By: Jastine Beatrice Yap

The meeting with Ashok was set up with surprising ease—just a quick message and some chats; we were on a call a few days later. The conversation flowed naturally from the moment we connected, like talking to someone who genuinely enjoys sharing ideas and experiences. He spoke openly about his journey, from business ventures to his passion for Ayurveda and technology, weaving in lessons learned. There was no rush, no formality—just an insightful exchange filled with real stories, practical wisdom, and a down-to-earth perspective on success and setbacks. By the end, we could gain answers and a fresh way of looking at challenges and opportunities.

As the conversation progressed well past the halfway mark, a question about mindset shifted. He brought up an interesting point —meditation is fast becoming the new golf course for premier executives. Where leaders once relaxed and networked over 18 holes, they now seek focus, clarity, and deeper relation-building across the spectrum of people through meditation and self-discovery opportunities. He shared, “In a world of constant noise, those who can quiet their minds gain a competitive edge. Success is no longer about connections only—it’s about clarity to become thought leaders. We must cultivate that clarity within ourselves, with our experiences and assistance from others, and the greatest insights come when the mind is at its stillest.” And with that thought, our conversation ended, leaving me with a fresh perspective on leadership in the modern world.

After the conversation ended, our team explored this topic more and noticed how this shift represents a broader cultural change influenced by Eastern philosophies, the growing prominence of women in leadership, and the post-pandemic preference for mental well-being. Meditation has evolved from a personal wellness tool to a professional necessity, offering leaders an opportunity to thrive personally and professionally.

Research reveals stories of leaders like Gary, a tech CEO who turned around a failing startup into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. During a mindfulness session at a weekend retreat, Gary had a breakthrough. “I realized I had been so focused on putting out fires that I had forgotten why I started this journey,” he shared. “Meditation gave me the space to reconnect with my vision.” His team noticed the change: he appeared more present approachable, and made clearer decisions.

Why Meditation?

The nature of leadership is inherently demanding. Executives must navigate complex challenges, inspire teams, and maintain composure under pressure. While traditional networking activities like golf offer relaxation, they do not address many leaders’ underlying stress. Meditation provides a direct path to inner balance, enhancing focus and emotional resilience.

Research from Harvard Medical School shows that mindfulness meditation can reduce the size of the amygdala while strengthening connections in the prefrontal cortex. Brain rewiring enables executives to handle stress and make better decisions. Beyond stress management, meditation cultivates emotional intelligence and deepens self-awareness — critical traits for effective leadership.

The Influence of Eastern Philosophies

Eastern philosophies like Buddhism, Vedanta, and Yoga have introduced timeless principles to the modern executive. Mindfulness, dharma, and interconnectedness resonate deeply with today’s leaders. Practices like Vipassana and pranayama teach individuals to observe their emotions without judgment and find balance amidst life’s dualities.

Women in Leadership and the Rise of Meditation

The growing influence of women in leadership has played a significant role in meditation’s rise as a networking tool. Unlike golf, which has historically been male-dominated, meditation offers an inclusive space where diverse voices can connect meaningfully without prior skills. This inclusivity has made meditation events particularly appealing to women leaders, fostering environments where they can build relationships and inspire collective growth.

The Post-Pandemic Shift

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped how people work and prioritize well-being. With remote work becoming the norm, online meditation emerged as an ideal stress management and connection solution. Unlike outdoor activities, meditation sessions can be conducted virtually, making them accessible across different geographies and schedules.

Meditation transforms how executives think, act, and relate to others. Leaders who meditate regularly report improvements in emotional intelligence, experiencing greater empathy and a deeper understanding of others’ perspectives. Decision-making becomes more refined, with enhanced clarity and a stronger focus on long-term strategy rather than reactive choices. Authenticity deepens as leaders connect more with their values and purpose, allowing them to lead with sincerity and integrity. Resilience also strengthens, allowing them to handle setbacks and high-pressure situations with more excellent composure and mental strength. 

The Future of Executive Wellness

Hence agree, that the shift in executive culture is well captured by Ashok Alexander, CEO and founder of the Australian Institute for Ayurveda and Yogic Sciences (AIAYS), who was honored with the 2024 Global Recognition Award for his contributions to business leadership and wellness. He embarked on a personal journey, walking over 4,000 km across Australia—roughly five million steps—an experience documented on Wikipedia. Along with more than 25 years of experience in healthcare, technology, and hospitality, as well as authoring many books, Alexander has seen this transformation unfold firsthand, both in business and in life.

“Leaders today are seeking more than just material success,” Alexander explained, drawing from his background in both business administration and Eastern practices. “They are looking for ways to integrate purpose, values, and well-being into their leadership approach.” He wishes his institute to become a pioneer in combining traditional wisdom with modern business challenges, attracting executives from across the globe.

As meditation continues to reshape the landscape of executive development, Alexander’s vision of integrating ancient wisdom with contemporary leadership challenges seems more relevant than ever. His work is a testament to how traditional practices can be adapted to meet the needs of modern business leaders, promoting a new generation of mindful executives equipped to handle the complexities of today’s business world.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and interviewees and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity mentioned. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, legal, or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with relevant professionals before making any decisions based on the content presented.

Published by Stephanie M.