How It Began

Lotus Pollen Heart was founded in 2024 by yours truly, Justine Lahey. I obtained an Undergraduate Honours Degree from the University of Guelph in English and History, and was awarded a Masters Degree in English and Cultural Studies from McMaster University. I thought my pathway in life was going to be in academic study and the university. Then, the world came to a halt due to the global pandemic and I found myself isolated in a new town, disconnected from my peers and colleagues, and I began to question the story about my career path and my life.

The Teachings of Surrender

Mindfulness, meditation, and compassionate living have always been near and dear to my heart. However, in 2020 my practice deepened significantly. I took solace in the Dharma teachings, meditating in the forest, walking meditation, and the tranquility I found in my native plant garden.

Despite this, I began to suffer from an onslaught of negative emotions and feelings. By 2023, I was mentally exhausted and depressed.

The story of my “self” was beginning to unravel, and though traumatic and extremely challenging at times (for both myself and my loved ones), the safe refuge I found in wellness, journaling, therapy, healing medicines, and my continuing practice of mindfulness and meditation has led me to right here and now.

I let go of the story I had been telling myself about my self, and I opened to new dimensions of freedom and tranquility.

I surrendered to the flow and mystery of life.

My Service to Others

Now, I am committed to a life of divine service and my wish is to instruct and guide others with gentleness and compassion towards a pathway of lovingkindness for themselves and others, of love and care for this planet and all her creatures, and to embrace the beauty and wonder of this precious existence.

My Life Philosophy

My life’s philosophy — The life of the soul is radically simple.

It truly is. When we can take pleasure in the footprints of an opossum in the snow, or showing kindness to others, or the solace found in walking down a city street, we will know peace.

My Certifications

In 2024, I was awarded my certifications in Journal Therapy, Breathwork Therapy, and Meditation and Mindfulness Teaching. Within this higher learning, Lotus Pollen Heart was born.

I am currently in a more in-depth program crafted by Tara Brach, Ph.D and former Buddhist monk Jack Kornfield, Ph.D and offered through Sounds True — the Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher Certification.

I look forward to helping you embrace this step on your own journey to contentment and wellness.

With deep reverence and a bow,

Justine Lahey