The next time someone says I’m self centered, I’ll likely say, “Thanks for the compliment.” Now, the phrase, which once had a negative connotation, has an entirely new meaning. Self centered is the ability to remain cool, calm and collected regardless of the situation.

Saturday I broke from my routine night out for drinks with friends and attended an event called Conscious Indulgence. The meditation-oriented event was hosted by meditation guru Max Simon, yogi and son of David Simon, co-founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing in Carlsbad. It wasn’t the typical Saturday fare, but I was eager to step out of the usual format and learn how to become more centered in an increasingly chaotic world. I’m glad I did.

Before I get into the meat and potatoes (or tofu and soymilk) of Saturday night, I’ll explain a bit about Max and his organization, selfcentered. According to information I received at the event, selfcentered is dedicated to helping others discover the tools to become more self aware. Having been raised in a meditation-oriented household, Max learned early on the many benefits of silencing the mind for enhanced emotional and spiritual clarity. As an adult, Max has made it his mission to share this knowledge with anyone who will listen and has developed a program called the selfcentered Tour. The purpose of the selfcentered Tour is “to bring a fresh new look and feel to spirituality and the people who do it.” But this isn’t your grandma’s type of meditation program; this is a hip and upbeat take on the centuries-old Eastern philosophy aimed at spreading meditation awareness among today’s younger generations.

According to his Web site (www.getselfcentered.com), “Max’s programs equip people with the tools and techniques to step away from the endless mind-chatter, disconnect from the buzz, and settle into a world of authentic inner-calm.” There is more to the program, though, than simply sitting and trying not to think.

Before walking through the door of the Kava Lounge on Kettner Boulevard, I decided to put all skepticism aside and open myself to the experience. I often enjoy experiences that push my boundaries and challenge me to view myself and others in a new light.

The night began with a memorable and savory experience: a chocolate meditation. I am a big fan of meditation but I’d yet to meditate while enjoying a deep, luscious chunk of dark chocolate. What does chocolate have to do with meditation? First, taking the time to slowly and deliberately consume the chocolate allows you to actually enjoy the experience with nearly all your senses instead of choking it down as quickly as possible. Second, the piece of chocolate offers a tool to help improve focus and reduce mind chatter. Essentially, it’s a win-win.

Following the chocolate meditation was a lesson on harnessing the power of breath. Led by “Awareness Architect” (the term used to describe selfcentered instructors) Mateo, the 25 participants learned techniques for filling the lungs, diaphragm and throat with air. The short lesson concluded with “breath of fire,” a technique used by yogis that requires fully inhaling and exhaling as quickly as possible. Mateo began the presentation by exclaiming we didn’t need to drink or do drugs to get high – we just needed our breath. After a few test runs, I realized he was right; I was giddy, euphoric and my body tingled all over.

Now that the group was centered and breathing deliberately, Max decided to up the ante and challenge each of us to a game of public display of meditation. He asked us to exit the building single file and sit shoulder to shoulder facing Kettner Boulevard. Each of us closed our eyes and worked hard to meditate as people shuffled by, cars raced past and planes thundered overhead. A challenging request, indeed, but it became evident that we didn’t need a Zen garden, incense and serene music to find our center.

The evening continued with partner meditation and learning how to break down self-imposed barriers to become more connected with others. I admit I’m a bit stand-offish and shy, but I found the partner experience refreshing and exhilarating. Awareness Architect Cassie led the powerful partner meditations while noting so many of us whiz by one another on a daily basis without so much as a smile. She also urged us to realize our ability to connect with one another is a vital aspect of the human existence and must be practiced regularly. For someone as shy as myself, I felt a sense of accomplishment in sharing this intimate experience with a stranger. For the first time in years I allowed myself to let go of ego and fear. My favorite – and most difficult – experience of the evening, this meditation proved powerful and heartwarming.

The evening continued with a stunning display of talent and physical prowess by Acro Yoga practitioners. The two talented individuals twisted and turned in ways I’d never conceived. Then musician and Awareness Architect Malik sang and strummed away on his guitar. After a few songs, my companion and I decided to call it a night as we were both beginning to fade; we had experienced a great deal that evening.

Despite feeling worn out, I was still filled with levity and jubilation, and felt happy to have enjoyed a unique Saturday evening. This event helped shift the way I view myself and the world around me. I walked away with many tools and techniques to help me stay selfcentered, no matter what is taking place around me. I share this with you in hopes that you might also take steps to become more selfcentered and let your guard down just a bit. If a stranger smiles at you, smile right back. Instead of shaking a hand, try offering a hug. Most importantly, find ways to become as selfcentered as possible.