On this page we answer the questions we often get asked by people thinking of coming for the first time. We are one of several groups affiliated to Throssel Hole Buddhist Abbey , a Soto Zen monastery and retreat centre in Northumberland belonging to the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives. In the USA the headquarters of the Order is at Shasta Abbey and there are several Priories and meditation groups in Europe and North America. You will find a list of UK groups at the end of this page. I just want to learn to meditate.
Many beginners come simply wanting to learn to meditate.
This is fine as long as they feel comfortable with our usual evening programme which does provide for 'regulars' following a Zen Buddhist practice. Buddhism has never been a 'proselytising' religion and it is common for people from other religious backgrounds, or with no particular commitment to any religious tradition, to attend groups like ours. This said, you should be aware that to practice meditation regularly can begin to raise issues with strong ethical and spiritual dimensions. If you 'sit quietly and reflect upon yourself' as one Zen text describes it, these will arise quite naturally. Posture is very important, but you won't be expected to sit cross-legged.