Ben is a lifelong student of physical practice and the founder of Meditative Monkey, a movement studio on the Central Coast. He is also the lead facilitator of the Praksis Practitioner Program, an online mentorship for students seeking a deeper relationship with the body, greater freedom, and personal growth.
Ben’s journey began early with competitive swimming, basketball, soccer, karate, and a passion for music. In his teens, he developed a keen interest in strength training, anatomy, and philosophy — a curiosity that has shaped his lifelong exploration of movement and self-development.
After completing a Certificate III in Fitness and a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science at the University of Newcastle, Ben worked as a kinder-gym instructor and personal trainer. Although the conventional fitness world provided a solid foundation, he soon grew disillusioned with its limitations. This led him to study alternative approaches such as Hatha yoga, mobility training, and Vipassana meditation.
A pivotal moment came when Ben discovered the work of Ido Portal, whose integrative and expansive approach to movement resonated deeply. He attended Ido’s Movement Camp in Thailand in 2018, where he met Thomas Emerson, founder of Praksis. Inspired by Tom’s ethos and mentorship, Ben became a dedicated student of both the Ido Portal Method and the Praksis curriculum.
Today, Ben continues his education under some of the world’s best teachers. Through Meditative Monkey and the Praksis Practitioner Program, he shares his evolving practice — helping others overcome limitations, deepen body-mind connection, and explore who they can become.
Ben is committed to being a better student, teacher, citizen, husband, father, and friend — and inspiring others to do the same.
Find Ben on Instagram here
