iki zen

ABOUT SESSHIN

A sesshin is a period of time during which each participant can devote themselves entirely to honing their own development.

There are many levels to sesshin. The intensive sesshin program allows for individual development in mutual relationship with the entire group. So we should not ignore the fact that sesshin is a collaboration of the entire group; a sincere, joint effort.

Regular participation in short periods of 3 to 7 days of Sesshin allows us to continue with one action in every moment of our lives. Being in the here and now. Therefore, Sesshin is not a period separate from our daily lives.

It is not an isolated abstraction. Continuing sesshin during our daily activities may be slightly more difficult, but this is a matter of our work during such retreats, when the prevailing rules and conditions allow for greater concentration. They ground us in maintaining a stable and focused mind, here and now.

Zen Master Hakuin said: "Meditation in the midst of activity is a thousand times more valuable than meditation in stillness."

Sesshin has no end; it is eternal!

RITUALS

In different religious traditions, we encounter various rituals. We don't always understand their meaning, so this is met with a lack of acceptance or attachment to rules, principles, and customs.

In Buddhism, they are a profound practice and they are part of sesshin too. Depending on the practitioner, this practice permeates various levels.

We can practice it as a glorification of what we believe in. It can build modesty, humility, and respect, loosening our attachment to our self-centered nature, but it can also build arrogance and a stronger ego.

All of this can inspire further practice toward deeper understanding.

It often stirs within us what must ultimately fall away. Any obstacles that arise during rituals can become more intense. Attachment to or rejection of them prevents us from achieving the ultimate goal.To be beyond them. That's why the practice of rituals is so important.

These centuries-old experiences are passed down from generation to generation. Can we ignore this? Should we look at it objectively and with great concentration?

In all rituals, there must be one unending action.

When you chant, it's only chanting with all your power. When you do this completely and naturally in every ritual you perform, you will understand the depth of the rituals.

Then you will not separate yourself.

Do everything completely and with all your power, in such action where the ego cannot be found, and whatever you do, everything will be fine!