TEACHING
Classes
Classes are short courses — typically four to eight weeks — that explore a specific aspect of practice. They are open to everyone unless noted otherwise.
Current & Upcoming Classes
Starts May 27 · Online
The Essential Dogen
Six weeks with the writings of the great Zen master, centered on the Levitt & Tanahashi edition. A close, unhurried reading together of the founder of our lineage.
Teachers: Joel Barna & Kim Mosley
When: Tuesdays, 6:00–7:00 PM
Dates: May 27 – July 1
REGISTER →
STARTS SOON!
Starts Sep 15 · Onsite
Talk Like Water: A Zen Approach to Difficult Conversations
We all have conversations we'd rather avoid. Too often we meet these moments braced for battle, ready to win or retreat. This class explores another way. The first class in our new Everyday Zen series.
Teacher: Nathan Smalley, Ph.D.
When: Tuesdays, 6:30–7:45 PM
Dates: Sep 15 – Oct 6 · Onsite
Details soon→
NEW CLASS!
Past Classes
Over the years, we have offered several series of classes. They are archived below. Each class stands on its own — there is no required sequence — and each series keeps growing.
The pillars of practice.
Our longest-running series explores the core teachings of the Zen and Buddhist tradition — meditation, the life of the Buddha, spiritual friendship, the foundations of awareness, cause and effect, and the forms of practice. Not a ladder to climb but supports sunk deep in the ground, each one steadying the whole.
Streams that feed the river.
Alongside the tradition, our teaching has been shaped by streams from other fields — psychology, cognitive science, social systems, and ecology — that flow into and enrich practice. The name is also a tribute, honoring how profoundly these waters have joined the mainstream of our shared life.
Practice off the cushion.
This series takes what zazen teaches and carries it into the texture of ordinary life — the way we speak, work, love, and raise children. Each class turns to a single arena of everyday experience and asks how presence and clarity might actually live there.
Generosity-based
Classes are offered on a pay-what-you-can basis. An amount is suggested, but no one is turned away. You may also give dana in support of Appamada or the teacher.
Onsite & online
Most classes meet at the zendo, over Zoom, or both. Unless noted, all are open to everyone — no prerequisites.
Yours to keep
Each class page holds the teacher's notes, readings, and recordings, so you can follow along or revisit the material anytime.