Spending time in a Zen training centre
Each day at Bodhi Zendo begins and ends with group meditation (zazen). Also during the day, we are meditating together. After breakfast, we share some work in the house and the garden (samu), but also quite good South Indian meals and leisure time, providing the opportunity for studies and use of the extensive library. Several hours of each day are compulsory silence periods. The schedule is mandatory for all visitors, you can download it below. Besides collective meditation there are daily private interviews (dokusan), where visitors can talk about their spiritual practice or koan work with the Zen master.
The library is open to all residents of Bodhi Zendo. It is well equipped and specialized in human sciences, comparative religions, theology, spirituality, meditation and Zen studies. Books include best-selling titles as well as scholarly works. In addition, a number of journals, bulletins and magazines related to the above fields of study are available. Audio cassettes, videos and CDs of talks, music and so on are also available.
Introduction
Bodhi Zendo offers Zen Meditations every day throughout the year.You are most welcome to stay at Bodhi Zendo during the non-Sesshin days (normal days) and practice Zen. During your stay at Bodhi Zendo you are expected to follow the day’s schedule and follow the rhythm of life here. If you intend to participate in an extended Sesshin of several days but are not experienced, we suggest attending a mini sesshin first during which you will be familiarized with the techniques of Zazen.
» Download Daily Schedule
Mini sesshin (short Zen retreat)
Usually on the first week of each month a mini sesshin of three days duration takes place (Thursday to Sunday). In addition to that, from July to November a second mini sesshin takes place on the third week of the month. For dates of sesshins and mini sesshins, please refer to
» Bodhizendo Mini Sesshin timetable
» Download Mini Sesshin schedule
Sesshin (intensive Zen retreat)
From January to June, on the third week of the month an intensive Zen retreat takes place. The duration of a Sesshin is 5 days (Mini Sesshin: 3 days) and takes place in complete silence. You should have some experience in Zen meditation before participating in a full Sesshin.
» Bodhizendo Sesshin timetable
» Download Sesshin schedule
During the Sesshins and Mini Sessshins, Fr. Cyril gives advice and Dhamma Talks on Zen called "Teishos".
* Please register in advance for any sesshin: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Other regular events
- Day of silence: Every Wednesday is a day of complete silence
- Free day: on Thursday (recommended: morning Zazen by oneself)
- Eucharist (optional): Sundays and on feasts