George Draffan is a Seattle-based teacher of the Buddha-Dharma with a passion for bringing traditional teachings into the activities of daily life. He studied at the University of Wisconsin in the 1970s with Geshe Lhundhup Sopa, in the 1980s with Chagdud Tulku in Oregon, and with Rodney Smith, Michael Conklin, and Ken McLeod in the 1990s and 2000s. 

George has practiced qigong for many years. His practice of embodied movement has been deeply influenced by physical labor, mountain hiking, and the gentle therapy of Feldenkrais.

Other influences for which George is grateful include the mountains, rivers, and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest. Poetry: the ecstatic all-embracing empathy of Walt Whitman. The heart-breaking and heart-affirming humanity of the poet Tu Fu. Songs of realization from the Buddhist and Taoist traditions. The Stoic philosophers who, like the Buddha, challenge us to use our potential to free ourselves from self-imposed confusion and struggle. 

George has worked as landscaper, construction laborer, librarian, and freelance researcher and writer for grassroots environmental groups. He’s been a volunteer with the Northwest Dharma Association for more than 25 years, serving on the board and as executive director. Visit George's teaching platform at NaturalAwareness.net to explore his approach to contemplative practice and embodied practice.