PLEASE NOTE: This interview originally aired on Sounds True One, where you can enjoy early, ad-free access to episodes of Insights at the Edge. Sounds True One is our premium membership platform built around live classes, online events, award-winning specials, intimate learning experiences and Q&A sessions with the world’s leading wisdom teachers. Get your first month FREE at https://bit.ly/4liBdVV What does it take to truly master yourself—not just your body, but your mind, your roles, and your relationship to suffering? In this episode of Insights at the Edge, Tami Simon speaks with Shi Heng Yi—a 35th generation Shaolin master, founder of the Shaolin Temple Europe, and author of Shaolin Spirit: The Way to Self-Mastery—about what the ancient Shaolin path has to teach modern seekers about identity, elevation, and inner freedom. Born in Germany to Vietnamese immigrant parents, Master Shi Heng Yi began martial arts training at age four. He now brings the profound intersection of Zen Buddhism, kung fu, and practical wisdom to students worldwide. In this conversation, Tami and Shi Heng Yi explore: • What self-mastery actually means—and why it has nothing to do with control • The difference between the self and the persona, and why most suffering comes from confusing the two • The concept of elevation—how life becomes lighter when we release grasping • How the body becomes a doorway to what lies beyond it • The mind training hidden inside the Shaolin horse stance (mabu) • Why “fighting like a demon with the heart of a Buddha” is the Shaolin ideal • The yin dimension within one of the world’s most physically demanding traditions Whether you’re navigating a heavy season or simply drawn to ancient wisdom for modern life, this conversation delivers a rare and grounding perspective from a true master. Subscribe to Sounds True's YouTube Channel ► https://bit.ly/SubscribeSTYT Sounds True is a mission-driven learning and media company, and a recognized leader in wellbeing, personal growth, and spiritual transformation. Partnering with the world’s foremost wisdom teachers and best-selling authors, the company reaches millions worldwide with its unique programs, digital learning experiences, and worldwide events. The company also features a variety of original series, weekly shows, and live online experiences on Sounds True One, its global platform and community with members across more than 125 countries. Sounds True is a Public Benefit Corporation and also the home of the Sounds True Foundation. Connect with us: ▪️Facebook: http://bit.ly/2XFIIeE ▪️Instagram: http://bit.ly/2UlEoiH ▪️Website: http://bit.ly/2tOl02d #ShiHengYi #ShaolinSpirit #SelfMastery #InsightsAtTheEdge #SoundsTrue #ZenBuddhism #MartialArtsWisdom #SpiritualPodcast #InnerFreedom