Shows
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “It’s Alive!” with Scott Thornton
Scott’s talked is based on one of Joshu’s sayings. When asked “What is meditation?” he responded, “Non-meditation.” When asked how that could be, he said, “It’s alive! It’s alive!”
Recorded on July 17th, 2025
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: htt...2025-07-2223 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The Great Matter: Arriving in the Light of Day” with Valerie Forstman
Fresh home from a memorial service for a beloved mentor and on the heels of the flooding in Texas, Valerie turns to case 41 of the Hekiganroku or Blue Cliff Record, “Joshu’s ‘Great Death.’” How does this case speak to the root of our human experience? What does it say about the coming and going of life and death? Might this ancient exchange between two masters – a generation apart in age – offer a word to us about the great matter?
Recorded on July 10th, 2025
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we c...2025-07-1545 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The World and Us” with Henry Shukman
In this talk, Henry explores our place in the world through koans and poems.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/membership/
2025-07-0847 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Falling into the Heart of the World” with Valerie Forstman
In this first teisho since returning from the North American Sanbo Zan sesshin led by Yamada Ryoun Roshi, Valerie takes up Case 4 in the Shoyoroku or Book of Serenity, ‘The World-honored One Points to the Ground.’ “Here is a good place to build a temple,” says the Buddha, pointing to the ground at the place where we stand. Manjusri bends down, picks up a blade of grass and sticks it in the ground. The Budda acknowledges, “The temple has been built.”
Why turn to this case at a time when wars are raging, people are starving, and the ground w...2025-07-0135 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The Practice of Insight Dialogue” with Nicola Redfern
Insight Dialogue (ID) is a relational meditation practice for developing awareness, compassion and wisdom. It is designed to help us awaken together and integrate our understanding of Dharma teachings in a direct and immediate way. Nicola’s talk was followed with a brief period of Q&A.
Nicola Redfern is an Insight Dialogue Retreat Teacher with an extensive background in both Zen and Vipassana meditation. With a strong belief that awakening is not simply a solo endeavor, Nic is particularly interested in getting meditation and dharma insight fully integrated and embodied in life, work, social justice, and al...2025-06-2458 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Homecoming: Not a single step taken” with Valerie Forstman
In this first dharma talk after returning from a monthlong mini-ango in Germany, Valerie turns to the final case in the Mumonkan or Gateless Gate, “Kempo’s One Way,” a koan that presents the world of absolute immediacy and infinite capacity, and invites us to taste and see.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/membership/
2025-06-1744 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Why I Love the Three Poisons” with David Loy
In this talk, David explores the depth and application of this teaching to our modern lives. He notes, “We often do not appreciate that the three poisons is a profound teaching, perhaps especially important today.”
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Recorded on May 8th, 2025
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
2025-06-1248 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “How to Disappear” with Katie Arnold
Katie Arnold tells a story from her upcoming book How to Disappear about an arduous and illuminating long distance run in the high country.
Katie Arnold is the author of Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal World as well as critically acclaimed RUNNING HOME: A Memoir, published by Random House in March 2019. She is a contributing editor at Outside Magazine, where she worked on staff for twelve years. Her “Raising Rippers” column about bringing up adventurous, outdoor children appears monthly on Outside Online. She has written for The New York Times, Travel + Leisure, Sunset, Runner’s World, ESPN: The Ma...2025-06-0338 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The Eightfold Path and Tribal Spirituality” with Karen Waconda-Lewis
This talk was offered by Karen Waconda-Lewis at Mountain Cloud Zen Center on May 22nd, 2025. Karen discusses how the Noble Eightfold Path connects with Tribal spirituality.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/membership/
2025-05-271h 20Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Zen is Basking in Love and Loving Back” with Ruben Habito
This talk was offered by Ruben Habito at Mountain Cloud Zen Center on May 15th, 2025.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/membership/
2025-05-2057 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The Refuge of No Refuge” with David Loy
In this talk, David explores the idea of refuge. To take refuge is to run away to a hiding place…Is that what we should do?
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Recorded on April 17th, 2025
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: https://www.mountaincloud.org/ab...2025-05-0944 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The single stone ten thousand feet down in the sea of Ise” with Maria Reis Habito
Zen is a practice to deeply explore and fully live our true Self. Might the Koan about the stone deep down in the sea of Ise be a helpful pointer in this exploration?
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Recorded on April 17th, 2025
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
...2025-05-0931 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: Don’t Know, Can’t Know, Who Knows? with Shana Smith
In this talk, Shana takes us right into “don’t know mind” as a portal to discovering our true nature and the freedom inherent in simply being alive. By tasting this freedom, we become better able to live, function, and respond compassionately even through difficult times.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Recorded on April 17th, 2025
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such a...2025-04-2539 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: The Benevolence of Awakening with Valerie Forstman
In this early spring talk, Valerie turns to the way of awakening, discovered and explored as this world – in the midst – just as it is. Not-two.
The talk weaves together a cross-section of experiences of homecoming with case 100 of the Book of Equanimity (Shoyoroku). In the case, Master Kaku of Roya receives the student’s question and responds in kind: “The essential state is pure and clear; how are mountains, rivers, and the great earth produced at once?”
How, indeed. Can we enter the wonder and embody it to the full?
Recorded on April 10th...2025-04-1737 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “By Boat or By Land: Crossing over, fully arrived” with Valerie Forstman
In this talk, Valerie begins by revisiting themes from our recent sesshin – the wellspring of zazen, the intimacy of not-knowing, the peace that passes all understanding. The talk explores these themes by taking a fresh look at case 51 in the Book of Equanimity, ‘Hogen’s “Boat or Land,”’ Master Hogen’s question to a visiting monk elicits a response that resounds with the homecoming that is available to us all.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincl...2025-04-0434 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and the ABC’s of Zen” with Shana Smith
In this teisho, Shana uses Ruben Habito Roshi’s “ABC’s of Zen” as parallels for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She then explores Case 43 of the Shoyoroku as a pointer into finding our own unique ways to support the healing of a seemingly divided world.
