Soto Zen
Soto Zen Buddhism is the largest of the three traditional sects of Zen in Japanese Buddhism, the other two being Rinzai and Obaku. It was established by Zen Master Dogen in the 13th century and emphasizes "shikantaza," a specific approach to meditation also known as zazen or "just sitting."
Zazen is the heart of Soto Zen practice. A regular practice of zazen helps to bring awareness to the workings of one's own mind. With increased awareness, we are able to know ourselves, to recognize our relationship to all other things and beings, and to glimpse our true compassionate nature. Soto Zen is a down-to-earth practice of “everyday zen" which is particularly poignant in times when feelings of isolation and separation from others causes suffering.