Zazen: Summer Sessions

This summer, Japanese Zen monk Tosei Shinabe returns to our Zurich café and store for a new round of Zazen meditation sessions. After last year’s quiet, attentive gatherings, we are grateful to welcome him back. These sessions are open to curious beginners as well as all those who sat with us before and wish to deepen their practice.

Rooted in centuries of Zen tradition, Zazen is a simple act: sitting down and being still. Under Tosei’s gentle guidance, you observe the rhythm of your breath, the thoughts that arise and pass, and the subtle space between movement and silence. There is nothing to believe in and nothing to achieve. Only the practice of noticing. As Tosei explains: “The main thing I do as a monk is teach people Zazen meditation. This is because it can be done anywhere. You just have to sit still – anyone can do it. It’s not telling people that you have to believe in anything, so there’s no conflict with other religions or beliefs. It leads to a transformation in the way you observe yourself and others. You realise your unconsciousness and start to observe it through meditation.”

Whether you are seeking clarity, presence, or a moment of calm in the midst of daily life, these small group sittings offer a rare opportunity to learn directly from a Zen monk who dedicates much of his time to teaching in Kyoto. For those returning, the sessions offer continuity and quiet depth; for newcomers, a gentle threshold into a practice that can unfold over a lifetime. No prior experience is required. Just a willingness to sit, breathe and pay attention. We look forward to welcoming you into the stillness.

Additionally, for all those who sat with us last year, we warmly offer a small, exclusive deepening session – an opportunity to continue your practice in a more focused way.

In the meantime, get to know the fundamentals of Zazen guided by Tosei Shinabe in our four masterclass films.