Introduction to The Way App
The Way, a new meditation app founded by Henry Shukman and Jack Shukman, offers users a structured path guided by an authorized Zen master. Departing from mainstream mindfulness practices, The Way aims to deepen meditation experiences rooted in millennia-old traditions.
Origins and Inspiration
Henry Shukman, one of the five authorized Zen masters in the Sanbo Zen lineage globally, transitioned to online teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. Encouraged by positive responses, Henry’s student Kevin Rose, a tech founder, proposed creating an app featuring Henry’s teachings. Joined by his nephew Jack, previously in investment banking, they envisioned a tool to sustain meditation practices long-term.
Development and Funding
Launched in 2022, The Way secured a $1.4 million seed funding round led by True Ventures and Kevin Rose, with additional support from angel investors. The app’s design ensures daily engagement akin to studying with a Zen master for a year, offering structured daily meditations and talks.
Unique Approach to Meditation
Unlike other apps, The Way adopts a linear, step-by-step approach, eliminating decision fatigue often associated with choice-heavy interfaces. Guided by Henry’s curriculum, users progress sequentially through meditative practices aimed at deeper spiritual exploration.
Advancing Beyond Basic Meditation
While apps like Calm and Headspace focus on introductory mindfulness, The Way emphasizes progressing to deeper levels of meditation. Henry Shukman highlights the app’s role in discovering interconnectedness and achieving effortless flow states in meditation.
The app is available on iOS and Android.
Access and Affordability
The Way provides the first 30 meditation sessions free of charge. Subscribers can access the full curriculum through a $9.99 monthly or $74.99 yearly subscription. Those facing financial constraints can apply for The Way’s scholarship program to access the app.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is The Way app? A: The Way is a meditation app offering a structured path guided by Zen master Henry Shukman, designed to deepen meditation practices beyond basic mindfulness.
Q: Who founded The Way app? A: The Way app was founded by Henry Shukman, an authorized Zen master, and his nephew Jack Shukman.
Q: How does The Way app differ from other meditation apps? A: Unlike apps like Calm and Headspace, The Way employs a linear, guided curriculum format to alleviate decision fatigue and deepen meditation experiences.
Q: Is The Way app free? A: The Way offers the first 30 meditation sessions for free. Access to the full curriculum requires a subscription.