation in Daily Life\, Online 11/8–11/29
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Sundays\, November 8–29\, 2:30–4:00 pm PT  \nDeep Rest is a skill that we all need. With regular practice\, we can learn how to allow mind and body to easily transition from their usual activated (sympathetic) state to a relaxed  (parasympathetic) mode. This is a state of body and mind that is mentally and physically restorative\, one that brings balance and ease. Deep Rest is repose—a profound stillness of bodymind that is sustained without strain\, that cultivates refreshment and ease. It is the basis of meditative absorption. \nThis series builds on the foundation introduced in Deep Rest: Learning to Let Go\, while also welcoming newcomers who wish to cultivate a deeper relationship with rest and relaxation. \nIn Deeper Rest\, we will continue the practice of letting go in restorative yoga postures\, expand our breathing practice into pranayama (yogic breathing)\, and explore Buddhist teachings on the practice of tranquility on and off the cushion. \nPlease wear comfortable\, non-restrictive clothing and\, if possible\, have the following props available: \n\nYoga mat\nTwo blankets\nYoga strap\nBolster or firm cushion\nEye covering\nYour usual meditation support (cushion\, chair\, or bench)\n\nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/deeper-rest-exploring-relaxation-in-daily-life-online-11-8-11-29/2026-11-29/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261130T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261130T110000
DTSTAMP:20261008T234436Z
CREATED:20260815T031356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T234436Z
UID:10004208-1796029200-1796036400@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:The Zen of Poetry and the Poetry of Zen\, Online 11/16–12/21
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSix Mondays\, November 16–December 21\, 9:00 am–11:00 am PT (View in your time zone) \nHow can reading and writing poetry illuminate and uplift our Dharma practice? How does Dharma practice give rise to expressions of poetry? How can both poetry and Zen offer new and refreshed ways of seeing the world around us? \nPoetry has been a means of expression for Zen practitioners for centuries\, as well as a way of teaching the Dharma. In a tradition that aspires to go beyond the words and norms of ordinary language\, the forms and eloquence of poetry have helped generations of Zen students to illuminate the path of practice. \nOver this six-week course\, we will encounter the ancient poetry of Buddhist practitioners in China and Japan\, as well as the work of contemporary poets from around the world today. \nDuring each class\, we will read poetry along themes of Nature\, Perception\, Not-Knowing\, the Everyday\, and we will also experiment with writing through structured exercises. Additional reading and optional writing assignments will be offered between classes\, and participants of the class will have the opportunity to share their work with the class if they so wish. \nThis class is suitable for those approaching the reading and writing of poetry for the first time\, as well as for people more familiar with reading and writing poetry\, who might already have a writing practice in place. \nAnyone hoping to establish or re-ignite a regular poetry-writing practice in conjunction with their meditation practice\, might find this course a useful starting point. \n\nDon’t you know the poems of Han-shan?They’re better for you than scripture-reading.Cut them out and paste them on a screen\,Then you can gaze at them from time to time.— Han Shan (China\, 9th Century) \n\n\nThe winds have died\, but flowers go on falling;birds call\, but silence penetrates each song.The Mystery! Unknowable\, unlearnable.The virtue of Kannon.— Taigu Ryokan (Japan\, 1758–1831) \n\n\nThat great calm being\,this clutter of soup pots and books—Already the first branch-tips brush at the window.Softly\, calmly\, immensity taps at your life.—from “Tree” by Jane Hirshfield (USA\, b. 1953) \n\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/the-zen-of-poetry-and-the-poetry-of-zen-online-11-16-12-21/2026-11-30/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261206T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261206T130000
DTSTAMP:20260914T222320Z
CREATED:20260914T222114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T222320Z
UID:10004598-1796554800-1796562000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Opening to Darkness: Eight Gateways for Being with the Absence of Light\, Online 12/6–12/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Sundays\,  December 6–27\, 11:00 am–1:00 pm PT \n\n“In darkness\, we become devoted to clarity\, courage\, peace\, and harmony. We discover the basic goodness of all humanity when we experience darkness together.” —Zenju Earthlyn Manuel \n\nWe are conditioned to fear darkness and blackness. We may see the dark as something to run from rather than enter into. Life itself is a dark experience in which the wonders of life flourish. Let’s take a courageous journey into the mandala of darkness\, where we meet dark mothers from India\, Nigeria\, Japan\, Haiti\, and Dahomey who both protect and destroy. \nPart of this offering is reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations to navigate the vast depths of the unseen. The commitment to healing the fear and anxiety around darkness is to discover a collective doorway to healing and deep transformation. \nThis experiential online retreat offers support for settling into the winter season. Across four Sunday sessions\, participants will move through eight gateways aligned with the Buddha’s Eightfold Path\, engaging meditations and exercises from Zenju’s book Opening to Darkness and sharing what arises. The final gathering will include a recognition of the winter solstice. \nAbout the bookOpening to Darkness invites readers to reconsider darkness and blackness as sacred ground for insight and transformation rather than something to fear or avoid. Drawing on Zen Buddhism and African and Native American Indigenous traditions\, Zenju Earthlyn Manuel guides readers through eight gateways inspired by the Eightfold Path\, with reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations for meeting the unseen with greater courage\, wisdom\, and care. \nOpening to Darkness may be purchased from the SFZC Online Bookstore. \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/opening-to-darkness-eight-gateways-for-being-with-the-absence-of-light-online-12-6-12-27/2026-12-06/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261207T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261207T110000
