Contemplative Tending: Soji in Creative Practice, Online 1/21 - 4/28

Practice Center
Date / Time
Jan 21, 2024 / 10:30am - Apr 28, 2024 / 12:30pm
Event Type
Classes & Extended Courses
Description

The Zoom link will be provided at least 24 hours before the class begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions.


Sundays, January 21, February 25, March 17, April 28

Join us in this monthly workshop, inspired by Soji, the Zen practice of temple cleaning.

This workshop brings together Soji and creative work. We’ll delve into guided writing sessions, structured contemplative tending exercises, and informal sharing of creative work, within the supportive container of the group.

What is Soji?

"When we put our body and mind wholly into the present moment as we’re moving into activity, [soji takes] that zazen mind, that spaciousness, off the cushion and into motion." —Dōshin Mako Voelkel, City Center Abiding Abbot

Soji, a period of mindful work, often following zazen: sweeping the walkway, raking leaves, shaking out zendo cushions. A creative practice has its own ongoing tasks: changing printer paper, cleaning brushes, assembling supplies. We’ll explore how a soji mindset applies to complex tasks: organizing submissions to literary magazines, applying for grants—things that can sometimes feel in the way of creative practice.

Through a steady practice, we come to a more friendly and active relationship with these tasks, possibly with a greater sense of engagement, curiosity, and even joy.

No prior experience with Zen practice is necessary.

Each 2.5 hour session includes 

  • Short dharma talk and discussion
  • A brief meditation inviting inquiry
  • Guided writing and discussion
  • Three 20-minute sessions of contemplative tending
  • Informal sharing of participants’ work

More information

Fee Information
  • General $250
  • Current SFZC Members $225
  • Sliding Scale 1: $150
  • Sliding Scale 2: $62.50

For additional discount options, please email us at rezoffice@sfzc.org.

Register Online

Or call 415-354-0360.

About SFZC Public Programs, Fees, and Cancellations