Shana will be leading a weekend retreat at Mountain Cloud in April – for more visit https://www.mountaincloud.org/event/intro-retreat-april-2025/
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate...2025-04-0336 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Waking up to this threshold moment” with Valerie Forstman
In this talk, Valerie begins with poetry as a portal to the language of koans, a language that uses words to go beyond words. Koans don’t just describe or express the reality of who we truly are. They offer a turning word – a seed of awakening – that can open our eyes to that fundamental reality right in our midst. The talk will turn to case 12 in the Mumonkan (Gateless Gate), a single word that “juts forth” with the capacity to render the world just as it is – intimate and immediate, at once empty and full of wonder.
Recorded o...2025-03-1133 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “What Moves?” with Valerie Forstman
In the Gateless Gate (Mumonkan) case 29, two monks watch a temple flag flapping in the wind. They argue back and forth: is it the flag that moves or the wind that moves? Seeing this, the 6th Chinese ancestor, Huineng, intervenes: “It is not the wind that moves. It is not the flag that moves. It is your mind that moves.” Centuries of Zen students have taken up this case. What is mind? What is moving? What is the dharma that shows itself fully in movement and in stillness?
In this talk, Valerie traces the steps of Huineng’s teac...2025-03-0646 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: Love and Loss in a Seamless World with Valerie Forstman
This talk is offered in gratitude for the life of Johanna Sindelar, a long-time sangha member who dedicated over a decade of service to Mountain Cloud. As a tribute to Johanna, Valerie begins with a look at the Heart Sutra in a rendering by Thich Nhat Hahn that was set to music in harmonies Johanna loved. The talk then turns to case 18 in the Blue Cliff Record, a koan that asks a renowned national teacher, “What shall I do to honor you after you die?” In response, the master implores each of us to realize who we truly are. “Make a...2025-02-2539 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Meeting Challenge with Equanimity” with Scott Thornton
In this talk, Scott draws from the Gateless Gate case 13, “Tokusan Carries His Bowls” as a case study for how we can meet mistakes, challenges, and misunderstandings with equanimity.
Recorded on February 13th, 2025
_______
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/memembership/
Check out our website: https://www.mountaincloud.org/
All are welcome to join us for s...2025-02-1930 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “Listen to the Heart of Things” with Maria Reis Habito
In this talk, Maria sheds light on how listening to the voice of a bird or the sound of rain can bring us fully back home to our true nature. In this context, Maria takes the experience of Fr. Shigeto Oshida as a spring board for Koan No. 46 in the Blue Cliff Record: Kyôsei’s “Voice of the raindrops.”
Recorded on February 7th, 2025
_______
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/don...2025-02-1130 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The Year of the Snake” with Valerie Forstman
On this first day of the Lunar New Year with the world in turmoil, Valerie turns to case 22 of the Blue Cliff Record, “Seppo’s ‘Poisonous Snake.’” What life-giving poison is the koan presenting? What happens if you encounter the snake? The turning word in Seppo’s own awakening story offers a pointer: If you want to expound a great teaching, it must flow forth from your own breast to cover heaven and earth. The dharma treasure is right in our midst – intimate, excluding nothing, and born right now.
Recorded on January 30th, 2025
2025-02-0536 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “What Meets the Eye” with Valerie Forstman
This talk begins with a look at Zen’s parable of the second arrow. What does the story say to us now when we may find ourselves despairing about despair? In response, Valerie turns to the teaching of two root masters who lived during a particularly precarious time in China. Asked “What is the essential meaning of Chan?” Baso (Mazu) replied, “What is the meaning of this moment?” Baso’s counterpart, Sekito (Shitou), taught, “What meets the eye is the Way.” How might these teachings illumine the way as we practice and live in the midst? Recorded on January 23rd, 2025.
2025-01-2831 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharma Talk: “The Path to Discernment” with Carolyn Seburn
Carolyn discusses Mumonkan case 11: Jôshû Examines the Hermits as an invitation to examine and trust our own discernment.
2025-01-2222 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsJanuary 9th Dharma Talk from Valerie Forstman2025-01-1531 minMountain Cloud Zen Podcasts2025’s First Dharma Talk with Valerie Forstman
Welcome in the new year with this Teisho offered by Mountain Cloud’s Guiding Teacher, Valerie Forstman.
To see what Mountain Cloud has planned for the upcoming year, visit www.mountaincloud.org/newyear/
2025-01-0839 minMountain Cloud Zen Podcasts“Darkness and Light Reveal Our True Nature” with Maria Reis Habito
During the season of Rohatsu, Solstice, Christmas and Hanukkha, Maria takes up the psalm of Isaiah: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” This psalm becomes a starting point to reflect on how darkness and light feed our practice of seeing our true nature.
2024-12-1931 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsBreakthroughs Part 2 with Henry Shukman
At this time when many of us may be feeling daunted and uncertain, we gather in the zendo to tap into our shared deeper nature that meditation can open up, drawing sustenance and new perspectives from it.
In this talk, Henry explores breakthrough experiences — sudden shifts in how we understand and experience this life. They can show up in many forms, and in many areas, both personal and collective. Zen’s history is full of stories of sudden awakenings — moments when practitioners found they had broken out of familiar ways of perceiving and understanding their lives, into new wa...2024-11-2740 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsPoetry, Practice, and the Wild Ethics of Love: A Conversation with David Hinton
David Hinton has published numerous books of poetry and essays, and many translations of ancient Chinese poetry and philosophy—all informed by an abiding interest in deep ecological thinking. This widely-acclaimed work has earned Hinton a Guggenheim Fellowship, numerous fellowships from NEA and NEH, and both of the major awards given for poetry translation in the United States: the Landon Translation Award (Academy of American Poets) and the PEN American Translation Award. Most recently, Hinton received a lifetime achievement award by the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or be...2024-11-201h 19Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsValerie Forstman: Zen’s Subverting Impulse: Overturning the One
This week’s talk was offered by Mountain Cloud’s Guiding Teacher, Valerie Forstman. It was recorded on October 31st at the Zendo in Sante Fe.
Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation or becoming a member so we can continue to provide online programs such as this.
Donations: https://www.mountaincloud.org/donate/
Become a member: https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/membership/
Check out our website: https://www.mountaincloud.org/
All are welcome to join us for sitting and dharma talks. Use this link to join us: http...2024-11-0539 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsKali Basman: Cultivating Wonder
Kali invites us to examine the wide array of features that comprise “The Practice Field,” the many aspects of our path of practice. She states that as a species we are quite proficient at ignoring our “shadow side of life,” those parts of us that help inform the richness of the practice field. Through this avoidance of difficult experiences, we contribute to our own suffering. Kali suggests that, with kindness and insight, we can lovingly examine how we are responsible for much of our suffering – not blaming (which consciously assumes we are creating harm) but rather taking responsibility for what we br...2024-10-2933 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsSpring Retreat Talk 4, Gathering the Heart Mind with Valerie Forstman
Dwelling no-where, mind comes forth~ from the Diamond Sutra
Heart mind directs us to the fundamental point of who and what we are. In Chinese there is one term for Heart Mind. No hyphen necessary, simply one. Contemporary Sanbo Zen teacher Migaku Sato wrote a poem with this line: In nothing at all-ness, there is endlessly everything. Out of nothing, here we are practicing, says Valerie or That thou art, says Ruben Habito. To further open, Valerie looks at goneness and oneness in Case18 from the Blue Cliff Record, The National Teacher’s Gravestone.
An...2023-05-1656 min
MC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterSpring Retreat Talk 4, Gathering the Heart Mind with Valerie Forstman
Dwelling no-where, mind comes forth~ from the Diamond Sutra
Heart mind directs us to the fundamental point of who and what we are. In Chinese there is one term for Heart Mind. No hyphen necessary, simply one. Contemporary Sanbo Zen teacher Migaku Sato wrote a poem with this line: In nothing at all-ness, there is endlessly everything. Out of nothing, here we are practicing, says Valerie or That thou art, says Ruben Habito. To further open, Valerie looks at goneness and oneness in Case18 from the Blue Cliff Record, The National Teacher’s Gravestone.
An...2023-05-1656 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsSpring Retreat Talk 3, The Boat is on the River with Valerie Forstman
Valerie explores the clarity and simplicity of Master Hogen who came to be known as the dharma eye of deep clarity. Focusing on Case 51 from Book of Equanimity, Valerie illuminates mind and consciousness through Hogan’s clarity. If you want to study buddha-dharma, everything you see is buddha dharma, a door, a window and the exquisite beauty of the boat is on the river. For Hogan there is no difference between phenomena (worldly dharma) and essential reality (Buddhist dharma). Everything is put to rest.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Al...2023-05-0941 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterSpring Retreat Talk 3, The Boat is on the River with Valerie Forstman
Valerie explores the clarity and simplicity of Master Hogen who came to be known as the dharma eye of deep clarity. Focusing on Case 51 from Book of Equanimity, Valerie illuminates mind and consciousness through Hogan’s clarity. If you want to study buddha-dharma, everything you see is buddha dharma, a door, a window and the exquisite beauty of the boat is on the river. For Hogan there is no difference between phenomena (worldly dharma) and essential reality (Buddhist dharma). Everything is put to rest.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Al...2023-05-0941 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterSpring Retreat Talk 2, The Stone Bridge: Crossing Over with Valerie Forstman
Something puts our feet on this path, starting from the ordinary dualistic world. Gradually, as we practice and practice, in some unguarded moment, everything falls away, and it’s just this. Heaven and Earth: without any space for a conjunction. Then we practice, practice, practice…. and return to the ordinary world, but it’s upside down. This great return is a bridge, a crossing over.
Continuing with Joshu from the previous day’s talk on Mu, Valerie looks at Case 52 from the Blue Cliff Record, about a log bridge that is actually a stone bridge once you are able...2023-05-0244 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsSpring Retreat Talk 2, The Stone Bridge: Crossing Over with Valerie Forstman
Something puts our feet on this path, starting from the ordinary dualistic world. Gradually, as we practice and practice, in some unguarded moment, everything falls away, and it’s just this. Heaven and Earth: without any space for a conjunction. Then we practice, practice, practice…. and return to the ordinary world, but it’s upside down. This great return is a bridge, a crossing over.
Continuing with Joshu from the previous day’s talk on Mu, Valerie looks at Case 52 from the Blue Cliff Record, about a log bridge that is actually a stone bridge once you are able...2023-05-0244 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsSpring Retreat Talk 1, Joshu’s Dog: Crossing Over, Fully Arrived with Valerie Forstman
Crossing over to the other shore is the heart of our practice and the heart of Buddha’s teaching. Eventually we realize that we were always on the shore, here and now, in the moment at hand. In this first talk of our Spring sesshin, Valerie looks at the famous koan: Does a dog have Buddha Nature? the traditional first teisho in a Zen sesshin.
Valerie mentions a choral chant version of the Heart Sutra from Plum Village. Here is a link if you are interested.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of t...2023-04-2539 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterSpring Retreat Talk 1, Joshu’s Dog: Crossing Over, Fully Arrived with Valerie Forstman
Crossing over to the other shore is the heart of our practice and the heart of Buddha’s teaching. Eventually we realize that we were always on the shore, here and now, in the moment at hand. In this first talk of our Spring sesshin, Valerie looks at the famous koan: Does a dog have Buddha Nature? the traditional first teisho in a Zen sesshin.
