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In this episode of Parasympathetic Play, we explore a fresh perspective: what if spiritual practices function like algorithms? From meditation to Yin Yoga, these traditions act as curated systems—guiding us toward specific outcomes, just as digital algorithms filter information.
How do our daily choices, habits, and practices shape the “algorithm” of our lives? What are we unconsciously reinforcing, and what can we reprogram?
This is a casual but deep dive into how we can better understand spiritual traditions (and ourselves) by looking at them through this new lens.
Jump in, listen, and let’s keep the conversation going—share your thoughts in the comments!
Podcast Breakdown: "Spiritual Practices Are Algorithms"
Intro: Setting the Frame
A casual deep dive into a topic that’s been on my mind: algorithms as a way of understanding spiritual practice.
Quick breathwork to ground in the moment before jumping in.
What’s an Algorithm, Really?
Not some mystical, unknowable thing—just a system for sorting and curating information.
Example of social media algorithms: feeding us content based on our engagement.
The Plinko Board Metaphor
Imagine a Plinko board (carnival game with pegs & a falling disc).
Each spiritual practice is its own board, pre-set with different pegs that guide you toward an outcome.
The repetition of practice bounces you along a designed path, influencing your mind, body, and awareness over time.
Spiritual Practices as Algorithms
Practices like meditation, yoga, qigong, Buddhism are systems that shape our perception & experience.
Just like an algorithm, they filter, prioritize, and guide us toward specific ways of seeing and being.
Choosing Your Algorithm Intentionally
Every action, habit, and choice feeds a personal algorithm.
What you engage with daily—media, people, thoughts—reinforces a self-created "life feed."
Spiritual practices offer a way to consciously design this system, rather than letting randomness (or social conditioning) dictate it.
Why This View is Useful
Helps make spiritual practices feel more practical & intentional.
If a practice isn’t delivering the "output" you want, maybe it's time to adjust the pegs on your board.
Encourages a playfully experimental mindset toward personal growth.
Closing Thoughts & Invitation
This is an ongoing exploration, not a final thesis.
Encouragement to try viewing practices this way & experiment with new "algorithmic inputs."
Open call for listeners to share thoughts, questions, and perspectives in the comments or directly.
Want More? Fancying Algorithms Now?
» » Watch this more formal lecture providing a specific analysis of Yin Yoga as an algorithmic practice and how it works…
