Ray Dalio’s Financial Empire

At 75 years old, Ray Dalio, the founder of Bridgewater Associates, has earned his status as one of the wealthiest individuals globally. Established in 1975, Bridgewater has evolved into the largest hedge fund, managing assets valued at approximately $97.2 billion as of 2023. His personal net worth exceeds $16 billion, with a significant portion derived from his successful firm, which currently commands around $66 billion in assets.

The Power of Meditation

Dalio attributes a substantial part of his success to Transcendental Meditation (TM), a practice he has embraced since 1968. “I think the best advice I can give anyone is to meditate because it gives you calmness and equality,” Dalio shared in a recent interview with CNBC. He emphasizes that the benefits of meditation have been pivotal to his achievements.

Since revealing his meditation practices in 2021, Dalio has described the experience as akin to taking a “20-minute vacation.” This brief respite not only calms him but also enhances his decision-making abilities, allowing him to generate creative ideas and approach challenges with clarity.

Scientific Backing for Transcendental Meditation

Research supports Dalio’s claims regarding the benefits of TM. A study published in the Brain and Cognition journal in March 2020 found that participants practicing TM experienced notable reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. This growing body of evidence underscores the positive impact meditation can have on mental health.

A Legacy of Transparency

Throughout his leadership at Bridgewater, Dalio has fostered a culture of “radical transparency,” encouraging open communication and honesty among team members. His commitment to personal and organizational growth has been complemented by his long-standing meditation practice, which he began shortly before founding his hedge fund.

High-Profile Meditation Advocates

Dalio is not alone in his advocacy for meditation among billionaires. Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, incorporated meditation into his workplace by offering meditation, sleep, and stretching rooms at his London office. Likewise, Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter, has publicly shared his intensive meditation practices, retreating into silence for hours while meditating.