Forms of Practice
Formal Zen practice in our tradition is done in three ways:
In the dharma room, these forms are done in unison with other practitioners. Each person’s practice supports every other person’s practice. We bow in the same rhythm. We chant together. We sit in silence until the end of each sitting period.
Most important is that whatever practice you are doing, just do it 100%. When you bow, just bow. When you chant, just chant. When you sit, just sit. That is our practice. When we experience doing this with a group, it can help us to do it on our own. But if you are practicing at home alone, we recommend that you do it regularly.
Additionally, our practice includes having kong-an interviews, doing retreats, and learning how to incorporate meditation into our everyday life.
Bowing
The direction of bowing is very important. I want to put down my small "I", see my true nature and help all beings. So, any kind of exercise can help your body and mind become one, but with just exercise, the direction is often not clear. Sometimes it’s for my health, sometimes it’s for my good looks, sometimes it’s to win a competition, but in Buddhism, everything’s direction is the same point – how to perceive my true nature and save all beings from suffering. Zen Master Dae Bong
Learn more about bowing forms.