Stay ConnectedThe Guru Viking Podcast specializes in in-depth interviews with remarkable figures in the world of meditation, spirituality, and self development.
Steve travels internationally teaching somatic practices and meditation, and leads explorations in contemplative, mystic, & relational realms.
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In this episode I am joined by Ishtar, an independent mediation teacher, mystic, and spiritual guide. Ishtar shares his unusual childhood including near constant encounters with ghosts, early spiritual experiences, astral journeys, and precognitive dreams. Ishtar details his life of spiritual seeking, years of intensive meditation practice, encounters with the cult groups, dark nights of the soul, and more. Ishtar also recounts the car crash which both killed his mother and plunged Ishtar, at 13 years old, into a near death experience that would change his life forever. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep278-the-mystic-ishtar Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:42 - Ishtar’s unusual childhood 02:16 - Early encounters with ghosts 04:35 - Distress of constant ghost encounters 05:33 - Becoming Sherlock Holmes for ghosts 07:19 - Discovering the personality 10:48 - Beginning to suffer and developing roles 12:48 - Becoming a good faker 13:21 - Car crash, NDE, and the death of Ishtar’s mother 23:34 - Anger towards God 24:08 - A strange silence and bliss 26:59 - Grief and searching for transcendence 29:43 - Beginning of spiritual seeking 31:03 - Meeting local psychics 31:48 - Considering careers 33:12 - A powerful palm reading 36:15 - The mad monk inside 37:07 - 6hrs of practice each day 38:36 - Past life memories and spiritual proclivities 43:33 - Out of body experience 45:38 - Astral travel to floating cities 48:12 - Shaft of light 49:38 - Precognitive daydreams 50:17 - Further precognition 53:39 - Reading “Autobiography of a Yogi” and praying to Babaji 56:52 - Joining the Ishaya Foundation and living in ashrams 01:02:39 - Leaving the ashram and entering a dark night of the soul 01:05:44 - Repercussions of leaving a cult group 01:07:40 - Suffering returns and facing death 01:09:42 - The magic returns and teaching meditation 01:11:47 - Meeting his future wife 01:13:21 - A tough 2016 01:14:19 - Breakthrough to fully merging with everything 01:14:56 - Visions of Tuscany and experiences of blended time 01:19:20 - Reconciliations and purifications 01:19:43 - Leaving Portland and move to Portugal 01:21:47 - “I” vs “we” 01:22:52 - How did Ishtar spend his daily 6hrs of meditation? 01:26:18 - Spinning the wheels of meditation and trying to force results 01:27:40 - Powerful psychedelic experience 01:30:40 - Ishtar reflects on losing his mother at age 13 01:32:42 - An experience of maternal reconnection and affirmation 01:34:38 - Inner child work 01:36:11 - Mother’s embrace in Florence 01:37:44 - What does Ishtar’s teach 01:38:54 - Ishtar’s recent spiritual breakthroughs 01:41:40 - Psychic powers are not the bullseye 01:43:25 - Ishtar’s concluding thoughts and advice 01:47:29 - Christopher Wood, the stick peddler … To find our more about Isthar, visit: - https://www.ascension-meditation.com/ - https://www.awakenedlightastrology.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/ishtarishaya … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr. William Rory Dickson an associate professor of Islamic Religion and Culture at The University of Winnipeg and author of “Dissolving into Being: The Wisdom of Sufi Philosophy”. Professor Dickson discusses Ibn ‘Arabi (1165–1240), an important Sufi poet and philosopher. Ibn ‘Arabi was described as the greatest master of the Way but has increasingly been seen as a controversial and heterodox figure by some within Islam. Professor Dickson explores the historical tensions between the mystic and the cleric, describes Sufi meditation methods and the struggle to realisation, and considers extra-Islamic influences on Sufism throughout history. Professor Dickson also reflects on Sufism’s interaction with American culture including the universalist new age movement, the failure of utopian models of worldwide religious harmony, and the retraditionalisation of religious orders such as the Inayatiyya. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep277-master-of-the-way-prof-william-rory-dickson-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:14 - Orthodox to heterodox 05:44 - Who was Ibn ‘Arabi? 06:49 - A spiritual prodigy 10:34 - Leaving Andalusia and arriving in Damascus 12:33 - The greatest master of the Way 14:57 - Mystic vs cleric 17:23 - Political executions of sufis 19:12 - The need to read the room 19:54 - Periods of tension and integration 21:37 - The influence of patronage 24:18 - The struggle for spiritual realisation 27:47 - The visions and practice of Ibn ‘Arabi 29:12 - Embodying the 99 names of God 32:11 - Sufi meditation on the names of God 35:36 - The state of dhikr 36:20 - Ascetic practices 37:53 - Extra-Islamic influences on Sufi practice, historical and modern 46:54 - God brings prophets to all people 49:09 - Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, Lex Hixon, and the New Age 58:04 - History of the Inayatiyya order 01:03:00 - Reformulating Sufism for an American audience 01:05:13 - Retraditionalisation in Inayatiyya 01:06:43 - The failure of modernist universalism 01:09:48 - Death of optimism 01:11:28 - Postmodernism vs perennialism 01:12:24 - Does Ibn ‘Arabi offer a synthesis of modern and post-modern perspectives? 01:16:17 - Rumi and the controversy of Coleman Barks … Previous episode with Professor William Rory DIckson: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep272-mystical-path-of-sufism-professor-william-rory-dickson To find our more about Professor William Rory Dickson, visit: - https://www.uwinnipeg.ca/experts-guide/william-rory-dickson.html - https://anqa.co.uk/publications/dissolving-being … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Tulku Sherab Dorje, Buddhist teacher, translator, and author of scholarly and popular books about Tibetan Buddhism. Tulku Sherdor recounts his unusual childhood and past-life proclivities, his graduation from Columbia Law School and subsequent elite level law practice, and years of spiritual retreat under masters of Tibetan Buddhist lineages. Tulku Sherdor explores the creative tension between cynicism and devotion, the use of humour in scripture and spiritual teaching, and the importance of reinvesting one’s merit with the inspiration of bodhicitta. Tulku Sherdor also reflects on what it takes to be an effective translator, whether critical scholarship is a threat to religious faith, and the pros and cons of the tulku system from his position as a recognised reincarnation. … Link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:34 - Why write about one’s spiritual life? 04:48 - Humour and literary conventions of self-diminishment 06:20 - Self promotion and the marketplace of ideas 08:33 - Cynicism, devotion, and humour in relationship with gurus 11:46 - Buddha’s humour in the sutras 13:53 - Tulku Sherdor’s family background and unusual childhood behaviours 15:20 - Jewish diaspora and resonance with the Tibetan diaspora 17:36 Awakening of existential questioning 18:57 -Child psychologist’s advice to Tulku Sherdor 19:54 - Past life explanation and how to invest your merit 24:24 - How to use your freedoms and advantages 25:22 - Tulku Sherdor expresses gladness about his life’s work 26:52 - Are there dedicated practitioners? 27:49 - Tulku Sherdor’s unique combination of successes 28:53 - Benefits of being a well trained lawyer 29:46 - Important writing lessons learned at Columbia Law School and during law career 32:59 - Hypercriticism of other translators 34:00 - Serving the lineage with high standards 35:44 - Praise for Erik Pema Kunsang and Thinley Norbu 38:11 - Advice for writers and translators 41:12 - Dual-language immersion 42:23 - Translator disillusionment and historical perspective 46:46 - Cultural naivety and the published word 48:41 - Is critical scholarship a threat to sacred texts and religious faith? 53:16 - Advice about how to learn Tibetan 55:31 - Pros and cons of training at Harvard University and the Rangjung Yeshe Institute 56:46 - Advice for graduates of elite academic programs 01:00:39 - Sanskrit and Chinese 01:02:33 - The Amazon monster and Tulku Sherdor’s books 01:05:10 - Remembering past lives 01:08:44 - Carrying qualities into your next life 01:09:15 - Tulku Sherdor reflects on his childhood Dharmic tendencies 01:10:55 - Being a tulku 01:14:21 - Tulku Sherdor reflects on the tulku system 01:15:58 - Concluding remarks … To find our more about Tulku Sherdor, visit: - https://blazingwisdom.org/tulku-sherab-dorje/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron, teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and executive director of Saraswati Bhawan Publications. Khandro Kunzang details her apprenticeship in Nepal under renowned ngakpa Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, outlines the course of her training from yidam practice to tummo and beyond, and reflects on the profound trust involved in the guru-disciple dynamic. Khandro Kunzang shares stories about Kunzang Dorje’s psychic powers, his testing the honesty and obedience of potential students and even other lamas, and the price he paid for adhering to his yogic ideals by refusing involvement in politics and religious institutions. Khandro Kunzang explains the value of a close relationship with a guru, what it takes to be a worthy student to a spiritual master, and considers the differences between those who teach dharma with or without lineage authority. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep275-i-was-a-tantric-disciple-khandro-kunzang-dechen-chodron-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - Finding the guru 02:08 - US Tour with Lama Dawa 06:13 - Personal time and teachings with Lama Dawa 08:08 - Insistence on ngondro 09:16 - Proposing a consort relationship 14:23 - Meeting Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche in Nepal 16:46 - Past life test 20:48 - Receiving Dudjom Tersar 3 Roots Empowerment 22:00 - Challenged to drink alcohol as a nun 24:41 - Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche agrees to become Khandro’s teacher 25:23 - Further ngondro and 6 month retreat 27:01 - Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche’s clairvoyance and psychic powers 28:51 - How Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche tested seekers and students 30:29 - Exposing infidelity between a student and lama 31:23 - The importance of honesty and trust 32:23 - A pride offering 34:13 - Follow-through and other conditions of samaya 36:40 - A disobedient student 38:28 - Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche’s attitude towards high lamas 40:51 - The price of purity 42:52 - Exploitation of Westerners 44:15 - Ngakpas don’t form groups 45:20 - Faith in the guru 47:03 - Challenged by Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 49:11 - Arguing with Lama Dawa 50:09 - The value of having a close relationship with a teacher 52:12 - Wrathful teaching vs abuse 53:57 - 2 dimensions of mentorship 55:08 - Motivation and lama wannabes 57:29 - Critique of bad lamas who come to the West 59:20 - What makes a real student? 01:00:27 - Importance of work ethic and personal sacrifice 01:02:30 - Self interest and hidden agendas 01:04:14 - Who is authorised to teach the lineage? 01:07:07 - Selecting a lineage holder 01:08:37 - Different levels of teacher 01:10:02 - The burden of being enthroned 01:12:56 - Khandro details her training under Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 01:14:28 - Generation stage for ḍākinī, lama, and yidam 01:16:02 - Tummo and completion stage practices 01:19:40 - Rare pipe practice 01:23:23 - Private and public enthronements 01:25:28 - Further completion stage practices and Vajrakīlāya … Previous episode with Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep268-sitting-with-terror-khandro-kunzang-dechen-chodron To find our more about Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron, visit: - https://www.phurbathinleyling.org/khandro-kunzang/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between Henry Shukman, British poet, Zen teacher, and author of ‘One Blade of Grass; a Zen memoir’; and John Brehm, American poet and author of ‘The Dharma of Poetry’. Henry and John share the story of their formations as poets, compare the similarities as well as the marked differences in their backgrounds, and reveal the powerful forces that inspire the creative process. Henry and John discuss the purpose and process of writing poetry, reflect on poetry as a means of contact with the sacred, and contrast the richness of poetry with attentional practices such as mindfulness and Zen. Henry and John also perform and discuss several of their poems, including “Walk the Talk”, “Swifts”, “Yahrzeit”, and “Finis Ter”. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep274-poetry-the-sacred-henry-shukman-john-brehm Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Henry’s early interest in poetry 03:45 - Poetry and spiritual practice 06:04 - What is it to be alive? 