Kinhin is slow walking meditation which is done between periods of zazen. Turn and form a clockwise circle with the others in the zendo and maintain even spacing with them. Holding your hands in shashu, take a half step forward as you breathe out, shift your weight as you inhale, and step forward half a step with the other foot on the next out-breath. When the end of kinhin is signaled by one bell ring, stop and bow, keeping your hands in shashu. Return to your place in the zendo at a normal walking pace. When you reach your seat, wait for everyone to return to their seats and shashu-bow with the group. Then turn, gassho-bow to your seat, and sit down for zazen, or you may leave the zendo after the group bow. You are welcome to use the kinhin period for a bathroom break.
