Zazenkai (Daylong Retreat)
Zazenkai: Daylong Retreat
Saturday, February 20th, 2027
In-person and online
Set aside a day to recenter and reinvigorate your practice with the support of sangha and our Guiding Teacher Valerie Forstman. During these Zazenkai, Valerie often turns to one of our lesser-known Zen ancestors during the Dharma talk, bringing in the ancestor’s life and teaching as pointers for our practice. Valerie brings a rare combination of authentic dharma experience and scholarly depth, helping us encounter these ancestors not only as historical figures but as living presences whose clarity, courage, and compassion continue to shape our own gateless world.
Each Zazenkai offers a full day of practice, including:
- Silent sitting and walking meditation
- Breakfast, coffee, and tea (in-person)
- One or two guided movement sessions
- A Dharma talk from Valerie
- Afternoon Q&A
Whether you are new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, this is a rich opportunity to experience extended practice in community.
This Zazenkai will be available both online and on-site. If you plan to attend in person, please bring your own lunch; tea will be provided.
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Zazenkai is a term used in Zen Buddhism to refer to a day of intensive meditation practice. The word “Zazenkai” is of Japanese origin, where “za” means sitting, and “zenkai” means gathering. During a Zazenkai, participants engage in periods of sitting meditation (zazen), walking meditation (kinhin), and may also include chanting, dharma talks, and other activities related to Zen practice. Zazenkais provide an opportunity for practitioners to deepen their meditation experience and strengthen their commitment to the path of Zen Buddhism. These events can vary in length, with some lasting a full day.
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Schedule (Mountain Time)
6:30-8:00am: Sitting
8:45: Movement
9:00am-12:00pm: Sitting and a Dharma talk
12:00pm-1:00pm: Lunch
1:00-3:30pm: Sitting and Q&A
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Participation Fee
In-Person: $60
Online: $30
Members receive 15% off. See the registration page for details. If you’re not a member, learn more about membership here.
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Join us onsite – and stay the night!
Immerse yourself — stay onsite for a Zazenkai:
Personal practice retreats offer the chance to stay onsite at Mountain Cloud for a Zazenkai and immerse oneself more deeply in contemplative practice, Dharma study, and the life of a practicing Zen community. During their stay, personal practice retreatants shape their days around meditation, study, reflection, time on the land, and participation in Mountain Cloud’s ongoing programming.
Zazenkai/Daylong dates in 2027
- January 9
- February 20
- April 17
- July 17
- October 16
