Get your OM on! We talked to Suze Yalof Schwartz, CEO and Founder of Unplug Meditation, and author of the new book Unplug: A Simple Guide to Meditation for Busy Skeptics and Modern Soul Seekers. Read on to find out how she finds time to meditate with a busy schedule, and why you should too!
What type of practice would you recommend to a beginner who wants to give meditation a try?
SS: My favorite is the 16 second meditation taught to me by Davidji.
What was your inspiration and intention when first opening your studio?
SS: I wanted to learn to meditate with incredible teachers who made it easy, inspirational and fun. I also wanted a space that was clean and beautiful filled with interesting people. I had no idea the power Unplug would have on so many lives from people experiencing panic attacks, anxiety, pain, cancer and even women just trying to get pregnant. The stories I hear every day blow me away and make me so grateful that I could provide a space for people to heal, connect create and dream.
Days can be hectic…whether it’s final exams, presentations at work or a long to-do list. How do you teach your students to lean on meditation?
SS: Our students know how they feel when they meditate and that is what keeps them coming back. Just taking one class will change your day and more will change your life.
- Close your eyes and count your breath
- Inhale for 4 seconds through the nose
- Hold for 4 seconds
- Exhale through the nose for 4 seconds and
- Hold for 4 seconds
Counting and breathing at the same time shuts your brain off and slowing down your breath signals to the brain that everything is going to be OK. I like to do this 16 second meditation every time I go through a door.
What’s your most memorable moment and/or experience opening Unplug Meditation?
SS: There have been so many. I think my favorite was when I met a woman who was one of our favorite customers and she was coming in 2 times a day for 4 weeks at her fertility doctor’s recommendation. She had tried invetro 3 times and this was her last chance. When she came in on week 4 and told me she was pregnant we all went crazy! That was one of the happiest days at Unplug. We have so many great stories like that. Lots of hugs and tears of joy.
Tell us a bit about your book, Unplug: A Simple Guide to Meditation for Busy Skeptics and Modern Soul Seekers. What are you hoping readers take from it?
SS: I wanted to create the book that I wished I had when I was starting out. I would love for the reader to hit the “that was easy” button after they finished and be inspired to meditate daily. I also want them to feel what it does for them because it affects everyone differently. This book is filled with my favorite tips, meditations and a simple explanation of the science behind it and the stories from our clients who experienced the powerful benefits.
Do you have a favorite Aerie product from our Chill. Play. Move. Collection that you find comfort in when meditating?
SS: I am obsessed with the positive messaging tee-shirts “Phones Down Eyes Up” – there are so many amazing ones!
Now tell us, what makes YOU #AerieREAL?
SS: What makes me #AerieREAL? My positive energy. I love life and sharing the things that inspire me with everyone and I think when you flow good energy you end up surrounding yourself with it.