(Ai assist:) Murphy Monroe is a Chicago-based circus school director, float center owner, and disability advocate. Murphy shares his profound experiences with flotation therapy, his journey as an autistic individual, and how these elements intertwine with his work running a circus school and theater company. The conversation delves into the therapeutic benefits of float tanks, the concept of shared consciousness, and the intersection of wellness and circus arts. Murphy’s insights offer a unique perspective on mindfulness, neurodivergence, and creating inclusive spaces.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Introduction to Murphy Monroe (00:00 - 02:44)
- Discovery of Flotation Therapy (02:44 - 07:15)
- What is Flotation Therapy? (07:15 - 11:16)
- Profound Experiences in the Float Tank (11:16 - 14:09)As an autistic individual with poor interoception (awareness of bodily sensations), Murphy found the float tank helped him connect with his body, feeling his heartbeat and diaphragm for the first time.
- The tank deepened his meditation practice, leading him to believe in a shared consciousness—a collective energy accessible through mindfulness.
- Floating became a gateway to “active listening” for this shared consciousness, fostering a sense of connection with others.
- Consciousness and Sensitivity (14:09 - 16:54)
- Murphy and Josh discuss embodiment practices (e.g., Tai Chi, yoga, massage) as ways to bridge the mind-body gap, particularly for neurodivergent individuals.
- Exploring Sensory Deprivation and Protection (16:54 - 21:24)
- Josh inquires about soundproof chambers and Faraday cages, wondering if they could enhance meditation by blocking electronic transmissions.
- Murphy expresses interest in combining float tanks with Faraday cages to shield against electromagnetic interference, believing it could deepen the meditative experience.
- He shares his curiosity about dark retreats, having spoken with others who had both challenging and profound experiences in complete darkness.
- Running a Float Center (21:24 - 27:46)During COVID, Murphy purchased a float tank for home use but later acquired a Chicago float center when its owner struggled.
- He sees running the center as a way to provide a healing space for the community, despite the business’s challenges due to its niche nature.
- Advice for aspiring float center owners: Be passionate about floating, connect with the supportive float community, and consider adding a single tank to existing wellness businesses (e.g., spas) to attract new clients.
- Circus Arts and Wellness (27:46 - 34:19)
- Closing Thoughts and Advocacy (34:19 - 36:48)
- Murphy encourages listeners to trust their inner truth, especially neurodivergent individuals who may feel at odds with societal norms.
- He advocates for creating inclusive workplaces and public spaces that support neurodivergent employees and customers.
Notable Quotes:
- “Floating is a shortcut to meditation… it creates circumstances upon which you’re oftentimes more likely to find a space of peace.” – Murphy Monroe
- “Consciousness is everything and it’s all around us… I would use God, more or less, as my word for that consciousness.” – Murphy Monroe
- “The truth we all know in our heads is the truth… find enough light to hold on to it and believe it.” – Murphy Monroe
https://www.murphymonroe.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