DTSTAMP:20261008T234436Z
CREATED:20260815T031356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T234436Z
UID:10004209-1796634000-1796641200@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:The Zen of Poetry and the Poetry of Zen\, Online 11/16–12/21
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSix Mondays\, November 16–December 21\, 9:00 am–11:00 am PT (View in your time zone) \nHow can reading and writing poetry illuminate and uplift our Dharma practice? How does Dharma practice give rise to expressions of poetry? How can both poetry and Zen offer new and refreshed ways of seeing the world around us? \nPoetry has been a means of expression for Zen practitioners for centuries\, as well as a way of teaching the Dharma. In a tradition that aspires to go beyond the words and norms of ordinary language\, the forms and eloquence of poetry have helped generations of Zen students to illuminate the path of practice. \nOver this six-week course\, we will encounter the ancient poetry of Buddhist practitioners in China and Japan\, as well as the work of contemporary poets from around the world today. \nDuring each class\, we will read poetry along themes of Nature\, Perception\, Not-Knowing\, the Everyday\, and we will also experiment with writing through structured exercises. Additional reading and optional writing assignments will be offered between classes\, and participants of the class will have the opportunity to share their work with the class if they so wish. \nThis class is suitable for those approaching the reading and writing of poetry for the first time\, as well as for people more familiar with reading and writing poetry\, who might already have a writing practice in place. \nAnyone hoping to establish or re-ignite a regular poetry-writing practice in conjunction with their meditation practice\, might find this course a useful starting point. \n\nDon’t you know the poems of Han-shan?They’re better for you than scripture-reading.Cut them out and paste them on a screen\,Then you can gaze at them from time to time.— Han Shan (China\, 9th Century) \n\n\nThe winds have died\, but flowers go on falling;birds call\, but silence penetrates each song.The Mystery! Unknowable\, unlearnable.The virtue of Kannon.— Taigu Ryokan (Japan\, 1758–1831) \n\n\nThat great calm being\,this clutter of soup pots and books—Already the first branch-tips brush at the window.Softly\, calmly\, immensity taps at your life.—from “Tree” by Jane Hirshfield (USA\, b. 1953) \n\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/the-zen-of-poetry-and-the-poetry-of-zen-online-11-16-12-21/2026-12-07/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261208T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261208T210000
DTSTAMP:20261014T021333Z
CREATED:20261014T021152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T021333Z
UID:10004812-1796756400-1796763600@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:A Zen Christmas\, Online 12/8
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nDecember 8\, 7:00–9:00 pm PT \nHave you ever wondered how to integrate the warm spirit of modern Christmas celebrations with Buddhist faith and practice? This single-session\, free event will explore the birth stories of Jesus and Shakyamuni Buddha\, as well as dharma lessons from popular contemporary Christmas stories like A Christmas Carol and Frosty the Snowman\, along with selected Christmas carols. \nWe’ll look at examples of blended Buddhist/Christian celebration\, and suggestions for ways to honor the Christmas season while recognizing the richness of our personal spiritual paths. There will be time for participants to share experiences and ideas\, as well as a light-hearted opportunity to just be together in the beloved community during this celebratory season. \nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/a-zen-christmas-online-12-8/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261213T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261213T130000
DTSTAMP:20260914T222320Z
CREATED:20260914T222114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T222320Z
UID:10004599-1797159600-1797166800@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Opening to Darkness: Eight Gateways for Being with the Absence of Light\, Online 12/6–12/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Sundays\,  December 6–27\, 11:00 am–1:00 pm PT \n\n“In darkness\, we become devoted to clarity\, courage\, peace\, and harmony. We discover the basic goodness of all humanity when we experience darkness together.” —Zenju Earthlyn Manuel \n\nWe are conditioned to fear darkness and blackness. We may see the dark as something to run from rather than enter into. Life itself is a dark experience in which the wonders of life flourish. Let’s take a courageous journey into the mandala of darkness\, where we meet dark mothers from India\, Nigeria\, Japan\, Haiti\, and Dahomey who both protect and destroy. \nPart of this offering is reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations to navigate the vast depths of the unseen. The commitment to healing the fear and anxiety around darkness is to discover a collective doorway to healing and deep transformation. \nThis experiential online retreat offers support for settling into the winter season. Across four Sunday sessions\, participants will move through eight gateways aligned with the Buddha’s Eightfold Path\, engaging meditations and exercises from Zenju’s book Opening to Darkness and sharing what arises. The final gathering will include a recognition of the winter solstice. \nAbout the bookOpening to Darkness invites readers to reconsider darkness and blackness as sacred ground for insight and transformation rather than something to fear or avoid. Drawing on Zen Buddhism and African and Native American Indigenous traditions\, Zenju Earthlyn Manuel guides readers through eight gateways inspired by the Eightfold Path\, with reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations for meeting the unseen with greater courage\, wisdom\, and care. \nOpening to Darkness may be purchased from the SFZC Online Bookstore. \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/opening-to-darkness-eight-gateways-for-being-with-the-absence-of-light-online-12-6-12-27/2026-12-13/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261214T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261214T110000
DTSTAMP:20261008T234436Z
CREATED:20260815T031356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T234436Z
