Born in 1962 in Los Angeles California, I studied History and German at UCLA (BA).  I traveled widely throughout the USA and Europe during my younger years, and studied for two semesters at the Georg-August University in Göttingen (1983-84). 

In 1985 I left for Japan with a one-way ticket. I lived there for 13 years, 11 of them in Sogen-ji Temple in Okayama, guided by Shodo Harada Roshi.  I  also studied Aikido, Tai Ji, and Japanese music.  In 1991,  I was ordained as an 'unsui' (one who lives as the clouds and water) in the Rinzai sect of Japanese Zen Buddhism.  From 1997-2002 he was head monk of the Tahoma Sogen-ji Monastery on Whidbey Island, Washington (USA).

At the end of 2002 I began my 'pilgrimage' and spent much time in India and Nepal, and traveled again through much of Europe, where I began to teach meditative practices in several countries.

I lived in Germany from 2004 - 2023, working as a bodyworker and mentor in a psychotherapeutic center in Bavaria that cares for youth and families in difficult situations. I have also traveled the world with youth and friends, organizing trips to countries such as England, France, Japan, and India.

For over twenty years, I have offered courses in meditation  and resilience (Stillness & Movement).  These workshops have taken place in a variety of locations, including karate dojos, yoga centers, bodyworker-schools, hospitals, and business offices.

I now live in the Otto Bruderer Haus in Waldstatt, Switzerland with my wife. I continue to offer Stillness & Movement, Qigong, and bodywork in my new home country. If you have interest in working with me, please contact me »here«