DROPPING BODY AND MIND, 9 & 10.11.2024

A Zen seminar with Bernd Bender

November 9 – 10, 2024

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

BIOS, Pireos 84, Athens 

One of the central teachings of Zen master Dogen is the “dropping of body and mind.” He also taught that “the entire world of the ten directions is the true human body. The entire world of the ten directions is within the radiant light of the self.”

According to Dogen, we often confuse the body and mind we appear to have with the body and mind that we truly are. So, what is this body and mind that need to be dropped? How do we realize this dropping in our meditation practice? And what is the “radiant light of the self,” which Dogen describes as the liberating experience of a Zen practitioner?

During this weekend retreat, we will reflect on Dogen’s teachings, explore practices to release and let go, and discuss how to integrate them into our daily lives.

The retreat is open to everyone—no prior experience or knowledge of Buddhist teachings is required. Bernd will speak in English, with Greek translation available if necessary.

About the teacher:

Bernd Bender has practiced Zen since 1987. He went to California in 1994 to continue his studies at the San Francisco Zen Center. He received Dharma Transmission (authorization to teach) from Dairyu Michael Wenger and is a lineage holder in Soto Zen. In 2012, he moved to Berlin, where he offers Zen practice, teaches courses in meditation and Buddhist philosophy, gives lectures, and accompanies people on their spiritual paths. He is the founder and guiding teacher at Akazienzendo, Berlin.

Schedule:

Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Zazen (meditation), Dharma talks, discussions, and optional one-on-one meetings with the teacher.

Cost: 40€ for both days or 25€ per day

Location: BIOS, Pireos 84, Athens

Scholarships:

Reduced course fees are available through Zen Center Athens. If interested, please contact us.

Registration:

To register, please send an email to: [email protected]

With respect,

Zen Center Athens