Dancing Waters Sangha (DWS) is a group that practices in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh--a Vietnamese Zen monk, teacher and peace activist. Our group formed in 1997 with four of us who attended a TNH retreat in Key West, and we've grown over the years to over 30 people, with anywhere from 6 to 25 at any one meeting. We meet every Thursday evening, 7-9 pm, at the Lotus Room in Tampa.

Our teacher, Fred Eppsteiner, has been studying and practicing Buddhist meditation for over thirty-five years. He has practiced primarily in the Zen and Tibetan Buddhist lineages, but bases his teachings on the full breadth of the Buddhist philosophical, psychological and meditative traditions. Fred began his Zen practice with Roshi Philip Kapleau (author of The Three Pillars of Zen) in the late sixties at the Rochester Zen Center in upstate New York. In the mid-seventies, he established a close relationship with Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Zen Master who has become one of the most widely known, beloved and respected meditation teachers and authors in the West today. Fred received Dharma Transmission and permission to teach from Thich Nhat Hanh in 1994.

Fred lives in St. Petersburg and also leads the Naples Sangha. He travels to Tampa twice a month to share Dharma teachings with DWS. Many of us also participate in Days of Mindfulness, retreats, and other events that Fred leads.

In addition to Fred's teachings, members of DWS and guest teachers share teachings and lead guided meditations for the Sangha. We begin with 30 minutes of seated meditation followed by a period of walking meditation. The teaching or presentation is then given. Occasionally guest teachers or sangha members will change the format slightly to complement their presentation. We generally remove our shoes before entering the meditation area. You may sit in the traditional fashion on a meditation cushion (bring your own, or use one of several extras that are generally available) or sit in a chair if that is more comfortable for you. Wearing loose and comfortable clothing is suggested.

All are open to the public and everyone is welcome to attend. There are no fees for participation, however donations are accepted. The contributions help to cover the cost of rent and to provide support to our teacher Fred, who generously shares his teachings.

If you are new to meditation, a one-hour introductory class for newcomers is also available the last Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm. We want everyone who is interested in learning about Buddhism or pursuing a meditation practice to feel comfortable in joining us. Please refer to our Schedule for meeting dates and times.

DWS meets at the Lotus Room, located at 1101 W. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, Florida, 33606. Wheelchair access is available.