Mountain Cloud Zen Podcasts

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

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,

David Hinton, a prolific author and translator, dives into the interplay of poetry, love, and ecology. He elaborates on the Taoist concept of an 'empty mind' and its connection to self-realization and nature. Hinton critiques how technological advancements affect human consciousness and urges a rekindled kinship with the Earth. He also connects ancient Chinese poetry and Chan meditation, highlighting poetry's power to deepen our bond with nature. The conversation beautifully intertwines art, love, and our ethical responsibilities to the environment.

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

Kali dives into the multifaceted journey of practice, highlighting the importance of recognizing our shadow sides. She emphasizes how avoiding difficult emotions can amplify our suffering. Through kind awareness, we hold ourselves accountable without blame, fostering a space for healing. The discussion blends personal stories and transformative ideas about vulnerability, resilience, and growth. By embracing uncertainty with curiosity, we can uncover wonder even in life's turbulent moments.

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

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

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.

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

“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