Meditating together in Essen? The Zenkreis Essen extends a warm welcome to all seeking Zen meditation.
Zenkreis Essen stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. The Zenkreis Essen e.V. is recognized as a non-profit association. It actively practices Buddhism within the Rinzai Zen school.
Since its inception, the Zenkreis Essen has been a place for individuals to explore Zen meditation. It provides a serene space to escape the daily grind. It’s a place to find inner peace.
Melanie ZaGen M., a Zen nun ordained at Taikosan Ryumonji Monastery, leads the Zenkreis Essen. Ordained in 2020, she is a student of Master Olivier Reigen Wang-Genh. Master Wang-Genh asked her to create a space for Zen meditation in her hometown. Melanie teaches regular mediation in Essen, where she once trained in Kung Fu.
The Zenkreis Essen moved to new rooms in January 2025. You can now find the group in the Gemeindehaus Isinger Feld. The address is Evangelische Kirchengemeinde Essen-Kray, Meistersingerstr. 52, 45307 Essen.
The group offers introductions to newcomers. These introductions happen every first Wednesday of the month. Zazen takes place every Wednesday evening. It starts at 7:15 PM. Yoga sessions tailored to Zazen needs happen once a month. Workshops on correct sitting posture also occur irregularly.
Zenkreis Essen welcomes everyone. No prior experience is needed. You do not need to be a Buddhist. You can meditate on a cushion, a chair, or a meditation bench.
The Zazen session includes periods of sitting and walking meditation. It includes Kinhin. It lasts for a total of 30 minutes. The second period is 25 minutes.
Renate Rei Kyo Kaufmann Sensei and Udo Rei Sei Hundt are also associated with the Zenkreis Essen.
The Zenkreis Essen is part of a larger network of Zen centers. It is linked to the Rinzai tradition of Hoko-ji. Several Zen groups share this connection. These groups are spread across Germany. They exist in cities such as Hamburg, Kiel, Munich, and Bremen.
The website www.zenkreis-essen.de provides further details. It offers insights into the group’s activities and philosophy. You can reach out via gassho@zenkreis-essen.de or call 0201/308459.
The Zenkreis Essen invites you to embrace stillness. You can discover the profound wisdom within.