Stepping Out and Stepping In: The Importance of Meditators Becoming Activists and Activists Becoming Meditators

Aarti Tejuja is the former Director of the Social Engagement for Shambhala International where she worked with Shambhala Centers globally to help shift the community’s current insular culture to a more outward and engaged approach.

Aarti currently runs her own organization, Spiritual Activism, which offers new tools to activists who struggle with the weight of emotions they face when fighting for a more balanced world. She also works with spiritual communities and individuals with strong spiritual practices who want help stepping out and engaging the world with conscious awareness.

Aarti has served in a variety of roles with a diverse array of groups. She has managed youth programs, served on the boards of non-profits Restored Hope, who advocate for underserved women & children, as well as Arrow Collective, and participated in interfaith dialogues. In 2015, Pope Francis invited her to participate in a Buddhist Catholic dialogue in Rome. She has successfully co-led 2 youth summits and 3 large mindfulness conferences created collaboratively with non-profits and interfaith groups.

Aarti lives with her husband Matt and kitties Steve & Mochi.