Oct
20
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Oct
23
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Oct
25
9:00 AM09:00
ASZC - Master Class
Please read "The Original Frontier" as background reference. I will expand upon its content, and entertain any questions you may have in the Q&A dialog. See schedule.
MONTHLY CONTENT
I will review and expound upon 1 of 9 chapters each Saturday morning:
April 26: "Following the Sages"
May 24: "Where Zazen Differs"
June 28: " Finding Workarounds"
July 26: "Deconstructing the Senses"
August 23: "Embracing Nonduality"
September 27: "Applying Zen to Life"
October 25: "Benefitting from Zen"
November 29: "Designing a Zen Life"
December 27: "The Razorblade of Zen"
Fees:
The fees for this program support Roshi in his work and benefit ASZC. They may be paid per session at the door or online. Additional dana for the teacher is accepted and appreciated. Place cash or checks in the dana box provided or send via PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo to taiunmelliston@gmail.com. Contact Roshi for additional information.
Individual Class (Per session): $40
Email: taiunmelliston@gmail.com for additional questions
Oct
26
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Oct
27
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Oct
30
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Nov
2
9:00 AM09:00
Guest Speaker -- Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk:
Speaker: TBD
Nov
3
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Nov
5
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Nov
6
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Nov
9
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Nov
10
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Nov
13
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Nov
16
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Nov
17
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen( meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Nov
19
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Nov
20
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Nov
22
9:00 AM09:00
ASZC - Master Class
Please read "The Original Frontier" as background reference. I will expand upon its content, and entertain any questions you may have in the Q&A dialog. See schedule.
MONTHLY CONTENT
I will review and expound upon 1 of 9 chapters each Saturday morning:
April 26: "Following the Sages"
May 24: "Where Zazen Differs"
June 28: " Finding Workarounds"
July 26: "Deconstructing the Senses"
August 23: "Embracing Nonduality"
September 27: "Applying Zen to Life"
October 25: "Benefitting from Zen"
November 29: "Designing a Zen Life"
December 27: "The Razorblade of Zen"
Fees:
The fees for this program support Roshi in his work and benefit ASZC. They may be paid per session at the door or online. Additional dana for the teacher is accepted and appreciated. Place cash or checks in the dana box provided or send via PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo to taiunmelliston@gmail.com. Contact Roshi for additional information.
Individual Class (Per session): $40
Email: taiunmelliston@gmail.com for additional questions
Nov
23
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Nov
24
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Nov
26
to Nov 28
Nov
30
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Dec
1
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Dec
3
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Dec
3
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Dec
4
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Dec
7
9:00 AM09:00
Guest Speaker -- Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk:
Speaker: TBD
Dec
8
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen(meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Dec
11
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Dec
14
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Dec
15
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen(meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Dec
17
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Dec
18
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Dec
21
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Dec
24
to Dec 26
Dec
27
9:00 AM09:00
ASZC - Master Class
Please read "The Original Frontier" as background reference. I will expand upon its content, and entertain any questions you may have in the Q&A dialog. See schedule.
MONTHLY CONTENT
I will review and expound upon 1 of 9 chapters each Saturday morning:
April 26: "Following the Sages"
May 24: "Where Zazen Differs"
June 28: " Finding Workarounds"
July 26: "Deconstructing the Senses"
August 23: "Embracing Nonduality"
September 27: "Applying Zen to Life"
October 25: "Benefitting from Zen"
November 29: "Designing a Zen Life"
December 27: "The Razorblade of Zen"
Fees:
The fees for this program support Roshi in his work and benefit ASZC. They may be paid per session at the door or online. Additional dana for the teacher is accepted and appreciated. Place cash or checks in the dana box provided or send via PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo to taiunmelliston@gmail.com. Contact Roshi for additional information.
