The purpose of the Santa Rosa Zen Group is to provide a context in which people can learn what it takes to wake up from the self-centered dream we all live in. The primary tool is meditation, but almost equal emphasis is given to how we can find clarity and equanimity within the high-speed confusion of everyday life.In order to live the more open and genuine life we all desire, the following qualities are emphasized:

Stillness: learning how to settle down in mind and body;


Perseverance: learning to stay with all the ups and downs of our lives;


Clear seeing: seeing through our conditioned beliefs and strategies;


Willingness: learning to acknowledge and embrace whatever life presents – including anger, fear, shame and confusion – as our opportunity to learn;


Lovingkindness: learning to awaken to the lovingkindness that is the nature of our Being.

The SRZG was founded by Ezra Bayda in 1995 as an offshoot of his practice at Zen Center San Diego. It is primarily a Zen meditation group, with weekly meetings on Wednesday evenings, and four-hour sittings every other weekend. Ezra comes to Santa Rosa once a month to lead the Sunday sitting, conduct interviews, and lead the weekly meeting (on Monday evening when Ezra is in town). He also is available for phone “interviews” at regular hours during the week. Once a year he conducts a weekend meditation retreat in Santa Rosa, co-taught with his wife and fellow Zen teacher, Elizabeth Hamilton.

This group is not Buddhist, although much of the teaching is consistent with Buddhism.

Those wishing to attend can contact the group at zeninfo@santarosazengroup.org for more information. In general, it is not a ‘drop-in’ group. Those deciding to practice in the group commit to coming regularly to scheduled events, as well as to maintaining a regular meditation practice.

Meditation instruction will be given to all new members.

Dues are $25 a month.