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Softening our hearts is the key to unlocking our true potential and finding inner peace. But what does it mean to truly surrender in a world that values control?
Can the act of surrender—often seen as weakness—be our greatest ally in personal transformation? Let’s explore these introspective ideas with the mindfulness mix master himself.
My guest today is Hakim Tafari, a journeyman of reinvention, master of mindfulness, and martial arts practitioner. For over twenty years, Hakim has been honing his craft in martial arts, specializing in Tai Chi Chuan and Qi Gong. He’s multifaceted: a Buddhist Dharma practitioner, meditation facilitator, ensō painter, run crew leader, and DJ. Hakim teaches at renowned institutions like Spirit Rock Meditation Center and curates retreats across the American West.
Back for his second appearance on the show (episode 557), Hakim shares fresh insights on the revolutionary potential of mindful movement and the transformative power of softening one’s approach to life.
Hakim views surrender not as weakness, but as a superpower—a courageous act that confronts the ego and opens the door to personal growth. He speaks of the “Sure Hearts Release,” a practice of fully opening and releasing one’s heart, lifting burdens, and unlocking inner cages. This concept is central to the Buddha’s teaching as stated:
“The reason for my teaching is not for merit or good deeds or good karma, or concentration, or rapture, or even insight. None of these is the reason that I teach, but the sure heart’s release. This and this alone is the reason for the teaching of a Buddha.”
“You have to destroy to rebuild. Get rid of what isn’t making you a better person.”
– HAKIM TAFARI
Today, we discuss Hakim’s spiritual experiences in Chiapas and Oaxaca, Mexico, and his surprising journey to summit Mount Asahi in Japan, which catalyzed dramatic growth and self-discovery.
We explore the powerful intersection of running, mindfulness, and spirituality while examining the challenges of cultural integration and reinvention.
Hakim breaks down the role of community in personal evolution, the impact of unconditional support, and therapy’s transformative power. We delve into finding liberation through mindful movement practices like Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation, discussing how these ancient traditions blend with modern run crew culture.
We also contemplate the philosophical and practical aspects of surrender, softening one’s heart, the importance of maintaining spiritual practices amidst success, and the role of mentors like Charlie Dark in shaping one’s path. Hakim also shares insights on bringing mindfulness to underserved communities and the healing potential of nature immersion for urban youth, and more.
For those who prefer a visual experience, the conversation is available on YouTube. As always, the audio version streams wild and free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
For those keen on understanding how to cultivate inner peace while navigating our chaotic world—consider this episode appointment listening.
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- Connect with Hakim: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
- Spirit Rock: Hakim Tafari
- YouTube: Meditation & Mindfulness with Hakim Tafari
- YouTube: Spiritual Liberation in Sound Frequencies with Hakim Tafari
- Spotify: California Is For Runners
- InsideHook: What Drives the Runners Who Participate in the Relay Race From Hell?
- GearJunkie: Running Toward Spirituality: Hakim Tafari’s Powerful Self Journey
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