CLATSKANIE – In the Zen tradition, true healing involves increasing our awareness of wholeness. The practice of awareness can help restore energy, build endurance, and suffuse our lives with compassion and joy. Ellen Birx, a professor of nursing, Zen teacher and the author of Healing Zen, will discuss essential aspects of healing such as presence, openness, acceptance and balance. For more information, call ( 503) 728-0654 or e-mail registrar@greatvow.org.

Introduction to Zen, Oct. 29 through 31, is led by Zen teachers Hogen and Jan Chozen Bays at the Great Vow Zen Monastery, Clatskanie. Cost is $100.

Zen Practice is about seeing what is right in front of us, directly and clearly. During this retreat, we will follow a monastic schedule, which allows us to temporarily drop what’s outside and go deeply into inner work. All elements of a meditation retreat will be covered, including basic meditation techniques, posture, breathing, formal meals and facing obstructions. Private interviews with the teachers will be available, and suggestions for continued home practice will be offered. For more information or to registrar please contact (503) 728-0654 or e-mail

(registrar@greatvow.org).