Millennium Park Zen Meditation Group

Our Vision: Awaken to the Present Moment

The Chicago Zen Meditation Community invites you on a journey of self-discovery through the practice of Soto Zen Buddhism. Founded on the ancient wisdom of Zen masters like Bodhidharma, Eihei Dogen, and Zenju Suzuki, we cultivate a space for deep reflection, mindful inquiry, and transformative experiences.

Who We Are

We are a diverse group of Chicagoans united in our commitment to the transformative power of Zen meditation. Our community welcomes individuals from all walks of life, regardless of experience or belief. Led by experienced teacher Myoshi Thomson, we offer a supportive and welcoming environment for exploring the depths of the human experience.

Our Practice

Our practice centers on silent seated meditation, known as Zazen. This profound practice allows us to cultivate a still mind, allowing us to:

• Cultivate present-moment awareness
• Dissolve tension and stress
• Access deep wisdom and insight
• Develop a sense of deep peace and tranquility

Beyond Meditation

As we delve deeper into the practice, we learn to apply the wisdom of Zen in our daily lives. Through mindful awareness, we can:

• Transform our relationships with ourselves and others
• Approach challenges and obstacles with greater clarity and resilience
• Cultivate mindful actions that align with our deepest values
• Experience a sense of deep fulfillment and purpose

Join Us

Whether you are a seasoned meditator or just starting your journey, we invite you to join us. Our weekly meditation sessions offer a safe and supportive space to explore the depths of your potential.

Our Lineage

Our lineage traces back to the esteemed Zen masters of Japan, including the renowned Eihei Dogen, who eloquently expressed the essence of Zen: "To study the Way is to study the self; to study the self is to forget the self; to forget the self is to be awakened by all things."