Just a Regular Guy Who Stumbled Upon Something That Actually Works

Mark Blacknell is a meditation guide best known for the Stare at the Wall practice, a simple and direct approach to stillness designed for real people living real lives.

He is a Marine veteran, former Teamster, and working-class kid originally from Philly who hit rock bottom and found his way back through simplicity, discipline, and showing up for five quiet minutes at a time.

Read the Introduction To The Book!

From Dirty Darby to Staring at Walls

I was born in a tough, working-class area of Philadelphia - a place we affectionately call "Dirty Darby." Marine Corps veteran, former Teamster, the kind of guy who fed on adrenaline and solved problems the hard way.

For twenty years, I was a mess. PTSD, anxiety, depression - the whole package. I went through VA treatment, about fifteen moves to a dozen different locations, two short stints in jail, more close calls with the law than I can count, divorce, and more jobs than I care to remember.

If I can do it, anyone can! We all start somewhere!

A friend once introduced me to a small book of talks on meditation. At first, I thought, “What’s this person selling?” But something about the approach cut through all the spiritual BS. There was no pitch. No promise. No attempt to impress.

The message was simple: stop talking about spirituality and just practice. That emphasis on doing rather than explaining stuck with me. Over time, it shaped how I approach practice today. Less theory. Less performance. More showing up and sitting down.

How Staring at a Wall Saved My Life

I took meds, exercised, ate right, and meditated every day for about three years straight. I did everything right as I could. Then one day, I woke up stable. I can't tell you exactly how it happened, but once I was balanced, it took another year for me to believe it.

I have had my share of falls, but my sh*t's been together for a long time now. That's why I'm in a good position to help others who are where I used to be.

The practice isn't pretty or exotic. It's sitting in front of a blank wall and watching your mind and body dance. Initially, to be realistic and develop a routine, we sit for just five minutes. Just you, a wall, and the courage to sit still when everything inside wants to run.

I got out of the service in 1993. My problems built from there. I was uneasy and unhappy. I was confused and angry. I suffered from alcoholism, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. I started experimenting with meditation in 2006. I committed to meditation practice ten years later and have never looked back.