Why a Former Male Stripper Left the Party Scene Behind to Embrace Monastic Life in Thailand

A former male stripper, Ashley Edelman, has transformed his life from a wild and chaotic past to one rooted in peace and meditation. He openly shares his journey, emphasizing the power of change.

Edelman, originally from Australia, found himself in Cornwall, England, working as a stripper. He recalls a time when he struggled with confidence and used drinking to ease his social anxiety. “I thought, why not get paid for what I used to do for fun in the Army?” he reflected.

His success in the adult entertainment industry grew, leading him to one of the UK’s biggest touring strip shows. However, fame came with its pitfalls. Edelman turned to bodybuilding, steroids, and a lifestyle filled with partying and drugs. Cocaine, weed, and a hedonistic lifestyle became my norm, but it wasn’t sustainable,” he admitted. By 2018, he hit rock bottom.

Determined to change, Edelman left stripping behind. He briefly returned after a difficult divorce but felt disconnected. “I felt like I was selling my soul,” he explained. Though he doesn’t regret his past, he recognizes the personal boundaries he crossed for money. This realization sparked a yearning for transformation.

His path led him to a month-long retreat at iMONASTERY in Chiang Mai, Thailand. There, he embraced a monk-like lifestyle, devoid of distractions like phones and music. Each day started at 4 a.m. with meditation and chanting, along with various chores and Dharma classes. This period profoundly altered his perspective; he experienced what he calls “downloads” that guided him toward a new life in Dubai, where he aims to uplift others.

He believes in living with “zero resistance,” fostering calmness and self-awareness previously unimaginable. To maintain this peace, Edelman took a six-month break from social media, only returning when it felt genuinely aligned with his new identity. Today, he boasts over 147,000 followers on Instagram, sharing his story to inspire compassion and resilience.

“Many suffer in silence, thinking they’re alone. We all face struggles, but transformation is possible,” he said, highlighting the importance of connection and understanding.

Recent statistics show that mental health issues are on the rise, especially among young adults. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, nearly 75% of millennials report anxiety. Edelman’s story underscores the significance of finding inner peace and community support during tough times.

He aspires to return to the monastery annually, not to escape life but to refine his purpose: serving others. “Every experience, every mistake led me here,” he reflected. This journey from the chaotic nightlife to a life of service serves as a reminder that change is possible for anyone willing to seek it.

For more insights on meditation and personal development, check out resources from the Meditation Organization.

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