UID:10004210-1797238800-1797246000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:The Zen of Poetry and the Poetry of Zen\, Online 11/16–12/21
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSix Mondays\, November 16–December 21\, 9:00 am–11:00 am PT (View in your time zone) \nHow can reading and writing poetry illuminate and uplift our Dharma practice? How does Dharma practice give rise to expressions of poetry? How can both poetry and Zen offer new and refreshed ways of seeing the world around us? \nPoetry has been a means of expression for Zen practitioners for centuries\, as well as a way of teaching the Dharma. In a tradition that aspires to go beyond the words and norms of ordinary language\, the forms and eloquence of poetry have helped generations of Zen students to illuminate the path of practice. \nOver this six-week course\, we will encounter the ancient poetry of Buddhist practitioners in China and Japan\, as well as the work of contemporary poets from around the world today. \nDuring each class\, we will read poetry along themes of Nature\, Perception\, Not-Knowing\, the Everyday\, and we will also experiment with writing through structured exercises. Additional reading and optional writing assignments will be offered between classes\, and participants of the class will have the opportunity to share their work with the class if they so wish. \nThis class is suitable for those approaching the reading and writing of poetry for the first time\, as well as for people more familiar with reading and writing poetry\, who might already have a writing practice in place. \nAnyone hoping to establish or re-ignite a regular poetry-writing practice in conjunction with their meditation practice\, might find this course a useful starting point. \n\nDon’t you know the poems of Han-shan?They’re better for you than scripture-reading.Cut them out and paste them on a screen\,Then you can gaze at them from time to time.— Han Shan (China\, 9th Century) \n\n\nThe winds have died\, but flowers go on falling;birds call\, but silence penetrates each song.The Mystery! Unknowable\, unlearnable.The virtue of Kannon.— Taigu Ryokan (Japan\, 1758–1831) \n\n\nThat great calm being\,this clutter of soup pots and books—Already the first branch-tips brush at the window.Softly\, calmly\, immensity taps at your life.—from “Tree” by Jane Hirshfield (USA\, b. 1953) \n\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/the-zen-of-poetry-and-the-poetry-of-zen-online-11-16-12-21/2026-12-14/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261219T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261219T123000
DTSTAMP:20261008T025856Z
CREATED:20261008T025856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T025856Z
UID:10004747-1797678000-1797683400@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Dancing with Chronic Illness and Pain: Ongoing Group\, Online 12/19–5/15
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nMonthly\, Saturdays\, December 19–May 15\, 11:00–12:30 pm PT \nIf you have previously participated in any of the “Dancing in the Dark Fields” series\, we invite you to consider this ongoing monthly practice group\, which will expand on those teachings and community. \nZenshin Florence Caplow\, who will be teaching the class\, has “danced” with auto-immune illness for the last two decades\, including rheumatoid arthritis. She is also a Zen priest and teacher\, co-editor of The Hidden Lamp: Stories from Twenty Five Centuries of Awakened Women\, and a Unitarian Universalist minister. \nZenshin Florence Caplow’s book\, Tend to Your Spirit: Mindful Living With Chronic Illness\, is available to order from the SFZC online bookstore. She also recommends Darlene Cohen’s book\, Turning Suffering Inside Out. These books are also available as e-books. \nRegistration is available on a rolling basis. Please contact onlineprograms@sfzc.org if registering after January 16. \nAn introductory course and prerequisite for the ongoing group\, Dancing with Chronic Illness and Pain\, will be held for six Saturdays starting January 9\, 2027. \nList other dates if necessary.: \n\nDecember 19\, 2026\nJanuary 16\, 2027 \nFebruary 20\nMarch 20\nApril 17\nMay 15\n\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/dancing-with-chronic-illness-and-pain-ongoing-group-online-12-19-5-15/2026-12-19/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261219T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261219T183000
DTSTAMP:20260923T221505Z
CREATED:20260923T221504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T221505Z
UID:10004651-1797685200-1797705000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:The Mind of Winter: A Zen and Yoga Gathering on the Solstice\, Online 12/19
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSaturday\, December 19\, 1:00–6:30 pm PT \nThis annual gathering honors the traditional Japanese practice of Fuyu-gomori—“winter hibernation”—which in Japan evokes cozy\, quiet scenes of winter life\, enjoying sweets (called fuyu-gomori) with tea\, and contemplation with music and art that express peaceful winter themes. \nWe will start our retreat by creating the feeling of warmth with a gentle active yoga practice\, and then settle into the tranquility of restorative yoga and zazen. After a short break during which you are invited to prepare tea or another beverage and a sweet\, we will return to the gathering to share poetry of the winter season. We will end our retreat with a ceremony honoring the winter solstice. \nPlease wear loose and comfortable clothing which will keep you warm throughout the retreat. Yoga props\, such as a yoga mat\, a strap\, a few blankets\, a meditation cushion and/or yoga bolster\, and yoga blocks are helpful. Also\, an eye pillow or soft cloth to cover the eyes in relaxation. For the poetry share\, please bring one or more poems of your choice which evoke the feeling of winter. And have a candle for the ceremony at the end of the day. \nRetreat Schedule1:00–3:30 pm — Yoga asana\, pranayama\, restorative practice3:30–4:15 pm — Zen meditation4:15–4:30 pm — Break4:30–6:15 pm — Tea time with seasonal poems and reflections6:15–6:30 pm — Ceremonial celebration of the winter solstice \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/the-mind-of-winter-a-zen-and-yoga-gathering-on-the-solstice-online-12-19/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261220T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261220T130000
DTSTAMP:20260914T222320Z
CREATED:20260914T222114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T222320Z
