Welcome
Clouds in Water is a vibrant and inclusive community in the Soto Zen Buddhist tradition, with a mission to awaken the heart of great wisdom and compassion, interrupt systemic oppression and cultivate joy.
Founded in 1994, we regularly offer meditation, classes, and retreats. We are located in the historic Rondo neighborhood of St. Paul, and everywhere via Zoom. We welcome people of all backgrounds and faiths.
Find refuge in the heart of the Twin Cities
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2025 Membership Campaign!
Sept. 15 - Oct. 19
Our sangha is almost entirely self-supporting, so we're all working together to spread the Dharma and provide refuge, compassion, and joy for all.
Your gift is essential, whether it's the gift of your presence, volunteering, or a monthly financial gift. Our annual membership drive is a way to add Dharma energy to our community - especially important in these challenging times. Because we're a diverse, inclusive group, some of us bring this energy by being present, some can also give the time to help out, and some can help financially, whether it's $10 per month or an increase of your current monthly donation.
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Yoga Classes at Clouds!
Oct. 5 - Dec. 18
Yoga as an act of liberation, compassion and meditation
Join us on Tuesday mornings and Thursday evenings for a gentle yet powerful practice that weaves together movement, breath, and meditation. Rooted in compassion and curiosity, this class is not about performance—it’s about presence. Together we will ground in the body, soften the heart, and explore the edges of possibility with gentleness. Whether you are new to yoga or deepening a long-time practice, this is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, your breath, and community.
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Youth, Family & Teen Practice
Sept. 28 - Dec. 7
Providing a spiritual home for families is a big part of what we do at Clouds in Water.
We are excited to launch our Zen Family, Youth Practice, and Teen Practice this fall.
Please invite friends and family who may be interested to check us out.
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A Snapshot of Clouds News
New issue available monthly
Find a paper copy at Clouds in Water, or view the PDF at the link below.
Dharma Talks
Meditation
Zazen (meditation) is at the heart of our practice. We have offerings throughout the week in person and on zoom. We also offer sesshins (retreats) throughout the year, at Clouds in Water and at Ryumonji Zen Monastery and Hokyoji Zen Practice Community.
All levels of experience are welcome!
Study
There is always a class, workshop, or practice group happening at Clouds! In addition to our Fall and Spring practice periods, we offer classes on anything from karma to the precepts to embodied social justice.
Community
Our sangha - community - is made up of a diverse groups of folks from all over the Twin Cities (and the country, via Zoom). We gather together every Sunday and have many opportunities to connect through our classes, practice groups, and sesshins (retreats).