06:30 - Searching for the charge 06:51 - First profound experience of writing poetry 08:17 - Poetry that awakes 09:25 - John’s unliterary family background 12:00 - John’s psychedelic experiences in the 1970s 13:23 - Poetry as a way to evoke luminosity 14:37 - Contact with the sacred 15:11 - Henry reflects on John’s early life 15:57 - Henry’s unusual parents 17:23 - Inner freedom and childhood trauma 18:01 - Imagist and Tang dynasty poets 20:08 - The Beat poet and a different way of living 20:54 - Intimacy and rediscovering landscape 22:26 - Seeing beauty in the ordinary and discarded 24:41 - It’s about quality of attention 26:01 - Attracted to the neglected 29:25 - The curse of being a public poet 30:09 - No allies and no encouragement 32:01 - John’s first poetry teacher 33:08 - The audience 34:40 - Poetry only works without purpose 35:32 - Recognising the false note 36:54 - Henry’s process of composition and revision 38:24 - Great poets of the past as audience 39:43 - A R Ammons an writing for an audience 40:20 - Henry’s dream for his poetry 41:52 - The chore of mindfulness 43:09 - Remembering your True Self 43:31 - The sacred pause 44:28 - Temporary enlightenment 45:31 - Poetry is richer than mindfulness 47:28 - Beauty beyond mere mindfulness 49:28- Focusing on what you love 49:59 - Using language to go beyond language 50:54 - Autopoiesis and memetic fulfilment 53:25 - Poet as conduit 55:32 - Radical awakening 57:00 - Banishing the beautiful 58:13 - Seamus Heaney on poetry as redress 59:24 - Collective awakening of consciousness 01:00:20 - Reciprocity and post-medieval alienation 01:01:20 - Hospicing modernity 01:02:30 - Why publish poems? 01:04:27 - John reads “Walk the Talk” 01:06:03 - Reflecting on success as poets 01:09:08 - John reads “Swifts” 01:12:48 - Henry reads “Yahrzeit” 01:18:22 - Henry reads “Finis Ter” 01:19:26 - Appreciation and gratitude … Previous episodes with Henry Shukman: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shukman Previous episode with John Brehm: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep230-the-dharma-of-poetry-john-brehm … Find out more about Henry Shukman: - https://henryshukman.com/ - http://thewayapp.com/ Find out more about John Brehm: - https://www.johnbrehmpoet.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Dr Joffe leads a deep dive into the Western magickal tradition of spirit conjuration, traces their diverse forms through the centuries, and considers the range of beings described, from the land sprites of localised traditions to the high angels of the Enochian system of Renaissance polymath John Dee. Dr Joffe reflects on the origin and changing usage of terms such as “demon” and “devil”, laments the prevalence of dangerously lax invocation practices, considers the cultural impact of the grimoire tradition, compares the systems of demonology found in world religions, and notes striking similarities between Buddhist tantric mystic Padmasambhava and King Solomon. Dr Joffe also shares his own occult experiences including tales of spirit contact, servitor creation, dream visitations from the recently deceased, and ritual workings in several magickal systems. ... Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - Western Esotericism 04:42 - Spirit conjuration and the grimoire tradition 05:49 - Analysing spirit conjuration tropes in horror movies 09:46 - Diverse magical practice 10:51 - Professor Ronald Hutton’s history of Western Esotericism 12:05 - History of spirit conjuration from Ancient Egypt to today 14:49 - Mesopotamian laws against witchcraft 16:08 - The status of magick in the Abrahamic traditions 16:58 - Clerical underground of wizards 18:20 - Literacy and the power of a magickal book 21:03 - Prioritising of the book and of language itself 23:08 - Gathering one’s magickal tools 25:00 - Preparation is key 26:20 - Do spirits find humans repulsive? 30:29 - Self-purification and strategies for self-deification 31:24 - Similarities between Padmasambhava and King Solomon 32:43 - Dzamling Chi Sang and subjugating spirits 33:41 - The Testament of Solomon and subduing spirits 35:34 - Magick and frat-boy fantasy 37:47 - John Dee and the quest for knowledge 39:40 - Christian ceremonial magick and Jesus as a sorcerer 41:55 - Pre-Christian Pagan European spirit traditions 43:09 - Magick vs religion 45:12 - Hamlet and old spirit frameworks 48:03 - Arguments for and against the grimoire tradition 53:56 - Cultural impact of the grimoire tradition 56:05 - Wisdom of the past 58:33 - Different types of spirits and supernatural beings 01:02:33 - Muslim views of Iblīs (the devil) and djinn. 01:04:22 - Evil spirits in Christianity and Tibetan Buddhism 01:06:01 - Different ideas of the Devil 01:07:17 - What is a demon? 01:07:50 - Lazy demonology 01:15:05 - The perspective of nondual Tibetan tantra 01:18:31 - Limitations of dualistic cosmology 01:20:56 - Angels and pre-modern Christian views 01:25:03 - Why demons are useful for practical magick 01:27:47 - Ben’s personal reflections on working with spirits 01:31:17 - Rites of passage and creating servitors 01:33:00 - Ben explains the Goetia 01:34:16 - Ben reflects on his magickal career 01:36:45 - Summoning spirits at 12 years old 01:43:11 - ADHD approach to magick 01:44:09 - Ben recalls powerful, unexpected spirit contacts 02:00:51 Group corroboration 02:02:17 -Dream visitations from the recently deceased 02:04:56 - Are these experiences real? 02:07:30 - The social aspects of magickal practice 02:10:48 - Ben’s relationship with an invented spirit 02:15:42 - Wyatt the servitor 02:21:02 - Models of magick and questions of purity 02:29:09 - The two wolves inside of Ben 02:31:25 - Universal principles or relative frames? 02:34:33 - Artisanal magick and honing attention 02:36:18 - Is magickal training reliable? … Previous episodes with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=joffe To find out more about Dr Ben Joffe, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr. William Rory Dickson an associate professor of Islamic Religion and Culture at The University of Winnipeg and author of “Dissolving into Being: The Wisdom of Sufi Philosophy”. Professor Dickson recalls his Christian upbringing, teenage atheism, and how powerful psychedelic experiences saw him embark on a religious search. Professor Dickson recounts his initial explorations of Tibetan Buddhism, his conversion to Islam, and how his dissatisfaction with conservative and Salafi revivalist trends saw him embrace the Sufi path. Professor Dickson also explains the history of Sufism; considers the influence of Ancient Egyptian, Persian, and Neo-Platonic thought; reflects on the role of language proficiency in the study of religions; and addresses common misconceptions about Sufism and Islam. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep272-mystical-path-of-sufism-professor-william-rory-dickson Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Upcoming book 01:42 - Religious upbringing 03:39 - Becoming a precocious atheist 04:36 - Late teen mystical experiences 05:29 - Rebellious teen years and interest in Japan 06:29 - Working as a social worker in child protection 07:57 - Drawn to academia 08:29 - Returning to graduate school in late 20s 09:58 - Becoming a professor 11:02 - Psychedelics as spiritual doorways 13:10 - Lessons from trauma 14:24 - Spiritual reading and engaging with Tibetan Buddhism 17:42 - Passion for reading 18:42 - From Tibetan Buddhism to Islam 20:44 - Dissatisfaction with local mosque Islam 22:50 - Friends and family reactions to conversion to Islam 23:52 - Involvement with Salafi Muslim revivalist movements 24:53 - First flush of fundamentalism 26:26 - Burning out, renewed spiritual exploration, and seeking a teacher 28:37 - Meeting Ngak’chang Rinpoche of the Aro gTer 31:32 - Gradual or sudden conversion to Islam? 32:23 - The role of Arabic language study 35:05 - Is source language study necessary to really understand and practice religions? 37:08 - Three idiots on an island 38:04 - Language skills and scholarship 40:21 - Decay of language skills in academia 41:59 - Shift from textual study to lived religion 44:56 - Elite vs popular Sufism 47:44 - Common misconceptions about Sufism and Islam 49:53 - Rich mystical philosophy and the post-colonial dilemma 51:17 - Meeting Sufi teachers and the question of Islamic identity 53:26 - Origin story of Sufism 57:515 - Historical perspective of Sufism and connections to Ancient Egypt, Neo-Platonism, and Persia 58:35 - Enoch as a progenitor of the mystical tradition 59:51 - Inner circle perspective 01:00:52 - Evolution and methods of Sufism 01:03:43 - Diversity of Sufi forms through cultural adaptation 01:06:28 - Ibn ‘Arabi 01:07:58 - Methods and metaphors 01:09:11 - Overwhelmed by the visceral presence of love … To find our more about Professor William Rory Dickson, visit: - https://www.uwinnipeg.ca/experts-guide/william-rory-dickson.html … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I host a dialogue between Brad Warner, Zen teacher, Youtuber, and best-selling author of “Hardcore Zen”; and Shozan Jack Haubner, ex-Zen Monk, Youtuber, and prize winning author of the memoir “Zen Confidential: Confessions of a Wayward Monk”. Brad and Jack explore their own journeys as writers, the humorous and confessional elements in their work, and the complications of writing about real life events that involve other people. Brad and Jack reflect on what they see as the politicisation of American Zen, describe how religious institutions can compromise their principles when faced with financial and political pressure, and explain their own efforts on Youtube and elsewhere to challenge hegemony and encourage a return to essential Zen. Brad and Jack also discuss facing criticism as public figures, consider some of their more controversial videos and views, and reveal how they stay centred amidst the polarising forces of today’s internet and social media world. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep271-zen-confessions-brad-warner-shozan-jack-haubner Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Radical self disclosure 02:49 - Why Brad began writing about Zen 05:59 - Hardcore Zen and success 06:48 - Noah Levine’s Dharma Punx 07:50 - Jack’s initial Zen writing 10:43 - Complications of being ordained 12:34 - When people find out 13:40 - Protecting others’ identity 16:29 - Compromise thru affiliation with Zen organisations 18:08 - Selling meditation as a product 21:03 - Austrian Zen and hard retreat 22:44 - Mainstream mindfulness 23:37 - Wearing Zen robes 24:55 - Why Brad stopped teaching in the USA 25:45 - Hostility in NYC 27:50 - Zen apprenticeship and closing the doors 30:53 - Boomer hippy ideals vs real Zen 31:45 - US Zen hegemony 35:11 - Politicised Zen and 80s televangelists 36:20 - Bullying and fixed views 37:25 - Sasaki Roshi’s scandal and encounters with boutique Zen teachers 39:02 - Politicisation of US Zen 41:07 - Financial pressure and running an institution 44:59 - Brad on Sasaki Roshi 47:16 - Sweeping Zen 48:08 - Challenging socio-political trends in American Zen 50:08 - Hijacking Zen 56:06 - The Jack Kornfield problem 59:20 - Attacked from both sides 01:01:16 - Right wing Zen 01:03:54 - Demonising the other side and facing your shadow 01:09:40 - Abuse and pushing your buttons 01:12:10 - Being too nice 01:13:28 - Self-justification 01:14:57 - Co-opting Zen 01:16:09 - Sasaki beats a lazy student 01:19:06 - The danger of Zen practice 01:23:06 - Patron priest corruption 01:24:58 - Dealing with negative feedback on social media 01:33:24 - Internet radicalisation and keeping your head 01:38:52 - Watching your equilibrium 01:39:49 - Jordan Peterson vs Zen 01:43:07 - Teachings vs entertainment 01:46:00 - Why Rinzai is evil and Soto sucks Previous episode with Brad Warner: - www.guruviking.com/podcast/155-hardcore-zen-brad-warner Previous episodes with Shozan Jack Haubner: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=haubner … To find out more about Brad Warner, visit: - http://hardcorezen.info/ - https://www.youtube.com/c/HardcoreZen To find our more about Shozan Jack Haubner, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt9Q74t3o7AUCJ_bKTc5CgA … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, filmed on location in Kathmandu, Nepal, I am joined by Jina Kusala, originally from Norway and now a wandering Theravada monk. Jina tells the story of his traumatic childhood, the mental suffering and instability it caused, and how the Buddhist path provided a means to reckon with the pain. Jina shares encounters with religious leaders such as Mingyur Rinpoche, recounts meeting previous podcast guest Bhante Jason and reflects on the profound time he spent under Bhante’s instruction. Jina recalls his Himalayan wanderings and cave retreats, discusses the power of the 4 foundations of mindfulness, details the differences between Hīnayāna and Vajrayāna realisations, and explains why with incremental progress one may aim for sainthood. