Shonin Darah Ashton
Darah Shonin Ashton has practiced with the Zen Community of Oregon since 2009 and was made a Dharma holder in 2019. She currently co-leads Thursday evening meditation at Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple. Since 2019 she has served as treasurer for ZCO. Shonin recently retired from a 30 year chiropractic career and enjoys spending more time with family and friends. A sewing hobbyist, she happily tutors zen students through the construction of wagessas and rakusus.
Events with Shonin Darah Ashton
December Sesshin - Rohatsu - Waitlist/Online only availableDecember 6, 2026
The light of the Buddha’s awakening has not dimmed. This very moment, alive, awake and luminous. Each year people from all over the world gather to celebrate, to sit in stillness and to be nourished by this truth. All over the world people join in the ritual of Rohatsu sesshin. This sesshin is the culmination of a year of practice and is also the culmination of our fall Ango practice period. At many centers and monasteries, this is the most valued sesshin of the year, and may be the only one that many people are able to attend. We…
Jizo's Vow Workshop at Heart of WisdomJanuary 8, 2027
As we pass the Winter Solstice and turn to the new year, the time is ripe for contemplating vow. When you think about life’s purpose, what comes up? Zazen and inquiry offer a framework to become grounded and transform the energy of the unknown into possibilities. Zazen teaches us to turn down the volume on the planning, worrying mind and make space for deeper kinds of knowing. Infused with the Great Determination, Optimism, and Fearlessness of Jizo Bodhisattva, vow offers a path to inspire and support our lives. Whether you would like to renew your vow, revise your…
Investigating Zen Practice: A One-Day WorkshopFebruary 27, 2027
Experience an Introduction to Zen Practice through the Ten Directions. This one-day in-person workshop at Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple is for beginners or those who want to dive deeper into Zen practice. Learn how to practice using ancient methods that are applicable in today’s world: Meditation and sitting with stability Mindfulness practice off the cushion Chanting Mindful eating Work practice Stillness Walking meditation Koans Tradition and ritual Dharma teachings These workshops fill with waitlists. If you are not coming, please let us know ASAP so we can give your spot to someone else. Suggested donation includes a vegetarian/vegan lunch.…