Manoj Dias
"Slowing down is an act of love."
About
Manoj is a teacher and the Co-founder of Open. He knows intimately what it means to train the mind and body to live a more meaningful life. His personal healing journey has enabled him to help thousands worldwide find peace and happiness in their lives. He is a proud father and best selling author and previously co-founded A—SPACE, Australia’s first drop-in meditation studio. Born and raised in the Theravada Buddhist tradition, Manoj has a great love for Buddhist philosophy and ancient wisdom, blending it with contemporary science and research. This perspective is present in every encounter, whether teaching through words or the silence between them.
Teaching and Influence
Buddhist philosophy, modern psychology, and social justice principles deeply influence Manoj's teachings. He has over 500 hours of yoga training under esteemed teachers like Maty Ezraty, Dr. Miles Neale, Channa Dassanayaka, and Tsoknyi Rinpoche. He studied at the Nalanda Institute of Contemplative Science in New York City and Pundarika. His expertise extends to breathwork, trauma-informed mindfulness, and somatic psychology.
Global Impact
Over the past five years, Manoj has split his time between the US and Australia, bringing his teachings to a global audience. He has worked with renowned organizations such as The United Nations, Netflix, Google, Museum of Modern Art (NYC), NBA, Art Basel, and many more. He has fundraised for charitable organizations supporting refugee housing and adolescent mental health. Manoj is also a faculty member at The Esalen Institute and Melbourne Business School’s Executive Leadership Program.
Experience and Certifications
– Trained under renowned teachers Dr. Miles Neale, Channa Dassanayaka, Joe Loizzo, and Tsoknyi Rinpoche.
Studied at the Nalanda Institute of Contemplative Science, New York City.
– Over 500 hours of yoga training.
– Co-founded A—SPACE
– Co-founder of Open
– Co-founder of the Australian/New Zealand arm of EVRYMAN
– Faculty member at Esalen.
– Associate at Melbourne Business School’s Executive Leadership Program.
Manoj has also facilitated workshops and meditation sessions at prominent venues and events such as MoMA, Coachella, Warner Music, and Art Basel Miami. His practice has impacted communities in both the US and Australia, promoting diversity and inclusion in the wellness space.
What does it mean to you to be present?
To be intimate with life. To experience life through our senses in all its beauty and bravery and not run away from it (or ourselves).
What do you consider a timeless album?
D’Angelo’s Voodoo.
What’s your favorite feeling?
Spaciousness. It reminds me of love.