BREATHWORK SEMINAR

Proper use of posture and breath, as well as understanding the key components of the breathing mechanism, are the foundation of a good meditation practice and optimal functioning in all other daily activities.

In this workshop, you will learn a number of various deep breathing patterns as practiced at Daiyuzenji and how you can use them to experience:

• lowered blood pressure and heart rate.

• reduced levels of stress hormones in the blood.

• reduced lactic acid build-up in muscle tissue.

• balanced levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

• improved immune system functioning.

• increased physical energy.

• increased feelings of calm and well-being.

Requested donation $65
Veterans are welcome to attend at no cost.

If cost is a barrier, please email us — we’re happy to help make participation possible.

Limited Capacity. To RSVP, click here.

Shakuhachi Group Class

Join our ongoing Shakuhachi Group Class at Daiyuzenji, guided by Trevor West. The shakuhachi is a traditional Japanese bamboo flute historically used in Zen practice as a form of “blowing meditation,” cultivating breath, attention, and presence. Playing develops deep, relaxed breathing, refines posture, strengthens lung capacity, and encourages focused listening and a quiet, grounded mind.

Classes meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at 6:00 PM and are followed by zazen (seated meditation) at 7:00 PM.

All levels are welcome, and new students may join at any time. Flutes are available to borrow, or bring your own.

$20 requested donation. RSVP Here

Beginner's Meditation workshop—An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Join us for a practical, hands-on session designed to help you start and maintain a regular meditation practice—no matter your experience level. This workshop offers an approachable entry point into Zen Buddhism, making it ideal for beginners.

As part of the session, participants will receive a copy of "Introduction to Zen Training: A Physical Approach to Meditation and Mind-Body Training" by Omori Sogen—one of the foremost Zen teachers of the twentieth century. The book, a translation of Sanzen Nyumon, serves as a foundational guide for beginners in Zen practice. Omori Sogen Roshi was the dharma predecessor of Dogen Hosokawa Roshi, founder of Daiyuzenji.

Suggested Donation:

• $40 (includes the book)

• $20 (without the book)

Donations can be made via PayPal. No prior experience is necessary all are welcome!

Spaces are limited, RSVP to secure your spot!

To RSVP, click here.

Join us at Daiyuzenji for a traditional New Year gathering to mark the start of the Year of the Fire Horse.

The evening will include seated meditation, the tolling of the temple bell 108 times, okyō and reflections from Tesshin Hōzan Roshi.

In Zen tradition, the 108 bell tolls represent the habits, distractions, and patterns that accumulate over time. Each strike of the bell offers a moment to let something go and return to what is present, here and now.

The Year of the Fire Horse is often associated with strong energy, movement, and momentum. This gathering offers a chance to enter the new year with clarity and intention.

All are welcome. Join us for some or all of the evening.

Click here to RSVP

Join us as we close out the year with a deep cleanse of the temple, clearing the old and preparing the space for the year ahead. After the cleaning, we’ll gather briefly to mark the occasion and set our intentions for 2026. Tesshin Brand Roshi will share guidance for the coming year.

Please RSVP so we can get a sense of supplies needed and ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.

Saturday, January 3, 2026
Noon to 5:00 PM

We look forward to seeing you.

Shodo means “way of writing," but there is much more here than meets the eye. Our focus is on the meditative aspects of this form of calligraphy. We will start by practicing basic strokes while focusing on posture, breath and observing how the subtleties in aesthetics are affected by our own condition.

Beginners welcome and materials are provided.

Saturday, October 11, 12 - 3 PM
Requested donation $40 for non-Members.

Limited Capacity. To RSVP,  click here

Join us at Gethsemane Garden Center as we partner again to offer ikebana workshops this fall. The sessions will be led by Sensei Enmei Hunter, a student of Nakashima Sensei.

Ikebana, sometimes called kadō or “the way of flowers,” is the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging. The practice emphasizes balance, simplicity, and respect for nature, focusing on line and form.

Workshops are open to all, and no prior experience is necessary. All materials provided.

