CURRENT MISSION

To research the psychological correlates of Buddhist karma. In Buddhism, karma is a mental event where a person's actions of body, speech and mind affect their perceptions of the world around them (through the mechanism of karma which spans lifetimes). My research investigates the impact that one person's prosocial thoughts and behavior has on their perceptions of other people (just on a relative level within the span of a few moments). So far, I'm finding that if we're kind, we see others more positively. I hope that my work will contribute to the field of psychology's understanding of the benefits of adopting kind behavior.

I am also trying to reach Buddhahood through the Jonang Kalachakra lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. While that particular lineage is important to me, I've spent years studying other religious traditions and am very much in support of any practice (religious or otherwise) that promotes love and wisdom.

ABOUT ME

Kindness is the most important thing in the world to me, and I love living my life in a way that feels like I'm doing as much good as possible. Right now that means studying for my graduate degree, doing research, and studying and practicing Buddhism. I like to meet new people, when there's a connection and travel seems to have the magic of opening that space of possibility.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I haven't couch surfed much. I think I've only done it once, staying with another Buddhist student on the way to a retreat. I think hotels are nice, but I think a friendly, nurturing environment is a much better base from which to explore a place.

Interests

I like to meditate every day, and do yoga. So, if you have space set up for that stuff, that would be amazing.

I love talking about my research, so if you're interested, I'm happy to share.

I like learning about other people's spiritual practice and spending time with healthy, upbeat, curious, open minded people

• arts
• yoga
• instructor
• meditation
• walking
• traveling
• socializing
• music
• hiking
• buddhist
• sports
• teaching
• psychology

Music, Movies, and Books

Jacob Collier is my favorite musician

"The Realm of Shambhala" by Khentrul Rinpoche
"Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life" by Shantideva
"Finding Rest in the Nature of Mind" by Longchenpa
and
The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey
are my favorite books

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I spent two years living, working, and practicing at a Buddhist retreat center in Arizona

Teach, Learn, Share

Knowledge I can share: I've studied Tibetan Buddhism, Psychology and yoga for over a decade. I am also conversant in Christian and Islamic mysticism.

I like to learn about other people's paths. I think food is really fun to share and learn about.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism and Psychology.

Countries I’ve Visited

Argentina, India, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Scotland, Spain, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Peru, Turkey, United States