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep270-wandering-monk-jina-kusala Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Background and recent travels in the Himalayas 01:40 - How to work with hardship 03:09 - Upbringing in Norway and traumatic childhood 04:30 - Healing trauma 06:21 - Redeeming trauma and helping others 07:42 - Chasing satisfaction 10:22 - Finishing high school and seeking 13:25 - Discerning the wholesome vs unwholesome 14:46 - First encounter with Buddhism in Norway 15:44 - Travel to Sri Lanka and attempts at meditation 17:17 - Jina suggests a location change 17:57 - Meeting Bhante Jason 19:19 - Sophisticated use of the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness 22:46 - Entering the 4 jhānas, clearing emotional blockages, 23:34 - Mechanism of gaining insight 24:31 - The Buddhist path in brief 24:59 - 3 kinds of delusion 25:35 - The 4 noble truths 29:14 - When the mind lets go 31:55 - Leaving Bhante Jason’s hermitage 35:21 - Making Jina’s broken mind functional 38:25 - A scripture parade 38:45 - A period of chaos and profound uncertainty 40:05- Stabilising and improvement of functionality 40:59 - Interpersonal difficulties and wounds of mistrust 42:52 - Manifestation of unprocessed trauma 43:55 - Becoming a cure for trauma 44:53 - Himalayan Buddhism as Jungian shadow work 45:49 - Jina’s karmic background with Himalayan Buddhism 47:02 - Differences between the realisations of early vs later Buddhist forms 49:16 - Formless states vs true nirvāṇa 52:25 - A private meeting with Mingyur Rinpoche and 5 month retreat in caves 54:40 - Plans for India 55:21 - Reflections on the wandering life 57:05 - Developing intuition and accessing the magical mind 58:59 - Reflections on the path, meaning, and ennobling character 01:00:43 - Learning from your mistakes 01:02:29 - Incremental improvement 01:02:32 - Aiming for sainthood … Kathmandu Interviews playlist: - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknwvU82dU487LhF_mF4AkGek&si=gFGJpi-fnLtxeyZ5 Previous Episode with Bhante Jason: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep12-bhante-jason-guru-viking-interviews … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ and ‘Meditation’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Damo Mitchell author, teacher, and student of the internal arts of Asia including Tai Chi and Daoist Inner Alchemy. Damo draws on his background in the qi arts, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Western psychology to reveal the causes and symptoms of various types of qi and meditation related problems, including dragon sickness, nihilism and depression, scorched nervous system, entity possession, and more. Damo explains the two most common triggers for qi illnesses, expresses warnings about working with spirits and reservations about tantric practices of deity and guru yoga, and differentiates true meditation from mere mental cultivation. Damo shares his own spiritual encounters, considers whether or not it is wise to explain mystical experiences to students, and offers recommendations for those facing energetic or existential upset. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Damo comments on Dr Willoughby Britton’s work 03:04 - Is meditation dangerous? 04:31 - Mediation vs qigong illnesses 06:15 - The illness threshold 07:06 - Why qigong illnesses are common 07:38 - Hunting sensation and hyper-stimulation of the nervous system 11:12 - Releasing the nerves 11:45 - Teachers who disclose vs those who withhold 1534 - Making progress or losing ground? 19:19 - Combining Eastern and Western psychological methods 23:00 - Meditation vs mere mental work 26:27 - Fascination with one’s own psychology 27:12 - Damo’s definition of mental illness 28:07 - Is mental work a preliminary to or distraction from meditation? 30:39 - Chinese terms for meditation vs mental work 32:23 - Comparisons with Patanjali’s 8 limbs of yoga 34:10 - Identity attachment 34:55 - Why teaching hurts your training 35:55 - Freedom vs negligence as a teacher 38:01 - Psychiatry vs traditional medical and religious models 41:03 - Two common triggers for qi deviations 42:34 - The dangers of going inside 43:32 - Qi side effects 44:14 - Advice for qigong teachers 45:19 - Scorching the nervous system 46:37 - Dragon sickness 47:43 - A case of dragon sickness that ended in suicide 50:04 - 5 types of qigong illness 51:38 - Entering into fire to encourage demons 52:39 - Nihilism from meditation 53:05 - Poison fire infecting the heart 54:19 - Criticism of sexual practice 58:06 - Contamination of the heart mind 01:00:25 - Love in the spiritual arts 01:01:49 - Demon possession or psychological disorder? 01:03:51 - How entity possession happens 01:06:27 - Lighting up the body 01:07:22 - A story about possession 01:08:58 - Seeking contact with entities through Falun Gong and tantra 01:11:56 - Don’t trust spirits 01:15:07 - Evolution away from shamanism 01:17:15 - Tulkus, dead gurus, and terma 01:20:05 - The cult of Avalokiteśvara and the Dalai Lama 01:21:07 - Risks associated with contacting ascended masters 01:23:42 - Reflections on deity yoga 01:25:15 - Quan Yin worship and personification of deities 01:27:52 - Premature ejaculation and sexual imbalances 01:31:36 - Damo’s mystical experience in a Bhutanese temple 01:35:19 - Questioning one’s own position 01:36:39 - Kundalini syndrome vs qi sickness 01:38:40 - What is kundalini syndrome? 01:39:55 - Commenting on Gopi Krishna’s kundalini account 01:41:26 - Karmic illnesses 01:43:39 - Pilgrimage and confession 01:44:30 - How to fix qi deviations 01:46:28 - Complicated cases and overpowering the incorrect patterns 01:47:22 - How extreme cases develop 01:48:43 - Scaremongering and the value of lineage 01:52:02 - Combining psychedelics with qigong practices 01:55:24 - Potency and risk … Previous episode with Damo Mitchell: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep174-daoist-inner-alchemy-damo-mitchell To find out more about Damo Mitchell, visit: - https://damomitchell.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron, teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and executive director of Saraswati Bhawan Publications. Khandro Kunzang recalls her childhood samadhi experiences and communications with animal spirits, her meetings with great gurus, and her own path of mystical experiences. Khandro Kunzang recounts stories about Lama Dawa and Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche including tales of mirror divination, precognitive dreams, chulen mastery, and other yogic feats. Khandro Kunzang also explains how to work with terror and collapse of the Self, how to hold a place in one’s practice for uncertainty, and the importance of the student’s capacity when working with a guru. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep268-sitting-with-terror-khandro-kunzang-dechen-chodron Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Early life and connection to nature 03:06 - Exposure to Eastern religion and samadhi experiences 05:38 - Powerful experience with a Buddha statue at 14 years old 08:07 - Initial Buddhist seeking 09:44 - Involvement in New Age 10:03 - Transformative resonance with Yeshe Tsogyal’s biography 12:42 - Collapse of the Self structure 14:11 - Active Buddhist involvement 16:31 - Taking refuge and life falling apart 18:34 - All in for Dharma 20:29 - Meeting Lama Dawa and open discussion of the spirit realm 26:29 - Karmic affinity with Lama Dawa 28:16 - Invitation to meet Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 29:59 - Accompanying Lama Dawa on a 9 month tour 33:10 - The influence of Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo 34:10 - Childhood communication with nature spirits and interest in environmental activism 38:20 - Dreams of guardian angel / dharma protector 40:42 - Feelings of alienation and other awakening experiences 44:58 - Past life as a Kagyu retreat master 47:00 - New Age interpretations 50:17 - Time as a sound healer 53:00 - More than mere appearances 54:13 - Trauma and the subtle body 55:52 - Lama Dawa’s yogic emphasis on experience 58:42 - Lama Dawa’s criticisms of scholars 59:55 - Bad death of a geshe 01:00:29 - Lama Dawa’s skill in debate 01:02:06 - Disillusionment with scholarship and social status 01:03:25 - Using the body to process trauma and “stuff” on retreat 01:05:21 - Intense experiences on retreat 01:07:18 - Discipline and music 01:09:08 - Constructive criticism and student capacity 01:11:27 - History of Lama Dawa and Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 01:18:40 - Mastery of stone chulen and other yogic feats 01:23:12 - Mirror divination and other prognostication 01:31:21 - Living with a collapsed Self 01:33:16 - Sitting with terror and holding the place for uncertainty 01:36:14 - Working with the edge … To find our more about Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron, visit: - https://www.phurbathinleyling.org/khandro-kunzang/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Gilbert M Gutierrez, Chan Buddhism teacher and a dharma heir of Master Sheng Yen. Gilbert recounts his early childhood mystical and meditation experiences, his deep-dive into closed-door internal martial arts and nei gong systems, and the special abilities he both witnessed and unlocked. Gilbert describes the unusual circumstances leading up to meeting Taiwanese Chan master Master Sheng Yen, and how an arduous meditation retreat and a powerful encounter with Quan Yin changed his life forever. Gilbert also discusses exorcisms, ghosts, and vexing spirits, and tells stories of the pitfalls of using spiritual healing to sustain terminally ill patients. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep267-american-chan-master-gilbertm-gutierrez Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Childhood bardo memories 03:28 - Early meditation experiences 06:05 - A “roaming” Catholic and asking questions 10:26 - Studies at UCLA 11:37 - Studying closed-door martial arts systems 12:44 - Chinese master vs Japanese karateka 15:23 - Things are not as they appear 17:45 - Visionary experiences across time 19:37 - Nāgārjuna’s refutation of time and space 20:32 - True meaning of “no thought” 24:27 - The first level of Chan practice 25:53 - Nei gong studies and building chi 29:07 - Developing Wu Nien and related abilities 33:13 - Demonstrating abilities 34:52 - Meeting a qigong master and becoming his successor 39:52 - Healing abilities of the master 42:32 - Meeting masters and cracking the code 44:15 - Asking why we practice 45:33 - The dangers of using entities to empower your practice 50:39 - Meeting Master Sheng Yen 54:01 - Master Sheng Yen psychically anticipates meet Gilbert 58:59 - Suffering at first retreat with Master Sheng Yen 01:02:44 - Prostrating to Quan Yin and finding life’s purpose 01:06:37 - Metta, Karuna, and Henry Shukman 01:08:44 - Unconditional compassion 01:11:21 - True meaning of the Heart Sutra 01:18:45 - Moving from qigong to Chan 01:25:57 - Exorcisms, ghosts, and vexing spirits 01:29:42 - Buddha-perception and seeing other realms 01:31:10 - How do the Buddhas see the world? 01:35:33 - A vision of Quan Yin … To find our more about Gilbert M Gutierrez, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/@chanmindwork/playlists - https://mind-work.mn.co/ - https://riversidechan.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I host a dialogue between Guo Gu, Chan Buddhist teacher and scholar and author of ‘Silent Illumination: A Chan Buddhist Path to Natural Awakening’, and Meido Roshi, Rinzai Zen Abbot of Korinji Monastery and author of ‘Hidden Zen: Practices for Sudden Awakening and Embodied Realisation’. Guo Gu and Meido Roshi reflect on their long friendship, recall their first meeting in 1989 at a meditation retreat led by Master Sheng Yen, and extol the virtues of dharma friendship. They challenge common misconceptions about awakening, explain how to train the body in Chan and Zen practice, and reveal the suprising results of an integrated body-mind. They also describe the enlightened field of a true master, the power of being close to one’s teacher, and how to master energy, time, and space. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep266-meeting-of-masters-guo-gu-meido-roshi Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - Meido and Guo Gu reflect on their friendship since 1989 08:20 - What is a dharma friend? 11:36 - Sharing experiences in Chan vs Zen 14:28 - Half baked experiences and marking history 16:25 - Keeping a practice journal 20:16 - Dreaming about Master Sheng Yen 24:30 - Developing as a teacher 28:30 - Embodying the master 31:04 - Master Sheng Yen’s sharp humour and private sarcasm 34:01 - Face to face training and being an attendant 35:55 - Drawbacks of online training 39:22 - The teacher as friend 41:46 - Dharma projections 43:16 - The resonant field of a master 47:42 - Embodied practice and interdependence of being 51:47 - The power of the retreat container 52:39 - The silent influence of one’s practice 57:33 - Learned bodily aptitude 58:39 - How to train the body 01:01:44 - Content and clear 01:04:32 - Mastering energy, time, and space 01:06:57 - Everyone is different 01:09:33 - The body-supporting experience 01:10:46 - Working with injuries 01:13:47 - Zazen emerges organically 01:15:20 - How to use the teacher’s influence 01:17:09 - Learning to let go 01:20:39 - “Put it down” 01:25:40 - Delusion is baked into the body 01:31:24 - Mind and body conditioning 01:34:20 - Solving problems 01:36:40 - Integrating the body-mind 01:30:01 - The entire universe is the true human body 01:38:30 - Putting down awakening 01:39:11 - Effort vs allowing 01:40:47 - Concluding remarks Previous episodes with Guo Gu: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=guo Previous episode with Meido Roshi: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep98-meido-roshi-hidden-zen … To find out more about Guo Gu, visit: - https://guogulaoshi.com/ To find our more about Meido Roshi, visit: - https://www.korinji.