Meditation Instruction & Zen Talks


Zen practice has always valued mentorship and guidance. At Louisville Zen Center, support is offered through group instruction, one-to-one meetings, and Zen talks. Below is a brief overview of what we offer. For dates and details, please visit our home page and calendar.​


​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Introduction to Zen Meditation Workshop

This workshop is ideal for newcomers, those seeking a refresher, or anyone interested in practicing in the Rochester Zen Center lineage. It covers posture, breathing, zazen equipment, walking meditation, and more.

In-person workshops begin with instruction at 5:30 p.m. We take a brief break around 6:20, followed by practice from 6:30 to 7:30. After a simple, 10-minute cleanup, we wrap up with tea and final questions until about 8:00 p.m. Suggested donation: $20 (cash, check, or PayPal). To register, email us.


For online workshops, we recommend those offered through the Rochester Zen Center, led by Sensei Jissai Prince-Cherry. Info and registration are available here.


​Dokusan

Dokusan is a private, one-to-one meeting with a fully authorized Zen teacher, focused on questions about one’s sitting practice or related personal matters. Jissai-sensei offers dokusan at both the Rochester Zen Center and the Louisville Zen Center, and participation is always optional.


  • Tuesday evening (in person at HPWZ): Open to anyone who has attended an introductory workshop, whether or not you are a Center member.
  • Wednesday morning (online with the Rochester Zen Center): Also open to Louisville Zen Center members and others in the Cloud-Water Sangha.
  • Thursday evening (online with the Louisville Zen Center): For Louisville Center members only.
  • Friday evening (online with the Rochester Zen Center): Also open to Louisville Zen Center members and others in the Cloud-Water Sangha.
  • Saturday morning (online with the Rochester Zen Center): Also open to Louisville Zen Center members and others in the Cloud-Water Sangha.


Teisho

Teisho is a formal Dharma talk given by a fully authorized teacher. More than just a lecture or sermon, teisho is considered to be a direct expression of the teacher’s realization, delivered from the depth of their own practice and understanding.


Encouragement Talk

Encouragement talks are short (10 minutes or less), informal Zen talks delivered during a round of zazen to address common challenges in zazen—like sleepiness, restlessness, or doubt. They offer practical support and reminders that struggle is part of the path.