Meditation

Given the times we are living in most of us are experiencing increased work loads, job insecurity or other losses that cause increased stress and anxiety. When stress becomes too great it can affect many areas of our life, decreasing our ability to be effective and achieve our personal goals. There is now well established clinical evidence pointing to the many benefits of mindfulness meditation. For instance, it is well established that meditation can lower stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, strengthen emotional balance, strengthen immune system and increase focus and impulse control. 

At Zen Life & Meditation Center (ZLMC), mindfulness meditation is the cornerstone of living a Zen-inspired life. It is taught and practiced at ZLMC in a secular way that makes it easily accessible to everyone. ZLMC has developed a unique, core curriculum that teaches beginners meditation, how to practice mindfulness meditation and live a Zen-inspired life. 

ZLMC offers two kinds of meditation on a regular weekly basis. Anyone, non-member or member alike can attend these. Everyone is always welcome, and there is no need to register or call ahead. Just come as you are. We suggest you wear comfortable clothing. All of these meditation sessions are FREE to everyone. 

Free–style Meditation

ZLMC is a meditation center. We offer free-style meditation every morning, Monday thru Friday, from 6 am to 7 am. This meditation is completely informal. You may come and sit for as short or as long as you want, since there are no structured meditation periods. No bells will be rung. You keep your own time.

Organized Meditation

We also offer organized meditation on Tuesday and Thursdays from 6 pm to 6:45 pm. These meditations are structured and consist of two, twenty minute meditation periods with a five minute walking meditation in between. The beginning and ending of these periods are signaled by the ringing of a bell. We are Chicago's place for mindfulness meditation. Let us be your meditation center. 

If you are doing Zen Studies at Zen Life & Meditation Center, either one of these meditation times is an opportunity to see Joshin Roshi privately in dokusan.

To learn more about how to meditate, click here to read our article, "Learn How to Meditate in Chicago"

You may also wish to read our blog posting on 10 Tips for Meditating at Home.