Individual Class (Per session): $40
Email: taiunmelliston@gmail.com for additional questions
Dec
28
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Oct
19
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Oct
15
to Oct 19
2025 Annual STO/ASZC Fall Retreat
AMERICAN ZEN PIONEER
Celebrating the 85th Anniversary of
Soyu Matsuoka Roshi coming to America
Oct. 15 to 19, 2025
“Many people question whether or not a person of another religion can sit in meditation. Why not? Meditation is to empty your mind and to purify it. It does not presuppose a religious creed.”— Matsuoka Roshi
2025 marks the 14th anniversary of our annual retreat! Everyone is welcome to attend online, as well as in person. ASZC will be the host site for this retreat. It will begin on October 15 at 6pm ET and end on October 19 at noon. Please take this yearly opportunity to join with other members of our far-flung Affiliates and members at large, in retreat.
This year we will focus on the Wisdom, Warmth and Wit of our root teacher and lineage Founder, Soyu Matsuoka Roshi on this 85th Anniversary of his coming and bringing Zen to America. We will line-up a variety of speakers who had the good fortune to actually meet and practice with O-Sensei in person, and who will share his teachings and personal anecdotes of his compassionate spirit — including his insistence that “Zen is for everyone”; and his prediction that genuine Zen will find its rebirth in America.
The Silent Thunder Order (STO, inc. 2011) is comprised of disciples and priests trained under our guiding teacher, Zenkai Taiun Elliston Roshi, in the STO/Mokurai tradition established by Matsuoka Roshi. The Atlanta Soto Zen Center (ASZC, inc. 1977) constitutes our Training Center and Headquarters. Both exist to support the needs of our Practice Leaders, and to serve their communities (sanghas), a network of independent Affiliated Zen groups and centers.
We look forward to gathering with you for this annual retreat. It represents a precious opportunity, not to be missed, to revitalize our Zen practice.
Please join us for zazen, engaging in dialog with members of our thirteen affiliate sanghas, as well as listening to, and deepening our understanding of, the Dharma. Please watch for future notices of more details on registration, schedule and speakers.
Prepare for the STO retreat, or just learn more about Matsuoka-Roshi by reading his books. You may purchase a copy of both The Kyosaku or Moku-Rai by following this link.
Location:
The retreat will be held in-person at our Training Center, and streamed virtually via Zoom:
Atlanta Soto Zen Center
1167 Zonolite Place NE
Atlanta GA 30306
Oct
15
to Oct 19
SOLD OUT Fall 2025 Silent Retreat @ Watershed
WATERSHED SILENT RETREAT
Registration for the Fall Silent Retreat @ Watershed is now closed. Thank you for your interest and generosity.
Overview:
Please join us for a multi-day Zen meditation retreat (Sesshin) in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Watershed Retreat Center is located on 94 forested acres at the foot of the Appalachian mountains.
Watershed Retreat Center is essentially Bryan Price and Kylie Brown’s home. There is a main house for meals, sleeping and showering, and a smaller cabin a short walk away, which is used as the meditation hall. Meals are informal and vegetarian (with optional dairy and eggs). Meditation is broken into 25 minutes of sitting meditation and 5 minutes of walking meditation over several blocks throughout the day, lasting from 2-3 hours. Additionally, Samu (simple working meditation tasks), will be assigned to all retreat participants to help the retreat run smoothly for all. Everyone is encouraged to attend all meditation sessions, but not required to attend all sessions. The retreat is silent from 8pm on Wednesday evening until mid-morning on Sunday.
Contact: Chishiki Bryan Price 828-389-4927
Where: Watershed Retreat Center - 361 Albone Branch Road, Hayesville, NC 28904
Fees: $240 or pay what you can
CLICK HERE to download the schedule.
CLICK HERE for more retreat details
Questions Prior to Retreat Contact: Email : bryan.price.md@gmail.com
Oct
13
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Oct
12
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Oct
10
7:00 PM19:00
Pragmatic Zen in the Digital Era
Every Friday starting at 7pm during his Ango, join Kosetsu for at new program "Pragmatic Zen in the Digital Era." Starting with a 30 minute session of zazen followed by tea, cookies, and an open discussion for an hour. "We honor and practice a time-proven wisdom tradition that has application and effect in our daily lives. However, that tradition is steeped in the language and life circumstances of an era so ancient we are often challenged to understand it. Indeed, sometimes we struggle with fitting such a practice into our modern, hectic lifestyle. How can we most effectively follow this timeless path in the digital era? Let’s discuss it together and share our best practices and suggestions."
