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A distinct shift occurred on September 21, 2021. Entering my home office (the 'Zen Den'), I felt an internal change, a new beginning. For about a year prior, my meditation had been sporadic, unorganized. However, the previous day brought a transformative meditation experience. Knowing my wife, Esther, would soon return from her walk – a practice she began during lockdown – and potentially interrupt me, I retreated to the Zen Den that morning, closed the door, and decided to record the session. Since that day, I've rarely neglected this commitment. While the practice continually evolves, its core remains constant: at least 13 minutes of Zazen, eyes-open sitting meditation. This daily grounding has become essential.
Sitting zazen
Sitting zazen
Zazen has been the core of my daily practice since day one, though I practiced it intermittently before fully committing. Consistent Zazen became more accessible as I progressed in my personal healing work, which was integral in preparing me for deeper self-exploration and commitment to the practice. Now, as my wife, Esther, has grown and joined me in my daily routine, Zazen is the cornerstone practice we consistently share.
Wim Hof Method
Wim Hof Method
The Wim Hof Method uses specific breathing exercises (powerful breaths and holds) combined with cold exposure. It builds resilience and deepens your connection to your body.
Cold Exposure
Cold Exposure
I much prefer to plunge into a cold lake than take a cold shower. Cold exposure has been an on and off again part of my daily practice. Plunging into the cold waters of Lake Huron in late November or Early March is an experience I have never regretted.
Journaling
Journaling
Putting thoughts and words on paper – through journaling, writing, blogging, or any form of creative expression – often yields unexpected results. These practices provide a space to confront emotions I might otherwise neglect and explore perspectives I hadn't yet considered. This process of self-reflection has been incredibly rewarding and healing. Sharing my raw, unedited thoughts online, even if meant for a wider audience than initially intended, has been a valuable lesson in navigating vulnerability, facing my anxieties about how I am perceived, and ultimately, discovering deeper aspects of my identity.
My daily routine is intentionally fluid, always evolving. While the commitment to sit and meditate remains the constant anchor, the other elements adapt intuitively based on each day's needs and energy. I find immense value in maintaining this robust structure, yet consciously resist becoming rigidly bound by it, allowing space for organic shifts.
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