Hi all. I've been practicing zen meditation here in Rochester formally with a community about 6 years now, including both daily practice alone and with a group, peppered with retreats that last up to 7 days with 10+ hours of still sitting per day. It has absolutely been the foundation of my recovery and my life. I've never been into the whole god thing, and without the experiences I've had in meditation I think I wouldve had a harder time working the steps. There is definitely a difference between meditation and relaxation, at least in my tradition. Here is a link with detailed instructions on how to sit in zen meditation for those who are so inclined:
http://www.mro.org/zmm/teachings/meditation.php
If anyone wants to talk zen or whatever please pm me...