FEBRUARY ZEN CIRCLE at Upaya, Santa Fe

Join us for an intimate zen gathering on Thursday, February 18, 2027, at the renowned Upaya Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This February zen event brings together a contemplative community for an afternoon of meditation, dialogue, and insight led by acclaimed writer and thought leader Michael Pollan. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or exploring zen for the first time, this zen circle offers a rare opportunity to deepen your practice in one of America's most spiritually vibrant destinations.

The FEBRUARY ZEN CIRCLE embodies the heart of zen philosophy—direct experience, mindful presence, and the interconnection between our inner lives and the natural world. Michael Pollan's unique perspective on food systems, agriculture, and our relationship with nature bridges intellectual inquiry and contemplative practice, creating a zen event that challenges assumptions while cultivating calm awareness. Santa Fe's high-desert energy and Upaya's sacred atmosphere combine to create an unforgettable afternoon of community, reflection, and transformation.

What to Expect

Arrive early to settle into the serene grounds of Upaya Zen Center, where the mountain light and peaceful gardens begin your transition into mindfulness. The afternoon will flow from guided meditation to open dialogue with Michael Pollan, who will explore the intersection of food consciousness and zen awareness. You'll experience periods of sitting in silence, listening to wisdom teachings, and engaging in thoughtful conversation—all designed to quiet the mind and illuminate your relationship with nature, consumption, and presence.

The atmosphere is contemplative yet welcoming, with ample time for individual reflection between segments. As the session progresses, you'll find the collective energy of the zen circle deepening, creating a palpable sense of connection among participants. The experience closes with a closing meditation and integration time, leaving you grounded and inspired as you step back into the world.

About the Artists

Michael Pollan is an influential writer, educator, and journalist whose work explores the profound connections between food, agriculture, nature, and human consciousness. His rigorous research and accessible storytelling have shaped contemporary conversations about sustainable living and our ecological interdependence. At this zen event in Santa Fe, Pollan brings intellectual depth and contemplative wisdom, bridging the gap between analytical understanding and direct experience.

Venue & Location

Upaya Zen Center, located in the heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a world-class meditation and study center founded on the principles of Zen Buddhism and compassionate action. The center's adobe architecture, sacred gardens, and contemplative spaces create an ideal environment for deep practice. Santa Fe's elevation and artistic energy complement Upaya's mission, making this zen event in Santa Fe a truly immersive experience.

The venue is easily accessible by car, with on-site parking available. Santa Fe is a 90-minute drive north of Albuquerque International Airport and sits nestled between the Jemez and Sangre de Cristo mountains, offering visiting practitioners a retreat into natural beauty alongside spiritual practice.