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Duncan Barford, occult practitioner, counsellor, and author of ‘Occult Experiments in the Home’. Duncan discusses his own journey into the occult including reality-bending experiments with Chaos Magick, invocation of his holy guardian angel, identifying and relating to entities, and meeting his long-time collaborator, the magician and spiritual teacher Alan Chapman. Duncan recalls his first encounter with Daniel Ingram’s “Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha”. He explains how he combined Daniel’s approach with Western occult methods and rituals to attain arhatship for himself. Duncan declared his enlightenment on the internet and began teaching awakening in a short-lived venture called “Open Enlightenment”. Duncan reflects on the strongly negative reactions that both his declaration and teaching project received. Duncan also comments on demonic affliction, both his own experiences as well as those of recent podcast guest Mattias Daly, the influence of social class and geographic location, navigating kundalini crisis, the intersection of mysticism and magick. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep265-occult-experiments-duncan-barford Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:19 - Occult experiments in the home 02:38 - Duncan comments on Mattias Daly’s demonic affliction 04:34 - Demonic or kundalini awakening? 06:27 - - Duncan’s own kundalini crisis 08:44 - Seeking guidance from Tara Springett 11:39 - Identifying entities 14:19 - Duncan’s specialism in counselling those having unusual occult experiences 17:05 - Finding the best paradigm 19:38 - Does Duncan prescribe magickal practice? 21:50 - Spirituality vs everyday life 24:42 - Meeting Alan Chapman and sustained interest in the occult 26:59 - Invocation of the Holy Guardian Angel 27:57 - Encountering Daniel Ingram and bringing awakening back to magick 30:31 - Duncan’s childhood interest in the supernatural and strange 33:13 - Gothic horror and psychoanalysis 33:52 - Beginning to explore magickal practice 35:03 - Moving from intellect to feeling and emotion 36:32 - Abandoning a PhD, meditation frustration, and life crisis 44:12 - Encountering Chaos Magick and leaning to bend reality 46:26 - Envy of Daniel Ingram and reception in the Chaos Magick community 49:40 - Are mysticism and spirituality compatible with magick? 51:09 - Using magick to induce mystical experiences 52:44 - Declaring arhatship and attaining the four paths 57:45 - Powerful experience with Andrew Cohen 01:01:43 - Advice from Christopher Titmuss 01:03:50 - Dreaming of Gary Numan 01:05:25 - Is arhatship the end of enlightenment? 01:07:09 - Duncan asks Steve’s opinion 01:09:07 - Did Duncan and Alan keep pace in their awakening path? 01:10:03 - The 3 doors and awakening with visions 01:13:39 - Fire kasina retreat with Daniel Ingram 01:16:26 - Why did Duncan declare arhatship? 01:17:59 - Ego inflation through magickal practice 01:19:08 - Negative responses to declaration of enlightenment 01:19:54 - Failure of Open Enlightenment and the compulsion to share one’s awakening 01:24:49 - Is UK conducive to spiritual and magickal work? 01:27:27 - Reflections on being working class 01:28:33 - Travellers vs locals 01:29:15 - Comments on the spectrum of entities 01:31:09 - Discount code for the Baptist Head Compendium … To find our more about Duncan Barford, visit: - https://www.duncanbarford.uk/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, filmed on location in Boudhanath, Kathmandu, I am joined by Naljorma Tsül'dzin, an internationally acclaimed performance artist and ordained apprentice in the Aro gTer sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Tsül'dzin recalls her childhood in rural Ireland, early cultural and occult explorations, substance abuse and recovery, and her international career as a performance artist under the name “Kira O’Reilly”. Tsül'dzin traces her history with the Aro gTer sect of Tibetan Buddhism, from first encounter to full ordination, reveals her religious robes and the reactions they provoke, and explains her ongoing fascination with the Great Stupa in Kathmandu. Tsül'dzin also considers the intersection of art and religious expression, the tension between practice and performance, ritual and spectacle, and reflects on her long-standing work with Serbian conceptual and performance artist Marina Abramović. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep264-vajrayana-performance-art-naljorma-tsldzin Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Inspiring example of Jomo Samphel Dechen Rinpoche 06:30 - Working with body and physicality as a practitioner 09:34 - Childhood in Catholic rural Ireland 11:55 - The 80s goth scene 12:43 - Linda Montano’s insight on Tsül'dzin and subcultures 14:07 - Occult explorations 15:09 - Substance abuse and entering recovery 16:29 - Studying fine art at university 17:36 - Encountering the Aro gTer Buddhist sect 20:22 - Group practice format in the Aro gTer 22:44 - Attraction to the Aro gTer 23:37 - Internationally acclaimed performance art career 29:08 - Deepening Buddhist practice 30:47 - Ordination and Kathmandu 31:28 - Performance art and religious ritual 32:50 - Meeting Marina Abramović 35:25 - The Golden Bough and ritual as performance art 36:16 - Working with Marina Abramović 37:50 - Performing at Marina Abramović’ recent London retrospective at the Royal Academy of Art 39:16 - West/East influence 41:34 - Marina Abramović as a teacher 43:45 - Wearing religious robes 44:48 - Conversations arising from wearing robes in public 47:08 - Explaining the colour scheme 49:56 - Robes and participation 53:00 - Fasting and preparing for the 12-day Royal Academy performance 57:41 - Street Dog Care 58:43 - Reflecting on spiritual experiences 01:00:20 - Time and space 01:02:27 - Why spend so much time in Boudha? 01:06:22 - Practice vs spectacle 01:07:15 - Prostrations 01:08:08 - Art and the Aro gTer 01:09:44 - Secular vs religious art 01:12:04 - Disappointment with Western Buddhist art 01:14:08 - Recommendations for when visiting Boudha 01:14:36 - How to have impromptu conversations … Boudhanath Interviews playlist: - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknwvU82dU487LhF_mF4AkGek&si=gFGJpi-fnLtxeyZ5 … To find our more about Naljorma Tsül'dzin, visit: - https://www.instagram.com/naljormatsuldzin/ - https://www.kiraoreilly.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Mattias Daly, Taoist practitioner and translator of ‘Taoist Inner Alchemy’, published by Shambala. Mattias tells the story of his affliction by a malevolent entity, a demon attached to his ancestral line for generations. Mattias details the progression of his symptoms and his terror as the being began to take deeper hold on his body and mind. Mattias recounts several attempts at exorcism, working with ritualists from Taoist, Catholic, Tibetan Buddhist, Spiritualist, and Māori traditions in increasingly desperate attempts to rid himself of the entity. Mattias also explains various theories of demonology, the steps he now takes to avoid contact with such forces, and reveals the surprising reasons why he is sharing his story now, for the first time in public. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep263-possessed-by-a-demon-mattias-daly-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Arriving in New Zealand 03:49 - Searching for a mentor 04:23 - Intense and unusual spontaneous meditation experiences 11:48 - Teacher’s advice 13:02 - Extreme experiences reach a crescendo 14:54 - Martial movements and speaking in tongues 17:34 - Self healing powers 20:26 - Meeting a new Qi Gong teacher 26:01 - Lead up to the exorcism 35:06 - Exorcism #1: Taoist 37:33 - Failure of the exorcism 42:06 - Exorcism #2: Catholic 50:18 - Challenge to Mattias’ materialistic world view 55:03 - Return to meditation practice and involvement with Tibetan Buddhism 58:38 - The demon returns 01:02:13 - Teacher advises to stop practice 01:04:37 - Exorcism #3: Tibetan Buddhist 01:09:26 - Demon breaks through and takes possession of Mattias 01:13:33 - A deeper level of possession 01:15:47 - Isolation and worsening symptoms 01:20:20 - Exorcism #4: Spiritualism 01:24:14 - Fear of full possession 01:25:35 - Exorcism #5: Māori 01:38:06 - Māori tohunga’s explanation of the exorcism 01:49:03 - Origin of the demon and ancestral ties 01:50:54 - Why did the demon try to take possession of Mattias? 01:54:11 - Care and safety around malevolent entities 01:59:19 - Contact with other entities 01:59:48 - Should you learn exorcism? 02:02:23 - Sleep schedule and dreams 02:03:16 - Chinese demonology 02:07:15 - Ghost sightings 02:10:38 - Why is Mattias sharing this story now? … Watch the previous episodes with Mattias Daly: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep244-taoist-adventures-mattias-daly - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep251-taoist-inner-alchemy-mattias-daly-2 To find our more about Mattias Daly, visit: - https://www.shambhala.com/authors/a-f/mattias-daly.html … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, filmed on location in Boudhanath, Kathmandu, I am joined by Dorje, an American Vajrayana practitioner born in 1947. Dorje recounts his childhood in the American South, his move to San Francisco in 1968, and his involvement in the early days of the gay liberation movement. He recalls the arrival of AIDS in 1981, the traumatic deaths of his close friends, and the impact of his own HIV diagnosis. Dorje explains his conversion to Buddhism in the midst of a chaotic and stressful life, his 25 years as an ordained monk, the power of Yamantaka practice, and his understanding of the spiritual path. Dorje also explores the deep relevance of the core teachings of Buddhism to his experience of the AIDS crisis, describes the rhythms of grief and death, and shares what he has learned about helping the dying. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep262-life-of-liberation-dorje Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Dorje’s upbringing 02:07 - Dorje as a boy 02:59 - Career aspirations and becoming a lawyer 04:16 - Arriving in San Francisco in 1968 04:38 - Involvement in the civil rights movement 06:28 Early days of the gay liberation movement 09:13 - The Cockettes 11:48 - Gay political organising in Atlanta 14:02 - Arrival of AIDS in 1981 15:21 - Deaths of Dorje’s close friends 16:10 - Dorje’s HIV diagnosis 16:45 - Stages of grief 18:50 - Dorje’s HIV related legal and political work 20:39 - Activism vs realpolitik 23:06 - Encountering Buddhism 25:08 - Reading DT Suzuki and Evans-Wentz 25:46 - Shamata in a highly stressful of life 28:29 - Drawn to Tibetan Buddhism 30:39 - The life of the Buddha 33:57 - Modern insulation from sickness and death 36:14 - The Buddha’s quest for enlightenment 39:18 - 4 noble truths and the core of Buddhism 42:26 - How to develop wisdom 44:10 - The spiritual path 47:38 - Ordaining as a Buddhist monk 52:12 - The 3 jewels of refuge 54:05 - Challenges of living as a monk 56:14 - Moving to Nepal 57:48 - Why were some people slow to recognise the danger of HIV 01:02:25 - Helping the dying 01:03:27 - The rhythm of grief 01:06:43 - Actors and magicians 01:08:42 - Facing his own death 01:10:01 - The power of Yamantaka practice 01:12:10 - Living with an HIV diagnosis 01:17:06 - Leaving monasticism and solo retreat during Covid 01:19:28 - Aspiration to help those newly diagnosed with HIV 01:23:19 - How to help those with a new diagnosis 01:24:10 - Side effects of medication 01:25:31 - Climate change in Kathmandu 01:25:42 - Hippy trail and changing fashions 01:26:35 - Experimentation with psychedelics 01:27:51 - Unsung heroes of civil rights 01:28:53 - Dorje’s Great Stupa kora practice 01:30:07 - Compassion and the goal of practice 01:31:33 - Kora around the Great Stupa 01:32:34 - Developing compassion for others … Boudhanath Interviews playlist: - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknwvU82dU487LhF_mF4AkGek&si=gFGJpi-fnLtxeyZ5 … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Henry Shukman, award-winning poet, Zen teacher, and author of ‘One Blade of Grass; a Zen memoir’ and the new book ‘Original Love’. Henry discusses the surprising writing process of ‘Original Love’, the importance of love in spiritual practice, and how to release the heart. Henry describes the 4 major areas of spiritual development, his own first and subsequent awakenings, and the purifying effects of deep jhana practice. Henry also talks about his own journey from head to heart, his personal challenges of heartbreak and neurological illness, and his love for St Augustine’s ‘Confessions’. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep261-original-love-henry-shukman Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - Writing Original Love 06:01 - 4 major areas of spiritual development 07:47 - The importance of love 09:27 - The example of mindfulness 11:06 - Henry’s neurological illness 13:37 - Letting go 14:39 - An epiphany in Venezuela 18:35 - Migrating from head to heart 20:53 - Heartbreak of awakening 22:31 - What is awakening? 26:56 - Henry’s first awakening 28:35 - Subsequent awakenings and the place of love 29:50 - The two wings of practice 30:41 - Release of the heart 32:50 - Does awakening change the experience of suffering? 36:53 - Resistance and suffering 38:37 - Unwrapping the gift of life 39:38 - Training jhana with Stephen Snyder 48:31 - Purification and catharsis in jhana 49:42 - Jhana vs awakening 53:54 - Encouragement to those seeking awakening 01:03:55 - Henry’s love for Augustine’s ‘Confessions’ 01:06:44 - Henry’s mother 01:10:03 - A resurgence in interest in awakening 01:14:15 - The original face 01:15:50 - Henry’s meditation app … Previous episodes with Henry Shukman: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shukman To find out more about Henry Shukman, visit: - henryshukman.com - thewayapp.com … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
