Real Lives. Real Transformation
The Monk Life Project has welcomed participants from diverse backgrounds—executives, creatives, parents, athletes, therapists, and truth seekers—each arriving with different stories, yet sharing a common intention: to understand themselves more deeply.
What follows are not dramatic claims or promises of instant enlightenment.
They are honest reflections from people who stepped into monk life—and returned changed in quiet, lasting ways.
Alumni Stories (Written)
Each written story reflects a personal journey of inner training.
Participants often describe:
• Learning how to slow down without guilt
• Understanding their emotional patterns clearly for the first time
• Developing a meditation practice they could sustain
• Returning to work and relationships with steadiness and presence
Many alumni share that the most powerful change was not what they gained—but what they no longer carried.
These reflections are shared with respect and authenticity, without exaggeration.
Video Testimonials
Video testimonials capture alumni speaking in their own words—often simply, thoughtfully, and without scripts.
You will hear about:
• Why they chose monk life
• What surprised them most
• How their lives changed after returning home
These are not promotional performances.
They are personal reflections from people who lived the experience fully.
Global Community
Countries Represented
Participants have joined the Monk Life Project from over 40 countries worldwide, forming a diverse and supportive international community.
This global mix enriches the experience, reminding participants that:
• Inner struggles are universal
• Wisdom transcends culture and background
• Silence and awareness are shared human experiences
Life After Monk Life
Life after monk life does not mean leaving the practice behind.
Many alumni:
• Maintain daily meditation routines
• Apply mindfulness to leadership and work
• Navigate relationships with greater clarity
• Support others through their own grounded presence
Graduates remain connected through shared values, ongoing reflection, and mutual respect—without obligation or hierarchy.
MARK VAN OGTROP
59 years, Director, Beacon Sky Hospitality
The Netherlands
My dearest children,
I promised that I would share a little bit of my journey of the past month, which was indeed a life-changing experience. I am very grateful to be invited to join this programme. I now realise that I should have done this much earlier in my life, as it was so impactful, but as the saying goes: it’s never too late. Allow me to explain then the two journeys: the physical and materialistic one and the mental/spiritual one.
ANTHONY JUDE TAN
58 years, Chief Advisor, iRetreat and founder & managing director at AJT Wellity Asia
Singapore
Before my 9 years as an entrepreneur, I was the CEO of Thailand’s Top Hospital for Preventive Medical Wellness and numerous other senior positions in the Hospitality & Healthcare industries respectively. My life thus far has been a rollercoaster ride, having gone through 3 broken marriages, with the latest divorce 10 years ago leaving a deep scar on my children. Those were years when I prioritized work and social life, always leaving my family at the bottom of my list.
CHRISTOPHER SMITH BURANANONT
40 years, Founder & Owner of Gym Bangarang (Muay Thai Boxing Camp – Chiangmai)
United States of America
It’s been 18 years since we last met on the sands in the Middle East. Some of us never returned home and many of us came home broken and shattered much like me. Most of us don’t like to be reminded of our past and even today we cannot escape our fears. The brothers, widows, and children we left behind are always a constant reminder of why we keep pushing forward, to what end, and to what purpose.
KEVIN TODD JACKSON (SACCABALO)
This program has been specifically designed for foreign nationals, that are not able to speak or understand Thai. To that end, the instructors speak English fluently. Which is simply wonderful, so that we can fully understand and have the best learning experience possible. I came to understand more about meditation and the impact that it can have on our daily lives. I would encourage all of those who are considering this, please do so as soon as you can.