UID:10004600-1797764400-1797771600@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Opening to Darkness: Eight Gateways for Being with the Absence of Light\, Online 12/6–12/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Sundays\,  December 6–27\, 11:00 am–1:00 pm PT \n\n“In darkness\, we become devoted to clarity\, courage\, peace\, and harmony. We discover the basic goodness of all humanity when we experience darkness together.” —Zenju Earthlyn Manuel \n\nWe are conditioned to fear darkness and blackness. We may see the dark as something to run from rather than enter into. Life itself is a dark experience in which the wonders of life flourish. Let’s take a courageous journey into the mandala of darkness\, where we meet dark mothers from India\, Nigeria\, Japan\, Haiti\, and Dahomey who both protect and destroy. \nPart of this offering is reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations to navigate the vast depths of the unseen. The commitment to healing the fear and anxiety around darkness is to discover a collective doorway to healing and deep transformation. \nThis experiential online retreat offers support for settling into the winter season. Across four Sunday sessions\, participants will move through eight gateways aligned with the Buddha’s Eightfold Path\, engaging meditations and exercises from Zenju’s book Opening to Darkness and sharing what arises. The final gathering will include a recognition of the winter solstice. \nAbout the bookOpening to Darkness invites readers to reconsider darkness and blackness as sacred ground for insight and transformation rather than something to fear or avoid. Drawing on Zen Buddhism and African and Native American Indigenous traditions\, Zenju Earthlyn Manuel guides readers through eight gateways inspired by the Eightfold Path\, with reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations for meeting the unseen with greater courage\, wisdom\, and care. \nOpening to Darkness may be purchased from the SFZC Online Bookstore. \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/opening-to-darkness-eight-gateways-for-being-with-the-absence-of-light-online-12-6-12-27/2026-12-20/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261221T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261221T110000
DTSTAMP:20261008T234436Z
CREATED:20260815T031356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T234436Z
UID:10004211-1797843600-1797850800@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:The Zen of Poetry and the Poetry of Zen\, Online 11/16–12/21
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSix Mondays\, November 16–December 21\, 9:00 am–11:00 am PT (View in your time zone) \nHow can reading and writing poetry illuminate and uplift our Dharma practice? How does Dharma practice give rise to expressions of poetry? How can both poetry and Zen offer new and refreshed ways of seeing the world around us? \nPoetry has been a means of expression for Zen practitioners for centuries\, as well as a way of teaching the Dharma. In a tradition that aspires to go beyond the words and norms of ordinary language\, the forms and eloquence of poetry have helped generations of Zen students to illuminate the path of practice. \nOver this six-week course\, we will encounter the ancient poetry of Buddhist practitioners in China and Japan\, as well as the work of contemporary poets from around the world today. \nDuring each class\, we will read poetry along themes of Nature\, Perception\, Not-Knowing\, the Everyday\, and we will also experiment with writing through structured exercises. Additional reading and optional writing assignments will be offered between classes\, and participants of the class will have the opportunity to share their work with the class if they so wish. \nThis class is suitable for those approaching the reading and writing of poetry for the first time\, as well as for people more familiar with reading and writing poetry\, who might already have a writing practice in place. \nAnyone hoping to establish or re-ignite a regular poetry-writing practice in conjunction with their meditation practice\, might find this course a useful starting point. \n\nDon’t you know the poems of Han-shan?They’re better for you than scripture-reading.Cut them out and paste them on a screen\,Then you can gaze at them from time to time.— Han Shan (China\, 9th Century) \n\n\nThe winds have died\, but flowers go on falling;birds call\, but silence penetrates each song.The Mystery! Unknowable\, unlearnable.The virtue of Kannon.— Taigu Ryokan (Japan\, 1758–1831) \n\n\nThat great calm being\,this clutter of soup pots and books—Already the first branch-tips brush at the window.Softly\, calmly\, immensity taps at your life.—from “Tree” by Jane Hirshfield (USA\, b. 1953) \n\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/the-zen-of-poetry-and-the-poetry-of-zen-online-11-16-12-21/2026-12-21/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261227T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261227T130000
DTSTAMP:20260914T222320Z
CREATED:20260914T222114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T222320Z
UID:10004601-1798369200-1798376400@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Opening to Darkness: Eight Gateways for Being with the Absence of Light\, Online 12/6–12/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Sundays\,  December 6–27\, 11:00 am–1:00 pm PT \n\n“In darkness\, we become devoted to clarity\, courage\, peace\, and harmony. We discover the basic goodness of all humanity when we experience darkness together.” —Zenju Earthlyn Manuel \n\nWe are conditioned to fear darkness and blackness. We may see the dark as something to run from rather than enter into. Life itself is a dark experience in which the wonders of life flourish. Let’s take a courageous journey into the mandala of darkness\, where we meet dark mothers from India\, Nigeria\, Japan\, Haiti\, and Dahomey who both protect and destroy. \nPart of this offering is reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations to navigate the vast depths of the unseen. The commitment to healing the fear and anxiety around darkness is to discover a collective doorway to healing and deep transformation. \nThis experiential online retreat offers support for settling into the winter season. Across four Sunday sessions\, participants will move through eight gateways aligned with the Buddha’s Eightfold Path\, engaging meditations and exercises from Zenju’s book Opening to Darkness and sharing what arises. The final gathering will include a recognition of the winter solstice. \nAbout the bookOpening to Darkness invites readers to reconsider darkness and blackness as sacred ground for insight and transformation rather than something to fear or avoid. Drawing on Zen Buddhism and African and Native American Indigenous traditions\, Zenju Earthlyn Manuel guides readers through eight gateways inspired by the Eightfold Path\, with reflective inquiry\, blessings\, and meditations for meeting the unseen with greater courage\, wisdom\, and care. \nOpening to Darkness may be purchased from the SFZC Online Bookstore. \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/opening-to-darkness-eight-gateways-for-being-with-the-absence-of-light-online-12-6-12-27/2026-12-27/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270106T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270106T193000
