About Us

Welcome

Little River Zen is a Zen Buddhist group located in Northeast Alabama. We are committed to the practice of Zen in the Soto Zen tradition of Kodo Sawaki and Taisen Deshimaru as transmitted through Robert Livingston and his disciple, Tony Bland. In our tradition, we consider zazen (seated meditation) to be the most essential activity of the Zen practitioner.

Altar at Little River Zen Dojo in Mentone, Alabama

Founded in 2022 by Ken Perry, a disciple of Tony Bland and an ordained monk with over 15 years of practice experience, Little River Zen provides a space where people can explore the practice of Zen. We emphasize zazen (seated meditation) and the actualization of awakening in the ordinary activities of everyday life. We offer weekly zazen and occasional Zen workshops. Prior to moving to Alabama, Ken served as a Teacher for the Jackson Zen Group in Mississippi.

Robert Livingston-Roshi, disciple of Taisen Deshimaru

Robert Livingston-Roshi (1933-2021), Founder of The New Orleans Zen Temple, disciple of Taisen Deshimaru, and Teacher to Tony Bland

What is Zazen?

“The essence of Zen Practice is Zazen, the practice of sitting concentration. It is not about philosophy, ethics or religion. It is simply the practice of waking up to reality, being present and aware, here and now.

Sitting still, legs crossed, the knees press the ground, the head presses the sky. Zazen is the daily practice of concentration on this exact posture, concentration on the deep exhalation, and letting the thoughts pass.

During Zazen, the body becomes receptive and attentive, and the brain strong and peaceful. With repeated, continuous practice, the body-mind returns to its natural balance. Unconsciously and automatically, fear, anxiety, and doubt vanish; wisdom, patience, and compassion arise.

Zen practice is unlimited. With Zazen at the center, each activity of daily life becomes an opportunity for concentration and observation. The deep effects of true practice extend throughout the cosmos.”

Robert Livingston-Roshi, New Orleans Zen Temple

Hands held at level of solar plexus during kinhin, walking meditation

Please contact us if you are interested in Zen practice, have any questions, or would like to join us for zazen (seated meditation).