If you would have asked me a few years ago where I’d be I definitely wouldn’t have mentioned Naropa University. In fact, I’d never heard of it. But, somehow, in a weird turn of events, I ended up on the stage of Naropa University’s performing arts center discussing my thesis on merging ancient insights & modern technology.
At the age of 28, I had returned to school to study contemplative psychology, neuroscience, and yoga, and now, two years later it was all over. How could I share everything I’d learned in 20 minutes? How could I explain what had happened to me in such a short amount of time? I wanted to express how important the journey had been for myself, but more importantly for my cohort and many students who have taken the plunge to enter the world of contemplative practices merged with modern psychology. It’s an endeavor we all should take, but it was an experience few could understand. So, here it is, my capstone presentation. I thought I should publish it here since I have a website and all!
This capstone entitled “Merging Ancient Insights & Modern Technology” discusses how and why contemplative practices impact us in profound ways. It also shares how we could use technology and specific user paths to empower those searching for relief from various symptoms of mental distress like PTSD, depression, addiction, etc. For those who are interested in the Purple Page concept/business plan I developed, I’d like to provide a short update here. Since my capstone presentation, I discovered a company that was developed and launched during my research and business proposal process called Kensho Health. Since it is so similar to the website prototype I had been developing I decided it would be best for me to take a step back from this venture.
I am overjoyed to see that I am not the only one interested in the integration of contemplative practices originating from Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and other religions, as a means of offering the much-needed relief from the various forms of suffering present in society today. I also recently discovered that Mindful.org, a well-known mindfulness magazine, recently launched the Mindful Directory. So, check both of these great resources out and let me know if you know of any other “purple” pages out there, and I’ll add them here!
Please also know that my journey is not over. This August I join Presidio Graduate School’s Dual MBA/MPA program in sustainable solutions and look forward to sharing my findings along the way. I believe the world we live in today is seeking a return to wisdom and earth-based practices and we are all forging paths towards a value-based society that works for all of us. We’ll continue the conversation on the next post.