Sessions:
Sunday, September 28

• Morning Session, 10:30 AM - 12 PM: Register Here

• Afternoon Session, 1:30 - 3 PM: Register Here

Join us for a hands-on introduction to this timeless art.

Beginner's Meditation workshop—An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Join us for a practical, hands-on session designed to help you start and maintain a regular meditation practice—no matter your experience level. This workshop offers an approachable entry point into Zen Buddhism, making it ideal for beginners.

As part of the session, participants will receive a copy of "Introduction to Zen Training: A Physical Approach to Meditation and Mind-Body Training" by Omori Sogen—one of the foremost Zen teachers of the twentieth century. The book, a translation of Sanzen Nyumon, serves as a foundational guide for beginners in Zen practice. Omori Sogen Roshi was the dharma predecessor of Dogen Hosokawa Roshi, founder of Daiyuzenji.

Saturday, September 27, 11 AM - 2 PM

Suggested Donation:

• $40 (includes the book)

• $20 (without the book)

Donations can be made via PayPal. No prior experience is necessary all are welcome!

Spaces are limited, RSVP to secure your spot!

To RSVP, click here.

Introduction to Zen Meditation in the Osaka Garden
Every Other Saturday | July 26 – September 20 | 8:00 AM

Join us for summer outdoor Introduction to Zen Meditation sessions at the historic Osaka Garden located on Wooden Island in Jackson Park in Hyde Park. These sessions are held every other Saturday and are open to anyone interested in learning the basics of Zen meditation (zazen).

Each session covers basic information about Zen, including posture, breathing, and the mental aspects of meditation. There will also be time for questions and discussion. No experience is required. A limited number of cushions will be provided—participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible.

Osaka Garden, Jackson Park
6401 S. Stony Island Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60637
Click Here to RSVP

This season, our training turns to the Autumn kata of the Hōjō — Uten Saten (right turn / left turn, change and transformation).

The Autumn form carries a unique rhythm: not the explosive power of Summer, nor the bright surge of Spring, but a measured and varied pace, alive with transition. It is the season of maturity — when life ripens, cools, and begins its transformation.

Through the study of Uten Saten, we discover that martial strength is not only found in force but also in adaptability, awareness, and balance. Each shift of direction mirrors the changes of life itself, teaching us to flow with rhythm, embrace transformation, and stand grounded amid uncertainty.

This seminar offers a rare chance to engage deeply with the poetic spirit of the sword and to experience firsthand how Hōjō guides us in both combat and in living with clarity.

Join us and embody Autumn’s lesson: Uten Saten — the turning that transforms.

The Hojo Kata is used as an embodied method at Daiyuzenji to help practitioners unify the breath, mind, and body and ground them in a vigorous, immersive physical activity, cutting off habits and ultimately helping in the realization through these methods:

• Correct breathing

• Correct posture

• Correct frame of mind

The Hojo kata is a series of slow, meditative sword forms we use in conjunction with our other Zen practices to develop energetic intensity in movement, breathing, and focus.

This session will focus on the most fundamental aspects of Hojo and is completely accessible to beginners; anyone interested in exploring the connection between breath, posture, movement and meditation will thus be able to benefit from the workshop. The session also includes two periods of zazen (seated meditation).

As Daiyuzenji members know, our lineage is unique in its emphasis on the embodied elements of Zen practice, and this is why we are one of very few Zen temples in the USA at which the Hojo kata can be learned and experienced.

Saturday, September 13, 12 - 5 PM
Requested donation $40 for non-Members.

Limited Capacity. To RSVP,  click here

Introduction to Zen Meditation in the Osaka Garden
Every Other Saturday | July 26 – September 20 | 8:00 AM

Join us for summer outdoor Introduction to Zen Meditation sessions at the historic Osaka Garden located on Wooden Island in Jackson Park in Hyde Park. These sessions are held every other Saturday and are open to anyone interested in learning the basics of Zen meditation (zazen).