Valerie mentions a choral chant version of the Heart Sutra from Plum Village. Here is a link if you are interested.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of t...2023-04-2539 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Diamond Sutra and Living Beings with Maria Habito
“Abiding no-where mind comes forth.”
Maria Habito returns to Mountain Cloud’s zoom zendo and talks about the Diamond Sutra. When we enter deep silence, the diamond cuts through every notion we carry. It can show us intimate awareness of no self, no other, no sentient beings and no time.
In this talk, Maria focuses on Living Beings, which refers to those who are not yet enlightened. However many species of living beings there are, Bodhisattvas lead all these species/beings to liberation. However once all these many beings are liberated, we must not think that a...2023-03-1751 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Diamond Sutra and Living Beings with Maria Habito
“Abiding no-where mind comes forth.”
Maria Habito returns to Mountain Cloud’s zoom zendo and talks about the Diamond Sutra. When we enter deep silence, the diamond cuts through every notion we carry. It can show us intimate awareness of no self, no other, no sentient beings and no time.
In this talk, Maria focuses on Living Beings, which refers to those who are not yet enlightened. However many species of living beings there are, Bodhisattvas lead all these species/beings to liberation. However once all these many beings are liberated, we must not think that a...2023-03-1751 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsRohatsu 2022: Day 6, Vibes, Awakening and What then? with Henry Shukman
For this final Rohatsu talk, Henry looks at three questions. What are we doing here, just sitting with each other? What is awakening? and What then? We are living “it” every moment.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Spring Online RetreatThursday-Sunday, March 23-26 Four-day online retreat led by Valerie Forstman
Original Love 2023: Click here for full details
2023-03-0745 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterRohatsu 2022: Day 6, Vibes, Awakening and What then? with Henry Shukman
For this final Rohatsu talk, Henry looks at three questions. What are we doing here, just sitting with each other? What is awakening? and What then? We are living “it” every moment.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Spring Online RetreatThursday-Sunday, March 23-26 Four-day online retreat led by Valerie Forstman
Original Love 2023: Click here for full details
2023-03-0745 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterRohatsu 2022: Day 5, Cannot Get Wet, Cannot Get Dry with Valerie Forstman
In this talk from day 5 of the Rohatsu sesshin, Valerie picks up on the previous day’s talk by Henry where he presents the title and first line of the Heart Sutra. Turning to the figure of Kannon, Kanzeon, or Avalokiteshvara, bodhisattva of great compassion, Valerie asks, “What is compassion?” In response, she lifts up the phrase, “Just compassion,” then turns to a koan that addresses the heart of the matter: who we truly are. The deep Sea of Ise – the sea of the world – calls to us, as does a single stone lying on its floor, a stone that cannot ge...2023-02-2853 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsRohatsu 2022: Day 5, Cannot Get Wet, Cannot Get Dry with Valerie Forstman
In this talk from day 5 of the Rohatsu sesshin, Valerie picks up on the previous day’s talk by Henry where he presents the title and first line of the Heart Sutra. Turning to the figure of Kannon, Kanzeon, or Avalokiteshvara, bodhisattva of great compassion, Valerie asks, “What is compassion?” In response, she lifts up the phrase, “Just compassion,” then turns to a koan that addresses the heart of the matter: who we truly are. The deep Sea of Ise – the sea of the world – calls to us, as does a single stone lying on its floor, a stone that cannot ge...2023-02-2853 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterRohatsu 2022: Day 4, Prajnaparamitra, The Heart Sutra with Henry Shukman
What is this practice? Why do it? Essentially, it’s all about slowing down and things falling away. Our very existence, our being gets simpler. Henry looks at the title and first lines of the central document of Mahayana Buddhism, The Heart Sutra. This document is a story about Avalokiteshvara going from contracted view, to full view.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSaturday February 18, 2023Join Valerie Forstman and our Sangha for a Zazenkai. The Zaze...2023-02-0739 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsRohatsu 2022: Day 4, Prajnaparamitra, The Heart Sutra with Henry Shukman
What is this practice? Why do it? Essentially, it’s all about slowing down and things falling away. Our very existence, our being gets simpler. Henry looks at the title and first lines of the central document of Mahayana Buddhism, The Heart Sutra. This document is a story about Avalokiteshvara going from contracted view, to full view.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSaturday February 18, 2023Join Valerie Forstman and our Sangha for a Zazenkai. The Zaze...2023-02-0739 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterRohatsu 2022: Day 3, All-Inclusive Awakening with Valerie Forstman
In celebration of Shakyamuni Buddha’s awakening, Valerie takes up the Head Chapter of the Denkoroku or Transmission of Light. “I and the great earth and all beings simultaneously attain the Way.” The invitation of this practice is to taste and see: Our sitting, standing, bowing, walking is nothing but that awakening – fully expressing it in every breath, every gesture.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSaturday February 18, 2023Join Valerie Forstman and our Sangha for a Zazenkai...2023-01-1740 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsRohatsu 2022: Day 3, All-Inclusive Awakening with Valerie Forstman
In celebration of Shakyamuni Buddha’s awakening, Valerie takes up the Head Chapter of the Denkoroku or Transmission of Light. “I and the great earth and all beings simultaneously attain the Way.” The invitation of this practice is to taste and see: Our sitting, standing, bowing, walking is nothing but that awakening – fully expressing it in every breath, every gesture.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSaturday February 18, 2023Join Valerie Forstman and our Sangha for a Zazenkai...2023-01-1740 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterRohatsu 2022: Day 2, What Matters Most with Henry Shukman
Henry asks the question, matters most? When you reflect on this question, have any open mind, beyond ordinary or day to day concerns. He asks, what is this experience and what is it to be alive? And… who is having this experience? Watch this exploration of what actually matters and why.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSaturday January 21, 2023Join Valerie Forstman and our Sangha for a Zazenkai. The Zazenkai will be both on-site and on-line.
