Description
One of the earliest Zen teachings is attributed to Bodhidharma, the tradition’s founder. In his text, “Two Entrances and Four Practices,” he offers practical guidance for entering the path and recognizing for ourselves the true heart of Zen and our original awakened nature.
To enter the Great Way there are many paths, but essentially they are of two means:
by Principle and by Practice” – Bodhidharma
About the Retreat
In this daylong retreat, we will explore Bodhidharma’s teaching that all sentient beings share the same true nature. We’ll begin with Entering by Principle, the way of being “non-discriminative, still, and wu-wei” (effortless action). Through clear guidance, participants will learn how this principle can be realized in the art of just-sitting meditation.
Next, we will study the Four Practices: accepting adversity, adapting to conditions, seeking nothing, and according with the dharma. Each of these practices is introduced with a detailed explanatory passage. Participants will receive a translation of the text beforehand as a study resource.
Bodhidharma’s ancient teaching of the Two Entrances and Four Practices remains deeply relevant for students of buddhadharma today. Every one of us shares this mysterious human nature, and through these time-honored practices, we can begin to recognize the profound reality of our buddha nature.
Lunch: Please bring your own light lunch to the event. We will have access to a refrigerator. Cold and hot water, as well as snacks will be provided.
Schedule
9:00am – Welcome and Introductions
9:10am – Opening Meditation (posture, breathing, mind)
9:40am – Walking Meditation
9:45am – Dharma Talk on the Bodhidharma’s Principle and Practice
10:45am – Tea Break
11:00am – Meditation (just-sitting)
11:25am – Discussion, questions, and comments on the text
12:00pm – Lunch Break
1:00pm – Meditation (just-sitting)
1:25pm – Walking Meditation
1:30pm – Dharma Talk – Bodhidharma’s Principle and Practice continued
2:15pm – Meditation (just-sitting)
2:30pm – Reflections and Sharing
3:00pm – Metta Chant and Closing
Location
Bay Shore Community Church
5100 E. The Toledo
Long Beach, CA 90803
Get Directions
We meet in the beautiful Gabrielson Chapel which serves as our meditation hall in the Belmont Shore area of the City of Long Beach. This is a shared community space which is ADA Accessible, LGBTQ+ welcoming, and there are gender neutral restrooms.
The doors close promptly at the start of the program. We recommend arriving 5-10 minutes early to make tea if you prefer and get settled. Upon entry we ask that you silence your devices. If you arrive after the start of the program, please knock and we will happily open the door for you.
Parking: There is a free lot across Granada Ave. Parking passes will be available at event check-in. Street parking is also available. Please observe all parking signs.
Equipment: For your comfort there are padded chairs, meditation benches (seiza), firm sitting cushions (zafu), floor mats (zabuton), and small blankets to choose from. You may also bring your own sitting equipment. We encourage you to bring your own blanket or shawl for your comfort.
Lunch: Please bring your own light lunch to the event. We will have access to a refrigerator. Cold and hot water, as well as snacks will be provided.
Questions: Email us at info@longbeachmeditation.org
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Event Details
Date: 12/13/2025
Start time: 09:00 a.m. PST
End time: 03:00 p.m. PST
Venue: Bay Shore Community Church, 5100 E. The Toledo, Long Beach, CA 90803