DTSTAMP:20260923T200920Z
CREATED:20260923T042928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T200920Z
UID:10004641-1799258400-1799263800@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Meditation Training: Establishing a Meditation Practice in Four Short Weeks\, Online 1/6–1/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Wednesdays\, January 6–27\, 6:00–7:30 pm PT \nWant to learn how to meditate? Or have you tried and just can’t quite figure out how to make it work for you? \nThis four-class series is geared just for you. Specific\, easy-to-follow instructions will be provided in three areas: body\, heart/emotions\, and mind/mental states. Each week\, instructions will be given from the Zen and Insight meditation traditions\, with an opportunity to put them into practice and have your questions answered. We’ll cover how to achieve a meditation posture\, establish a meditation schedule\, work with challenging emotions and mental states\, and more. \nDuring the course and for two weeks after\, participants will have access to a webpage that includes guided meditations\, handouts\, and related articles and links\, providing 24/7 support for practice in between classes. There will be opportunities to share with others\, fostering a team-like\, shared experience to support efforts to learn and practice meditation. \nThink of this class as a training camp—a container to establish a home meditation practice with the support of a coach and a team to practice alongside. \nThis course on the craft of meditation has helped thousands to establish a sustainable meditation practice. \nTexts for this class: \n\nMindfulness in Plain English by Bhante Gunaratana\nZen Mind\, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki\nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/meditation-training-establishing-a-meditation-practice-in-four-short-weeks-online-1-6-1-27/2027-01-06/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270108T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270108T103000
DTSTAMP:20261011T220717Z
CREATED:20261011T214948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261011T220717Z
UID:10004800-1799398800-1799404200@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Training in Compassion\, Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong\, Online 1/8–1/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nJanuary 8–26\, 9:00–11:15 am PT \nThe theme for this three-week online offering is Training in Compassion: Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong. Lojong is the Tibetan Buddhist practice that involves working with short phrases (called “slogans”) as a way of generating bodhichitta\, the heart and mind of enlightened compassion. \nThis live series is an opportunity to join the classes and Dharma talks offered by Zoketsu Norman Fischer during the January 2027 intensive at Green Gulch Farm. \nRegistration includes online attendance for all classes and talks\, with recordings and curricula available through the Online Practice Center portal website. Onsite attendance is not available as part of this online registration; register for the in-person intensive if you would like to attend at Green Gulch Farm. \nThere are four classes\, meeting at 9:00 am–10:30am PT: \n\nFriday\, January 8\nWednesday\, January 13\nFriday\, January 15\nMonday\, January 19\n\nThere are seven Dharma talks: \n\nSunday\, January 10\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nSunday\, January 17\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nDaily from Friday\, January 22 through Tuesday January 25\, 10:00 am–11:15 am PT\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/training-in-compassion-zen-teachings-on-the-practice-of-lojong-online-1-8-1-27/2027-01-08/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270109T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270109T103000
DTSTAMP:20260919T222746Z
CREATED:20260918T224215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260919T222746Z
UID:10004619-1799485200-1799490600@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Qigong for Beginners\, Online 1/9–1/23
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nThree Saturdays\, January 9–23\, 9:00–10:30 am PT \nYang Sheng 养生 or Life Preservation in Qigong is based on the general principles of nurturing and preserving life in the Traditional Chinese Medicine\, Daoist\, Buddhist\, and Confucian traditions. This is accomplished through the three regulations of body\, breath\, and mind to achieve the harmony and health of life holistically. \nFor its purpose of life preservation\, Yang Sheng Qigong is known for its simplicity and flexibility in daily health maintenance and is generally accessible to people of all ages and physical capacities. \nThis three-week online series will introduce new practices and content and is warmly open to both newcomers and those who have participated in previous Yang Sheng Qigong classes. We will focus on learning some fitness Qigong exercises: \n\nQigong Taichi Warm-up Routine for joint mobility and stretching\nMiraculous Dragon Fully Revealing for neck\, shoulder and back health\nTrue Qi Circulation Method for internal circulation\n\nThese simple yet practical Qigong tools will help to build your flexibility\, regulate your breathing\, detox your organs\, enhance your internal circulation\, and calm the mind. \nFor additional online offerings by Dr. Liping Zhu\, please see the SFZC calendar. \nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/qigong-for-beginners-online-1-9-1-23/2027-01-09/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270109T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270109T143000
DTSTAMP:20261008T001038Z
CREATED:20261008T001038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T001038Z
