Save the dates: September 3, 10, 17, 24 and October 1.

Recently, the Des Moines Zen Center held a series of five classes on the introduction to mindfulness and Zen practice. The class was held over a series of five weeks. The feedback was tremendous. As a result, the Zen Center will offer another series of classes beginning on September 3rd at 7pm. Classes will be held on Tuesdays through October 1. The intent of having a series of classes is to hopefully allow participants to meet and build new relationships with people of similar interests by repeatedly interacting with each other each week. Having a series of classes also emphasizes the importance of dedication and consistency in Zen practice. 

The classes will include instruction in Zen meditation, the cultivation of mindfulness following the ancient teaching on the Four Foundations of Mindfulness, and how to apply these teachings in our everyday lives, giving us peace, confidence, and stability in whatever we are doing and manifesting our best to others.

The classes will be co-taught by Rev. Gendo Curtis Thornberry, and lay entrusted teacher, Vicki Joren Goldsmith. Each class will focus on one of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness.  Each class will include periods of Zen meditation (i.e. zazen), a presentation by the teachers on one of the Four Foundations, suggested assignments for the following week intended to practice the Foundation discussed, and a sharing by participants of their experiences practicing the Foundations and zazen. The hope is that each class is very interactive between participants and teachers.  Participants are encouraged to attend all classes to make the most of building relationships and practicing consistency.

The DMZC operates exclusively on free-will donations.  A suggested donation for the series of 5 classes is $50, although no one will be turned away for lack of funds.  To register, please email [email protected] with your intent to attend the class.