• According to the earliest recorded teachings of the Buddha, it was a common theme in his teaching and his last word, encouraging his followers to fare forward with appamada—with energetic care. He often compared appamada to an elephant's footprint, which is so large that it can contain the footprint of all the other animals. In the same way, the Buddha said, appamada—mindful, clear care—contains all of his other teachings.

    We have adopted this name for our community of practice and inquiry because it reflects not only our aspiration as teachers, but our sense of the community as a whole, and its contribution in the world. (You can learn more about the name here.) Our practice follows the tradition of the American Zen teachers Joko Beck and Shunryu Suzuki. In our teaching we draw on the Zen teachings and tradition we were trained in, as well as other Buddhist teachings and contemporary work in psychology, interpersonal neurobiology, language, the sciences of complexity and ecosystems, the arts, community, and philosophy.

Appamada’s Spring Practice Period

A practice period is a dedicated stretch of time when we come together for zazen, study, and shared forms in a more intentional rhythm of practice. Join us as we explore what it means Living in Sangha—the understanding that practice was never meant to be solitary. Together, we discover how our practice deepens when we stay in relationship, and how sangha becomes one of our most powerful teachers. 

  • If you’d like to register for Appamada's Practice Period. This is an opportunity to set new intentions for your practice and to connect with a practice buddy (to your choosing, if you'd like).

  • Sign up for tea with our Head Student for the practice period, Seren8y Fernandes.

We look forward to practicing with you!

Newcomer orientation

New to Appamada or to Zen? Join us for a brief orientation to learn how practice unfolds here and how to get started.

ONline & ONSITE

Every Sunday, 8-8:50 AM CT
913 E. 38th, Austin, TX 78705

Orientation is optional—you’re welcome to attend any program at any time. We look forward to seeing you!

Zazen

Silent, still meditation—is central to our practice. Join us onsite or online: M–F 6:30–7:45 AM, Sundays 9:00–10:10 AM CT (with Dharma Talk at 10:20 AM). See our calendar.

OUR SCHEDULE

Welcome! Our programs are open for everyone. We are currently offering Zazen in person as well as via Zoom. There is a link in the calendar for each event, so please join us!