The traditions of Zen practice may seem confusing at first. But soon, each gasho and posture becomes second nature. Don't distract yourself by worrying "Am I doing this right?" It's called practice for a reason.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Before sitting zazen, bow toward your cushion, then bow outward toward the center of the room. Then sit.

• When the bell rings to end a zazen session, bow toward the wall from a seated position before standing up.

• At the end of a kinhin (walking meditation) session, bow in place before walking briskly back to your cushion. Bow inward toward the group.

• Shoes should be left outside the door or on the side of the room with the sofas. Please, no pagers or cell phones.