During a recent trip to Nepal, I met with frequent podcast guest Lama Glenn Mullin, spiritual teacher, Tibetologist, and author of over 30 books on Buddhism. Glenn was in Kathmandu to lead a group of over fifty pilgrims into tantric retreat in the nearby mountains and graciously agreed to film with me at various sacred sites before and after their retreat. In this video, we join Glenn before his retreat as he carries out his early morning circumambulation of the Great Stūpa of Boudhanath. As we walk, Glenn explains the story and significance of the renowned holy site, reveals the esoteric symbolism of stūpa design, and discusses the healing and spiritual power of pilgrimage. Glenn also reflects on his own life experiences in Kathmandu, recalls his early dharma training, interacts with people around the stūpa, and considers the implications of Kālacakra prophecies for recent history and current events. … Link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - Glenn’s early dharma training 02:54 - The sacred land of Nepal 03:28 - Movement of Buddhist masters and lineages from India through Nepal 04:30 - A local offering ritual 04:59 - History of Boudha 05:53 - History of the Tibetan exile community in Nepal 10:22 - Shechen Gompa and Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche 11:44 - An enlightened being 12:26 - Walk to the stūpa 13:16 - Stūpa architecture and its symbolism 16:59 - Morning circumambulation 17:43 - Glenn and students 18:53 - How to do kora circumambulation 22:59 - Kora in Dharamsala 24:21 - Why morning kora? 25:51 - Clockwise or counterclockwise? 28:51 - Healing power of pilgrimage 31:32 - Anecdote of life extension through kora 33:24 - The power of pilgrimage 33:49 - The meaning of ‘ani-la’ 34:49 - Many temples of Boudhanath and city migration 38:02 - Kangyur recitation 39:11 - Cakravartin or spiritual teacher? 41:45 - The story of the Great Stūpa 43:32 - An auspicious lineage 44:12 - Misconceptions about Buddhism in Tibet 45:37 - Damage and renovation of stūpa 47:08 - Making a donation 48:45 - Walking around the stūpa 49:50 - Prophecy of Buddhism coming to the West? 54:37 - Kālacakra prophecy about age of darkness or golden age 55:56 - Buddhist and Newari art 01:01:46 - Glenn’s favourite monastery in Boudhanath 01:03:25 - Walking around the stūpa … Previous episodes with Lama Glenn Mullin: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=glenn%20mullin To find out more about Lama Glenn Mullin, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr James Justin Sledge, a professor of philosophy and religion specialising in the Western Esoteric tradition and founder of the popular Esoterica Youtube channel. Dr Sledge begins by explaining his position on enlightenment, why he’s not interested in becoming enlightened but still finds the concept interesting, and whether or not enlightenment claims are linked to traits of narcissistic personality disorder. Dr Sledge also reveals his own ethical orientation, considers various theories of morality, the role of tradition vs subjective experience, and what he calls the ”meaning famine”. Dr Sledge also takes aim at postmodernism and deconstructionism, retrieves the overlooked philosophers of antiquity and the Renaissance, and offers recommended reading lists for the autodidact interested in the esoteric. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep259-questioning-enlightenment-dr-justin-sledge-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Don’t want to be enlightened 02:20 - Belief, practice, and tradition 04:17 - Magick and the quest for power 06:42 - Judaism without belief in God 09:34 - Origins of moral authority 12:43 - Is belief in God necessary? 14:44 - Natural law and utilitarianism 16:07 - Dr Sledge’s personal ethics 16:40 - Virtue ethics 19:05 - The danger of existential questions 21:59 - Intellectual and spiritual hazing 22:31 - The meaning famine 25:35 - Dr Sledge on deconstruction and post-modernism 31:43 - Cancelling the canon 33:51 - Classics reading list for the autodidact 38:43 - Why get enlightened? 40:34 - Too lazy? 41:27 - Is enlightenment worth it? 44:48 - Enlightened narcissists 45:56 - Criticism of Dr Sledge 46:56 - Danger of unthinking fealty 50:05 - Questioning tradition and existential crisis 53:09 - Pros and cons of mystical experiences 57:27 - The mystic’s mistake 58:24 - Hyperfixation on baseline consciousness 59:42 - Hallucinations of the recently deceased 01:02:13 - Upsetting both sides 01:04:19 - Truth and other epistemologies 01:10:02 - Overlooked philosophers 01:12:05 - Telling the whole story of philosophy 01:13:25 - Dishonesty of academic philosophy 01:14:06 - Spiritual Renaissance philosophy and depriving 01:15:49 - The loss of awe and beauty 01:18:59 - Chasing awe with psychedelics, astronomy, and community 01:23:39 - Tactical religion and joining communities of value 01:27:19 - Huge influx of new converts to Judaism 01:28:43 - Recommended reading for Western Esotericism and overlooked philosophy 01:34:59 - Dr Sledge’s go-to book … Previous episode with Dr Justin Sledge: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep248-esoterica-academia-dr-justin-sledge To find out more about Dr Justin Sledge, visit: - https://www.justinsledge.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/@TheEsotericaChannel … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Dr Joffe begins an interview series on demonology with a discussion about the spirit ontology of Tibet and the Himalayas. Dr Joffe explores the pre-Buddhist frameworks of relating to spirits and considers the degrees to which the arrival of Buddhism in Tibet erased, modified, or even incorporated those frameworks. Dr Joffe explains the unique methods of spirit domination, missionary geomancy, and other magickal techniques found in Buddhist Tantra and how these means were used to establish Buddhism in Tibet. Dr Joffe also discusses the inevitability of spirit contact for Tantric practitioners, what to do about predatory demons, the misunderstandings of Buddhist converts about the paranormal, and recalls his own stressful experiences with the spirit world. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep258-demonology-of-tibet-dr-ben-joffe Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - 3 part demonology 03:31 - Interaction with imported Indian cosmology 04:32 - A scholarly caveat 05:47 - Pre-Buddhist Tibetan entity and spirit frameworks 10:16 - Land spirits 12:23 - Drawbacks of secularisation and psychologising of Buddhism 14:34 - Right relationship with entities 18:16 - Origins of dedicating the merit 18:16 - The arrival of tantra in Tibet and Padmasambhava’s spirit domination 22:30 - The essence of Buddhism 24:12 - Did Buddhism weaken Tibet? 26:11 - Tantric missionary technology of spirit domination 32:32 - Degrees of Buddhist integration with Tibetan practices and rituals 40:00 - Dr Robert Mayer’s work to reevaluate the terma tradition 43:30 - Beyul and opening sacred sites 47:10 - Offering practices and Chod 50:47 - Spirit mediumship and offending spirits 54:13 - Geomancy 56:41 - Staking the demoness of the land 01:01:03 - Dark tantra and the ethics of subjugation 01:05:59 - What is a demon? 01:06:57 - Facist tantra and Western occultists 01:09:12 - The role of compassion 01:10:07 - Tantra as institutional shamanism? 01:13:11 - Interviewing protector deities 01:15:15 - Perceiving spirits 01:18:07 - Misunderstandings of Western Buddhist converts 0:24:54 - Buddhism and the cultural substrate 01:25:47 - IFS and shamanism 01:27:55 - Completion stage practice and the logic of yoga 01:30:49 - Are spirits just your own mind? 01:35:09 - Dudjom Lingpa’s demon encounter in a dream 01:39:09 - Brahma, Buddha, and various levels of beings 01:40:44 - Are yidams just archetypes? 01:42:19 - Paradoxes of protection from spirits 01:45:35 - Predatory demons 01:48:29 - Many faces of Buddhism 01:50:05 - Outer, inner, secret 01:52:08 - Dream yoga and visionary sex 01:57:35 - Inevitability of spirit contact 01:58:09 - Ben’s stressful experiences with the spirit world 02:06:10 - Alien abduction experiences 02:11:42 - Night terrors 02:13:30 - Cognitive dissonance of tantric practitioners 02:15:30 - Priestly class mindset 02:18:09 - Real tantric training 02:22:05 - Logistical challenges of creating tantric adepts 02:23:57 - Ben’s magickal training Previous episodes with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=joffe To find out more about Dr Ben Joffe, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Dr Nida Chenagtsang, Buddhist teacher, doctor of Tibetan Medicine, and author of ‘Let Meditation Be Your Medicine: The Timeless Healing Wisdom of Tibet’. Dr Nida discusses his latest book, the practicality of the Yuthok Nyingthik meditation system, and why it is important to choose a meditation style that suits one’s typology. Dr Nida explains why he opens the book with a tribute to the Ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, recounts how he came to a deep appreciation of the roots of European culture, and parses the difference between intellectual and experiential spirituality. Dr Nida also calls for a moving beyond conditioned views, explains how to appreciate culture and religion without being limited by them, considers attachment theory and guru-disciple dynamics, and reveals how transformative retreat experience brought him beyond conceptual limitations. … Link in comments. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Sowa Rigpa Forum 14:41 - Appreciation of Western culture 18:05 - Know your roots 19:47 - Dr Nida’s journey to open up to European culture 22:55 - Déjà vu when first coming to Rome 25:37 - Similarities between Ancient Greek medicine and Tibetan medicine 28:48 - European meditation traditions 32:01 - Grabbing the devils 34:09 - A dream of facing the devil 36:50 - Inner dialogue meditation 39:51 - The essence of meditation 44:20 - The roots of meditation 47:37 - Becoming more open 49:07 - Intellectual vs experiential spirituality 50:33 - Dr Nida’s transformational experience on retreat 56:18 - Freedom from conditioning 59:00 - Yuthok’s open-mindedness 01:01:16 - Choosing the right meditation for your typology 01:05:05 - Anger management and Guru Yoga meditations 01:07:26 - Attachment theory and guru-disciple dynamics 01:13:131 - Beyond fixation and appreciating culture 01:16:31 - Adjusting to different life circumstances 01:18:36 - Learning languages 01:20:35 - Bonsai vs bamboo Previous episodes with Dr Nida Chenagtsang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=nida To find out more about Dr Nida Chenagtsang, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, a tantric priest in a centuries old Newari Buddhist family lineage and master of the religious dance tradition of Charya Nritya. Prajwal Vajracharya explores the history of Newar Buddhism, a rich form of Varjayana practiced in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Prajwal Vajracharya recounts the history of the religion, from its periods of suppression and secrecy up to its complex modern day interactions with 1960s hippies and Tibetan Buddhist refugees. Prajwal Vajracharya details the distinctive ritual practices of Newar Buddhism, which contain cultivation practices for ten paramitas, and explains the use of sacred sounds and the alphasyllabry. Prajwal Vajracharya also reveals distinctive mudra and mantra practices, explains the many esoteric uses of the mala prayer beads, and decodes the rich deity artwork for which the region is renowned . … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep256-newar-buddhism-prajwal-ratna-vajracharya-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Suppression of Newar Buddhism for 800 years 03:56 - Secret family lineages 04:52 - Distinctive ritual practices of Newar Buddhism 06:23 - 10 Paramita system 09:05 - Why perform daily ritual? 09:48 - Learning to perform ritual 11:28 - The power of ritual 13:00 - Sacred sounds and the alphasyllabary 14:54 - Decoding the symbolism of sacred deity art 16:50 - Daily practice 17:34 - History of Nepal’s Buddhist textual tradition 20:08 - Buddha’s birth and past life activity in Nepal 21:56 - Lost in Tibetan translation 23:14 - Guru Rinpoche activities in Nepal 24:18 - Secret practices under Gorkha rule 25:42 - Frustrations publishing about Charya dance 26:55 - Gendun Chophel 27:55 - Lack of scholarly evidence and destruction of Buddhism in Nepal 28:49 - Modern revival 29:44 - History of the Tibetan refugee community in Nepal 31:54 - Opening to the hippies in the 60s 33:17 - Lack of interest in Newar Buddhism among Tibetan lamas in Nepal 36:03 - Sectarian rivalry and racism 39:33 - How to use a mala 40:44 - Subtle anatomy and mudra 41:08 - Elemental and energetic significance of each finger 43:38 - Mudra uses the whole body 44:44 - The 3 important mudras 46:50 - Inner mudra 47:32 - The flower mudra 48:08 - Making mudra into meditation 49:32 - A gradual path 51:18 - Future mudra discussions 51:56 - A call for more research into Newar Buddhism … To find out more about Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, visit: - https://www.dancemandal.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Anthony Metivier, author and internationally renowned memory expert who’s meditation practice is reciting sacred Sanskrit texts from memory. Anthony shares his own language learning journey, including his childhood struggles learning French, to later success with languages such as German, Mandarin, Latin, Hebrew, and Sanskrit. Anthony describes the 5 levels of processing and reveals how he uses his expertise in the art of memory to fast track language acquisition, including strategies to optimise progress in vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension. Anthony challenges popular theories of comprehensible input, criticises gamified language learning apps, and reveals his number one secret to success in foreign language study. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep255-memory-secrets-for-language-learning-dr-anthony-metivier Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Anthony’s struggles with English 03:09 - Early life aversion to language learning 04:06 - Learning Hebrew as a revenge language 05:20 - Moving to Germany and unlocking the secrets of language learning 06:45 - Passing level 3 in Mandarin and other studies 08:55 - Impressive Hebrew progress 10:23 - Grammar tables and the importance of extensive reading 11:30 - Criticism of comprehensible input theories 12:30 - 5 levels of processing 14:20 - Key metrics to avoid overwhelm 16:54 - Advice for beginners and intermediates 19:02 - Frequency lists 20:53 - Working with native speakers 22:19 - A powerful reading regime 24:38 - Movie mixing 26:33 - Speaking and yogic exercises 28:28 - Latin grammar approaches 32:03 - Don’t need to learn grammar? 33:44 - Anticipatory reading 35:40 - Latin and Sanskrit vs German and Mandarin 37:38 - Disillusionment after fluency 39:55 - Breaking through to German fluency with extensive reading 43:46 - Problems with the language learning industry 46:40 - The tragedy of gamified apps 49:26 - Fast tracking vocabulary acquisition 56:39 - Linguistic deskilling 58:15 - Pros and cons of tests and exams 01:02:04 - Maintaining multiple languages 01:05:28 - The power of laddering … Previous episodes with Anthony Metivier: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=metivier To find out more about Anthony Metivier, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMetivierMMM - https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Jason Miller, occultist, author, and teacher of magick. Jason shares his explorations in Tibetan Buddhism, including life changing encounters with Lama Vajranatha and famed ngakpa Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche. Jason recalls his months spent in Nepal during which he received esoteric empowerments, conducted cave and charnel ground practice, and refused the offer of discipleship under a spiritual master. Jason also discusses encountering the goddess Hekate and beginning to teach a magickal system associated with her. Jason compares Western ritual magick to the tantric sorcery of the Himalayas, and considers the role of natural talent in spiritual accomplishment. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep254-adventures-in-vajrayana-jason-miller Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Meeting Lama Vajranatha 04:27 - Experiments in Voodoo and psychedelic insights 07:23 - Beginning studies in Buddhism 10:31 - Travel to Nepal and meeting Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 14:12 - Cave practice of Vajrakilaya 16:38 - Refusing Kunzang Dorje’s offer of traditional training 20:01 - Charnel ground practice and introduction to the nature of mind 22:37 - Realising rigpa 23:56 - Memories of empowerments in Nepal 30:30 - Powerful encounter with Hekate 36:26 - Choosing Western Magick over Tibetan Buddhism 37:37 - Communication with Hekate 40:53 - Grimoire culture of the early 2000s 42:45 - Beginning to teach the Hecate system 44:01 -Success of the Sorcery of Hekate online courses 45:56 - Why collect Buddhist empowerments? 49:19 - Illusory body and connections between systems 51:00 - Empowerments and further adventures in Nepal 57:01 - Himalayan vs Western Magick 59:17 - The truest wizard Jason has ever met 01:01:22 - What makes a powerful wizard? 01:02:46 - Old vs new systems 01:09:08 - Are some people supernaturally or spiritually gifted? 01:18:34 - Spiritual duds 01:19:41 - Senders vs receivers 01:20:17 - How to relate to spiritual experiences 01:23:11 - Astral projection and guitar playing … Previous episode with Jason Miller: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep235-strategic-sorcery-jason-miller To find out more about Jason Miller, visit: - https://strategicsorcery.net/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of ‘Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas’. Leigh discusses his latest book, ‘Gradual Training: The Buddha’s Step-by-Step Guide for Awakening’, in which Leigh lays a 13 step training which culminates in enlightenment. Leigh explains the scriptural origins of this formulation, why it is so crucial for meditation success, and speculates as to why it is so rarely taught by Buddhist teachers in America. Leigh also emphasises the importance of moral precepts, wrestles with contradictions in the Buddhist scriptures, considers how the scriptures have been altered over the centuries, and reveals his opinion of Buddhist claims to psychic powers. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep253-the-buddhist-path-leigh-brasington Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Leigh’s latest book 02:09 - A life changing meditation encounter 03:00 - The gradual training 05:05 - Training in insight practice under Ayya Khema 05:49 - Leigh’s insight journey 07:31 - Why isn’t gradual training taught in Western Buddhism? 07:55 - Buddhist teacher schtick 09:00 - People don’t teach the suttas 09:47 - 13 steps to awakening 12:23 - Origin and evolution of the 13-step Gradual Training 13:23 - The Buddhist scriptures have been tampered with 15:23 - Evolution of the doctrine of 12 links of dependent origination 16:34 - Philological implications 17:51 - Did the Buddha have supernatural powers? 21:59 - Contradictions in Buddhist scripture 24:11 - Early vs late suttas 26:20 - When were the suttas composed? 29:39 - When was the gradual training devised? 31:11 - Gradual training vs Lamrim 32:35 - Fruits of the spiritual life 36:38 - Keeping the precepts 40:08 - Guarding the senses 42:41 - Mindfulness and clear comprehension 44:47 - Contentment with little 47:04 - Overcoming hinderances 49:12 - Are psychic powers real? 50:14 - Meditation or morality? 54:13 - Consequences of skipping ethics 58:05 - Do the precepts spoil the fun of life? 01:01:19 - What makes practice life changing? 01:02:36 - Enjoyment without attachment 01:04:17 - The power of motivation to change habits 01:06:19 - How Leigh gave up pot and sweets 01:08:19 - How to do insight practice 01:09:08 - Future writing projects 01:13:30 - Why Leigh publishes his books for free … Previous episodes with Leigh Brasington: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=brasington To find our more about Leigh Brasington visit: - http://www.leighb.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between Dr Chencho Dorji, Bhutan’s first psychiatrist and the Professor of Psychiatry at Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences, and Dr Caroline Van Damme, an adult psychiatrist and family and systemic psychotherapist specialising in chronic psychotic disorders. Drs Dorji and Van Damme dialogue about their experiences as psychiatrists in very different countries, Bhutan and Belgium. They compare their experiences treating religious psychosis in which patients believe they are Jesus or Padmasambhava, address mental health stigma, and examine the interaction of supernatural beliefs such as spirit possession with modern psychiatry. The Drs discuss the emerging mental health laws in Bhutan, including forced treatment laws, innovative treatment models, and pressures from pharmaceutical companies. The Drs also consider the pros and cons of religion to both society and the individual, examine three levels of Bhutanese Buddhism, and reflect on the dire consequences of the death of Christianity in Europe. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep252-religion-psychiatry-dr-chencho-dorji-dr-caroline-van-damme Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:16 - How they met 03:44 - Dr Chencho’s visit to the Night Hospital in Belgium 05:12 - Dr Chencho’s side of the story 06:07 - Fascination with the ‘Night Hospital’ model 08:33 - Sharing models between countries 09:39 - Not trying to cure 12:36 - Mental health challenges in developed vs developing countries 15:04 - Psychiatry is a simple science 17:26 - Negligence of psychotic patients 19:01 - Stigma around mental illness 23:03 - Pressure from pharmaceutical companies 25:53 - Mental health laws in Bhutan 30:17 - Forced treatment laws in Belgium 39:15 - Complications of supernatural beliefs in Bhutan 41:28 - Getting the family on side 45:02 - Anti-psychiatry beliefs 46:57 - Psychosis or spirit possession? 49:25 - Dangers of marijuana 55:38 - Padmasambhava’s proscription against smoking 58:00 - Religion at societal and personal level 59:47 - Religious psychosis 01:01:23 - 3 levels of Buddhism 01:02:27 - Pros and cons of religious belief 01:06:25 - Treating psychotic Padmasambhavas 01:08:06 - Patients who hear God 01:11:00 - Fading of Christianity in Europe 01:13:03 - Spiritual void and fading of religion in Bhutan 01:13:55 - Today’s Buddhist monks’ failings 01:16:00 - Learning from the fall of European religion 01:21:17 - Science vs religion 01:22:05 - Spiritual void and suicide 01:24:04 - Is religion needed? 01:26:38 - Lack of priests 01:29:40 - Uniqueness of psychiatry 01:31:25 - Reflections on inter-cultural collaboration 01:33:53 - Dr Caroline praises Dr Chencho’s accomplishments … Previous episodes with Dr Chencho Dorji: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=chencho Previous episode with Dr Caroline Van Damme: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=damme To find out more about Dr Chencho Dorji, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057403100633 To find out more about Dr Van Damme, visit: - https://www.sowarigpainstitute.org/dr-caroline-van-damme … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Mattias Daly, Taoist practitioner and translator of ‘Taoist Inner Alchemy’, published by Shambala. Mattias recounts the unusual circumstances that saw him travel to a remote monastery to meet Abbess Liu Yuanhui, under whom he would begin intensive training in meditation. Mattias discusses Taoist meditation and its relationship to magical powers, psychic abilities, and other unusual meditation experiences. Mattias then pulls back the veil to reveal the history and evolution of Taoist inner alchemy, referencing classical texts to contextualise and explain the Golden Elixir, differing ideas of the goal of alchemy, and the various ways in which the practice was undertaken. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep251-taoist-inner-alchemy-mattias-daly-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:54 - Meeting Abbess Liu Yuanhui 03:23 - Recruited to rescue a wealthy son 08:10 - Miraculous cure through Buddhist ritual 11:38 - First visit to Abbess Liu’s monastery 13:05 - Initial intensive training with Abbess Liu 16:19 - Attachment to unusual meditation experiences 19:05 - Siddhi and magical power in Taoism 24:00 - Influence of Kung Fu novels 26:06 - Ge Guolong’s commentary Huang Yuanji’s The Oral Record of the Hall of Joyous Teaching 30:30 - History and evolution of Taoist inner alchemy 34:58 - Sexual interpretations of Taoist inner alchemy 36:30 - Disagreement about the goal of inner alchemy 39:29 - What about physical immortality? 42:08 - Mechanism of alchemy 45:43 - The Nameless Master and physical secretions 48:26 - Text alteration and philological considerations 52:02 - Achieving the Goku moment 52:53 - Why close reading of classical texts is a necessity for practitioners 56:34 - How to read early texts 58:24 - Is facility in Classical Chinese necessary? 01:00:50 - What is the Golden Elixir? 01:03:48 - Mattias shares some of his translations about Golden Elixir 01:06:07 - Decoding alchemical symbols and metaphors 01:10:08 - Confusion about sex 01:12:09 - How to go about practicing? … Watch the previous episode with Mattias Daly: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep244-taoist-adventures-mattias-daly - To find our more about Mattias Daly, visit: - https://www.shambhala.com/authors/a-f/mattias-daly.html … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Dr Willoughby Britton, an Associate Professor at Brown University, the Director of Brown’s Clinical and Affective Neuroscience Laboratory, and founder of Cheetah House which provides support to those experiencing meditation-related difficulties. Dr Britton recounts her unusual childhood interest in consciousness, why a friend’s suicide drove her to meditation, and how a psychedelic peak experience changed her view of the world. Dr Britton considers the overlaps between spiritual experience and mental illness, why deconstructing the sense of self in search of enlightenment can lead to lasting psychological damage, and questions if experiences of fear are a necessary part of the meditative path. Dr Britton also covers the neurobiology of attention, reveals the hidden religious messaging woven into mindfulness techniques such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and shares how she deals with the negative responses from meditation enthusiasts towards her work. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep250-when-meditation-goes-wrong-dr-willoughby-britton Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:15 - Dr Britton’s upbringing and early interest in consciousness 03:58 - Friend’s suicide and a life crisis 05:02 - Powerful high dose psychedelic experiences 08:46 - Influence of peak experiences 09:28 - Operative mechanism of Dr Britton’s epiphany 11:04 - Is redefinition of the self necessary for awakening? 11:50 - What is the ‘self’? 