However you found your way to this page — curious about meditation, exploring Buddhism for the first time, or simply looking for a quieter way to move through your day — you're welcome at Zen Fields. No experience, background, or belief is required to begin. Below, you'll find an introduction to what Soto Zen practice actually is, what to expect if you join us for your first sit, a few short videos to help you get oriented, and some recommended reading if you'd like to go deeper. Take your time — there's no wrong way to start.
2500 years ago a human being just like you and I realized the inter-dependance and inter-causality of all things. In other words, we are created by the world, and simultaneously create the world in each moment. ‘Buddha’ is the title given to this human being. The Buddha’s awakening is for all of us regardless of our gender, race, ethnicity, ability, income, intelligence and all of the things that separate us from one another.
This link takes you to Zen in Japan, where our school of Buddhism began. Here you can find many resources for practice, including how to meditate, Zen philosophy, teachings, and much more.
Dogen is the founder of Soto Zen in Japan. Visit this link to learn about the history of this world renowned master not only of Zen, but of poetry and writing. Dogen is considered a literary genius.
Zazen has been translated as "meditation," yet it'smuch more than simply counting your breaths. This link gives video instructionsfor how to do zazen, as well as teachings from Dogen’s "UniversalRecommendations for Zazen."
This magazine is for those new to Zen practice as well as those wishing to deepen their understanding. It includes articles that trace the history of Zen beyond Japan, as well as academic perspectives on practice and the writings of the founders Keizan and Dogen.
Coming to your first sit can feel a little intimidating if you don't know what to expect — here's what a typical visit looks like.
No experience is necessary, and no signup is usually required for a regular sit — just show up a few minutes early. If you'd like a brief orientation beforehand, feel free to reach out through our Contact page and one of our teachers can walk you through the basics ahead of time.
Comfortable, modest clothing that allows you to sit and move easily. Loose pants are more practical than tight or restrictive clothing. You'll remove your shoes before entering the practice space.
Arrive 5–10 minutes early to settle in quietly. Someone will be there to greet you, show you where to sit, and give you a brief rundown of the schedule for that session. Seating is offered in a few forms — a cushion on the floor, a low bench, or a chair — so you can choose whatever your body is comfortable with.
A typical session includes seated meditation(zazen), sometimes alternating with slow walking meditation (kinhin), and mayinclude a short talk. The room stays quiet once practice begins, but a greeteror fellow practitioner will guide you through any bows, bells, or transitions —so you're never left guessing.
Most sessions end with a chance to ask questions or chat informally with others. There's no pressure to talk to anyone or to come back — just come and see what it's like.
If you're interested in attending with children, see our family program on the Practice page — it's designed specifically to make the experience welcoming for all ages.
Not sure what a meditation session actually involves? This video walks you through the basics — how to sit, what to focus on, and what to expect — so you'll feel prepared before you ever set foot in the room.
If you'd like more than a video to get started, join our Intro to Zen class — a guided session that walks you through seated meditation (zazen) alongside an exploration of core Buddhist teachings on mindfulness, impermanence, and awakening. It's designed for people encountering Zen for the first time, blending direct experience with the ideas behind it.
Class is held twice a year
Quaker House, 121 S. Maple Avenue, Ames
February 27th, 1-3pm
September 25th, 1-3pm
If you'd like to explore Zen more deeply through reading, we've put together a list of recommended books for beginners and longtime practitioners alike. You'll find our full list on the Dharma Resources page.
Explore Books on Dharma Resources →The best way to understand Zen practice is simply to experience it. Visit our Practice page to see our regular schedule, upcoming retreats, and family programs, and find a time that works for you.
See the Practice Schedule →Want to keep up with what's happening at Zen Fields? Sign up for our newsletter to receive Dharma teachings, reflections from our teachers, and updates on upcoming sits, retreats, and events — delivered straight to your inbox. Whether you practice with us regularly or are just getting started, it's an easy way to stay connected to the community between visits.
