THE COLLECTIVE INDIVIDUAL
“Individuality isn’t lost in the collective; it’s refined by it.”
How do we, as individuals, benefit from being part of something larger than ourselves?
This kind of integration is not just a nice idea, it’s embedded in the fabric of nature. We live in relationship: to others, to our environment, and to the communities we inhabit. These relationships shape who we are and what we become, expanding the possibilities available to us.
A cell in the body offers a clear metaphor: it is fully itself, defined by its membrane and function, yet inseparable from the organism it supports. Isolated, it dies. Self-serving, it threatens the whole. But in concert, it contributes to something far greater than itself, while also fulfilling its own purpose.
Our practices and communities are no different. They are living systems; constantly evolving, stagnating, or declining. This movement happens at both the individual and group level. A community may be thriving while individual practices wither, or individual growth may flourish while communal threads weaken. Like an untended garden, neglect or imbalance leads to overgrowth, scarcity, and strain.
In a world that prizes efficiency, it can seem easier to go it alone. No schedules to juggle, no logistics to navigate, no social friction. Sometimes that’s a valid choice. But there’s also a cost—a subtle erosion of depth, creativity, and resilience that only comes from being in the room with others. Shared practice expands us. It multiplies insight. It sharpens attention. It makes the invisible visible.
As many of our students mature in their journey, the work naturally becomes more nuanced, more personal. The temptation to isolate can grow. Add in the velocity of modern life, and it's easy to prioritize convenience over connection. I know the feeling, I’ve been there too. But I also know the truth: practicing together is an exponentiator.
Years ago, I drew a simple model to represent this. It still rings true today, especially in a culture where “individuality” is quietly becoming synonymous with isolation.
There’s a better way: the collective individual. One who is fully themselves, and fully with others.
In the weeks and months ahead we are deeply highlighting the group practice, from the side of our personal work. It's a time to spend in community, moving, sharing ideas, communing - something we might be missing if we put our heads down to do the work and never look up.
What does this mean for classes and practice? More active participation in work that matters to you, a program you can follow and goals you can unlock. Let's put some work in together and share in the journey ahead!
- Brian