Every 11 seconds, someone experiences a traumatic brain injury (TBI), profoundly affecting their lives and the lives of their loved ones.
Professional snowboarder Kevin Pearce sustained a TBI while training for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Through his recovery, meditation, pranayama, and yoga became integral components in his healing journey. These practices also became essential for his brother Adam, Kevin’s primary caretaker. Kevin and Adam co-founded LoveYourBrain to assist others affected by brain injuries. LoveYourBrain’s mission, as stated on their website, is to enhance the quality of life for individuals impacted by traumatic brain injury through programs that build community and foster resilience.
In honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month this March, we were honored to participate in LoveYourBrain’s #MindfulMarch fundraising initiative by hosting a donation-based class. This special class, titled Merging of the Heart and the Mind, was taught by Marc Holzman. Marc designed this class specifically to honor Kevin Pearce and his family, integrating meditation, pranayama, mantra, asana, and live music by Kevin Paris. We invite you to take part in this class and contribute directly to LoveYourBrain. Additionally, we encourage you to sign up for their 31-day MindfulMarch Meditation Challenge.
We also highly recommend watching the HBO documentary The Crash Reel, directed by Lucy Walker, to gain insight into their powerful story and the impact of traumatic brain injuries.
Below is a brief Q&A with Kevin and Adam Pearce:
Kevin Pearce
How did you get introduced to yoga and meditation?
How did you feel after your first class?
I was fortunate to be introduced to yoga through a friend who invited me to join a yoga flow class. It was with an excellent teacher, and I was in a receptive state of mind and body. The experience clicked for me right away. Meditation came into my life through my father. Hearing him talk about his practice piqued my curiosity. I started with meditation apps and later attended TM classes, which have been incredibly beneficial. Each practice leaves me feeling better.
How has yoga and meditation aided your recovery process?
Yoga and meditation have been pivotal in helping me slow down and live more mindfully. Before, I always felt compelled to do more and be more. Now, these practices help me appreciate the present moment and find a profound sense of calm. They’ve significantly reduced my stress and increased my overall sense of well-being.
What inspiring words would you like to share with those suffering from the effects of a TBI?
“You can’t rush your healing.” – Trevor Hall
Adam Pearce
How has yoga and meditation benefited you as a caretaker, brother, and friend?
My journey with meditation began with ringing a Tibetan singing bell before meals, a tradition that introduced me to mindfulness and relaxation. This simple act has cultivated a deeper sense of awareness and connection with myself and others.
What has your experience as a caretaker taught you about self-care?
To me, TBI means, Turn Boldly Inward. Meditation has provided me with the perspective to look inward and embrace the present. Initially, I thought Kevin needed to change, but my meditation and yoga practice taught me that the real transformation needed to happen within me.
What inspiring words would you like to share with other caretakers?
Inspiring peace, acceptance, and happiness for those affected by brain injury is central to our work. Meditation is a powerful tool for transforming chaos into calm and frustration into joy. It requires practice and openness to fully experience its benefits. Seek balance and embrace happiness.
