Sesshin: touching the mind
Becoming intimate with oneself, concentrating in zazen on the unified body and mind. This teaching was transmitted by Master Taisen Deshimaru.
Neither philosophy, nor ethics, nor religion, Zen allows us to access the origin of all philosophy, ethics, or religion. A source of awakening, Zen transforms our life here and now.
This sesshin is a period dedicated to the intensive practice of zazen in the dojo and to concentration on the actions of daily life through samu, collective manual work.
The sesshin will be preceded by a day of introduction to Chinese calligraphy, on the theme of passages from the Hannya Shingyo (Heart Sutra).
To learn more about sesshins, visit the page: What is a sesshin?
Where and when
From Friday, November 27, 2026 to Sunday, November 29, 2026.
Chinese calligraphy workshop on Friday, followed by the sesshin on Saturday and Sunday.
At the Amsterdam Gyo Kai Zen Dojo – View on Google Maps.
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To learn more, see the retreat page on the dojo’s website.
Prices and registration
It is necessary to register in advance: by email or directly at the dojo.
We offer several prices:
- Calligraphy workshop only: €60
- Sesshin only: €90 (€70 reduced rate)
- Calligraphy workshop and sesshin: €140
Registration:
Teaching
The calligraphy workshop and the sesshin are led by Master Ryurin Desmur.
The practice of zazen
The practice of zazen is the essence of Zen.
Sitting on a round cushion (zafu), legs in the lotus or half-lotus position, knees resting on the floor, back straight, neck stretched, left hand on the right hand, the edge of the hands against the lower abdomen, in total immobility.
Breathing is calm, we concentrate more specifically on the exhalation.
The conscious mind is at rest, without entertaining or rejecting thoughts, we let them pass by concentrating on the posture and breathing.
To learn more, visit the page: Zazen, the Zen meditation.