Each session covers basic information about Zen, including posture, breathing, and the mental aspects of meditation. There will also be time for questions and discussion. No experience is required. A limited number of cushions will be provided—participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible.

Osaka Garden, Jackson Park
6401 S. Stony Island Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60637
Click Here to RSVP

Introduction to Zen Meditation in the Osaka Garden
Every Other Saturday | July 26 – September 20 | 8:00 AM

Join us for summer outdoor Introduction to Zen Meditation sessions at the historic Osaka Garden located on Wooden Island in Jackson Park in Hyde Park. These sessions are held every other Saturday and are open to anyone interested in learning the basics of Zen meditation (zazen).

Each session covers basic information about Zen, including posture, breathing, and the mental aspects of meditation. There will also be time for questions and discussion. No experience is required. A limited number of cushions will be provided—participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible.

Osaka Garden, Jackson Park
6401 S. Stony Island Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60637
Click Here to RSVP

Summer Zazenkai.

Zazenkai offers a full-day retreat dedicated to meditation. It provides a chance to enrich your meditation practice by partaking in uninterrupted zazen, walking meditation, a dharma talk, mindful work practice, meals, and meetings with our teacher. Zazenkai is suitable for beginners as well as experienced practitioners.

Saturday, August 16, 10 AM - 7 PM

Requested Donation $100. Please donate via Paypal.

Spaces are limited, RSVP to secure your spot!

To RSVP, click here.

Introduction to Zen Meditation in the Osaka Garden
Every Other Saturday | July 26 – September 20 | 8:00 AM

Join us for summer outdoor Introduction to Zen Meditation sessions at the historic Osaka Garden located on Wooden Island in Jackson Park in Hyde Park. These sessions are held every other Saturday and are open to anyone interested in learning the basics of Zen meditation (zazen).

Each session covers basic information about Zen, including posture, breathing, and the mental aspects of meditation. There will also be time for questions and discussion. No experience is required. A limited number of cushions will be provided—participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible.

Osaka Garden, Jackson Park
6401 S. Stony Island Ave.
Chicago, IL 60637
Click Here to RSVP

Introduction to Zen Meditation in the Osaka Garden
Every Other Saturday | July 26 – September 20 | 8:00 AM

Join us for summer outdoor Introduction to Zen Meditation sessions at the historic Osaka Garden located on Wooden Island in Jackson Park in Hyde Park. These sessions are held every other Saturday and are open to anyone interested in learning the basics of Zen meditation (zazen).

Each session covers basic information about Zen, including posture, breathing, and the mental aspects of meditation. There will also be time for questions and discussion. No experience is required. A limited number of cushions will be provided—participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible.

Osaka Garden, Jackson Park
6401 S. Stony Island Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60637
Click Here to RSVP

Beginner's Meditation workshop—An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Join us for a practical, hands-on session designed to help you start and maintain a regular meditation practice—no matter your experience level. This workshop offers an approachable entry point into Zen Buddhism, making it ideal for beginners.

As part of the session, participants will receive a copy of "Introduction to Zen Training: A Physical Approach to Meditation and Mind-Body Training" by Omori Sogen—one of the foremost Zen teachers of the twentieth century. The book, a translation of Sanzen Nyumon, serves as a foundational guide for beginners in Zen practice. Omori Sogen Roshi was the dharma predecessor of Dogen Hosokawa Roshi, founder of Daiyuzenji.

Saturday, July 19, 11 AM - 2 PM

Suggested Donation:

• $40 (includes the book)

• $20 (without the book)

Donations can be made via PayPal. No prior experience is necessary all are welcome!

Spaces are limited, RSVP to secure your spot!

To RSVP, click here.

Beginner's Meditation workshop—An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Join us for a practical, hands-on session designed to help you start and maintain a regular meditation practice—no matter your experience level. This workshop offers an approachable entry point into Zen Buddhism, making it ideal for beginners.

