A veteran of the war in Iraq, Ben was injured in and IED explosion on New Years Eve of 2006. Ben returned home to find challenges with his ability to sleep and other agitation. Connecting with yoga and mindfulness practice, he discovered tools that he could use to be present, to calm his heart and mind, and to get some sleep. With his successful practice in place, Ben wanted to bring the benefits he was experiencing to others. He started Armor Down, an organization designed to bring mindfulness practice teaching and support to veterans and active duty service people. Extending this practice to even more connection through gratitude and healing, Ben started the Mindful Memorial Foundation to engage mindfulness practitioners, warriors, healers, and citizens in a focused practice at Arlington National Cemetery. Through Mindful Memorial Foundation, all fallen soldiers who lost their lives since 9/11 and who are buried at Arlington are honored with acts of mindfulness and gratitude. Their families are notified and receive a photo letting them know that their loved one has been recognized and honored through this program and these practices.