2023-01-1239 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsRohatsu 2022: Day 2, What Matters Most with Henry Shukman
Henry asks the question, matters most? When you reflect on this question, have any open mind, beyond ordinary or day to day concerns. He asks, what is this experience and what is it to be alive? And… who is having this experience? Watch this exploration of what actually matters and why.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSaturday January 21, 2023Join Valerie Forstman and our Sangha for a Zazenkai. The Zazenkai will be both on-site and on-line.
2023-01-1239 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterRohatsu 2022: Day 1, Light Sitting in Light with Valerie Forstman
In this talk from the first day of the Rohatsu sesshin, 2022, Valerie offers a tribute to Sr. Elaine MacInnes, Roshi, who died a week ago and whose celebration of life will be December 8. Drawing on the experience Sr. Elaine described as “light sitting in light,” Valerie turns to the koan, Mu – a tiny spark that can ignite an inexhaustible flame, opening our eyes to a world of boundless clarity and infinite love.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSat...2023-01-0350 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsRohatsu 2022: Day 1, Light Sitting in Light with Valerie Forstman
In this talk from the first day of the Rohatsu sesshin, 2022, Valerie offers a tribute to Sr. Elaine MacInnes, Roshi, who died a week ago and whose celebration of life will be December 8. Drawing on the experience Sr. Elaine described as “light sitting in light,” Valerie turns to the koan, Mu – a tiny spark that can ignite an inexhaustible flame, opening our eyes to a world of boundless clarity and infinite love.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Daylong Sit / ZazenkaiSat...2023-01-0350 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Zen Jhanas with Stephen Snyder
Guest speaker Stephen Snyder of the Jhana tradition visits Mountain Cloud and offers a teisho on the Buddha’s first and last practice. Jhana practice predates the Buddha by at least 1000 years and is the origin of our Sanbo Zen lineage. Stephen offers an introduction: what is Jhana practice? How are the lineages entwined?
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Evening EventsDecember 22, Thursday evening hybrid event led by Valerie.
New Years Eve EventStay tuned for de...2022-12-1344 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Zen Jhanas with Stephen Snyder
Guest speaker Stephen Snyder of the Jhana tradition visits Mountain Cloud and offers a teisho on the Buddha’s first and last practice. Jhana practice predates the Buddha by at least 1000 years and is the origin of our Sanbo Zen lineage. Stephen offers an introduction: what is Jhana practice? How are the lineages entwined?
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Evening EventsDecember 22, Thursday evening hybrid event led by Valerie.
New Years Eve EventStay tuned for de...2022-12-1344 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Life is Not Suffering with Rick Hanson
It is said that the Buddha teaches only suffering and its end, but what is suffering? Guest speaker Rick Hanson attempts to define this suffering, challenging that suffering is only a small part of everything that exists. Understanding this can help break the pattern of seeing meditation and mindfulness practices as a solution to suffering, rather than a practice worth immersing yourself in. While there is suffering in this world, this world is not all suffering. Rick invites all listeners to embrace this and examine their own experiences with suffering in a new light.
And, here’s a...2022-12-0859 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Life is Not Suffering with Rick Hanson
It is said that the Buddha teaches only suffering and its end, but what is suffering? Guest speaker Rick Hanson attempts to define this suffering, challenging that suffering is only a small part of everything that exists. Understanding this can help break the pattern of seeing meditation and mindfulness practices as a solution to suffering, rather than a practice worth immersing yourself in. While there is suffering in this world, this world is not all suffering. Rick invites all listeners to embrace this and examine their own experiences with suffering in a new light.
And, here’s a...2022-12-0859 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Towards Healing with Peggy Sheehan
“We don’t study koans, we use koans to investigate our life.” ~ Maezumi Roshi
Guest teacher Peggy Sheehan from Zen Center Denver says that koans have been a life long practice, for her. In this talk she explores Case 3 from the Gateless Gate, Gutei’s Finger. Peggy’s work as a pediatrician informs her interest in this koan. Babies become interested in their finger from a young age; first simply pointing upward then, then pointing at things they want, expressing curiosity, often expecting a response.
Peggy asks, where is this finger when you are living your life...2022-11-2955 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Towards Healing with Peggy Sheehan
“We don’t study koans, we use koans to investigate our life.” ~ Maezumi Roshi
Guest teacher Peggy Sheehan from Zen Center Denver says that koans have been a life long practice, for her. In this talk she explores Case 3 from the Gateless Gate, Gutei’s Finger. Peggy’s work as a pediatrician informs her interest in this koan. Babies become interested in their finger from a young age; first simply pointing upward then, then pointing at things they want, expressing curiosity, often expecting a response.
Peggy asks, where is this finger when you are living your life...2022-11-2955 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Complete Exposure of the Golden Wind with Matt Sweger
On this first day of Fall, Teshin takes up case 27 of the Blue Cliff Record, Unmon’s Complete Exposure. The Case reads as follows: A monk asked Unmon, “What is it when the tree withers and the leaves fall?” Unmon answered, “Complete exposure of the golden wind”.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Evening EventsNovember 23, Thanksgiving Day, no eventDecember 1, Maria Habito guest speaker, online only.
Original LoveStay tuned for Original Love 2023 details
Rohats...2022-11-1540 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Complete Exposure of the Golden Wind with Matt Sweger
On this first day of Fall, Teshin takes up case 27 of the Blue Cliff Record, Unmon’s Complete Exposure. The Case reads as follows: A monk asked Unmon, “What is it when the tree withers and the leaves fall?” Unmon answered, “Complete exposure of the golden wind”.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Evening EventsNovember 23, Thanksgiving Day, no eventDecember 1, Maria Habito guest speaker, online only.
