Mountain Cloud Zen Podcasts

Dive into the thought-provoking discussion about the ecological crisis and the potential for intelligent life on exoplanets. Explore the essence of being human through the lens of the Buddha’s teachings and the significance of the Middle Way. Uncover the concept of 'seeing in the dark' and how it relates to awakening. Valerie introduces the intriguing koan of Unman's Bright Light, emphasizing non-attachment and the beauty of having empty hands. The talk concludes with a reflection on engaging with both light and dark in our practice.

Valerie Forstman dives into the profound teachings of koans, specifically Kyozan's 'Not Wandering.' She emphasizes that every moment encapsulates the entirety of existence. Through personal anecdotes, she explores the transformative nature of suffering as a catalyst for awakening. Valerie reflects on Kyozan's journey, highlighting the significance of presence and the symbolic meaning of Mount Ro. The discussion invites listeners to consider their own paths and the duality of awakening as both liberating and challenging.

Valerie explores the foundations of Zen practice, emphasizing posture, breath, and calming the mind. She introduces a poem by Li Po that reflects the unity of self and nature. The discussion includes a koan about sweeping the ground, illustrating the relationship between effort and ultimate emptiness. Valerie connects everyday actions, like sweeping, to deeper awakenings and encourages integrating mundane tasks with profound insights. Ultimately, the talk urges listeners to fully engage in each moment of their lives.

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.