Zendo Etiquette
The NCZC is a place of quiet meditation so we ask that there should be no unnecessary talking in the zendo (meditation hall). Arrive five to ten minutes early in order to enter the zendo, arrange your cushions, and be in place before the start of the session.
If you arrive late, you may enter during the chanting or sitting meditation. Enter quietly.
Place your shoes and personal belongings on the shelves to the right of the door outside. Please do not wear hats in the zendo. Turn off your cell phones, do not simply leave them on vibrate.
When you enter the zendo, make a bow from the waist with hands palm to palm, towards the altar. Walk quietly to an empty cushion or chair. If you need additional cushions, you will find them on the shelves inside the door.
Before you sit, turn and face the row of cushions opposite you and bow again, Then sit.
During zazen (sitting meditation) please be as quiet as possible, and try not shift your position. Moving is discouraged during zazen.
Should you need to use the restroom, please wait until the walking meditation. At that time you may step out of the line. When you return to the line, wait as it passes, then bow and step back in at the place you left.
During kinhin (walking meditation) please stay close to the person in front of you, not allowing any gaps in the line. As the line returns to enter the zendo the leader will strike the clappers, at which time you should put your hands palm to palm and keep them there until you are in front of your cushion. When the leader strikes the bell, bow, and sit down on your cushion for the next round of sitting.
When formal practice is over please straighten and brush off your cushions so they are tidy for the next person. Please bow when leaving the zendo.
