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Welcome to One River Zen
Where ancient tradition meets modern life. At One River Zen, we blend the timeless teachings of Sōtō Zen Buddhism with contemporary practices to help you awaken to your true self and realize your full potential. Our community is rooted in tradition yet fully open to the present, empowering all to embody wisdom, compassion, and mindfulness in today’s world through daily practice.

Upcoming Classes & Retreats

WEEKEND RETREAT STARTS DECEMBER 6TH

REFLECT & RESOLVE |


ROHATSU WEEKEND MEDITATION RETREAT

Join us from December 6th to 8th for a profound weekend dedicated to reflection and renewal as we embrace the Rohatsu season that commemorates the Buddha’s enlightenment.

FOUR WEEK SERIES BEGINS JANUARY 8TH

FOUR WEEK SERIES BEGINS JANUARY 16TH

ENTERING THE WAY |
FUNDAMENTALS OF ZEN PRACTICE

A four-week journey designed to ground you in the practices of meditation and mindfulness so you can begin to open to your life and recognize your true potential.

HOW TO SAVOR YOUR LIFE

DŌGEN’S TENZO KYŌKUN 典座教訓

Start off the New Year by immersing yourself in the transformative wisdom of Dōgen’s Tenzo Kyōkun (Instructions for the Cook) in this four-week series, where we’ll uncover the art of savoring life through mindful, everyday practice.

Key Offerings

 

Classes

Begin your meditation & mindfulness journey today and transform your life with classes in all facets of the Buddhist spiritual path

Offered online & in-person

Retreats

Retreats are a time to take a step back from the habits of our daily life and connect with our authentic self.

Offered online, in-person, & residential

 
 

Zen Studies

The foundation of a transformational Zen practice and the traditional path for seekers of the Way for more than 1,500 years.

Offered online & in-person

Meditation

Meditation is the core practice of Zen. Join us online and in-person to encounter this transformational practice in a supportive community.

 

“If you are searching for fellowship with peaceful, mindful, and like-minded people look no further.”
-Rhonda N.

Visit Us

121 E Prospect Ave
Ottawa, IL 61350

One River Zen Meditation Center is located just over an hour from Chicago where the Illinois and Fox Rivers converge. We’re nestled in the Illinois River Valley near scenic Starved Rock State Park.

 
 

