During her time studying at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, Amy Perez had the privilege of meeting and learning from two remarkable teachers, Sensei Chodo Campbell and Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison. Both are well-known Zen Buddhist teachers, founders of the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care, and leaders in integrating contemplative practice with compassionate healthcare.

Their work focuses on bringing mindfulness, presence, and compassionate care into environments where people are experiencing illness, loss, and transition. Through their teachings, Amy deepened her understanding of how spiritual awareness and mindful presence can play a meaningful role in holistic health and healing.

Meeting Sensei Chodo and Sensei Koshin was a powerful reminder that caring for others extends beyond physical treatment—it also includes holding space, listening deeply, and supporting the emotional and spiritual dimensions of healing.

The experience continues to influence Amy’s work in holistic nursing and integrative wellness, guiding her approach to patient care with compassion, presence, and intention.

(Photo: Amy Perez with Sensei Chodo Campbell and Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine.)