About Kaishin (Blake) Ashley

I became interested in spiritual practices, especially those of Asian origin, when I was very young.  I spent many years reading books and listening to lectures (Alan Watts, Ram Das, etc.) , but I didn't actually DO anything in the way of contemplative practice until about twenty five years ago when I started the most half-baked do-it-yourself meditation program imaginable - with startling results far beyond what might reasonably be expected.  Not long after that, I discovered the Tucson Community Meditation Center (TCMC) and the meditation teacher Shinzen Young.  With Shinzen's guidance and TCMC's assistance I began diligent training and never looked back.  

I began teaching meditation at TCMC around 2005, and continued leading a weekly class and occasional weekend workshops until the pandemic shut down the center.  I have also taught classes for the University of Arizona Student Health Department, the Arizona State Bar Association, And the Tucson City and Pima County employee wellness programs.

I continue to train with Shinzen Young and study his methods and innovations.