Here Be Dragons

On this study course we’ll be exploring the imagery, practices and symbols related to dragons, and finding out how to transform our dragons from enemies to allies to access their unique power and wisdom.

On this 5-week home study course we’ll be exploring the imagery, symbols and practices related to dragons. Meeting the dragon involves meeting that which is fearful or alien within and without. Daizan, together with the other teachers contributing to the recording, will encourage you to gently and kindly turn your attention to your own dragon(s). When we find the courage to do this, the dragon transforms from an enemy to an ally and we access a unique power and wisdom.

Featuring talks and guided meditations from Daizan Roshi describing practices to work with our dragons, and talks about their personal experiences from trainee Zen teachers Mark Kuren Westmoquette, April Gensei Mannino, Riccardo Shunzan Bonaiti and Keith Fuso Alker.

The retreat is suitable for those with an established sitting practice and a willingness to face themselves on all levels.

The practices we explore here expand and follow on from our course “Vital Zen”. In Vital Zen, we unpack Hakuin’s Yasenkana which describes in detail the physical and energetic effects and benefits of Hakuin’s practices, while only alluding to the insight and spiritual benefits. Dragon Zen is an attempt at elucidating these more clearly, while giving a structure around which to explore them yourself.

Taught by Julian Daizan Skinner Roshi with additional talks by Mark Kuren Westmoquette Sensei, April Gensei Mannino Sensei, Riccardo Shunzan Bonaiti Sensei and Keith Fuso Alker Sensei.

Kannon riding King Kong: The first speech bubble says “It’s impossible to say leave you to this destruction”. The second title says “A rescue of the world”