Chopra’s Meditation
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Are the morning and evening meditation periods different?
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The people in the “big” robes are usually ordained priests. The “small” robes are called rakusu and generally indicate that someone has been lay ordained. Many who practice at BZC do not wear robes at all. Some are long-term practitioners and some are new like you. All are welcome and part of the fabric of BZC. Dark and muted colors are traditional in Zen. Please do not wear shorts or halter tops in the zendo—to avoid distracting others and because it’s usually quite cool in the building. Loose, comfortable clothing is best for meditation.
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Where can I wear shoes and where should I go barefoot?
In bathrooms, in the kitchen, and outdoors, please wear your shoes. Take them off and store them on the shoe rack before you enter the zendo or community room.
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Should I check in somewhere when I arrive?
When you walk through the gate, you are entering the temple. If you look new, especially on a Saturday, someone may greet or orient you. We often practice in silence, though, so if no one talks to you, this is not to be unfriendly! Please don’t hesitate to ask someone for help or information.
Well, the East Bay Express did report that BZC was the “Best Way to Get Mindful over Breakfast.” Our Saturday breakfasts, served in a formal style of eating in the zendo called oryoki, are wholesome and delicious. If you are new to practice and have not eaten a formal meal in the zendo, please come for the full Saturday program, starting at 6 a.m., so that you can receive orientation. You don’t need to have your own set of bowls for oryoki. At the start of each meal, we offer guest eating bowls to anyone who needs them.
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Is BZC wheelchair accessible?
The zendo and the community room are both wheelchair accessible. There is one accessible parking space in front of 1933 Russell.
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I have small children. Is it possible for me to bring them?
We have a growing program, including Kidzendo for children three and up, offered about twice a month during the school year, usually on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m.
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Where is BZC located?
Enter through the gate between 1929 and 1933 Russell St., between Martin Luther King Blvd. and Milvia, near the Berkeley Bowl and the south branch of the Berkeley Public Library. Look for a small wooden sign on the black gate.
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How can I get there?
We are a 5-10 minute walk from the Ashby BART station. Walk north from the station along Adeline until you reach Russell St. Turn left onto Russell and you will find BZC on the right, about halfway down the block. Berkeley has many bike routes, including Milvia and Russell, so many people come by bicycle. There is a bike rack behind the zendo. Be sure to lock your bike and take all valuables into the zendo with you. If you drive you may be wondering…
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Where can I park?
BZC is located in a residential area. Please do not park on Russell St. in consideration of our neighbors. There is usually ample street parking available on nearby Martin Luther King Blvd., Milvia, and Oregon. Note signage for daily time restrictions and monthly street sweeping.
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