This talk will explore the Buddhist concept of ‘right effort’ from a Zen perspective, drawing on the teachings of Charlotte Joko Beck, Thich Nhat Hanh and others. Anja will draw on her own Zen practice as well as her work as a music psychotherapist, retreat leader and mindfulness facilitator, to explore the paradox of ‘just sitting’ within a tradition of intensive meditation retreats (sesshins), and finding the balance between rigorous meditation practice and being trauma-informed. She will introduce her concept of ‘optimistic effort’, and how her love of gardening has informed her understanding of ‘right effort’. The talk will include a guided meditation and the opportunity for questions and discussion.

Anja Tanhane is a registered music therapist, a registered Guided Imagery and Music therapist, and an experienced MBSR teacher, retreat leader and mindfulness teacher. She has been practising Buddhist meditation for nearly forty years, including twenty-five years as a student of Zen in the Ordinary Mind Zen school. She is the current Director of Training for the AABCAP Buddhism and Psychotherapy course. Her website is www.mindfulnessmeditation.net.au