Open Gate Zen Collective

Practice Period 2026

June 17th - July 26th    

The 36 day Practice Period is a beautiful reminder of our everyday life practice, showing how ordinary life can embody the way of a Buddha. This period marks our annual intensive practice session, during which we will delve into a classic Zen Teachings of Zen Master Dogen.

Please join us as we explore the profound teaching.

Book : How to Cook Your Life: From the Zen Kitchen to Enlightenment By Dogen, Translate and Commentary Kosho Uchiyama.

During this Practice Period, we intensify our daily practice by sitting zazen more frequently, attending classes, having private interviews with Sensei Shinzan, engaging in council practice, participating in a weekend retreat and precept ceremony, and culminating in a Zen Retreat Sesshin. Additionally, we will host seminars throughout the year 2026-2027 to continue exploring and studying Zen Master Dogen’s teachings.

Participants will determine the level of their commitment and create their realistic schedules. We will support each other through a buddy system.

All participants will choose the level of their commitment. They are create their schedule, realistically. We will support each other through a buddy system.