Alex Olson, a prominent figure in the skateboarding world, has seemingly shifted his focus from the board to practices like yoga, surfing, and now, meditation. His latest endeavor is an online meditation course released through District Vision, a company that also sells running sunglasses and positions itself as a “center for inner peace.” This move sparked curiosity, prompting a deeper look into the course and its effectiveness, especially for someone new to meditation.
Intrigued by an Instagram ad, I decided to explore Olson’s meditation video course. Unlike typical online ads for questionable products, this one offered an opportunity to learn from a creative mind known for building successful brands. Upon purchase, the course presents a landing page featuring six lessons, alongside a peculiar sidebar displaying information such as local temperature, lucky numbers, horoscopes, and even air pollution levels. This eclectic mix of data was unexpected but added an element of uniqueness to the experience.
Having never meditated before, my expectations were minimal. However, with some experience in yoga, I hoped there would be a positive overlap. I was particularly interested in learning how to relax, clear my mind, control my breath, and find inner peace, especially in our hyper-connected modern world that often feels overwhelming.
Alex Olson meditation course promo image
Diving into the Meditation Lessons
The course begins with a Qigong lesson, which Wikipedia defines as “a system of coordinated body posture and movement.” Olson, however, calls it “a form of medicine”. This initial session was somewhat similar to yoga, but instead of holding poses, it emphasized warming up muscles and preparing the mind for meditation. Poses like “Ape Swing” and “Shaking Tree” were surprisingly enjoyable, especially when practiced in a darkened room, which enhanced the sensory deprivation and focus.
As I swayed back and forth doing Zen Swings, I found myself noticing the subtle details of my surroundings, such as the sound of my clothes moving or my necklace rattling. These rhythmic sounds were strangely calming. Olson recommends 15-20 minutes for each pose, which I couldn’t manage, maxing out at two minutes. Time moves differently when you’re trying to be present.
Alex Olson demonstrating a Qigong movement
The second lesson focused on Sama Vritti, which essentially involves counting breaths. Olson humorously admits this should have been the first lesson, but it appears as the third, adding a slight twist to the learning order. The third lesson introduces Kapalabhati, also known as “Ego Eradicator,” “Shining Skull,” and “Breath of Fire.” This particular technique involves rapid breathing, which Olson warns could lead to fainting and is not recommended for pregnant individuals. While Olson claims an “ecstatic feeling,” I mostly felt like I was about to pass out. This breathwork exercise felt more like a forced panic attack than a calming meditation technique.
Animated demonstration of Kapalabhati breathing technique
My initial idea of meditation was stillness and quiet, but the breathwork introduced a new perspective, showing that meditation isn’t always about serene silence. The final video consisted of a five-minute, 37-second deep guttural reverberation of “ohm,” a common stereotype of meditation. Olson’s deep ohm sounded like it might be more harmful to his throat than all his past cigarette consumption. I found this exercise difficult and not relaxing, as the loud sound and vibrations were overwhelming.
Alex Olson leading an "ohm" meditation practice
Final Thoughts on the Course
Overall, Olson’s course is a decent introduction to meditation and breathwork. While it might not be the most comprehensive or the most expertly taught, Olson’s name and unique personality are undoubtedly what draw people to the course and to try these practices.
Of all the lessons, I found the Qigong exercises the most appealing because it was a unique combination of movement, yoga and meditation, offering a more complete exercise. It also felt more like a balanced experience, engaging multiple parts of the body and mind, making me find myself doing it in my spare time.
Alex Olson demonstrating a different Qigong movement
However, the course hasn’t brought me much closer to my goal of achieving mental clarity. Many exercises led to over-focusing on specific actions rather than clearing my mind. It seems like Olson presents his personal solutions as universal solutions, while I find mental clarity through skating, running, and journaling, Alex uses meditation.
I’m a fan of Alex’s, so it’s disappointing how 917 disbanded. But it’s good to see he’s finding his way into another field. He’s definitely a person with a strong mindset and he will find success in life. Meditation just didn’t do it for me.
Perhaps I would have had better results using District Vision’s $120 Meditation Cushion. We may never know.
Article by: Justin Satliel
