Sebastien Le Normand

Myanmar is the dream destination for so many meditators and spiritual seekers, and this was certainly the case for Sebastien Le Normand. A published author and French yogi in the tradition of S.N. Goenka living in Canada, Sebastien long wished to visit sites related to this lineage of teachers, and he made his dream a reality by planning a personal pilgrimage in 2016. He was so moved by the experience that he returned twice more, once ordaining temporarily as a monk in the Sagaing Hills. In our discussion, he talks about his experiences and reflections of being a meditator in Buddhist Burma, and staying for extended periods at monasteries. After the talk, Melissa Coats joins Zach Hessler to reflect upon Sebastien’s interview. They discuss their own itinerant lifestyle as meditators and temporary monastics, and reflect upon the opportunities that Myanmar has provided to so many Western spiritual seekers following their own Hero’s Journeys. Whether you are an accomplished traveler yourself or just an armchair adventurer, strap yourself in for this spiritual adventure tale, as we lead you through a virtual tour of Buddhist Burma! If you would like to support our mission, we welcome your contribution. You may give by searching “Insight Myanmar” on PayPal, Venmo, CashApp, Go Fund Me, and Patreon, as well as via Credit Card on our website.

Om Podcasten

Insight Myanmar is a beacon for those seeking to understand the intricate dynamics of Myanmar. With a commitment to uncovering truth and fostering understanding, the podcast brings together activists, artists, leaders, monastics, and authors to share their first-hand experiences and insights. Each episode delves deep into the struggles, hopes, and resilience of the Burmese people, offering listeners a comprehensive, on-the-ground perspective of the nation's quest for democracy and freedom. And yet, Insight Myanmar is not just a platform for political discourse; it's a sanctuary for spiritual exploration. Our discussions intertwine the struggles for democracy with the deep-rooted meditation traditions of Myanmar, offering a holistic understanding of the nation. We delve into the rich spiritual heritage of the country, tracing the origins of global meditation and mindfulness movements to their roots in Burmese culture. Each episode is a journey through the vibrant landscape of Myanmar's quest for freedom, resilience, and spiritual riches. Join us on this enlightening journey as we amplify the voices that matter most in Myanmar's transformative era.