UID:10004718-1799499600-1799505000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Dancing in the Dark Fields of Illness & Pain\, Online 1/9–2/13
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSix Saturdays\, January 9–February 13\, 1:00–2:30 pm PT \nThis is an online introductory class for people who are working with the fierce teachers of chronic illness or chronic pain. In this six-part interactive class we will share our stories and explore practices that may be useful on the journey. \nOptional readings will be shared during the class. To prepare\, students may wish to read Turning Suffering Inside Out by Darlene Cohen and/or How to Live Well With Chronic Pain and Illness by Toni Bernhard. Students may also wish to read Zenshin Florence Caplow’s essay\, “Dancing in the Dark Fields“\, and listen to her Dharma talk on this subject. \nDharma Talk \nTend to Your Spirit: Teachings from Illness — Zenshin Florence Caplow — Dharma Talk at City Center \n \nThis talk was given at Beginner’s Mind Temple by Zenshin Florence Caplow. Zenshin offers stories and teachings from her life as both a Zen practitioner and person with chronic illness\, and readings from her new book\, Tend to Your Spirit: Mindful Living With Chronic Illness. \nParticipant testimonial: \n\nChronic suffering is impossible to ignore\, often excruciating and isolating. Florence Caplow’s Dancing in the Fields of Chronic Pain workshops\, with her cheerful and enlightened guidance and the open participation of others\, have consistently provided me with refuge\, inspiration\, and comfort. These workshops are subtle\, magical\, gentle\, and transformative. They embody wisdom in service of compassion. It feels less like practice and more like a rally\, opening our hearts. Thanks to everyone participating and to Zenshin Florence; it has been like a prayer flag of compassion touching my countenance.—Barry E. \n\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/dancing-in-the-dark-fields-of-illness-pain-online-1-9-2-13/2027-01-09/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270110T101500
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270110T112000
DTSTAMP:20261011T220717Z
CREATED:20261011T214948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261011T220717Z
UID:10004801-1799576100-1799580000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Training in Compassion\, Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong\, Online 1/8–1/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nJanuary 8–26\, 9:00–11:15 am PT \nThe theme for this three-week online offering is Training in Compassion: Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong. Lojong is the Tibetan Buddhist practice that involves working with short phrases (called “slogans”) as a way of generating bodhichitta\, the heart and mind of enlightened compassion. \nThis live series is an opportunity to join the classes and Dharma talks offered by Zoketsu Norman Fischer during the January 2027 intensive at Green Gulch Farm. \nRegistration includes online attendance for all classes and talks\, with recordings and curricula available through the Online Practice Center portal website. Onsite attendance is not available as part of this online registration; register for the in-person intensive if you would like to attend at Green Gulch Farm. \nThere are four classes\, meeting at 9:00 am–10:30am PT: \n\nFriday\, January 8\nWednesday\, January 13\nFriday\, January 15\nMonday\, January 19\n\nThere are seven Dharma talks: \n\nSunday\, January 10\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nSunday\, January 17\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nDaily from Friday\, January 22 through Tuesday January 25\, 10:00 am–11:15 am PT\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/training-in-compassion-zen-teachings-on-the-practice-of-lojong-online-1-8-1-27/2027-01-10/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270111T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270111T193000
DTSTAMP:20261011T001748Z
CREATED:20260918T224214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261011T001748Z
UID:10004618-1799690400-1799695800@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Alive to Your Life: The Teachings of Darlene Cohen\, Online 1/11–2/1
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Mondays\, January 11–February 1\, 6:00–7:30 pm PT \nThe path of Zen is a path straight to the heart of intimacy: intimacy with ourselves\, intimacy with our lives\, intimacy with our world.  And this intimacy is characterized\, as Suzuki Roshi famously pointed out\, with things just as they are. \nDarlene Cohen\, an important early figure and Zen Master in the Suzuki Roshi lineage\, lived and taught from this place of intimacy. Whether it was crippling rheumatoid arthritis\, heartbreak\, or the endless challenges inherent in life\, Darlene met and transformed all circumstances with intimacy—meeting experience with deep\, steady connection. \nAt the end of her life\, she identified the core teachings she had found central to becoming intimate with all things. We will explore those teachings: concentration\, personal koans\, transformation of suffering\, and vow. \nWhile this course will draw on material in the book Alive for It All: Wisdom for Everyday Life\, purchase of the book is not required. \nPlease join Cynthia and Lisa in this important inquiry of Zen as the path to the heart of intimacy. \nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/alive-to-your-life-the-teachings-of-darlene-cohen-online-1-11-2-1/2027-01-11/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270112T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270112T113000
DTSTAMP:20260923T042415Z
CREATED:20260918T224212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T042415Z
UID:10004617-1799748000-1799753400@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Awaken Self-Compassion Through Art Journaling\, Online 1/12–2/2
