Grounding in Practice

Care for the well-being of all beings is not separate from our practice. It is an expression of it. The First Grave Precept, “I vow not to kill,” calls us to protect and nourish the dignity and well-being of all life. Caring for one another’s physical health is a direct manifestation of this vow.

These guidelines exist so that the Zendo remains a genuine refuge: a place where anyone, especially newcomers, can sit without worrying about their health or the health of those around them.

Stay Home If You Are Sick

This is our most important guideline. If you have any symptoms of a casually communicable illness, please do not come to the Zendo. Symptoms include:

Fever or chills
Cough, sore throat, or runny nose
Shortness of breath
Fatigue, body aches, or headache
Loss of taste or smell
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

This applies regardless of whether you have tested. When in doubt, stay home. Online sitting options are available.

Known Exposure to COVID-19

If you have had a known close contact exposure to COVID-19 (within 6 feet for 15+ minutes with someone who tested positive), please do one of the following:

Stay home that week and return the following week if you have no symptoms, OR
Wear a well-fitted N95 or KN95 mask AND test negative before attending

Masking

Masking is optional at BZC. We respect each individual’s choice and encourage sensitivity to the needs of those around you, particularly those who are immuno-compromised or high-risk. Masks are available at the entrance for anyone who would like one.

Community Health Monitoring

BZC monitors local respiratory illness levels using the Vermont Department of Health’s Respiratory Illness Activity tracker, which includes a wastewater surveillance dashboard updated weekly. This data reflects COVID-19, influenza, and other casually communicable illness levels in our region.

When community levels are elevated or rising, BZC will issue recommendations via:

A notice on the BZC website
The monthly newsletter
An email to the sangha list (reserved for significant rises in cases)

Recommendations may include encouraging masking or other precautions, and will always be clearly communicated as recommendations, not requirements, unless circumstances change significantly.

Vermont Respiratory Illness Activity tracker: healthvermont.gov

Ventilation

BZC opens windows during warmer months to improve air circulation in the Zendo. We are committed to continuing to improve air quality as resources allow.

Questions or Concerns

If you have questions or concerns about these guidelines or your own health situation in relation to attending practice, please contact the Ino, whose role includes stewardship of the Zendo environment.

Supporting High-Risk Members

We are especially committed to the safety of members who are immuno-compromised, elderly, or otherwise at higher risk. If you have specific concerns or needs, please speak with the Ino or a teacher.

Review

These guidelines will be reviewed periodically by the BZC Board and updated as public health conditions and community needs evolve.