Originally posted on Simply Abu Dhabi
A Q&A with Founder Shelley Lewis
As Shelley Lewis says, “Despite the power and influence of technology, we’ve never been so far from our Inner Self.” This is the powerful motivation behind SacredSpace. ai, a tech-enabled journey to meditation and mindfulness, aimed at helping us overcome anxiety, burnout, and feeling low in body and spirit. This revolutionary approach to wellness is incredibly intriguing – not least because it harnesses the capabilities of technology – so often the cause of feeling overwhelmed or isolated – and brings them to bear on a transformational journey to tranquillity. That’s why we wanted to speak with Shelley Lewis, the Founder and leading light behind SacredSpace.ai, to learn more. She graciously shared more about her personal journey – and why the UAE was the perfect place to launch.
Journey to the UAE
Simply Abu Dhabi: Shelley, thank you so much for speaking with us. Could you start by telling us a little about your background and what led you to the UAE?
Shelley Lewis: It’s my pleasure. I am English-born, New York-raised, and in 2022, I embarked on a journey to the UAE to begin a new chapter—one where my purpose and passion could align. As an entrepreneur with a background in the arts and wellness, I was drawn to the UAE’s forward-thinking spirit, its bold vision, and its unique ability to honour tradition while embracing progress. Abu Dhabi inspired me with its transformative initiatives like Saadiyat Island, a beacon for arts and culture, and the Abrahamic Family House, a profound symbol of unity and tolerance. Reflecting ideals that are deeply aligned with my own and my own vision for SacredSpace: to create environments that foster inner peace and harmony.
Prior to this, in 2014, I founded SacredSpaceNY, one of the city’s first dedicated meditation studios. By 2020, I collaborated with Ross Lovegrove and Nagami Studios to develop The Shell, an immersive healing pod designed to revolutionize personal wellness. Now, in 2024, SacredSpace has evolved into SacredSpace.ai, a pioneering AI-powered platform designed to analyse user sentiment and craft personalized meditative journeys, co-founded with Deep Minds.
On Feeling Removed from the Inner Self
In your quote, you speak of how many of us are feeling removed from our Inner Self. Can you tell us more about what you mean by that and how it inspired you on your path?
When I began working as a consultant in the field of Wellbeing, I often emphasized the importance of staying grounded and true to oneself. In a world that constantly pulls us in countless directions, it’s easy to lose our inner compass. Yet, what we need most is a clear and unwavering true north. There is immense power in intentionality—embracing each moment as a sacred opportunity to align with our higher selves and live with purpose.
Throughout my journey, many people have shared with me their stories of navigating great change, searching for balance, and rediscovering themselves. As someone deeply engaged in the world of spirituality and meditation for decades, I’ve seen how these practices can profoundly transform lives. At the same time, I’ve observed how technology has become an inseparable part of our everyday experiences, from iPhones to Apple Watches. This intersection inspired me to explore how technology could shift from being perceived as an intrusion to becoming a valuable tool for fostering inner peace—a refuge from the relentless sensory overload of modern life.
The journey in life represents many different evolutions of one’s Self. During these moments of life transition, having a safe inner space to recalibrate, restore, and reflect becomes invaluable. By harmonising ancient wisdom with advanced innovation, we strive to guide individuals toward equanimity and the realization of their highest potential. SacredSpace.ai embodies the next chapter of this vision—a venture rooted in the belief that thoughtfully integrated technology can become a powerful catalyst for spiritual growth.
Why the UAE Was the Right Fit
We’re particularly interested, as we know our readers will be, by your deep connection to the UAE. Why do you think there’s such a harmony or symbiosis between your work and the ethos of this region?
The UAE’s unparalleled commitment to innovation makes it the ideal home for SacredSpace.ai to flourish. Its leadership, governance, and vision set a global standard, and I am honoured to contribute to this extraordinary legacy. Our logo is inspired by the iconic Sheikh Zayed Museum’s falcon-wing structure, symbolizing our roots in Abu Dhabi. The lapis lazuli design reflects the protective embrace of angelic wings and the lotus flower’s blooming resilience— capturing our mission to help people rise through challenges and soar higher.
Launching in the Middle East, we are committed to honouring the region’s rich traditions and values. Creating reflective features that seamlessly integrate with the rhythm of the Call to Prayer—Adhan—offering a meaningful connection to both mindfulness and cultural heritage. As a 360° holistic healing brand, we aspire to serve not only elite circles but also the heart of society. From hospital staff to first responder services, we are committed to supporting high-stress communities that often lack access to wellness resources. It’s important to us that our services uplift everyone.
The pace of technology and the birth of AI is reshaping our relationship with reality, and at SacredSpace.ai, our mission is to develop technologies that enhance our shared humanity while addressing the ever increasing challenges we face on our well-being. One of our unique offerings for example is HeartBeats, an innovation that transforms users’ heartbeats into personalized melodies, connecting people worldwide through the universal language of sound. This feature shifts the focus from identity to emotion, fostering a deeper connection to oneself and others.
In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, SacredSpace invites you to pause—recalibrate, restore, and reflect. As we embrace 2025, I believe we’re poised to contribute meaningfully to a transformative wave of innovation, building technology to elevate tranquillity, bridging technology with the essence of humanity to build a better future.
Looking Ahead with Simply Abu Dhabi
Finally, there’s an exciting update to share with our readers, isn’t there?
I am thrilled to say that I am joining Simply Abu Dhabi as an upcoming features editor, covering lifestyle, wellness, and the arts. Abu Dhabi is a city of incredible vibrancy, seamlessly blending its rich heritage—rooted in the vision of its founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed—with its forward-thinking commitment to innovation and lifestyle design. From cultural hubs like Saadiyat Island to ground-breaking initiatives, the capital is shaping a legacy that inspires and captivates. I look forward to exploring it all with our readers.