The practice at the NCZC blends elements of both the Soto and Rinzai schools of Zen Buddhism. These elements and practices are expressed in a uniquely American way with the goal of keeping what is essential while making authentic practice accessible to everyone.
Much of our inheritance stems from the work of the Japanese Zen Masters Daiun Harada Roshi and Yasutani Roshi as well as two American Zen pioneers, Philip Kapleau Roshi and Robert Aitken Roshi. All were reformers in their own way and have contributed to the flowering of Zen in America. What is common across all Zen lineages is the central practice of zazen—one pointed concentrated silent sitting. At the NCZC we engage in the Soto practice of shikantaza or just sitting as well as the Rinzai method of koan introspection. Both are powerful ways of working. However we find that unless one is rooted in the ability to remain present, both methods will fall short. This is why we always begin with present moment awareness, mindfulness, and breath practice.