No donation required; no donation refused
Oct
9
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Oct
6
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Oct
5
9:00 AM09:00
Guest Speaker Gareth Young-- Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: “Dukkha and the End of Dukkha”
Speaker: Gareth Young
Gareth is a co-founder and the Guiding Teacher of Red Clay Sangha. He has maintained a committed meditation practice since 1999 in the Zen, Chan and Vipassana Traditions. He received dharma transmission in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst. He lives in the Atlanta area with his wife and their dogs, chickens and bees. He has two adult children.
Oct
3
7:00 PM19:00
Pragmatic Zen in the Digital Era
Every Friday starting at 7pm during his Ango, join Kosetsu for at new program "Pragmatic Zen in the Digital Era." Starting with a 30 minute session of zazen followed by tea, cookies, and an open discussion for an hour. "We honor and practice a time-proven wisdom tradition that has application and effect in our daily lives. However, that tradition is steeped in the language and life circumstances of an era so ancient we are often challenged to understand it. Indeed, sometimes we struggle with fitting such a practice into our modern, hectic lifestyle. How can we most effectively follow this timeless path in the digital era? Let’s discuss it together and share our best practices and suggestions."
No donation required; no donation refused
Oct
2
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Oct
1
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Sep
29
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Sep
28
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Sep
27
9:00 AM09:00
ASZC - Master Class
Please read "The Original Frontier" as background reference. I will expand upon its content, and entertain any questions you may have in the Q&A dialog. See schedule.
MONTHLY CONTENT
I will review and expound upon 1 of 9 chapters each Saturday morning:
April 26: "Following the Sages"
May 24: "Where Zazen Differs"
June 28: " Finding Workarounds"
July 26: "Deconstructing the Senses"
August 23: "Embracing Nonduality"
September 27: "Applying Zen to Life"
October 25: "Benefitting from Zen"
November 29: "Designing a Zen Life"
December 27: "The Razorblade of Zen"
Fees:
The fees for this program support Roshi in his work and benefit ASZC. They may be paid per session at the door or online. Additional dana for the teacher is accepted and appreciated. Place cash or checks in the dana box provided or send via PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo to taiunmelliston@gmail.com. Contact Roshi for additional information.
Individual Class (Per session): $40
Email: taiunmelliston@gmail.com for additional questions
Sep
26
7:00 PM19:00
Pragmatic Zen in the Digital Era
Every Friday starting at 7pm during his Ango, join Kosetsu for at new program "Pragmatic Zen in the Digital Era." Starting with a 30 minute session of zazen followed by tea, cookies, and an open discussion for an hour. "We honor and practice a time-proven wisdom tradition that has application and effect in our daily lives. However, that tradition is steeped in the language and life circumstances of an era so ancient we are often challenged to understand it. Indeed, sometimes we struggle with fitting such a practice into our modern, hectic lifestyle. How can we most effectively follow this timeless path in the digital era? Let’s discuss it together and share our best practices and suggestions."
No donation required; no donation refused
Sep
25
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Sep
22
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Sep
21
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Sep
18
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Sep
17
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Sep
17
to Sep 21
Fall 2025 Roshi Retreat @ Watershed
WATERSHED ROSHI RETREAT
"FINDING THE ORIGINAL FRONTIER" — September 19th -- 21st
Where do we find the Original Frontier? Not the "final frontier" of space exploration, or the daunting frontier of the bottom of theocean, but the frontier of Mind, of consciousness itself? Like any frontier, entering it means leaving the known world behind andentering uncharted territory.
