Themes

Buddha-Nature

Practice and express 'Inter-being'.

This is a word coined by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh describing the connection between all things

in the universe, known as ‘Buddha-nature’ in Buddhism.

Jizo

Explore your compassionate core.

This is the name of a Japanese “saint” or bodhisattva who looks after children and oversees

particular times of transformations. He is a wonderful gift for a friend in transition, moving house,

on a new career path, or who has lost a loved one. (download pdf on Jizo)

Tree of Life

Connect to the life force between the heavens and the earth.

Experience peace that permeates the whole environment and joins us all together in a deep inner

stillness. Contemplating the elements between the heavens and the earth, we find they are

interconnected. The trees help create the clouds. The clouds nourish the trees. And they all

nourish our selves.

Giving Bowl

Holding your goodwill to share with others.

Our two cupped hands are the basis of a vessel, made to symbolise the offering of goodwill, and

the receiving of acceptance

Wish Ball

Release the power of intention.

This is a simple hollow sphere with a loose piece of clay that rattles. Each time you want to

release that intention or wish, take hold if you wish ball and shake. It causes a vibration with pure

intent to be released into the universe.

Reminder Rocks

Get back in touch with the present moment.

A pinch pot is made while meditating on an aspect of your life that is perhaps in need of reminding.

Peace, calm, relax, breathe, love – these are some of the words that may be written on the rock.

Place it near the most useful spot that is in the most need of that sentiment.

When you are in need of reminding, just take it in your hands and remember how you made it.

That feeling of peace will return to you in that moment.

Zen Meditation

Janet also offers an orientation to Zen meditation at the Sydney Zen Centre on Wednesday nights.

Please phone Janet beforehand to book – (02) 9589 4636. “Zazen or seated meditation is a path to

discovering insight and wisdom and realising our true nature. It helps us overcome greed, selfishness,

negativity and worry, cultivates intimacy and closeness with ourselves and all of life, gives a foundation

for ethical and noble aspirations in this life and a basis of peace, relaxation and inner joy.

Our practice is to actualise our realisation in the world, to embody the Buddha’s Way.” Sydney Zen Centre