WHO AM I?  

Hi, I'm Ben. An explorer, just like you, of the beautiful outer and inner worlds. The foundation and lens of my exploration is classical Yogic philosophy, where I derive most of my values and core beliefs. And I have my own unique style of therapy, blending eastern perceptual science with western conceptual science. 

One of my most important value is Karma, which literally means action. So when it comes to karma, what I call ancient CBT, it's actually about becoming aware of and taking full responsibility for every thought, emotion and behavior of mine. This self-responsibility is built upon self-awareness, which is in turn built upon presence. In my opinion, presence is the antidote for healing and growth.

I’ve been on an intentional journey of cultivating presence and raising both my perceptual and intellectual awareness since 2010. A journey that started off with depression, a lot of anger, hopelessness and purposelessness, following the death of my parents. To now, where I have more clarity and direction in my life, while I still continue to seek and grow. 

Therapy played a huge role in this journey. So much so, that it inspired me to pursue a master’s degree in counselling psychology, in India. And then a professional counsellor diploma, with a focus on holistic wellness, in Vancouver. Although I completed both degrees with the intention of self-development and raising my self-awareness, it was also an intentional decision to take responsibility for my own karma and destiny.

Evolution, as we know it, is not a completed process. It is still ongoing. One of the best things that will ever happen to us is the body & mind complex, which is the product of billions of years of evolution. However, a vast majority of us are struggling to handle the sharpness of our own minds, the effects of which are experienced in the body. Hence we use various tools of coping to try and numb both our body and mind. Almost wanting to devolve.

Most ancient cultures, on the other hand, understood the importance of stillness and just being with the body and mind, rather than escaping it. Today, we have forgotten the art and skill of how to just BE! Just like human interpersonal relationships, the more present we are with each other, the more agency we have in how the relationship evolves. The same applies to our relationship with our body & mind.

So, "Being Evolved" involves consciously and consistently learning to just "BE" with this evolutionary master piece. Consistency and routine built through compassionate self-discipline! Thus allowing us the agency to live a more present and involved life. And I consider this a great privilege, as we are the first species on this planet who can consciously take part in its own evolution!