What is sesshin?
Sesshin is an extended meditation that includes sitting meditation, chanting, oryoki (a formal, meditative way of eating), Dharma talks by the sesshin leader and a meditative work period. Also included (except at Genzo-e), during specified times throughout the sesshin, are opportunities for Dokusan (private meeting with the sesshin leader). Dharma Field hosts two-day, three-day and five-day sesshins.
Sesshin literally means "collecting the mind." During sesshin, or at any time in our daily lives, turning our full attention to the activity of the moment is to collect the mind. This means when it's time to eat, just eat, and when it's time to sit, just sit. Usually when we do a given activity, our attention is elsewhere. The quiet environment and simplified schedule of sesshin is conducive to mindfulness and concentration.
Sesshin is an opportunity to cultivate concentration and awareness. It is an opportunity to step back and slow down from our usual busy lives, to engage with full attention, whatever it is that we are doing.
Participants are required to stay for the entire duration of the sesshin. Those who spend nights at home are encouraged not to interact with friends or family members while away from Dharma Field.
What do you need for sesshin?
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Loose, comfortable, clean clothing |
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Oryoki bowls (provided by Dharma Field, please indicate on registration form) |
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Clothes appropriate for work period (they may get dirty) |
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Sleeping bag, mat, pillow (for those planning to stay overnight) |
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Extra clothes for work and meditation (for sesshins three days and longer) |
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Toiletries |
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Hand towel (to save on paper towel use) |
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Shower toiletries & towel (Rohatsu and Genzo-e sesshins only) |
Sesshin orientation
An orientation will be held as necessary (except for the Genzo-e), downstairs in the classroom at 7 p.m., the evening that sesshin begins. Participants who haven't attended a sesshin at Dharma Field are required to attend. Anyone who would like a review is also invited to attend. Included in the sesshin orientation:
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What is sesshin? |
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Overview of the sesshin schedule and activities |
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Participating with awareness |
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Etiquette instruction |
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Oryoki instruction |
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Tour of the building |