Workshop
Mental Health in practice: Introduction to Vietnamese Trúc Lâm Zen Meditation
Christophe Marion & Joanna Różycka-Tran
This workshop offers a practical introduction to Vietnamese Zen meditation in the Trúc Lâm tradition, established in the 13th century by King Trần Nhân Tông and continued today under the guidance of zen master Ven. Thích Thanh Từ. The session will take place in a truly special setting – the attic of St. John’s Centre- providing a quiet and atmospheric space for practice.
In keeping with the practice-oriented nature of Zen, the workshop will begin with a brief introduction to sitting meditation (approximately 5 minutes), including instructions on proper posture and the mental focus of the practice. This will be followed by a 30-minute sitting meditation, allowing participants to experience the essence of Zen directly.
After the meditation, a short theoretical presentation will explain how these practices affect the mind and how Zen meditation can support mental well-being, building a bridge between Eastern contemplative traditions and modern science. The final part of the workshop will be devoted to open discussion and reflection, giving participants an opportunity to share their experiences and ask questions.
This workshop is designed as an accessible introduction to Vietnamese Zen, inviting participants to explore its essence through both practice and understanding. Please bring a cushion or a blanket for comfortable seating. No prior experience is necessary.
Christophe Marion spent five years living with monks, gaining deep practical experience in Zen meditation, mainly at the Thiền Viện Trúc Lâm Zen school in Dalat; as doctoral student he is working on the barriers to the practice of meditation.
Joanna Różycka-Tran spend few months living in different Truc Lam Zen Monasteries in Vietnam, conducting scientific studies and publishing articles about the mental health and meditation.
Polish 
English