YM: Who are you?
MS: I’m a man on a mission to bring meditation to the world.

YM: What is the selfcentered tour?
MS: It’s a modern meditation movement designed to teach one million people selfcentered meditation by 2010.

YM: Why is your movement working?
MS: Our movement is picking up speed because meditation works. That’s the foundation. But in addition to the value that people get such as more energy, more creativity, and less stress, our movement fits really well into modern times. We’ve taken out the dogma, the new-age lingo, and the traditionalism so that anyone, despite background or personal convictions can learn and embrace this valuable tool.  It’s a fresh approach to an ancient practice.

YM: Why do we need this now more than ever?
MS: The benefits of meditation are exactly what the world needs right now. Stress levels are rising, the economy is falling, and people are more wound up then ever. Meditation removes stress, increases creativity, and relieves tension.  Plus, it connects you at a very deep level to a place inside that feels calm and cool, regardless of what’s happening around you. We’re seeing that even during these challenging times, meditators are thriving.

YM: Meditation has never been so trendy! How do you keep it fun and real at the same time?
MS: We genuinely believe in the power of meditation so I think that authentic vibe comes through. That’s how we keep it real. To lighten it up a bit, we’ve taken everything we love and creatively brought it into our movement. We have a chocolate sponsor (Theo Chocolates) for our infamous chocolate meditations, we do PDM’s (public displays of meditation) to show people how to get quiet in the midst of chaos, and we throw great events like Conscious Indulgence Parties and Out of Your Mind Immersions. We have a great time doing good for the world. 

YM: You speak a lot about being authentic. What is “authentic”?
MS: Authenticity is a state of being where your thoughts, actions, and words align with what’s true for you. I wish it wasn’t the case but most people are living out other people’s dreams and that makes me sad because nobody wins. Authentic people are comfortable with who they are, what they do, and the choices they make; even when they fall outside of the norm. Authentic people follow their heart, live deep, and love big.

YM: Why is it so important to meditate everyday?
MS: I feel that meditation is the best technology on the planet to help you get what you want, whatever that is. If you want to give back in bigger and greater ways, meditation will give you the energy and creativity to do so. If you want to meet that special person, meditation will help you soften into your authentic self to become irresistibly attractive. By taking that time daily to meditate and connect, you check in with you to make sure you’re on the right path. Plus, the more you meditate the better you feel. It’s just the greatest tool to have in your box.

YM: What do you want to be when you grow up?
MS: Do I have to grow up?

YM: Who are your hero’s?
MS: I am so inspired by people that give back to the world in a big way and do it in their authentic fashion. Currently, I think Russell Simmons and Richard Branson are at the top of that list. Both big proponents of meditation I might add…..

YM: The world is getting a little crazy! What advice do you have to stay calm?
MS: Meditate every single day without fail. Do it for you. Do it for the world. The last thing we need is more angry peace activist’s running around screaming that we need peace.

YM:  Thank you for your work! Where can we find out more about you and your movement?
MS: www.getselfcentered.com. If you don’t have a DAILY meditation practice, contact us and we’ll teach you. If you love meditation and want to help bring it to the world, become on of our teachers called Awareness Architects. To stay in the know, sign up for our free newsletter – The Vibe. Thanks and much love!!