Question 1

What tradition do you practice in?

Accepted Answer

We practice Korean Seon (Zen), an ancient tradition that has been cultivated in Korea for more than 1,400 years and traces its roots to Tang Dynasty China in the 7th century. A branch of the Imje school (Ch. Linji, Jp. Rinzai), Korean Zen has its own distinct character but is closely related to Chinese Chan and Japanese Rinzai. It emphasizes awakening through direct experience, meditation, and the integration of awareness into everyday life.

Question 2

What do you practice?

Accepted Answer

The main form of practice at Dohasa is ganhwa seon, a path of inquiry that reveals the wonder and clarity within everyday life. At the heart of this practice is a question such as “Who am I?”, “What is this?”, or “What is Mu?”, which we carry into all our activities. This continuous inquiry helps cultivate calm, clarity, and presence in daily life and ultimately leads to awakening to our true nature. It is the thread that connects all of our practice forms, whether sitting, walking, or engaging in ordinary tasks.

Korean Zen is a broad and inclusive tradition that offers many ways to cultivate mindfulness and insight. In addition to ganhwa seon, practitioners may engage in Buddha-recitation (yeombul), mantra practice, sutra study or copying, and other forms of devotional or contemplative practice. All of these are respected paths within the Korean Zen tradition and serve as complementary or preparatory practices for ganhwa seon.

If you are interested in learning more, please visit our Forms of Practice page for additional information.

Question 3

I am a beginner. Where should I start?

Accepted Answer

Welcome. Start by reading our Newcomer’s Guide, which explains how you can get started.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help.

Question 4

Do I need prior meditation experience?

Accepted Answer

You don’t need any previous meditation experience to join us. Our sessions are open and welcoming to everyone, whether you are completely new or have practiced for many years. We offer guidance and a supportive environment where you can learn, explore, and experience the benefits of meditation and the Zen tradition at your own pace.

Question 5

Do I need to be Buddhist to attend?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Everyone is welcome, whether you follow another religion, have no religion, practice a different Buddhist tradition, or are simply curious. We believe this practice can benefit anyone. These teachings are freely offered, and you are invited to explore them in a way that feels natural and comfortable for you.

Question 6

What if I practice in a different tradition?

Accepted Answer

No matter what tradition you follow, you are warmly welcome at Dohasa. Our space is open to anyone interested in meditation, Zen, or Buddhism in general, and we value the diversity of paths that lead to mindfulness and insight.

Many of our events, such as the meditation hikes and all-day retreats, can be joined by people who practice different techniques or are from a different tradition, as long as it is done respectfully and in harmony with the overall flow of the event. You are welcome to participate in the way that feels natural for you.

Our long-term vision is to grow into a temple that serves the broader spiritual needs of the community, not only those who practice our particular method or belong to our specific tradition. Wherever you come from and however you practice, we hope you find peace, inspiration, and connection here.

Question 7

What if I can't sit on the floor?

Accepted Answer

No problem. You can practice seated on a chair or in any comfortable position that works for you. Chairs and benches are available at all of our indoor events for those who need them. Everyone is welcome to join, whatever their physical abilities.

Question 8

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

There is no strict dress code. Wear comfortable, flexible clothing that allows you to move and sit with ease. Muted or dark colors are preferred but not required. The most important thing is that you feel relaxed and ready to practice.

Question 9

Is there a cost to attend?

Accepted Answer

Most of our activities are freely offered and supported through donations. Each event has operating costs, and contributions help us cover expenses and continue offering these programs to the community. Every donation, large or small, goes directly toward sustaining our activities and working toward a dedicated center of our own.

You can make a donation using the form on each event page or through our main donation page. Whatever you are able to give is received with deep gratitude. Everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of financial contribution.

Our all-day and multi-day retreats have fixed donation amounts, as there are significant costs that need to be covered. For details on retreat pricing, please visit the all-day or multi-day retreat pages.

Question 10

Can families and children attend?

Accepted Answer

Yes, children and families are welcome at Dohasa Zen Group!

The Hwadu Hikes are a perfect opportunity to introduce young children to mindfulness and to help them notice and appreciate the beauty in the world around them.

Our Tuesday evening meditation sessions are great for older children and teenagers. It is a wonderful way for them to start learning about their minds and developing calm and awareness.

Some events, like our monthly all-day meditation retreats, are geared toward adult practice. Families are welcome to attend together, but we recommend contacting us in advance if you plan to bring young children so we can provide guidance and ensure a supportive environment for all participants.

Question 11

How can I support Dohasa?

Accepted Answer

You can support Dohasa by making a donation or contributing at our events. All funds go directly toward sustaining our activities and working toward a dedicated center. Your generosity makes this community possible, and every contribution, large or small, helps it grow.

Volunteering your time and skills is equally valuable. We welcome those who wish to help our events run smoothly or donate their skills in areas such as administration, communication, and development. Your participation helps Dohasa thrive and ensures a welcoming experience for everyone.

Question 12

How can I get involved?

Accepted Answer

If you would like to take a more active role after attending a few of our sessions, please speak with Alex Carroll (Practice Leader) or send us an email. We are always looking for people to help with supporting roles during our events.

If you have skills in areas such as administration, finance, organization, communication, or development, we would love to hear from you. For current volunteering opportunities, please see this page.

We also welcome ideas for new initiatives that can help Dohasa grow and serve the community.

Questions & Answers

Frequently asked questions