I’m thrilled to share with you a conversation that left me inspired, introspective, and eager to dive deeper into my own journey of personal growth.
Join me as we explore the fascinating life and insights of Jaishree, a certified facilitator of Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) and the founder of The Incense. As the first in India to achieve this certification, Jaishree brings a unique perspective shaped by her global experiences across Singapore, France, the U.S., and India.
Jaishree, let's start at the beginning. When did you first start reflecting on yourself, and what inspired you to take that first step into introspection?
You know, introspection has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It was woven into the fabric of my childhood. We had yoga teachers come to our home, and my mother was on her own self-discovery journey from a very young age.
My mother’s spiritual quest began in her twenties when she discovered the works of The Mother of Pondicherry in her college library. By the time my siblings and I came along, spirituality, philosophy, and self-discovery were already integral parts of our lives.
Our home was filled with hundreds of books on these subjects. I remember perusing through my mother’s library, reading works by Anthony DeMello, Osho, and countless other spiritual teachers. It was just a natural part of growing up for me.
However, I’d say my conscious journey of introspection began in my early twenties. I attended a Heal Your Life workshop based on Louise Hay’s teachings, which really kickstarted my more deliberate exploration of self.
That's fascinating! It seems like introspection was almost second nature to you. Now, your bio mentions that you started with a degree in hotel management before transitioning into coaching. What led you to choose hotel management initially?
Ah, yes, my foray into hotel management. Well, to be honest, it wasn’t entirely my choice. Coming from a South Indian family, there was a strong emphasis on academic achievement. I was a good student, but I didn’t quite make the cut for engineering or medicine.
Hotel management seemed like a practical choice at the time. It offered job security and the opportunity to work abroad, which appealed to my parents. So, I went along with it, even though my heart wasn’t fully in it.
I see. So how did you transition from hotel management to becoming a coach?
It was quite a journey, Harini. After completing my degree, I worked in the hospitality industry for a while. But I always felt there was something missing. I wasn’t fulfilled, and I knew I wanted to do something more meaningful with my life.
During this time, I continued my personal growth journey. I discovered the work of Byron Katie, which had a profound impact on me. Her method of inquiry resonated deeply with what I had been seeking.
Eventually, I took the leap and got certified as an IBSR facilitator. It felt like coming home, you know? Like I had finally found my true calling. Now, as the founder of The Incense, I help others on their journey of self-discovery and stress reduction.
That's truly inspiring, Jaishree. It takes courage to make such a significant career change. Can you tell us more about IBSR and how it differs from other coaching methods?
Of course. IBSR, or Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction, is a method developed by Byron Katie. It’s a simple yet powerful process of identifying and questioning the thoughts that cause stress in our lives.
What sets IBSR apart is its focus on self-inquiry. Unlike some coaching methods that offer advice or strategies, IBSR empowers individuals to find their own answers. We believe that wisdom doesn’t come from outside; it’s already within us. Our job as facilitators is to guide people back to their own inner knowing.
The process involves asking four questions and doing turnarounds. It’s a way of examining our beliefs and seeing if they’re really true. When we question our stressful thoughts, we often find that they’re not based in reality, and this realization can bring immense relief and clarity.
That sounds powerful. How has practicing IBSR impacted your own life?
Oh, it’s been transformative, Harini. IBSR has given me a tool to navigate life’s challenges with more grace and ease. It’s helped me let go of limiting beliefs and find peace in situations that used to cause me stress.
For instance, I used to struggle with perfectionism and the need for approval. Through IBSR, I’ve learned to question these tendencies and find a more balanced approach to life and work.
It’s also deepened my relationships. By questioning my judgments about others, I’ve become more compassionate and understanding. It’s like having a key that unlocks inner peace, no matter what’s happening in the external world.
That's beautiful, Jaishree. As we wrap up, what advice would you give to our readers who might be at the beginning of their self-discovery journey?
My advice would be to start where you are. Self-discovery is a lifelong journey, and there’s no “right” way to do it. Be curious about your thoughts and beliefs. Question them gently, with compassion for yourself.
Remember, you don’t need to have it all figured out. The journey itself is the destination. And don’t be afraid to seek support, whether it’s through books, workshops, or working with a coach or facilitator.
Most importantly, trust yourself. You have an inner wisdom that’s always guiding you. Learn to listen to it, and it will lead you to where you need to go.
As I conclude my conversation with Jaishree, I’m left feeling inspired and reflective. Her journey from a childhood steeped in spirituality to becoming a certified IBSR facilitator reminds us that our path isn’t always linear, but it’s always leading us towards growth.
Jaishree’s story is a testament to the power of introspection and the courage it takes to follow our true calling. Whether you’re just beginning your journey of self-discovery or you’re well along the path, remember that each moment of reflection is a step towards a more authentic, fulfilling life.
Thank you, Jaishree, for sharing your wisdom and experiences with us. And thank you, dear readers, for joining us on another enlightening episode of “Voices of Introspection.”
Hungry for more wisdom from Jaishree? Dive deeper into her transformative journey by tuning into the full interview on our Voices of Introspection podcast. Trust me, her insights on mindfulness and self-discovery might just be the spark you need to ignite your own path of personal growth.
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