Mountain Cloud Zen Podcasts

This talk takes up case 34 in the Blue Cliff Record or Hekiganroku, “Kyozan’s ‘Not Wandering,’” as a guide to that exploration. Kyozan (Yangshan) asks a monk, “Where have you

In this talk, Valerie returns to the basics of Zen practice beginning with a beloved verse by the renowned 8th century Chinese poet, Li Po. The poem is both a practice

Valerie Forstman delves into the poetry of love and loss, revealing insights from 9th-century Zen master Joshu about the nature of time. She challenges listeners to reflect on how we perceive existence in the present moment. The discussion emphasizes mindfulness and compassion while navigating global suffering. The importance of stillness in reshaping our understanding of time is explored, inviting a deeper connection with the collective human experience and the profound interplay between individual moments and shared reality.

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

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

Join Henry Shukman, a Zen teacher and guiding figure at Mountain Cloud Zen Center, as he delves into our interconnectedness with the world through the lens of koans and poetry. He discusses the essence of Zen practice focusing on stillness, confronting discomfort, and the journey towards awakening. Shukman also contrasts various cultural perspectives on existence, urging listeners to confront emotional obstacles like greed and hate. His reflections are beautifully complemented by a poignant poem about rain, encouraging deep introspection.

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,

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

Valerie shares transformative experiences from a Zen retreat in Germany, emphasizing the power of community in meditation. The discussion explores the One Way koan, revealing themes of boundlessness and interconnectedness in our lives. Through reflections on emptiness and the Heart Sutra, listeners are invited to feel a deep connection with their surroundings. The talk culminates in the celebration of freedom found in the present moment, rich with gratitude and a sense of responsibility toward nature.

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