About

What Is DeepBow?

DeepBow is a living practice dedicated to deepening our relationships to ourselves and the world. We are a horizontal community recognizing that each of us is a Buddha. With practices not found in other Zen paths, our approach to meditation results in deeper appreciation for life, radical self-acceptance, caring for others, and concern for social and planetary values.

We realize this vision by offering traditional and experimental programs such as educational symposiums, retreats, local and online meditation sessions, and insightful conversations.

Our programs are free of charge. Donations are gratefully accepted

DeepBow, a lineage of Zen Buddhism, is in the process of becoming a 501 (c) (3) organization.

Our Roots

Rev. Vanja Palmers is a trailblazer in the field of combining Zen practice and scientific methods for expanded consciousness. He is a senior priest in the Kobun Chino Roshi lineage, to which DeepBow belongs. Watch this documentary to learn about his multi-disciplinary research.

Who We Are

Our common inspiration is to cultivate the well-being of all.

  • Ilana Shauran

    Ilana Shauran

    MA, MFT — Ilana Sharaun, founder of DeepBow, guides awakening, healing, and authentic connection. With 35+ years as a psychotherapist, she integrates meditation, sacred practice, and integration. Her work brings compassionate presence to prisons, communities, and end-of-life spaces.
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  • Rev. Doug Jacobson


    Zen Priest and guiding teacher specializing in the “Everyone is a Buddha” path. For many years he has supported inmates through his prison chaplaincy and ministry.

  • Frank Annis, MD

    Frank Annis, MD


    Psychiatrist trained at Johns Hopkins and UCLA researching chemical and behavioral effects of psychiatric medicines. Specialization in Psychopharmacology and clinical psychiatry. Now studying the potential of newly available medicines for psychiatric treatment.

  • Dr. Maja Apolonia Rode

    Dr. Maja Apolonia Rode


    With a PhD in Transpersonal Psychology, Maja is a versatile and visionary creator inspired by nondual awareness and embodied love. Creator of Divine Dialogues, Maja nurtures communities of expanded consciousness for personal, cultural, and planetary transformation.

  • Brady Sprunger

    Brady Sprunger


    Inner Space Explorer, listener, dogsitter, photographer, videographer, reality TV contestant, and AI artist.

  • Michael DaLaurier

    Michael DeLaurier


    Design Engineer and student at Brown University.