emphasizing the art of living with presence, awareness, and compassion.
Sōen Michael Brunner’s teachings center on living with presence, awareness, and compassion, guiding students to discover their true nature through direct experience and dedicated Zen practice. His approach emphasizes meditation as the realization of enlightenment itself, not a path toward it, inspiring a life deeply rooted in wonder and spontaneity. Sensei is a father, husband, Abbot, and Soto Zen Teacher in the lineage of Dainin Katagiri Roshi through Diane Martin Roshi. Michael Brunner resides in Ottawa, IL.
Media & Press
One River Zen Residency
Shaw Local: One River Zen names writer, artist for residency in Ottawa
One River Zen, in partnership with the Arts of Starved Rock Country Fund, has selected a writer and artist for an eight-week residency exploring the intersection of art, community, and contemplative practice.
I’m proud of our community for creating space where creativity and Zen practice can meet.
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ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE SELECTION
Starved Rock Media: Call for Artists — Submissions for Residency in Ottawa
Ottawa’s creative spirit keeps expanding, and we’re grateful to see opportunities like this artist-in-residence program that invites local and regional artists to share their gifts with the community.
At One River Zen, Sensei Michael Brunner continues to advocate for creative expression as a form of mindfulness — building bridges between art, practice, and place.
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KARUNA PANTRY
Ottawa Times: One River Zen in Ottawa Adds Micro-Pantry to Help Those in Need
Sensei Michael Brunner and the sangha at One River Zen expand community outreach with a free-access micro-pantry serving neighbors in Ottawa.
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Writings
Embracing Every Mis-Step
In this essay on Medium, Sensei Michael Brunner of Ottawa, Illinois reflects on how each mis-step becomes a doorway to presence, humility, and awakening.
Walking in Daylight — Hekiganroku Case Forty-One
In this Medium essay, Sensei Michael Brunner of Ottawa, Illinois explores Case Forty-One from the Blue Cliff Record, offering a contemporary Zen reflection on light, freedom, and everyday awareness. Written in his distinctive voice, it bridges classical koan insight with modern life and invites readers to walk in daylight themselves.
Questions about beginning your Zen journey? Schedule an appointment with Sensei Michael Brunner to explore the transformative practice of Zen. Whether you’re new to meditation or deepening an existing practice, Sensei Michael offers personalized guidance, helping you cultivate presence, awareness, and compassion in each moment.