Ever wondered how a career in finance leads to mastering the ancient art of gong baths? In this episode, Athena Ko, also known as The Gong Girl, joins Harvest Series host Rose Claverie to unveil the profound impact of sound meditation. From her high-powered days as a hedge fund manager in NYC to finding solace and transformation through the gong, Athena shares her incredible journey and the universal language of music that makes this practice accessible to all. Tune in to experience a blend of wisdom, music, and personal transformation like never before.

[2:44] : The interview commences as Athena introduces the concept of a Gong bath, also known as sound meditation.

[4:45] : Athena, having grown up in Hong Kong, reflects on the resonance of the gong in her childhood and discusses the universal appeal of meditation devoid of language barriers.

[8:00] : Exploring her approach to conducting sound meditation, Athena emphasizes the principle that "the body never lies."

[10:10] : Is preparation necessary for engaging in a sound meditation session?

[12:16] : Athena shares her personal journey from hedge-fund manager in NYC to discovering and embracing sound meditation, highlighting its profound impact on her life.

[16:00] : Reflecting on reactions to her lifestyle changes, Athena discusses the lessons gleaned from her transformative journey and extensive travels.

[21:00] : What wisdom does Athena seek to impart to her students, and how has her meditation practice evolved over time?

[26:00] : Delving into the realm of mental health, Athena recounts her experiences teaching meditation in a psychiatric ward, beginning with her first day.

[30:00] : Athena shares a poignant anecdote about a patient whose story deeply affected her.

[34:30] : Strategies for nurturing positive thoughts are discussed.

[35:00] : The origin of Athena's evocative moniker, "The Gong Girl," is revealed.

[37:00] : As the episode's Harvest of The Day, Athena reveals her favourite tool for personal transformation.

You can follow us on Instagram at @HarvestSeries or @rose.claverie for updates.

Watch our podcast episodes and speaker sessions on YouTube: Harvest Series.

Credits:

• Sound editing by: @lesbellesfrequences
• Technicians in Kaplankaya: Joel Moriasi
• Music by: Chambord
• Artwork by: Davide d'Antonio

Harvest Series is produced in partnership with Athena Advisers and Capital Partners

Harvest Series Founders: Burak Öymen and Roman Carel