Instagram @oneriverzen

"Have the courageous attitude of a hero with the loving heart of a child." – Soyen Shaku What does it mean to live with courage and compassion? To step into life’s challenges without fear, with openness and trust? This teaching invites us to let go of our stories and walk boldly into each moment, knowing we already have everything needed to make a difference. 🌅 Join us tomorrow for morning meditation. 🕰 Mon–Fri: 6:30–7:15 AM | Sat: 9:00–10:00 AM ☕ Coffee and connection included! #ZenWisdom #CourageAndCompassion #MorningMeditation #oneriverzen
The halls of One River Zen are aglow with the warmth of Christmas lights and seasonal decorations, a reminder of the shared virtues that unite us across traditions. Compassion, grace, and gratitude—pillars of the Christian faith—are equal
The halls of One River Zen are aglow with the warmth of Christmas lights and seasonal decorations, a reminder of the shared virtues that unite us across traditions. Compassion, grace, and gratitude—pillars of the Christian faith—are equally cherished in the heart of Buddhist practice. As we sit in meditation, we hold these values close, recognizing that they transcend any one path. Compassion calls us to see the suffering of others and respond with open hands and hearts. Grace invites us to move through life with humility, offering kindness without expectation. Gratitude centers us in the beauty of this moment, reminding us of the interconnected web of beings that sustain us. This season, as we reflect on the light that shines in the darkest days, we celebrate these shared virtues as a bridge between traditions. Whether in the stillness of zazen or the glow of a candlelit Christmas service, we are reminded of our common humanity and the profound truth that kindness and love know no bounds. May this season bring peace to all beings, and may we continue to walk together in the spirit of harmony and goodwill. #OneRiverZen #Compassion #Grace #Gratitude #InterfaithHarmony #BuddhistPractice #ChristianTraditions #SharedValues #SeasonOfLight #PeaceToAllBeings #KindnessAndLove #pickusottawail #zenlife #sotozen #pickusottawail #meditation #mindfulness #zenlife
🙏 Today, we celebrate Mujin and Dokan’s Jukai and their dedication to the Zen path. Their commitment reminds us that each of us has the opportunity to awaken and embody the Dharma in our own lives. If you’ve ever felt the call to explor
🙏 Today, we celebrate Mujin and Dokan’s Jukai and their dedication to the Zen path. Their commitment reminds us that each of us has the opportunity to awaken and embody the Dharma in our own lives. If you’ve ever felt the call to explore this journey, we invite you to start today. The path is always open, and there is a place for everyone in the Sangha. Step into practice with us, find support in community, and discover the beauty of the present moment. 🌿 #OneRiverZen #JukaiCeremony #StartYourJourney #Awaken #pickusottawail #zenlife #sotozen
🍂 During retreat, our practice extends beyond the zendo and cushions. Here at One River Zen, samu (work practice) becomes a way to embody mindfulness in each task. Whether raking leaves, painting, using a chainsaw, or simply working side by side, ev
🍂 During retreat, our practice extends beyond the zendo and cushions. Here at One River Zen, samu (work practice) becomes a way to embody mindfulness in each task. Whether raking leaves, painting, using a chainsaw, or simply working side by side, every action contributes to the care and beauty of our temple grounds. In these moments, we come together as a Sangha, transforming ordinary tasks into acts of devotion and service. Through samu, we remember that practice is not confined to silence but lives in every movement and breath. Join us in this shared path, where community and practice meet. 🌱 #OneRiverZen #SamuPractice #ZenRetreat #MindfulWork #zenlife #pickusottawail #sotozen
🌸 We are honored to introduce two new bodhisattvas receiving Jukai today at One River Zen. Please welcome Mujin Bob Carlson and Dokan Frank Qualtier to the Sangha! Mujin means "Endless" or "Boundless," a fitting name for Bob, wh
🌸 We are honored to introduce two new bodhisattvas receiving Jukai today at One River Zen. Please welcome Mujin Bob Carlson and Dokan Frank Qualtier to the Sangha! Mujin means "Endless" or "Boundless," a fitting name for Bob, who embodies profound dedication to practice. Starting later in life, Mujin has shown us that there is no boundary for deep and transformative practice. Dokan means "Broad Path," perfectly capturing Frank's balanced approach as a senior executive, family man, and sincere practitioner. His name reflects the vast, inclusive path he walks with dedication to the Dharma, embodying wisdom in all the roles he plays. Both Mujin and Dokan remind us that the path is always open, inviting each of us to begin our journey!🌄
Time for a weekend retreat! Come for a retreat soon and see what this practice is all about! #zen #buddhist #meditation #meditationretreat #sotozen #oneriverzen #pickusottawail #zenlife
Time for a weekend retreat! Come for a retreat soon and see what this practice is all about! #zen #buddhist #meditation #meditationretreat #sotozen #oneriverzen #pickusottawail #zenlife
🌿 Embodying Compassion | A Post-Election Practice 🌿 As we navigate the days following the election, it’s easy to feel swept away by intense emotions, divisive opinions, and the endless stream of news. But our Zen practice reminds us to ground ourselves, to return to presence, and to cultivate compassion – especially when it’s challenging. In today’s Early Morning Light talk, we reflect on staying rooted in our core values, honoring our intentions, and meeting each moment with openness. This isn’t about ignoring what’s happening around us but about embodying a deeper compassion for ourselves and for others, no matter which "side" they’re on. ✨ Practice today by: Taking a few mindful breaths before reacting. Setting an intention for compassion in your interactions. Staying present and rooted, no matter what news comes your way. Remember, our practice isn’t about running from discomfort but about showing up fully – with empathy, clarity, and peace. May this post-election moment be an invitation to embody the compassion we wish to see in the world. 🌎💙 #EmbodyingCompassion #PostElectionPractice #ZenPractice #OneRiverZen #EarlyMorningLight #MindfulLiving #ZenLife #PickUsOttawaIL #MindfulMoments #CompassionInAction #StayPresent #ElectionReflection #BreatheAndBe