Original LoveStay tuned for Original Love 2023 details
Rohats...2022-11-1540 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Each is All, All is One with Valerie Forstman
Upon being welcomed home from Germany, Valerie describes briefly what it’s like being thrown immediately into the chaotic activity of moving from her home in Dallas to Santa Fe: “Constant activity… we are moving, all this activity and at the same time, so still.”
While taking a walk with co-teacher John Gaynor in Sonnenhoff, John offers Valerie this rather cerebral quote from Master Ummon, “The manifestation of the great function, knows no laws.” The great function, what is it? Valerie turns to Case 60, Ummon’s Staff from the Blue Cliff Record as a way of exploring this great fun...2022-11-0831 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Each is All, All is One with Valerie Forstman
Upon being welcomed home from Germany, Valerie describes briefly what it’s like being thrown immediately into the chaotic activity of moving from her home in Dallas to Santa Fe: “Constant activity… we are moving, all this activity and at the same time, so still.”
While taking a walk with co-teacher John Gaynor in Sonnenhoff, John offers Valerie this rather cerebral quote from Master Ummon, “The manifestation of the great function, knows no laws.” The great function, what is it? Valerie turns to Case 60, Ummon’s Staff from the Blue Cliff Record as a way of exploring this great fun...2022-11-0831 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Coming Home, I am Already That with Valerie Forstman
In this talk – an offering of gratitude for the life of a beloved sangha member, Valerie turns to Case 41 in the Transmission of Light or Denkoroko. A monk who has put to rest love of worldly attachments asks, “What, master, do you love?” The master’s response is an invitation to us to realize love beyond any measure.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Evening EventsNovember 10 with Henry Shukman, hybrid event streamed from our zendo November 17 5:30pm – Fundraising C...2022-11-0138 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Coming Home, I am Already That with Valerie Forstman
In this talk – an offering of gratitude for the life of a beloved sangha member, Valerie turns to Case 41 in the Transmission of Light or Denkoroko. A monk who has put to rest love of worldly attachments asks, “What, master, do you love?” The master’s response is an invitation to us to realize love beyond any measure.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Evening EventsNovember 10 with Henry Shukman, hybrid event streamed from our zendo November 17 5:30pm – Fundraising C...2022-11-0138 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: The World Honored One, Just Sat Still with Scott Thornton
Scott explores Case 32 from the Gateless Gate, A non-buddhist questions the Buddha. The non-buddhist says, in all earnestness to the Buddha: I do not ask about words, I do not ask about no-words.
The world honored one, just sat still.
The non-buddhist experiences a great opening as he witnesses the Buddha’s stillness and says, The world-honored one on his great benevolence and great mercy has opened the clouds of my delusion and enabled me to enter the way. Bowing, the non-Buddhist took his leave.
The Buddha answered every question in his silence, Wh...2022-10-2531 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: The World Honored One, Just Sat Still with Scott Thornton
Scott explores Case 32 from the Gateless Gate, A non-buddhist questions the Buddha. The non-buddhist says, in all earnestness to the Buddha: I do not ask about words, I do not ask about no-words.
The world honored one, just sat still.
The non-buddhist experiences a great opening as he witnesses the Buddha’s stillness and says, The world-honored one on his great benevolence and great mercy has opened the clouds of my delusion and enabled me to enter the way. Bowing, the non-Buddhist took his leave.
The Buddha answered every question in his silence, Wh...2022-10-2531 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Endless Depth of Field with Valerie Forstman
In this talk from our Thursday night series, Valerie takes up Case 26 of the Gateless Gate, Hogen’s “Two Monks Roll Up the Blinds.” The setting is in Master Hogen’s teaching room and the issue at hand is our propensity to judgment. What freedom is unleashed when the boundaries we imagine don’t hold up? And what compassion. Hogen points to the blinds, presenting the bright clarity that has been there all along.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Eve...2022-10-1840 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Endless Depth of Field with Valerie Forstman
In this talk from our Thursday night series, Valerie takes up Case 26 of the Gateless Gate, Hogen’s “Two Monks Roll Up the Blinds.” The setting is in Master Hogen’s teaching room and the issue at hand is our propensity to judgment. What freedom is unleashed when the boundaries we imagine don’t hold up? And what compassion. Hogen points to the blinds, presenting the bright clarity that has been there all along.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Thursday Eve...2022-10-1840 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: An Offering to the World with Shana Smith
“Your sitting is not for the world, it is the world.”
How can our practice be an offering to the world? asks meditation teacher Shana Smith. The question arose from the Florida Sanbo Zen Sangha as response to Russian’s invasion of Ukraine. Like all koans this question lived on in the weeks to follow. A number of koans came to mind as Shana thought about giving a talk to the MCZC community that addressed how our practice can be an offering to the world. Having a performance background, she considered the talk to be a presentation of the...2022-10-1126 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: An Offering to the World with Shana Smith
“Your sitting is not for the world, it is the world.”
How can our practice be an offering to the world? asks meditation teacher Shana Smith. The question arose from the Florida Sanbo Zen Sangha as response to Russian’s invasion of Ukraine. Like all koans this question lived on in the weeks to follow. A number of koans came to mind as Shana thought about giving a talk to the MCZC community that addressed how our practice can be an offering to the world. Having a performance background, she considered the talk to be a presentation of the...2022-10-1126 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Valerie Forstman on The Two-Fold Truth: Genjokoan
“Showing their backs then their fronts – falling maple leafs.” ~ Ryokan
“Resolving the matter of Life and death is of prime importance.” To explore this phrase which is recited at the close of Zen Sesshins, Valerie turns to Dogen’s Genjokoan and digs into two truths, conventional and absolute, which are actually one truth. Dogen believes that in Zazen, we are practicing realizing, “ripening the sweet milk of the long rivers.” The entire Genjokoan essay funnels into this single phrase which perfectly expresses the two fold truth that shows up in every koan.