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Tuesdays\, January 12–February 2\, 10:00–11:30 am PT \nHas it become harder to meet yourself with kindness? Self-compassion offers a way to reconnect with our fundamental humanity: remembering that uncertainty\, struggle\, and imperfection are experiences we share rather than personal failures. \nFor people who find that self-judgment interrupts creativity\, art journaling can provide a gentle\, accessible way back into curiosity and expression. In this nurturing\, experiential four-week series\, Lea Seigen Shinraku will combine self-compassion practice with simple creative exercises to help participants establish a criticism-free space\, explore the foundations of self-compassion\, become more at ease with uncertainty\, and practice meeting life with greater playfulness and care. \nEach session will include meditation\, experiential teaching\, art journaling\, and group discussion. The emphasis is not on artistic skill but on bringing curiosity\, warmth\, and self-compassion to the joys and difficulties of everyday life. No previous art experience is necessary; the creative practices are designed to be simple and approachable. \nSuggested supplies include watercolor paints and watercolor paper. \nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/awaken-self-compassion-through-art-journaling-online-1-12-2-2/2027-01-12/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270112T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270112T193000
DTSTAMP:20260925T000956Z
CREATED:20260918T224211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T000956Z
UID:10004616-1799775000-1799782200@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Transforming Depression and Anxiety: A Path of Skillful Compassion\, Online 1/12–2/2
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Tuesdays\, January 12–February 2\, 5:30–7:30 pm PT \n“To be you is enough\, you know…”\n—Suzuki Roshi \nWeaving together mindfulness and contemporary psychology\, this course explores how to best take care of ourselves by relating to depression and anxiety with compassion and understanding. Our purpose is for participants to learn and practice how to interrupt conditioning that hinders feeling better and noticing what is good in our lives. We encourage each student through skillful means to cultivate common sense practices that help us manage and prevent chronic feelings of unhappiness. \nBy focusing on direct experience\, we learn to see and disrupt habitual mind patterns that lead to depression and anxiety. \nEach Tuesday’s two-hour class combines presentations\, guided meditations\, experiential exercises\, and group discussion. \nThe focus for each week will be as follows: \nWeek One — Being in the Present Moment with Whatever Arises\nWeek Two — Recognizing and Interrupting Reactive Habit Patterns\nWeek Three — Relating to Difficulties with Compassion and Lovingkindness\nWeek Four — Strategies for Taking Care of Ourselves \nDuring this class series\, you will discover how it is possible for you to: \n\nBe released from the limiting storylines that you and others have told you about yourself\nLearn new skills that help untangle painful thoughts and self-criticism\nBuild the capacity to be with emotional pain and distress with strength and courage\nCultivate self-confidence and self-esteem as you practice using re-sculpting tools\nLearn to offer compassion and acceptance to yourself and others\nCultivate a natural experience of peace\, ease\, and well-being\nExperience deeper authentic connection\, presence\, and vitality\nFeel better and have a more satisfying relationship to life\n\nYou are warmly invited to try the TDA (Transforming Depression and Anxiety) Practice Group once you have completed this course. It’s an optional group that includes ongoing teaching to deepen TDA practice and community\, meeting biweekly on Tuesdays from February 23 through May 4. \nPractice Group information and registration for Transforming Depression and Anxiety Practice Group\, Online 2/23–5/4. \nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/transforming-depression-and-anxiety-a-path-of-skillful-compassion-online-1-12-2-2/2027-01-12/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270113T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270113T103000
DTSTAMP:20261011T220717Z
CREATED:20261011T214948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261011T220717Z
UID:10004802-1799830800-1799836200@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Training in Compassion\, Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong\, Online 1/8–1/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nJanuary 8–26\, 9:00–11:15 am PT \nThe theme for this three-week online offering is Training in Compassion: Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong. Lojong is the Tibetan Buddhist practice that involves working with short phrases (called “slogans”) as a way of generating bodhichitta\, the heart and mind of enlightened compassion. \nThis live series is an opportunity to join the classes and Dharma talks offered by Zoketsu Norman Fischer during the January 2027 intensive at Green Gulch Farm. \nRegistration includes online attendance for all classes and talks\, with recordings and curricula available through the Online Practice Center portal website. Onsite attendance is not available as part of this online registration; register for the in-person intensive if you would like to attend at Green Gulch Farm. \nThere are four classes\, meeting at 9:00 am–10:30am PT: \n\nFriday\, January 8\nWednesday\, January 13\nFriday\, January 15\nMonday\, January 19\n\nThere are seven Dharma talks: \n\nSunday\, January 10\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nSunday\, January 17\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nDaily from Friday\, January 22 through Tuesday January 25\, 10:00 am–11:15 am PT\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/training-in-compassion-zen-teachings-on-the-practice-of-lojong-online-1-8-1-27/2027-01-13/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270113T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270113T193000
DTSTAMP:20260923T200920Z
CREATED:20260923T042928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T200920Z
UID:10004642-1799863200-1799868600@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Meditation Training: Establishing a Meditation Practice in Four Short Weeks\, Online 1/6–1/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nFour Wednesdays\, January 6–27\, 6:00–7:30 pm PT \nWant to learn how to meditate? Or have you tried and just can’t quite figure out how to make it work for you? \nThis four-class series is geared just for you. Specific\, easy-to-follow instructions will be provided in three areas: body\, heart/emotions\, and mind/mental states. Each week\, instructions will be given from the Zen and Insight meditation traditions\, with an opportunity to put them into practice and have your questions answered. We’ll cover how to achieve a meditation posture\, establish a meditation schedule\, work with challenging emotions and mental states\, and more. \nDuring the course and for two weeks after\, participants will have access to a webpage that includes guided meditations\, handouts\, and related articles and links\, providing 24/7 support for practice in between classes. There will be opportunities to share with others\, fostering a team-like\, shared experience to support efforts to learn and practice meditation. \nThink of this class as a training camp—a container to establish a home meditation practice with the support of a coach and a team to practice alongside. \nThis course on the craft of meditation has helped thousands to establish a sustainable meditation practice. \nTexts for this class: \n\nMindfulness in Plain English by Bhante Gunaratana\nZen Mind\, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki\nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/meditation-training-establishing-a-meditation-practice-in-four-short-weeks-online-1-6-1-27/2027-01-13/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270115T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270115T103000