At Watershed, we leave the familiar terrain of the city, and our daily routine, embarking on a journey into Nature, in the relativewilderness of the mountains and valleys of North Carolina, which of course does not really exist, except as lines drawn upon a map,which of course, is not the territory. Bringing Zen's meditation to the strangeness of the piney woods, we realize the sameness in thedifference. Once the retreat - which is actually a Zen attack - is over, we return to the fray refreshed. The Original Frontier comes withus.
It is highly recommended that you read the book before the retreat. We will not be reading the book, but Taiun-roshi will give dailyteisho (pointed talks) embellishing on the main points, along with opportunities for dokusan (personal interview) on a regular basis.
Please join us for our multi-day meditation retreat in the western North Carolina mountains. Watershed Retreat Center is located on94 acres in a pastoral farm setting highly conducive to finding, or returning to our true nature, in the embrace of Mother Nature.
Registration is limited to preserve the experience.
Where: Watershed Retreat Center – 361 Albone Branch Road, Hayesville, NC 28904
Fees: Suggested Donation $240 or pay what you can.
Questions Prior to Retreat Contact: Bryan Price Email: bryan.price.md@gmail.com
Sep
15
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Sep
14
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest
Sep
11
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Sep
8
7:30 PM19:30
Monday Night Book Club
The first 25 minutes is zazen (meditation) followed by an informal discussion on the book that ends at 9:00 PM.
Sep
7
9:00 AM09:00
Guest Speaker Soun Kosetsu Randy Earl -- Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: What are you asking for?"
Speaker: Soun Kosetsu Randy Earl
Soun Kosetsu Randy Earl began formal Zen training with Taiun Elliston Roshi after taking the precepts in 2003. When career moves took him away from Atlanta, he continued to train remotely and visit for retreats, taking Shukke Tokudo in 2013. Kosetsu served as Zen Chaplain at North Carolina State University for several years and is currently an STO member at-large.
Having earned a BS in Physics, an MBA, and worked in a career spanning Engineering, Research, and Design, Kosetsu retired in 2024. He now resides in Raleigh, NC with his wife near his three children and five grandchildren.
Sep
4
7:00 PM19:00
Thursday Evening Workshop: Secrets of Zen = Singularity of Zazen
MONTHLY CONTENT CYCLE — Each Thursday will feature 1 of 5 focal points:
1st - Natural Posture..........Finding Your Center (zazen)
2nd - Natural Breath............Following The Body (kyuki & koki)
3rd - Mindful Attention.......Nurturing Beginner’s Mind (shoshin)
4th - Walking & Chanting...Feeling Stillness in Motion (kinhin, mokurai)
5th - Healing & Sleeping....Promoting Wellbeing (ki)
WEEKLY EVENING SCHEDULE—3 Periods:
1) Method of Zen—Demonstration & Explanation: 30 min
— Coping with Barriers to Practice
— Distress vs Comfort; Anxiety vs Serenity; Confusion vs Clarity; Friction vs Harmony; Skillful Means
2) Sitting + Teisho: 30 min
— Posture Correction & Blow of Compassion (Zazen & Kyosaku)
— Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social Samadhi; Awakening Self & Others
3) Q&A + Tea: 30 min
— Q&A, Tea Service (Sanzen & O-cha)
Hybrid Format—Onsite/Online Participation (Suggested Fee $10/Session)
Scan QR code to register and/or contact Elliston-roshi for questions:
No donation required; no donation refused
Sep
3
7:00 PM19:00
Wednesday Night- Introduction to Soto Zen Meditation
INTRODUCTION to SOTO ZEN MEDITATION:
7:00 - 8:30 pm - Orientation and Instructions including 15-20 min meditation (ZAZEN) sessions with 5-min walking (kinhin)
Aug
31
9:00 AM09:00
Soto Zen Sunday Service
9:00-10:30 Zazen (Three twenty-five minutes sitting sessions with 5 minutes of kinhin after each sit)
Traditional Soto Zen Service 10:30 AM
Dharma Talk: 10:30 AM
Speaker: Roshi, Senior Teacher, or Guest