And, here’s a link to our YouTu...2022-10-0430 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Valerie Forstman on The Two-Fold Truth: Genjokoan
“Showing their backs then their fronts – falling maple leafs.” ~ Ryokan
“Resolving the matter of Life and death is of prime importance.” To explore this phrase which is recited at the close of Zen Sesshins, Valerie turns to Dogen’s Genjokoan and digs into two truths, conventional and absolute, which are actually one truth. Dogen believes that in Zazen, we are practicing realizing, “ripening the sweet milk of the long rivers.” The entire Genjokoan essay funnels into this single phrase which perfectly expresses the two fold truth that shows up in every koan.
And, here’s a link to our YouTu...2022-10-0430 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Henry Shukman on Presence
“Your consciousness does not exist separately from what it contains”
Henry explores presence from several different angles, including Internal Family Systems (IFS). The word presence includes some of what mindfulness means, and more. All you have to do is taste it. Presence is really about coming back to yourself, to your own experience.
I am here. It requires no blistering kensho experience, but presence softens the way we cling to ourselves.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Origin...2022-09-2746 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Henry Shukman on Presence
“Your consciousness does not exist separately from what it contains”
Henry explores presence from several different angles, including Internal Family Systems (IFS). The word presence includes some of what mindfulness means, and more. All you have to do is taste it. Presence is really about coming back to yourself, to your own experience.
I am here. It requires no blistering kensho experience, but presence softens the way we cling to ourselves.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Origin...2022-09-2746 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Within Practice We Meet Ourselves
Guest Speaker Karin Kempe of the Zen Center of Denver joins our Thursday Night Sit to offer a talk on Dogen’s statement, “Practice is Enlightenment, Enlightenment is Practice.” While this sounds great, it doesn’t always feel easy. We face resistance that comes up over and over again. Karin offers perspective on the Genjokoan and reminds us that the way is already here. It is not contingent on some method of practice, but within us.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
10 Days...2022-09-1935 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Within Practice We Meet Ourselves
Guest Speaker Karin Kempe of the Zen Center of Denver joins our Thursday Night Sit to offer a talk on Dogen’s statement, “Practice is Enlightenment, Enlightenment is Practice.” While this sounds great, it doesn’t always feel easy. We face resistance that comes up over and over again. Karin offers perspective on the Genjokoan and reminds us that the way is already here. It is not contingent on some method of practice, but within us.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
10 Days...2022-09-1935 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Infinitely Open, Endlessly Bright with Valerie Forstman
Valerie takes up case 29 of the Denkoroku, the record of the ‘transmission of light’ from Bodhidharma to Eka or Huike, as a way to explore the boundless clarity that is none other than this immediate world. One clarity, void of any separation. Hearing a turning word, Eka awakens to the reality Bodhidharma called “vast and void,” and illumines the way.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
10 Days of Koans: An Introductory Intensive with Henry Shukman and Shana Smith and daily instruction. On-line eve...2022-09-1341 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Infinitely Open, Endlessly Bright with Valerie Forstman
Valerie takes up case 29 of the Denkoroku, the record of the ‘transmission of light’ from Bodhidharma to Eka or Huike, as a way to explore the boundless clarity that is none other than this immediate world. One clarity, void of any separation. Hearing a turning word, Eka awakens to the reality Bodhidharma called “vast and void,” and illumines the way.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
10 Days of Koans: An Introductory Intensive with Henry Shukman and Shana Smith and daily instruction. On-line eve...2022-09-1341 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterIntroduction to Meditation Weekend, Talk Two: All
“Love sitting in Zazen, as if putting out a fire on top of your head” ~ Dogen
Valerie Forstman gives the second talk during the April Intro to Meditation weekend. What are you practicing for? We sit in the midst of it all, the pandemic, climate change, suffering and joy… all.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
10 Days of Koans: An Introductory Intensive with Henry Shukman and Shana Smith and daily instruction. On-line event Sept 16-26. Details here.
Sangha Me...2022-09-0652 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsIntroduction to Meditation Weekend, Talk Two: All
“Love sitting in Zazen, as if putting out a fire on top of your head” ~ Dogen
Valerie Forstman gives the second talk during the April Intro to Meditation weekend. What are you practicing for? We sit in the midst of it all, the pandemic, climate change, suffering and joy… all.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
10 Days of Koans: An Introductory Intensive with Henry Shukman and Shana Smith and daily instruction. On-line event Sept 16-26. Details here.
Sangha Me...2022-09-0652 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsIntroduction to Meditation Weekend: Q&A 1 with Valerie Forstman
Description: This is Question & Answer session 1 from the Introduction to Meditation Virtual Weekend. Valerie Forstman is the speaker and teacher for this session.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Original Love, Deep Clear Lake: Weekend Retreat, September 10-11 led by Henry Shukman
10 Days of Koans: An Introductory Intensive with Henry Shukman and Shana Smith and daily instruction. On-line event Sept 16-26. Details here.
Sangha Meeting, Saturday September 17, 10am
Autumn Virtual Retreat, September 29-October 4, led by Val...2022-08-3055 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterIntroduction to Meditation Weekend: Q&A 1 with Valerie Forstman
Description: This is Question & Answer session 1 from the Introduction to Meditation Virtual Weekend. Valerie Forstman is the speaker and teacher for this session.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Original Love, Deep Clear Lake: Weekend Retreat, September 10-11 led by Henry Shukman
10 Days of Koans: An Introductory Intensive with Henry Shukman and Shana Smith and daily instruction. On-line event Sept 16-26. Details here.
