Zen practice contributes to the world by bringing harmony, compassion and ethical integrity into the lives of individuals and communities. Zen transforms how we live with one another and on the earth we share. In a university setting, Zen meditation can help students concentrate on their work and study, cope with the pressures of campus life, and better relate to the diversity of people they encounter daily.
Zen develops our potential as human beings by cultivating our innate wisdom. This is realized and actualized in meditation practice, and extends into everyday life. Zen emphasizes self-realization, which is realization of the true self, through a simple but concentrated practice of contemplation and actualization. Zen practice builds confidence in the self that is ever-changing and inherently interconnected to the world we live in.
Learn more about Buddhism and Zen (pdf).
About Zen Buddhism
About Gareth Sirotnik
Gareth holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Reed College in Portland, Oregon. He has been a writer and communication consultant based in Vancouver since 1972. Gareth is also a long-time practitioner and formerly an ordained monk at the Zen Centre of Vancouver. For Gareth, hearing UBC students say that Zen meditation practice helps them reduce stress, focus better, and find a stronger core of being in a responsive relationship to the world and people around them, makes this the most satisfying work he has ever done.
You can contact Gareth by emailing gareth.ubczen@gmail.com.
Services and events
Drop in to Zen Meditation in the UBC Life Building twice a week, except for statutory holidays:
- Mondays in Room 2214 from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
- Thursdays in Room 2214 from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
If you are joining for the first time, please arrive 15 minutes early for a brief introduction. To connect to the session via Zoom, email Gareth for the meeting information.
Gareth is also available by appointment for one-on-one spiritual guidance one hour before or one hour after the Zen Meditation time. Email Gareth for an appointment.