Work practice during retreat! #zen #samu #oneriverzen #zenlife #meditation #mindfulness #pickusotrawail
Work practice during retreat! #zen #samu #oneriverzen #zenlife #meditation #mindfulness #pickusotrawail
Excited for our Weekend Meditation Retreat “The Zen of Recovery” to begin shortly! It will be a honor to sit with these brave bodhisattvas transforming the world by bravely transforming themselves…. #zen #meditation #retreat #oneda
Excited for our Weekend Meditation Retreat “The Zen of Recovery” to begin shortly! It will be a honor to sit with these brave bodhisattvas transforming the world by bravely transforming themselves…. #zen #meditation #retreat #onedayatatime #pickusottawail #zenlife #oneriverzen
🎃 A wonderful day at Trinity Lutheran’s Trunk or Treat! Thank you to everyone who joined us to make this event full of community spirit, laughter, and Halloween fun. The creative costumes and decorated trunks brought out the magic in all of us
🎃 A wonderful day at Trinity Lutheran’s Trunk or Treat! Thank you to everyone who joined us to make this event full of community spirit, laughter, and Halloween fun. The creative costumes and decorated trunks brought out the magic in all of us!🎃 🍬 Hope everyone enjoyed the treats, the games, and connecting with friends old and new. We love these moments that bring us all closer. Happy Halloween season from One River Zen! 🍂🧡 #OneRiverZen #TrunkOrTreat #TrinityLutheran #CommunitySpirit #HalloweenFun #ZenCenterEvents #OttawaIL #FallFestivities #SpookySeason #FamilyFun #MindfulMoments #HappyHalloween #zenlife
"Have the courageous attitude of a hero with the loving heart of a child." – Soyen Shaku What does it mean to live with courage and compassion? To step into life’s challenges without fear, with openness and trust? This teaching
The halls of One River Zen are aglow with the warmth of Christmas lights and seasonal decorations, a reminder of the shared virtues that unite us across traditions. Compassion, grace, and gratitude—pillars of the Christian faith—are equal 🙏 Today, we celebrate Mujin and Dokan’s Jukai and their dedication to the Zen path. Their commitment reminds us that each of us has the opportunity to awaken and embody the Dharma in our own lives. If you’ve ever felt the call to explor 🍂 During retreat, our practice extends beyond the zendo and cushions. Here at One River Zen, samu (work practice) becomes a way to embody mindfulness in each task. Whether raking leaves, painting, using a chainsaw, or simply working side by side, ev 🌸 We are honored to introduce two new bodhisattvas receiving Jukai today at One River Zen. Please welcome Mujin Bob Carlson and Dokan Frank Qualtier to the Sangha! Mujin means "Endless" or "Boundless," a fitting name for Bob, wh Time for a weekend retreat! Come for a retreat soon and see what this practice is all about! #zen #buddhist #meditation #meditationretreat #sotozen #oneriverzen #pickusottawail #zenlife
🌿 Embodying Compassion | A Post-Election Practice 🌿 As we navigate the days following the election, it’s easy to feel swept away by intense emotions, divisive opinions, and the endless stream of news. But our Zen practice reminds us to groun
Work practice during retreat! #zen #samu #oneriverzen #zenlife #meditation #mindfulness #pickusotrawail Excited for our Weekend Meditation Retreat “The Zen of Recovery” to begin shortly! It will be a honor to sit with these brave bodhisattvas transforming the world by bravely transforming themselves…. #zen #meditation #retreat #oneda 🎃 A wonderful day at Trinity Lutheran’s Trunk or Treat! Thank you to everyone who joined us to make this event full of community spirit, laughter, and Halloween fun. The creative costumes and decorated trunks brought out the magic in all of us
Featured
Stopping to See
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Stopping to See
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In this Early Morning Light talk, Sensei Michael reflects on a childhood road trip that took an unexpected turn when a traffic jam brought strangers together in an extraordinary moment of connection.

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Designing the Perfect Meditation Space
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Designing the Perfect Meditation Space
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One River Zen’s founders Michael Brunner and Vanessa Roddam are featured in a recent article by Apartment Guide on creating the perfect meditation space in your home. Read the full article and all the tips from many experts in the field here.

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The Hero’s Wisdom & The Child’s Heart
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The Hero’s Wisdom & The Child’s Heart
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"Have the courageous attitude of a hero with the loving heart of a child." Soyen Shaku’s timeless teaching invites us to step beyond fear and embrace life with boldness and compassion. Let go of your stories, trust in the moment, and discover the wisdom within.

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Embracing Every (Mis)step
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Embracing Every (Mis)step
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In this episode of Awakening Streams, we explore how missteps, mistakes, and perceived failures are not obstacles but integral parts of the path. Drawing on Zen teachings and real-life examples, Sensei Michael reflects on the importance of embracing our imperfections with clarity and compassion.

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