Our Practice
Our practice has been deeply shaped by the Sanbo ZenSanbo Zensahn-boh zenA Japanese Zen tradition, established in 1954, which shapes this group's practice. tradition.
Sanbo Zen was established in Japan by Yasutani Haku’un RoshiRoshirow-sheeAn honorific title for an experienced teacher. in 1954, drawing upon the foundations of Soto ZenSoto Zensoh-toh zenOne of the two main Japanese Zen schools, emphasizing sitting. while incorporating the disciplined use of koanKoankoh-ahnA Zen question or phrase taken up in meditation. practice associated with Rinzai ZenRinzai Zenrin-zeye zenOne of the two main Japanese Zen schools, emphasizing koan study.. Under Yamada Koun Roshi, the tradition became accessible to practitioners around the world, including many people practising outside monastic settings.
At the heart of this tradition is direct experience: zazenZazenzah-zenSeated meditation. is not approached simply as a philosophy, belief system or method of relaxation, but as a way of investigating the true nature of self and reality.
Toronto Zendo West is an independent sitting group rather than an official branch or teaching centre of Sanbo Zen International. Students in the group have worked with a combination of teachers; Elaine MacInnes, Nenates Albert, Roselyn Stone, Dragan Petrovic, Brian Chisholm, Patrick Gallagher, Valerie Forstman and Stan Krzyzanowski.
What brings us together is the shared practice of zazen.