DTSTAMP:20261011T220717Z
CREATED:20261011T214948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261011T220717Z
UID:10004803-1800003600-1800009000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Training in Compassion\, Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong\, Online 1/8–1/27
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nJanuary 8–26\, 9:00–11:15 am PT \nThe theme for this three-week online offering is Training in Compassion: Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong. Lojong is the Tibetan Buddhist practice that involves working with short phrases (called “slogans”) as a way of generating bodhichitta\, the heart and mind of enlightened compassion. \nThis live series is an opportunity to join the classes and Dharma talks offered by Zoketsu Norman Fischer during the January 2027 intensive at Green Gulch Farm. \nRegistration includes online attendance for all classes and talks\, with recordings and curricula available through the Online Practice Center portal website. Onsite attendance is not available as part of this online registration; register for the in-person intensive if you would like to attend at Green Gulch Farm. \nThere are four classes\, meeting at 9:00 am–10:30am PT: \n\nFriday\, January 8\nWednesday\, January 13\nFriday\, January 15\nMonday\, January 19\n\nThere are seven Dharma talks: \n\nSunday\, January 10\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nSunday\, January 17\, 10:15 am–11:20 am PT\nDaily from Friday\, January 22 through Tuesday January 25\, 10:00 am–11:15 am PT\nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/training-in-compassion-zen-teachings-on-the-practice-of-lojong-online-1-8-1-27/2027-01-15/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270116T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270116T103000
DTSTAMP:20260919T222746Z
CREATED:20260918T224215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260919T222746Z
UID:10004636-1800090000-1800095400@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Qigong for Beginners\, Online 1/9–1/23
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nThree Saturdays\, January 9–23\, 9:00–10:30 am PT \nYang Sheng 养生 or Life Preservation in Qigong is based on the general principles of nurturing and preserving life in the Traditional Chinese Medicine\, Daoist\, Buddhist\, and Confucian traditions. This is accomplished through the three regulations of body\, breath\, and mind to achieve the harmony and health of life holistically. \nFor its purpose of life preservation\, Yang Sheng Qigong is known for its simplicity and flexibility in daily health maintenance and is generally accessible to people of all ages and physical capacities. \nThis three-week online series will introduce new practices and content and is warmly open to both newcomers and those who have participated in previous Yang Sheng Qigong classes. We will focus on learning some fitness Qigong exercises: \n\nQigong Taichi Warm-up Routine for joint mobility and stretching\nMiraculous Dragon Fully Revealing for neck\, shoulder and back health\nTrue Qi Circulation Method for internal circulation\n\nThese simple yet practical Qigong tools will help to build your flexibility\, regulate your breathing\, detox your organs\, enhance your internal circulation\, and calm the mind. \nFor additional online offerings by Dr. Liping Zhu\, please see the SFZC calendar. \nRecordings:\nAll course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/qigong-for-beginners-online-1-9-1-23/2027-01-16/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270116T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20270116T113000
DTSTAMP:20260923T221920Z
CREATED:20260923T221919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T221920Z
UID:10004652-1800093600-1800099000@www.sfzc.org
SUMMARY:Too Important to Take Seriously: Humor in Zen\, Online 1/16
DESCRIPTION:The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions. \n\nSaturday\, January 16\, 10:00–11:30 am PT \n\nMonk: “During my travels\, I have never struck anyone with my staff.”Joshu: “That proves that the staff you were carrying was too short.”— Transmission of the Lamp \n\n\nMonk: “What is the ultimate meaning of Zen?”Kyorin: “Sitting for a long time becomes tiring.”— Blue Cliff Record \n\n\n“What we are doing here is so important\, we better not take it too seriously.” — Suzuki Roshi \n\nDespite its reputation for serious and exacting discipline\, Zen is arguably the funniest spiritual tradition on the planet. From mondos to koans to the iconoclastic antics of teachers and ancestors\, Zen literature and lore extols the values of wit\, irony\, nonsense\, and subversive play. \nIn this workshop\, Zen teacher Kokyo Henkel\, in conversation with Erik Davis\, will explore this rich and undersung dimension of the practice. \n\nWhat are the different kinds of humor and comedy at play in Zen discourse? \nWhat might the dynamics of “the punchline” have to do with turning words\, or Dharma combat\, even with realization itself? \nWhat debt does American Zen owe to the great tradition of Jewish humor? Why is the great matter of life and death sometimes just ridiculous and absurd?\n\nBeyond the Zen tradition\, we will explore the role that humor plays in a vital spiritual and everyday life\, and how the lack of laughs may be the ultimate sign of delusion—despite (or maybe precisely because of?) the terrible gravity of the situation. \nRecordings:All course sessions will be recorded\, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.
URL:https://www.sfzc.org/event/too-important-to-take-seriously-humor-in-zen-online-1-16/
CATEGORIES:Classes & Extended Courses
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR