Windhorse Zen Community

It seems clear that many of the difficulties that arise for Western Dharma practitioners are unique to our culture and psyche.  It’s also our experience that they can result in problematic states not well addressed through traditional forms of practice. So our intent with this section of the Windhorse website is not to create a place for psychologizing Zen, but one where we can share and explore more psychologically-based issues that overlap with, or arise in the midst of, practice.  We do want to remain focused on issues that might all be included under the heading of Psychodynamic Zen, but lots of things are possible and we’re certainly open to suggestions.

We’re starting with just a few initial postings: an introductory section, an article that highlights the experiences of several practitioners, a very brief bibliography, the beginnings of a glossary, and a place to address comments and questions.  Two other articles are in the works: one that explores the complexities of the teacher/student relationship especially with regards to some of the unconscious dynamics that can come into play, and another dealing with a few first hand accounts of unconscious openings (unlockings) that have been experienced during retreats.

In the future we also intend to move into other areas such as peoples’ experiences practicing with bi-polar disorder, addiction recovery, depression, and so forth. There might be a section on what to look for when trying to find a therapist, or links to related sites such as the Spiritual Emergency Network.  We may also look into ways of exploring specific topics such as Mother Teresa’s years of hidden doubt, or questions that arise out of writings such as the article entitled Enlightenment Therapy (New Yorker Magazine, April 2009), or perhaps take an in depth look at loving kindness practices and the underlying metapsychology of forgiveness.

Included in the site is a link for sending in comments or questions, and it’s also possible to write directly to Forum@Windhorsezen.org.  This section is now open, and we’ll be glad to make available relevant postings, but we are asking people to sign up first.  If you’d like to be a contributor see our guidelines on the questions and comments page.

Also, if you have other questions about programs offered at Windhorse please call or write directly; and if you value the style of Zen training at Windhorse, and would like to support this website, please send your tax-deductible contributions to our Panther Branch address, or make an online donation.