ZLMC Statement on COVID-19 Virus

Dear members and friends of Zen Life & Meditation Center of Chicago, We are committed to protecting our members and visitors from flu, colds and other viruses. We hold all of you in our hearts as together we prepare to meet the current public health challenge facing our world, COVID-19. In times of increased stress, anxiety and fear, it’s important to calm the body and mind by practicing mindfulness in our daily lives. We remain open to the public. The following outlines the immediate precautions that we are taking to mitigate the risk of spreading this COVID-19 virus. We will follow recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as well as other precautions particular to our community life. This includes sanitizing the downstair bathroom and front doorknobs every day. Sanitizer has been made available at the front desk, in the kitchenette, community room, and upstairs dining room. We have posted CDC guidelines and information downstairs by the bulletin board. If you do not feel well, have symptoms such as a fever, cough or sneezing, or if you have been exposed to people who have these symptoms, please stay at home until you feel better and are not showing symptoms. If you need to cough or sneeze while at ZLMC, please cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow. Know that your face is the most vulnerable area of your body, so try not to touch it any more than possible. Try using the traditional Buddhist greeting of a gassho bow, instead of the less sanitary hand shake or hug. It’s a graceful way to acknowledge and respect each other. In times like these, our practice intentions include efforts to be well-informed, avoid harmful reactivity, engage in beneficial action and support each other with love and patience. May all beings be happy, joyous and live in safety. With a gassho and wishes for your well being. ZLMC Board of Directors MARCH 8, 2020