Ancestral Zazenkai

A zazenkai is a contained day of practice—neither a full sesshin nor a casual drop-in sit. You arrive in the morning, practice zazen in periods through the day, participate in the center's liturgy, meet privately with a teacher (dokusan), listen to a formal talk, and share an oryoki meal (a formal, meditative eating practice). Then you leave.

This format works as a refresh for people already sitting regularly and as a practical introduction for those considering a longer sesshin. You get a taste of the full schedule—the sitting periods, the silence, the structure—without committing to several days away.

The "ancestral" part of the title suggests this may be connected to a specific practice or commemoration, though the details aren't clear from the listing. Check the center's website or call ahead if that theme matters to your interest.