Satya is the founder and vision coordinator for Touching Earth Sangha. Originally inspired in a spiritual direction from early experiences in the wilderness, Satya began a daily sitting practice while studying Asian religion at college. He practiced at various American Zen centers before heading to Asia for retreat and pilgrimage, including traversing the Himalayas on foot from Dharamsala to Leh, Ladakh. He studied with Kobun Chino Otogawa Roshi for a number of years, as well as with the Japanese Zen Master Harada Tangen Roshi of Bukkokuji Temple, where he underwent five years of monastic training. He has also practiced with the Korean Zen Master Seung Sahn, and learned from Tibetan Dzogchen masters, Sufi musicians, Indian raga artists, and taiji teachers. Satya does not maintain any lineage affiliation, and encourages the questioning of the institution of sectarian lineage, as to whether it helps or hinders our practice of awakening.

Committed to remaining primarily money-free, Satya settled in Portland, Oregon, where he has been leading a Sunday sitting group for many years, and has been helping Food Not Bombs bring free vegetarian feasts to public parks.

Here’s a link to a few video interviews with Satya.