Deepening Freedom through The Work: A Gentle Deconstruction of Identity
With Eduardo Kyozen Zambrano
September 4 - 7, 2025
There is a true person of no rank who is
constantly coming and going from the
portals of your face. Who is that true person
of no rank?~ Rinzai
Why Come:
In the quiet of the monastery we will combine zazen with Byron Katie’s inquiry,
The Work, to question the stories that hold the sense of “me” in place. When those
beliefs are seen through, fear relaxes and a natural compassion shines through.
Over the retreat you will:
- Cultivate a fearless state of mind – apply The Work to any thought or
circumstance, large or small. - See through the veils – question the stories of
– self / other
– past / present / future
– nothing / something
until distinctions soften and only clear awareness remains. - Rest as a true person of no rank—meet the quiet stillness already here, free
of labels.
Prior experience with The Work is helpful but not required. To prepare, we recommend reading Loving What Is before the retreat begins.
The monastery environment provides an ideal setting in which to deepen the practice of The Work. The stillness cultivated through zazen, combined with the profound questioning of The Work, allows our misunderstandings and suffering to blossom into freedom.
Formal meditation will be in the mornings and some evenings. The rest of the day will be spent focused learning and utilizing Byron Katie’s The Work in groups and with partners.
Please only register if you are able to attend the entire retreat. This event will not take place on zoom.
About the Leader

Eduardo Kyozen Zambrano
Eduardo Zambrano is a Professor of Economics at Cal Poly and started practicing Zen in 1995. Eduardo has been doing The Work since 2004, has been offering The Work in Buddhist centers since 2007, and at Great Vow since 2019. “The Work helps me see that everything I ever wanted I already have, that […]
Learn more about Eduardo Kyozen Zambrano