Sangha Meeting, Saturday September 17, 10am
Autumn Virtual Retreat, September 29-October 4, led by Val...2022-08-3055 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterIntroduction to Meditation Weekend, Talk One: What is the Shout?
Listen to this talk by Valerie Forstman from the April 2021 Introduction to Meditation Weekend Retreat. A talk at a Zen retreat is traditionally called a teisho which means, Presentation of the Shout. Valerie asks What is the Shout? It’s just this, presenting the fact of who we truly are and offering pointers on how to practice.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Original Love, Deep Clear Lake: Weekend Retreat, September 10-11 led by Henry Shukman
10 Days of Koans: An I...2022-08-2352 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsIntroduction to Meditation Weekend, Talk One: What is the Shout?
Listen to this talk by Valerie Forstman from the April 2021 Introduction to Meditation Weekend Retreat. A talk at a Zen retreat is traditionally called a teisho which means, Presentation of the Shout. Valerie asks What is the Shout? It’s just this, presenting the fact of who we truly are and offering pointers on how to practice.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check out our Upcoming Events:
Original Love, Deep Clear Lake: Weekend Retreat, September 10-11 led by Henry Shukman
10 Days of Koans: An I...2022-08-2352 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterIntroductory Day of Zen: Beginner’s Mind with Valerie Forstman
Valerie examines beginner’s mind and explores the question”what is Zen?” during our March 2021 one-day Introduction to Meditation retreat.
Suzuki Roshi – a Japanese Zen master who brought Zen teaching to America in the mid 20th century – said: Beginner’s mind is the mind of compassion. As Zen practitioners we turn this compassion toward ourselves.
Valerie describes the four motivations that bring people to Zen meditation.1. Curiosity2. Seeking well-being3. Wanting to develop a practice or commit to a spiritual path.4. Looking urgently for answers to the question Who am I?
Suffering...2022-08-1639 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsIntroductory Day of Zen: Beginner’s Mind with Valerie Forstman
Valerie examines beginner’s mind and explores the question”what is Zen?” during our March 2021 one-day Introduction to Meditation retreat.
Suzuki Roshi – a Japanese Zen master who brought Zen teaching to America in the mid 20th century – said: Beginner’s mind is the mind of compassion. As Zen practitioners we turn this compassion toward ourselves.
Valerie describes the four motivations that bring people to Zen meditation.1. Curiosity2. Seeking well-being3. Wanting to develop a practice or commit to a spiritual path.4. Looking urgently for answers to the question Who am I?
Suffering...2022-08-1639 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Compassion and Curiosity, Part 1, Valerie Forstman
“Zen is awakening to the dynamic reality of the present moment…..Zen is finding love in all things at all times. ” ~ Ruben Habito
Valerie explores Zen practice from the mind of compassion and curiosity, looking at the Buddhist origin story – Shakyamuni’s awakening – and the fruits of practice. Valerie asks, What is Zen? A life long path of awakening and a practice to cultivate present moment awareness on and off the cushion. This talk is the first teisho from our February 2021 Valentine’s weekend Introduction to Zen Retreat.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of th...2022-08-0939 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Compassion and Curiosity, Part 1, Valerie Forstman
“Zen is awakening to the dynamic reality of the present moment…..Zen is finding love in all things at all times. ” ~ Ruben Habito
Valerie explores Zen practice from the mind of compassion and curiosity, looking at the Buddhist origin story – Shakyamuni’s awakening – and the fruits of practice. Valerie asks, What is Zen? A life long path of awakening and a practice to cultivate present moment awareness on and off the cushion. This talk is the first teisho from our February 2021 Valentine’s weekend Introduction to Zen Retreat.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of th...2022-08-0939 minMountain Cloud Zen PodcastsDharmatalk: Case 20 from the Book of Equanimity with Valerie Forstman
“… Zazen has been described as silently not influencing anything …”
Koans can provide helpful perspectives for dealing with the uncertainty of current world events. In this talk, Valerie Forstman discusses Case 20 from the Book of Equanimity, in which Jizo tells his student that not knowing is most intimate. She deeply explores the intimacy revealed through this koan of a world that is so near to us yet so well able to maintain itself that we needn’t do anything to influence it.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check...2022-08-0237 minMC Podcasts – Mountain Cloud Zen CenterDharmatalk: Case 20 from the Book of Equanimity with Valerie Forstman
“… Zazen has been described as silently not influencing anything …”
Koans can provide helpful perspectives for dealing with the uncertainty of current world events. In this talk, Valerie Forstman discusses Case 20 from the Book of Equanimity, in which Jizo tells his student that not knowing is most intimate. She deeply explores the intimacy revealed through this koan of a world that is so near to us yet so well able to maintain itself that we needn’t do anything to influence it.
And, here’s a link to our YouTube video of this talk.
Also, check...2022-08-0237 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP332_Henry Shukman_Original Love & Inseparability_Original Love - Introduction (4 of 5).mp32021-06-0145 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP331_Henry Shukman_Support_Original Love - Introduction (3 of 5).mp32021-05-2549 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP330_Henry Shukman_Allowing_Original Love - Introduction (2 of 5).mp32021-05-1847 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP329_Henry Shukman_Original Love - Introduction (1 of X).mp32021-05-1141 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP328_Henry Shukman_Residing in present moment experience_Original Love One - Mindfulness (4 of 4).mp32021-05-0449 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP327_Henry Shukman_Finding Peace_Original Love One - Mindfulness (3 of 4).mp32021-04-2741 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP326_Henry Shukman_Dealing with Desire_Original Love One (2 of 4).mp32021-04-2034 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP325_Henry Shukman_Love In Present Moment Experience_Original Love One (1 of 4).mp32021-04-1338 min
Mountain Cloud Zen PodcastsMCZP323_Henry Shukman_Loving Awakening.mp32021-03-3049 min