DeAndre Jordan’s Meditation Practice
DeAndre Jordan, a center for the New Orleans Pelicans and a current student at Brown University, dedicates 10 to 15 minutes to meditation before some of his NBA games. He shared during a recent Q&A session that this practice helps him maintain balance. “That time, when I’m able to take a pause, kind of helps me regulate my system,” he explained.
His Journey with Mindfulness
During the event attended by around 60 students, Jordan elaborated on his meditation journey, discussing how he blends mindfulness practices with his basketball career. Originally a Texas A&M University student, he entered the 2008 NBA draft, where he was selected as a second-round pick by the Los Angeles Clippers and has played in the league ever since.
Return to Education
Jordan opted to return to school during the pandemic when the NBA season was suspended. He revealed that he had “fallen in love” with meditation prior to this period, finding it essential for navigating the emotional ups and downs of sports, family, and personal life. “I needed to have something outside of sports to take a break from DeAndre Jordan, and meditation really helped me with that,” he noted.
Enriching His Studies
When he discovered the contemplative studies program at Brown, he felt it aligned perfectly with his existing practices. “This is exactly what I’m doing in my life already. Why not learn about it from the best people and peers?” he thought. Harold Roth, a professor and the initiative’s founding director, recognized Jordan’s potential when they were introduced and noted, “I decided this guy’s really got something.”
Sharing Insights with Students
Many students, including members of the men’s basketball team, were eager to engage with Jordan about his basketball experiences. Jerrell Barron, a guard on the team recovering from surgery, asked how contemplative studies could assist him in finding a sense of self while sidelined. Jordan shared his approach to meditation during injury recovery, focusing energy on the injured area to visualize healing.
Accessible Meditation for All
Jordan acknowledged the initial challenges some may face in starting meditation and expressed his desire to help others find easier access to these practices. Barron appreciated Jordan’s vulnerability in sharing his journey with contemplative studies, describing the Q&A as “really informative” and a “great experience.”
The Broader Impact of Contemplative Studies
Charles Kohl, another attendee, is considering a concentration in contemplative studies due to his own struggles with basketball. He found it insightful how meditation can apply to various fields. The community is committed to fostering awareness about contemplative studies, with leaders like Joshua Gerber and Kento Suzuki emphasizing the strength of their passionate community. Roth concluded, stating that attending Brown provides students an opportunity to explore their potential and lead a meaningful life.
