182 Breath, Burnout, and Beginning Again: Syed Abbas on Meditation, Disability, and Healing

In this deeply honest episode, I talk with Syed Abbas—global meditation teacher, disability advocate, and father—about how a life-altering diagnosis of muscular dystrophy pushed him into the world of breathwork, mindfulness, and inner transformation.

We talk about:

1. His journey from depression and chronic medication use to mental clarity and peace

2. What it’s like to live with a progressive disability—and find pride and power in it

3. The science and simplicity of breathwork

4. Why caregivers, especially parents of children with disabilities, are stuck in constant fight-or-flight—and what they can actually do about it

5. How just a few deep breaths can shift your nervous system, your energy, and your life

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

1. Learn Sudarshan Kriya (SKY Breath Meditation): https://www.artofliving.org/us-en/sky

2. Sahaj Samadhi Meditation course info: https://www.artofliving.org/us-en/meditation/sahaj-samadhi

3. Upcoming in-person event with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in the Bay Area (July 2025):

Work with Syed at https://www.holistichealth4life.com/

Listen On

Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child’s doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.