Waking Up: Meditation & Wisdom

I’m not writing this to negatively talk about other meditation apps, because I do think they have helped me too, and I think they are probably good for certain people, but this app, compared to others, has changed me more in my day to day living. This one genuinely feels like I’m “rewiring my brain” to experience the world differently. Where other apps utilize (even similar techniques) meditation to reduce stress and anxiety—which is helpful—, Waking Up puts it in a way that makes the experience of meditation easier. I always felt like I was meditating wrong until using this app. Something about how the guided practices are worded, I feel like I have finally understood that there is no “wrong” way to do it. It’s just acknowledging what is happening and that’s it. Simple. I truly feel like I’m waking up from the sleep I’ve been in. I also think that the interface is helpful; other apps have given too many options, like how long I want the meditation to be, for example, but Waking Up just has it there, and I don’t feel like I’m not taking my practice seriously if I choose a 3 or 5 minute meditation as opposed to a 10 or 20 minute one. It’s whatever time it is and I don’t have to make any decision about how much I’m dedicating to the practice. The content is also so beneficial in helping the intellectual, spiritual, emotional bodies. I love all of it truly. Such a great app! Couldn’t recommend it more.

I first discovered Sam Harris through his podcast, Making Sense, which is still my favorite podcast of all time. And I remember when he announced he’d be coming out with this app and at first, I didn’t use it. I was already using Headspace for over a year and didn’t feel the need. Then I tried it once and felt this immediate click, this light: “This is the kind of practice I’ve been looking for.” I’ve been using Waking Up ever since. I remember trying the first-offered longer introductory course and after each session, I swear I said “whoa.” Not because I felt like I was in another state, but I felt closer to “myself” and others, bit by bit, each session. I felt less insecure, less anxious, less angry, less anticipatory, less critical, bit by bit, each session. And this continues to be true. Sam, I wish I could look you in the eyes and tell you this in person: This app and your podcast have made me a better person. My interactions feel lighter. I am less self critical. I am less reactive. I am a better critical thinker. Your work pushes those who listen over and through the walls we put up, the walls created by childhood, by fear, by habit, by politics, by culture. I don’t know how to thank you and don’t think I ever will. I will end with this: This app is for everyone. Even if this way of thinking and practicing is totally new to you, try it. Just try it. Give it a shot. You won’t regret it.

Sam, this is great. I’ve done maybe a few dozen hours of pure meditation over all. Ranging from 5 minute sessions to upwards of 2 hours at a time. I’ve read probably more than the average amount of material on meditation in general with no specific method at the forefront and the way you explain the experience and how to get there is identical to the lane I found best as I was figuring it out on my own. You’ve both reassured my current understanding of at least the begging stages of meditation and it’s always comforting to hear that we’re not trying to stop our thoughts more so recognize them and experiences them while not losing track of ourselves. I have some thoughts and questions on the breath being the forefront of meditation but ultimately have my doubts that it’s the perfect tool that most practicing meditators use. I think we can do better and I have to assume you take us there in this corse because if I have to spend one more second concentrating on my breath I’m going to phyciclyy implode. Again, thank you. Just a special note: I’ve followed your career and your work over the years, I’ve read your books, and listen to your podcast religiously. I can’t help but consider you a friend in spirit. And I’d like to offer my thanks to you for being a source of reason in the times of my life that I could find none face to face. You’ve helped me tremendously...just in case you needed reminding that you are helping people.