"Our lives do not need to be seen as riddled with mystery and esoteric concepts. Rather, life should be experienced simply as it flows naturally towards resolution. It is we, as participants, who create disruption through our expectations and through pre-conceived notions of what life should be. In so doing, we often miss the most satisfying moments of our lives." -M.L. Cerpok Sensei
What is Zen Session? Zen Session is not a religious practice. It does not require a particular faith, belief system, or religious affiliation. Session starts with an introduction to Zazen breathing and posture, or simply practicing your Zazen with Cerpok Sensei if you're a returning practitioner, followed by an opportunity to ask questions in regard to your practice or life in general. The following video will familiarize you with the questioning portion of Session. 
Personal Development Center provides individual and group programs designed to encourage personal development, greater awareness, and a more direct understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Through Zazen, Zen philosophy, Session, education, and community programs, we explore practical ways of of meeting the challenges of everyday life with greater clarity and awareness. The classes offered are suited to all individuals inclusive of age, gender, or current physical health. The training we provide has proven to increase individual productivity, enhance mental and physical health, and create a more positive work and home environment. The lessons are applicable to businesses, schools, athletes, as well as parents and their families.
 
The approach we teach has developed from M.L. Cerpok Sensei’s nearly five decades of study and practice in Eastern philosophy, Zazen, personal development and martial arts. Over that time these disciplines have been integrated into a practical approach to understanding ourselves, our relationships, and the circumstances of everyday life. These techniques include, but are not limited to, the breathing discipline of Zazen, the moving meditation of Kokyuu no Kata, and lectures and Individual Session focused on Zen philosophy or “simply seeing all things simply.”

Since 1989, M.L. Cerpok Sensei has shared his experience and ideas through presentations, educational programs, and personal teaching. His work has included programs for elementary and secondary schools, lectures at universities, presentations for government agencies and businesses, and programs for community and religious organizations. He is also the author of two books exploring philosophy, personal development, and the human experience. His humorous and energetic presentations start audiences on a path of self discovery that lasts a lifetime.

What People are Saying

"The training addresses every aspect of life... a spiritual and mental awareness which has effected my decision making in a positive way."
-  A.F., Superior Court Judge
"I couldn't help thinking as my students reacted to your lecture that they had just experienced, however briefly, something profoundly sacred germinating within themselves."
- Prof. Brian McMorrow, The Evergreen State College
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"...the teachings instill strength, confidence, and a greater knowledge of self."
- Prof. Rachid Benkhalti, Pacific Lutheran Univ.

Available For:

Public Speaking

Cerpok Sensei is a noted inspirational speaker who brings humor and high energy to any group or organization. Drawing from his vast and colorful experiences, Cerpok Sensei is a master storyteller and his audiences are soon swept away into a world they never knew existed. He has addressed groups as diverse as State Labor Unions to Religious Schools to Universities and everyone leaves with broad smiles.

Media & Interviews

If you're looking for someone for Radio or Television, who better than a person who is naturally at ease and charismatic? Cerpok Sensei combines those attributes with a deep knowledge and understanding of concepts that most would struggle to understand, yet transmits those concepts so effortlessly that you can't believe that you didn't think of them yourself.
As an author of books geared for both Adults and Children, Cerpok Sensei has a knack for being able to put the most complex questions into easily understood stories and answers. He can be concise or, with a bit of prodding, he can go on and on without ever seeming long-winded. Whether it's a short contribution to a story, a book signing, or an article all about him, Cerpok Sensei can deliver.

Credits

Media Credits Include

Healthline - RLTV
12 News Upfront
Arizona Almanac
The Sherwin Baldwin Show
The Mike Siegel Show
Seattle News at Noon
Ranger Charlie Show
National Video Librarian
Tacoma News Tribune
Scottsdale Tribune
​Daily Olympian

Featured Speaker

Chico State University
Arizona State University
The Evergreen State College
Campus Medical Services ASU
Chase Bank
State of WA Labor and Industry
​Evergreen Christian Center

Books by M.L. Cerpok

The Gentle Ravings of an
Egomaniacal Master

The Mobile Monk;
​A Zen Tale
This website is supported by
Personal Development Center, Inc.
a 501c3 non-profit corporation
​Fountain Hills Arizona