Tahoma Phase 3 Guidance (Updated)

As the Covid-19 pandemic worsens in the US, Washington State has modified it’s phased reopening plans. While Island County is in Phase 3 of the plan this has been limited to a maximum of ten (10) people indoors with masks required.  This guidance has been modified to reflect these changes.

Island County has entered  Phase 3 of the Washington State program for reopening. For Tahoma this means that we can allow more people into the zendo for zazen.  At the same time a statewide mask ordinance has been mandated. There are still limits on activities such as chanting and people in at risk groups are strongly encouraged to “stay home and stay healthy.”   Thus we will allow up to ten (10) people in the zendo for evening zazen and selected events. This is the maximum we can accommodate and maintain six (6) feet of physical distancing. Choka and Sunday Zazenkai remains closed to the public.  Zazenkai will continue to be held virtually.

Tahoma Phase 3 Guidance

  • Masks are required at all times when in the zendo
  • DO NOT come if you feeling sick.
  • Please use the hand sanitizer located outside the door before entering the building.
  • We are allowed to have a maximum of ten (10) practitioners in the zendo. If your party would exceed that number please come another time
  • Stay Six (6) feet apart from other practitioners at all times. Allow for additional time for entering and exiting the zendo.
  • Do not move cushions, chairs or other items from where they are. You can change or add cushions from the cabinet in the gaitan.
  • Do not close the windows.
  • If you start to feel sick, depart at a stretch break or during kinhin (walking meditation).
  • Sanitize your hands before opening the zendo door.
  • Thoroughly wash your hands. Take at least the length of time it takes to chant (to yourself!) the Enmei Jukku Kannon Gyo three (3) times.
  • Cover your mouth/nose with your elbow or sleeve when coughing or sneezing. 
  • Do not shake hands or hug. A gassho (bow) is sufficient.
  • It is strongly encouraged to limit outside activities if you are in a High Risk Population.

Visiting Tahoma

We have been allowing people to visit and walk the trails and grounds. This continues into Phase 3 with no changes to our general policy. If visiting please follow these general rules.

  • Please stay out of all buildings, except for the zendo during designated public zazen. 
  • Do not congregate into groups. 
  • Maintain physical distancing.
  • Wear a mask.

Further information

Washington State Mask Mandate
Effective June 26, a statewide order requires individuals to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces such as stores, offices and restaurants. The order also requires face coverings outdoors when you can’t stay 6 feet apart from others. (full order here: pdf)

Washingtons Phased Approach
Details on Washington’s phases and the restrictions involved in each one can be found here: Washingtons Phased Approach
Where we currently are at can be found here: Risk Assessment Dashboard.