I’m thrilled to introduce Aniko Benedek, a talented psychedelic therapist, in this inspiring interview. Alongside her insightful story, we’re also showcasing stunning photos of her wearing our iconic jumpsuits—combining her vibrant spirit with our timeless designs.
Can you start by telling us about yourself, where you come from, where you live and what's your work?
I'm a first generation American with two immigrant parents. My father is from Hungary and my mother is Korean. I grew up in the states and abroad. I'm a psychedelic therapist, the founder of Sound Ceremony and the founder of The Moon Circle.
How did you develop a passion for music and particularly the harp?
After a decade of working in silicon valley, and after years of facilitating ceremonies, I got my MSW at Columbia University and became a psychedelic therapist.There's a long story and a short story on how I got into this work. The short story is, it chose me. Or rather my teacher (a shaman bro type) chose me. After a year of apprenticing, I started facilitating. I was very musical growing up and played instruments and sang when I was younger. I started playing the harp again during the pandemic.
What keeps you inspired?
I am inspired by beauty, magic, and love.
How sustainability plays an important role in your work? And is it part of your everyday life as well?
There is a quote by Jiddu Krishnamurti that says "It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society."
My work is about harmony and bringing people back into harmony, which means reminding people that we are not separate from nature but rather a part of it. I believe that the reason there are so many people with anxiety and depression is because the way we treat the environment is a reflection of the way we treat ourselves. My hope is that through psychedelics and healing and connecting people to their own inner healing wisdom that people can start to pay attention to what really matters. Our culture puts a lot of emphasis on self-help but the reality is we heal in community and in nature, which is why I founded The Moon Circle for women to gather every new and full moon online to heal and transform our lives in community and in touch with nature.
What are you most excited for in the coming months?
Transformation, growth and healing can be hard and 2023 was a challenging year for me on all fronts. My whole life fell apart and it feels like I am finally coming out of the cocoon. I still feel like I am between an old life and a new one. I'm excited for whatever life has in store for me. I'm ready and open for more magic and love and I'm grateful for how much I have learned.
Thank you so much Aniko for your time. It is a pleasure to have you part of our interview series. We love seeing you wearing our jumpsuits!!
Websites: Soundceremony.com, Themooncircle.com
Instagram handle: @xoaniko
Photographer: Julian Walter @julianwalterphoto