Say Om: Inside New York City’s First Meditation Bar
New York City is getting its first meditation “bar.” (Photo: Getty)
There’s no question that New York is nonstop. For those who want to escape the chaos, there is a new alternative to find inner peace in the city that never sleeps. On November 6th, the city’s first meditation “bar” opens in the heart of Greenwich Village. M N D F L is a drop-in, no appointment necessary spot, offering cynical Manhattanites simple tools to be more mindful. If you want to learn how, there are classes of all levels offered daily. Experienced practitioners can pop into a meditation room to focus inwardly. Classes are usually 45 minutes or less. There is no age requirement, so if you want your entire family to feel the zen, there are kids-only classes too.
Studies have shown that regular meditation practice can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and keep depression and anxiety at bay. Founders Ellie Burrows, a former Hollywood executive, and Lordo Rinzler, who penned the introduction to Buddhism for the 21st century The Buddha Walks Into A Bar founded M N D F L together. Burrows wanted a place to go that would inspire and transform lives. “M N D F L exists to make people feel good,” she says. “We want them to be able to show up authentically in their life, having calmed their own mind and relaxed their bodies."
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