As part of the session, participants will receive a copy of "Introduction to Zen Training: A Physical Approach to Meditation and Mind-Body Training" by Omori Sogen—one of the foremost Zen teachers of the twentieth century. The book, a translation of Sanzen Nyumon, serves as a foundational guide for beginners in Zen practice. Omori Sogen Roshi was the dharma predecessor of Dogen Hosokawa Roshi, founder of Daiyuzenji.

Saturday, May 17, 11 AM - 2 PM

Suggested Donation:

• $40 (includes the book)

• $20 (without the book)

Donations can be made via PayPal. No prior experience is necessary all are welcome!

Spaces are limited, RSVP to secure your spot!

To RSVP, click here.

Join us at Gethsemane on Sunday, April 6

Join us for a hands-on Ikebana workshop at Gethsemane on April 6. Learn the art of Japanese flower arranging in either the morning session (10 AM - 12 PM) or afternoon session (1:30 PM - 3:30 PM). Materials provided. Limited spots available. Beginners welcome!

In Partnership with Gethsemane Gardens — Helping grow your garden since 1977.

Click here to register

Join us for a special fundraising event featuring a brief lecture and hands-on introduction to Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, led by Ohara School Master Sensei Margot Wang. This beginner-friendly workshop will guide you through basic techniques, with all proceeds supporting our Zen practice and training programs.

The cost is $65 (tax-deductible), which includes flowers, a container, and a kenzan.

Click here to register
Registration is required, and capacity is limited. Registration closes on March 22nd.

Margot Wang served as the former President and the Program Chair of Ikebana International Chicago Chapter. She is a certified Instructor and Master at the Ohara School of Ikebana, Japan. Currently, she is the master instructor at Ikebana on Halsted, and an active member of North America Ohara Teachers’ Association.

Her arrangements appear at Chicago Botanical Garden, Morton Arboretum, Ginza Festival and Japan Festival. She has demonstrated and conducted Ikebana workshops at the library system, High Schools /Universities, Garden Clubs and various organizations throughout Chicagoland and Cook County.

In addition to Ikebana practice, she is a member of Chicago Arts Club, and a docent for Lincoln Park Conservatory in Chicago.

Thank you for your support!

BREATHWORK SEMINAR

Proper use of posture and breath, as well as understanding the key components of the breathing mechanism, are the foundation of a good meditation practice and optimal functioning in all other daily activities.

In this workshop, you will learn a number of various deep breathing patterns as practiced at Daiyuzenji and how you can use them to experience:

• lowered blood pressure and heart rate.

• reduced levels of stress hormones in the blood.

• reduced lactic acid build-up in muscle tissue.

• balanced levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

• improved immune system functioning.

• increased physical energy.

• increased feelings of calm and well-being.

Requested donation $40

Limited Capacity. To RSVP, click here.

Beginner's Meditation workshop—An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Join us for a practical, hands-on session designed to help you start and maintain a regular meditation practice—no matter your experience level. This workshop offers an approachable entry point into Zen Buddhism, making it ideal for beginners.

As part of the session, participants will receive a copy of "Introduction to Zen Training: A Physical Approach to Meditation and Mind-Body Training" by Omori Sogen—one of the foremost Zen teachers of the twentieth century. The book, a translation of Sanzen Nyumon, serves as a foundational guide for beginners in Zen practice. Omori Sogen Roshi was the dharma predecessor of Dogen Hosokawa Roshi, founder of Daiyuzenji.

Saturday, February 22, 11 AM - 2 PM

Suggested Donation:

• $40 (includes the book)

• $20 (without the book)

Donations can be made via PayPal. No prior experience is necessary all are welcome!

Spaces are limited, RSVP to secure your spot!

To RSVP, click here.

As we enter 2025, we invite you to participate in an important tradition of our training. We will engage in our Temple Cleanse, which involves a deep cleaning of our space to clear away the old year and prepare for the new. This will be followed by a brief gathering to mark the occasion and set our intentions for the year ahead.

Tesshin Brand Roshi will share insights on what we can focus our efforts on in 2025.

Please RSVP here so we can get a sense of supplies needed and ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.

Saturday, January 11, 2025
Noon to 5:00 PM

We look forward to seeing you.