Zen introduction

Zen meditation is a practice based on silence and sitting in stillness. Its origins lie in the tradition of Chinese-Japanese Buddhism and came to the West as a gift from the East in the 21st century. In its secularized form, Zen is a way for many people in modern everyday life to deeply experience their innermost self-nature and their connection with all being. This includes the posture and holistic practice of sitting in silence (zazen) on a meditation cushion, bench or stool. The rituals that provide a calm and appreciative framework are taught, as well as walking meditation (Kinhin) and sutra recitation. You will receive content-related instructions and space for questions and exchange. The practice will be more fruitful if it is possible to be silent together outside of the practice times.The introduction is suitable for all interested people and can be booked separately from the sesshin.>> Zen sesshins will take place from 01.-05.03.2025 and from 15.-19.11.2025 <<

Course leader: Dr. Geiger-Stappel, Gabriele. Gabriele Shinmyo Geiger-Stappel practiced Zen with Pia Gyger Roshi, later with Anna Gamma Roshi, Zenzentrum Offener Kreis Luzern. She was appointed a Zen teacher (sensei) by her. She is a member of White Plum Asanga. She is also authorized in contemplation (via integralis) and mindfulness (MBSR) and gives courses in Switzerland and abroad. She practiced professionally as a doctor of psychosomatic medicine/PT and child and adolescent psychiatry. She is married, a mother and grandmother. Together with her husband, Bernhard Stappel, she runs the Zendo Open Circle Freiburg and the Two Wings project, where Zen and Christian mysticism meet.more at www.viaintegralis-freiburg.de