13:31 - A caveat 14:19 - Many possible modifications to the sense of self and identity 18:18 - What do Buddhists really mean when they talk about no-self? 19:01 - Surprising disagreement between Buddhist sects 19:48 - Lack on consensus about the end goal in Buddhism 20:47 - Awakening or mental illness? 24:01 - Cultural differences in what constitutes mental health 24:58 - Cultural influences and personal goals 26:39 - When meditation goes wrong 28:35 - When no-self experiences lead to negative outcomes 30:46 - The importance of connection 32:14 - Strategic ambiguity of enlightenment 34:34 - The enlightenment fantasy 35:23 - Absorbing a world view from meditation instructions 36:31 - How to assess your meditation practice 39:04 - Stealth Buddhism 40:31 - Hidden frames of meditation techniques 41:37 - Metaphysics of MBSR 45:18 - Market forces and religion as product 47:50 - Negative reactions to Dr Britton’s work 51:48 - Does Dr Britton’s work threaten meditators? 54:39 - Nasty emails and internet comments 56:08 - Is Dr Britton upset by the negativity? 57:31 - What is the goal of Dr Britton’s work? 59:51 - Why look for problems? 01:01:07 - How often do meditation related problems happen? 01:03:03 - Founding Cheetah House to help meditators in crisis 01:04:29 - Is fear necessary on the spiritual path? 01:06:20 - The neurobiology of attention 01:07:43 - Attention and arousal 0110:12 - The phenomenology and meaning of fear in Buddhist meditation 01:11:46 - Is fear part of the path? 01:13:10 - Buddhism doesn’t have its story straight 01:14:30 - The desire for a comprehensive world view … To find out more about Dr Willoughby Britton, visit: - https://www.cheetahhouse.org/ - https://www.brown.edu/public-health/mindfulness/people/willoughby-britton-phd … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Lama Glenn Mullin, spiritual teacher, Tibetologist, and author of over 30 books on Buddhism. Glenn discusses the mysterious Kālacakra ‘Wheel of Time’ Tantra, exploring its history, and uncovers its unique esoteric characteristics, Glenn recounts his own connection to the Kālacakra tantra, including his memories of the Dalai Lama’s first ever public Kālacakra empowerment given to hundreds of thousands of people in Bodhgaya, and discusses the surprising pros and cons of mass public initiations. Glenn reveals the subtle body yogas of the Kālacakra, compares its methods to other highest yoga tantras such as Cakrasaṃvara and Guhyasamāja, and considers the Kālacakra prophecies of Śambhala and a coming age of darkness over the world. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep249-kalachakra-tantra-lama-glenn-mullin Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Kālacakra 03:01 - Glenn’s history with the Kālacakra 04:25 - Dalai Lama’s first public Kālacakra empowerment 08:18 - Coney Island of the mind 08:49 - Blavatsky and Theosophical Society’s interest in Kālacakra and Śambhala 10:25 - Dreams and other signs during tantric empowerment 14:24 - Why give public tantric empowerments? 15:35 - Outer, Inner, and Secret levels 18:14 - Exclusively secret traditions 18:38 - History of public Kālacakra empowerments 20:06 - Tantric vows 21:07 - Śambhala prophecies and the Laṅkāvatāra Sūtra 23:48 - Today’s signs of fulfilment of prophecy 26:30 - Origin of Kālacakra in the Buddha’s teaching career 32:42 - Time capsule wisdom teachings 35:09 - Highest Yoga Tantra’s characteristics 36:29 - Cross-fertilisation with Himalayan shamanism 37:30 - Later ways of categorising tantric systems 40:20 - Unique and common aspects of the Kālacakra yogas 42:30 - 7 initiations of entering like a child 46:48 - Kālacakra completion stage 48:18 - Subtle body yogas and rainbow body 53:35 - Misunderstandings about Śambhala 55:15 - A century of Russian interest in Kālacakra 01:00:27 - Limits of Helena Blavatsky’s understanding 01:01:38 - Blavatsky’s world legacy 01:06:50 - Why is Kālacakra so little practiced? 01:15:10 - How to receive teachings from Glenn … Previous episodes with Lama Glenn Mullin: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=glenn%20mullin To find out more about Lama Glenn Mullin, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr James Justin Sledge, a professor of philosophy and religion specialising in the Western Esoteric tradition and founder of the popular Esoterica Youtube channel. Dr Sledge recounts how his working class upbringing profoundly influenced both his view of academia and his work ethic within it. He recounts his early fascination with philosophers and mystics, and recalls his studies in religion, philosophy, and the occult. Dr Sledge discusses the importance of language learning in academic study of religion and shares his own practical strategies for achieving competency in several ancient and modern languages including Latin, Hebrew, German, French, Akkadian, and more. Dr Sledge also shares his views on education, diagnoses its problems and offers solutions, gives advice to the self-learner, and reveals his surprising view on whether attaining enlightenment is worth the effort. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep248-esoterica-academia-dr-justin-sledge Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:07 - Working class upbringing in Misissipi 03:03 - Limited access to education 04:13 - Exploitation in academia 05:20 - Fascination with Aristotle 08:55 - Accidentally entering college 11:28 - Dr Sledge’s experience in college 12:58 - Double majoring in religious studies and philosophy while working full time 1408 - Studying Western Esotericism in Amsterdam, Holland 15:44 - Bad reputation of Western Esotericism in academia 18:07 - Lessons learned studying in Amsterdam 20:37 - Distaste of punching down 21:44 - Surprising difference between USA and European education 24:47 - Toxicity in American academia 25:57 - How should we educate ourselves? 28:42 - Intellectual aristocracy or a cartel? 29:50 - Educating through Youtube 31:47 - How would Dr Sledge fix the American education system? 34:42 - The importance for scholars to read French and German 37:28 - Learning Latin and Hebrew, reading the Bible in the original language 39:50 - How to learn ancient languages 41:56 - Philology and the dirty secret of The Key of Solomon 43:56 - Copying out texts and scrolls 46:46 - Dr Sledge shows scrolls he has copied by hand 49:59 - Dr Sledge’s highly structured work and study life 58:24 - Common mistakes when learning Latin and other languages 01:01:21 - Pedagogical data and living Latin 01:05:48 - Dr Sledge’s advice for young students who wish to go to University 01:06:56 - Advice for the autodidacts 01:09:54 - The importance of education 01:13:30 - Why Dr Sledge doesn’t want to become enlightened 01:15:10 - The horror of heaven 01:16:15 - How Dr Sledge wants to die 01:16:47 - Enlightenment isn’t worth it … To find out more about Dr Justin Sledge, visit: - https://www.justinsledge.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/@TheEsotericaChannel … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am join by Steve Donoghue, writer, nationally published book critic, and popular Youtuber. Steve details his remarkable daily routine in which he sleeps 90 minutes a night and devotes vast amounts of time to reading and writing. He recalls his Jesuit education and reveals the intellectual doctrines at the heart of the religious order famed for its rigour and learning. Steve reflects on the healing power of high states of concentration, the art of memory and how to train it, and considers the threats posed to human attention by social media and smartphones. Steve considers strategies for more effective reading, how to grapple with difficult texts, and how to engage in criticism without losing appreciation. Steve also offers his views on religion, shares his fasciation for religious writing, and expresses his passion for the Gospel of Luke and the works of Erasmus and St Augustine. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep247-a-life-in-reading-steve-donoghue Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Background and career in book reviewing 03:54 - A Jesuit education 06:28 - The brain is a muscle 09:50 - Learning and reading Ancient Greek and Latin 13:15 - A breakthrough moment in Latin 15:48 - Steve’s favourite Latin authors 18:06 - Common misunderstandings about memorisation 20:06 - What is the point of memorisation? 21:46 - Can memory be trained? 23:22 - Memory palaces and other ancient memory techniques 25:51 - Advice for those who wish to improve memory 27:01 - 21st century attacks on human attention 28:29 - A simple test of concentration 32:00 - The healing power of concentration 33:26 - People don’t know what they’re missing 37:18 - Experiences of transcendence and intrinsic reward 38:47 - The value of boredom and rest 42:00 - Meditation as rest taken too far? 44:02 - Generational changes in attention 46:08 - Meditation as attention training 47:00 - Steve’s amazing sleep and reading schedule 52:39 - Sleeping 90 minutes a night 55:19 - The joy of starting a new book 57:20 - Grappling with a text 59:27 - Sub-vocalising slows you down 01:03:32 - Difficulties in discussion religion 01:04:36 - Steve’s view on religion 01:06:00 - Steve’s admiration for religious people 01:11:37 - Steve’s fascination with religious writing and texts 01:14:52 - Philosophers are priests 01:15:29 - Faith based on texts? 01:17:07 - The danger of criticism without appreciation 01:22:07 - Reluctance to examine scripture 01:23:01 - Cynical critics 01:24:28 - A Christian meme of losing one’s faith 01:30:36 - The thrill of engaging with religious texts even without belief 01:32:37 - Following the thread 01:33:05 - The Gospel of Luke 01:34:10 - Steve’s love for St Augustine and Erasus 01:36:36 - Luke vs the other Gospels 01:38:25 - St Augustine’s Confessions 01:40:40 - In Praise of Folly and mocking religious hypocrisy 01:45:40 - Concluding remarks on faith and religion … To find out more about Steve Donoghue, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1B9FfvVLRt8s6scUa79oag - https://www.stevedonoghue.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by John Maki Evans, teacher of Japanese swordsmanship and several esoteric spiritual disciplines, and author of ‘Kurikara: The Sword and the Serpent’. John discusses his time at Oxford University, his depression as a student, and why it took him years in a monastery and extensive training in Japan to undo the effects of academic study on his mind. John shares his insights into ‘The Subtle Art of a Cat’, a little known, centuries old Japanese text with a potent message about spiritual cultivation, true art, and complete spontaneity. John tells the story of the text and explores its hidden meanings, including how to maintain awareness during dynamic action, access freedom and flow, and move beyond self consciousness. John also reflects on his powerful near-death experience, the art of teaching, and how to harmonise the primal forces of Thanatos and Eros, death and desire. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep246-subtle-art-of-a-cat-john-maki-evans-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:09 - Getting into Oxford University 04:30 - John’s experiences at Oxford University 07:57 - Struggles with depression 09:12 - Bad effect of Oxford on John’s mind 10:25 - Stultification and John’s personality 11:04 - Time at the monastery and releasing inner stuckness 13:26 - Time in Japan and developing a different personality 17:28 - How John learned Japanese 18:43 - Study arc for reading Japanese classics 21:19 - Gaining practice value from texts 23:37 - Accessing the real thing 27:22 - The Subtle Art of a Cat 33:17 - The polarising ego 35:14 - Spontaneity and beyond self consciousness 37:09 - Neti neti 39:12 - Spontaneous action and the spiritual side of martial arts 41:35 - Freedom and flow 43:09 - Maintaining awareness and complete spontaneity 45:47 - John’s life changing near-death experience 54:20 - Hara power, the unconscious, and the survival instinct 58:16 - True martial cultivation 01:00:06 - Common mistakes and hurting oneself 01:04:11 - Complete body-mind participation 01:05:43 - Evaluating quality of movement and being 01:07:46 - Duende and art 01:09:18 - England and the old white male 01:10:24 - Learning to be with Thanatos and Eros 01:12:39 - The Gate of Killing and Death 01:15:39 - Harmonising intuition and manipulation 01:16:16 - Egotism in the martial arts 01:18:00 - Becoming exposed and the art of teaching 01:21:39 - Letting go of feeling good … Previous episode with John Maki Evans: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep231-esoteric-arts-of-japan-john-maki-evans To find out more about John Maki Evans, visit: - https://www.battodo-fudokan.co.uk/ Read ‘The Subtle Art of a Cat’ - https://terebess.hu/zen/neko.pdf … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Chencho Dorji, Bhutan’s first psychiatrist and the Professor of Psychiatry at Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences. Dr Dorji reveals the challenges he faced establishing modern psychiatrist in Bhutan, a culture heavily invested in a supernatural model of mental illness. He recounts stories of patients possessed by ghosts, local avatars of Shiva, reincarnations of Padmasambhava and more. Dr Dorji explains the role of religion and superstition in stigmatising mental illness, and considers whether shamanistic rituals and other traditional healing methods can co-exist with modern medical practices. Dr Dorji also warns that mental illness in general, and borderline personality disorder in particular, is on the rise on Bhutan and shares his vision for a greater collaboration between modern medicine, the clergy, shamans, and Sowa Rigpa healers. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep245-padmasambhava-psychosis-dr-chencho-dorji-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Return to Bhutan to establish psychiatry 05:40 - Programme to train primary healthcare staff 06:18 - Advocating for community based mental health services 10:38 - DANIDA funding and mental health survey 12:07 - Collaboration with and educating traditional healers 13:47 - Locating and treating cases in remote communities 18:13 - What kinds of mental illness is commonly found in Bhutan? 19:29 - Challenges identifying depression 21:16 - The stigma of epilepsy 22:50 - Community fear of contagion of mental illness 26:55 - Culture of taboo and about mental illness in Bhutan 29:00 - Impact of the pandemic 30:29 - Using social media to educate 31:22 - Psychological first aid 35:09 - Why is South Asian psychology and psychology training weak? 37:41 - Mental health as a luxury for the rich 40:40 - Borderline personality disorder encounters 43:36 - Rise in cases of BPD in Bhutan 45:05 - Social changes in Bhutan causing rise in mental illness 49:10 - Chronic psychosis and social disturbance 51:26 - Lack of compassion for BPD 52:17 - Economic aspiration and the rat race 54:36 - Overlap and clash with religious professionals 56:21 - Buddhism and shamanism in Bhutan 58:05 - Use of rituals in healing mental illness 59:00 - Personal indifference towards Buddhism 01:00:19 - Challenges engaging with Sowa Rigpa practitioners 01:02:39 - Educating Sowa Rigpa doctors about mental health 01:03:34 - Do traditional healing modalities have a role in modern medicine? 01:04:17 - Different kinds of monk 01:05:41 - Religious control of the population 01:07:33 - Difficulties communicating with clergy 01:09:58 - Karma and the importance of openness 01:10:56 - Navigating patients’ supernatural world views 01:14:42 - Example of a manic patient claiming to be Guru Rinpoche 01:17:18 - Impact on families 01:18:05 - Cases of entity possession and mass hysteria 01:24:38 - Possession by Lord Shiva 01:29:58 - Advice for working with traditional healers and shamans 01:31:01 - Future challenges of mental health in Bhutan 01:34:41 - Explosion of mental illness, obesity, and substance abuse 01:35:43 - Neglect of the elderly 01:37:31 - A model for the third world … Previous episode with Dr Chencho Dorji: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep237-bhutans-first-psychiatrist-dr-chencho-dorji To find out more about Dr Chencho Dorji, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057403100633 For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Mattias Daly, Taoist practitioner and translator of ‘Taoist Inner Alchemy’, published by Shambala. Mattias reveals how youthful delinquency and substance abuse problems saw him kicked out of the University of Chicago and drove him to seek out martial arts and meditation instruction under a Taoist master. Mattias shares his travels to China and unusual training adventures there including bodily purification through tree slapping, encounters with religious cults, and experiences with profound spiritual masters. Mattias also discusses having a generational demonic possession exorcised by a Māori Tohunga in New Zealand and warns of the danger of incorrect internal practice such as psychosis, premature ejaculation, and more. … Link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Why translate Taoist Inner Alchemy 04:58 - Trying not to be a scumbag 06:50 - Attraction to Buddhism 09:06 - Meeting Red Pine and mentoring relationship 11:59 - Red Pine’s influence and friendship 14:02 - Chaos Elemental 15:01 - Professor father and blue collar mother 18:34 - Childhood delinquency 24:07 - Model of masculinity 24:14 - Entry into the martial arts 26:27 - Male role models and discipline 28:57 - Did UFC destroy traditional martial arts? 31:34 - How to win a fight 33:34 - Limits of Chinese Kung Fu schools 35:31 - Rock bottom and kicked out of University of Chicago 38:09 - Return to martial arts and finding a Taoist master 41:17 - Initial Taoist training 45:01 - Buddhist vs Taoist cultivation 49:26 - Possession by demonic entity 55:58 - Generational demonic possession 59:50 - Learning Chinese 01:01:49 - Finding teachers in China 01:04:19 - Powerful purification experiences in Taoist cultivation 01:09:58 - Encountering a spiritual cult leader 01:17:04 - Reflections on spiritual charlatans in China 01:18:43 - Discovering the power of the empty state 01:22:13 - Practicing Taoist Inner Alchemy 01:25:17 - Move to Taiwan and walking away from Chinese medicine 01:27:36 - The dangers of meditation and internal cultivation 01:32:52 - Premature ejaculation and the lower Dantian 01:33:39 - Qigong and Tai Chi delusions 01:35:53 - Psychosis and Qigong fever 01:36:40 - Being in the presence of powerful teachers 01:38:07 - The heart of the path … Pre-order Mattias’ new book at a 30% discount with the promo code ALCHEMY30 at https://www.shambhala.com/ten-discourses-on-daoist-alchemy.html. Valid through March 11th. To find our more about Mattias Daly, visit: - https://www.shambhala.com/authors/a-f/mattias-daly.html … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Charles Manson, author of ‘The Second Karmapa Karma Pakshi’ published by Shambhala, and librarian for the Tibetan Collections at the Bodleian Library (Oxford University) and the British Library. Charles begins by discussing the remarkable life of Karma Pakshi, the second Karmapa, Tibet’s oldest continuous reincarnation lineage. Charles traces Karma Pakshi’s adventures as a yogic trainee, personal guru to Mongol Khans, figure of political intrigue, and reformer of monasteries. Charles goes on to tell the story of his own life, from brutal treatment at elite British boarding schools to undergraduate studies at the renowned Columbia University. Charles recounts how arrest and deportation saw his academic prospects dashed. After a period of homelessness, he became a master woodcarver training under craftsmen in England and Germany. Charles recalls his encounter with Buddhism, his contact with spiritual teachers such as the 16th Karmapa, his reckoning with the untimely death of his son’s mother, and details his experiences undertaking 8 years of closed retreat including challenging group dynamics, the painful complications of energetic yogas, and the mechanisms of spiritual transformation. Charles also discusses his remarkable time with the terton Karma Rinpoche, receiving sacred chulen instructions and witnessing the mahasiddha miraculously press a footprint into rock; as well as Charles’ own return to academia, with postgraduate studies at Harvard and longstanding work at Oxford University and the British Library. … https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep243-scholar-practitioner-charles-manson … 01:48 - Karma Pakshi, the 2nd Karmapa 07:57 - Summoned by the Khan 15:26 - Imprisoned by Kublai Khan 25:58 - The tulku tradition 33:18 - Interest in Karma Pakshi and the tulku tradition 39:02 - Childhood in Venezuela 45:28 - Suffering at boarding school 49:34 - Institutional cruelty and formation for empire 52:07 - Coping strategies and intellectual rebellion 54:33 - Attraction to Buddhism 56:18 - Love of reading and research 01:02:08 - Study at Columbia 01:04:42 - Changes in the UK private school system 01:07:30 - The social and political scene at Columbia 01:08:36 - Joining the Black Panthers 01:09:30 - Psychedelic experimentation 01:12:21 - Arrest and deportation 01:16:34 - Homelessness 01:20:32 - Resilience 01:22:30 - Searching accentuated 01:24:22 - Career as a woodcarver 01:28:07 - Unplanned pregnancy 01:28:41 - Finding Buddhism 01:31:07 - Seeking Chogyam Trungpa 01:36:17 - 16th Karmapa and ngondro 01:37:48 - Regrets about Sherab Palden 01:39:33 - Early days at Samye Ling and meeting Kalu Rinpoche 01:45:12 - The charisma of the 16th Karmapa 01:46:26 - What is charisma? 01:49:40 - How to develop spiritual power 01:53:21 - Private time with the 16th Karmapa 01:55:09 - Maggie’s cancer and a sacred pilgrimage 02:01:53 - Regrets 02:03:54 - Maggie’s death and the aftermath 02:07:44 - Entering into long-term retreat 02:13:20 - Were the 3-year retreats successful? 02:26:26 - Experience on extended retreat 02:26:57 - Spiritual obstacles 02:29:37 - Trulkhor heart attack 02:30:47 - Should 3-year retreatants call themselves ‘Lama’? 02:37:24 - Advice for those coming out of retreat 02:39:23 - Reintegrating into society 02:40:46 - Terton Karma Rinpoche 02:42:58 - What is chulen? 02:44:06 - Karma Rinpoche’s siddhi 02:50:50 - Journeys to Tibet 02:52:34 - Mountain yogis in Tibet 02:56:40 - Chulen retreats 03:00:34 - Harvard and return to academia 03:06:46 - British Library and the Bodleian 03:07:38 - PhD work at Oxford and Paris 03:08:33 - Writing a book about Karma Pakshi 03:09:05 - 1000 year old Tibetan documents at the British Library 03:11:16 - The Bodleian collection and the John Stapleton Driver project 03:16:19 - Charles’ teaching activities and other work … To find our more about Charles Manson, visit: - https://www.shambhala.com/authors/the-second-karmapa-karma-pakshi.html
In this episode I am once again joined by Stephen Snyder, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of several books including ‘Buddha’s Heart’, ‘Trust in Awakening’, and his up-coming release ‘Soothing the Longing Heart’. Stephen talks about the importance of working with one’s personality material especially after awakening. He points to an idealisation of the Buddha and other blindspots in Buddhism that he believes have led to the various behavioural scandals that have surrounded so many famous Zen masters. Stephen discusses how to work with fear and anger, how to heal one’s core wound, how to convert the superego into Absolute guidance, and reflects on the pros and cons of American culture’s interaction with the Buddhist religion. Stephen also reflects on how he approaches leading meditation retreats, why he does not enforce strict Zen schedules, the deleterious effect of electronics on concentration power, and the subtle power of taking a dharma name. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep242-soothing-the-longing-heart-stephen-snyder Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:07 - Stephen teaching in-person retreats in 2024 in Europe and the US 03:53 - Relaxed vs rigorous retreat approaches 06:10 - Treating students like adults 08:23 - Why Stephen cooks for his retreats 10:00 - Reworking the precepts 11:40 - The damaging effect of electronics on concentration power 13:03 - Stephen’s interview schedule on retreat 13:37 - Receiving full Zen dharma transmission to be recognised as a sensei 17:00 - Combing Zen with Theravada practice 18:10 - Post-awakening problems with personality issues 19:06 - Examples of post-awakening triggered behaviour and the core wound 23:08 - Working with anger and fear 27:42 - Quickly resolving karma 29:09 - Do meditation peak experiences heal the personality? 29:30 - Blindspots and scandals in Zen Buddhism 31:41 - Going beyond cultural bias 33:52 - How much cultural transfer is necessary in Buddhist practice? 35:36 - Stephen’s experimental teaching approach 38:00 - America’s contribution to Buddhism 40:57 - British class system 42:23 - Indian caste system 43:53 - How Buddhism assimilates indigenous cultural and religious forms 45:28 - Gregorian style Zen chanting 46:50 - The importance of your dharma name 47:49 - Working vs wallowing in emotional material 52:16 - What is your core wound? 54:52 -The personality as a shield 56:44 - The tyranny of the superego 01:00:39 - Transforming the superego into Absolute guidance 01:02:07 - True vs false 01:04:32 - Common compassion misunderstanding 01:06:12 Parenting mistakes around compassion 01:08:08 - Should we tell stories of awakening? 01:09:47 - The importance of doubt and trust 01:11:59 - Stephen’s advice to practitioners … Previous episode with Stephen Snyder: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=Stephen%20Snyder To find our more about Stephen Snyder, visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I am once again joined by Dhammarato: a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition who is known for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. Dhammarato challenges what he sees as the widespread misconceptions about meditation practice, focusing in particular on American Buddhism and the Goenka and Mahasi methods. Dhammarato discusses issues such as the dangers of meditation retreats, the problems with sleep deprivation and other austerities, and recounts stories of men he has known who crippled themselves through obsessive meditation practice in damaging seated postures. Dhammarato also calls for a return to the original teaching of the Buddha, advises on how to find and keep spiritual friends, and shares his perspective on how to meditate well. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep241-myths-of-meditation-dhammarato Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Challenging Western Buddhism 03:54 - Drawbacks of Goenka Vipassana retreats 04:14 - Buddha’s advice for meditation 06:21 - Common meditation mistakes 07:28 - How to see dukkah 08:16 - Coming out of victimhood 09:28 - Drawbacks of the Mahasi method 11:21 - The problem of pain on meditation retreats 13:48 - Following the Ānāpānasati Sutta and jhana practice 16:18 - Western practitioners who destroyed their knees and legs while meditating 17:47 - Sleep deprivation 18:38 - Take it easy and be gentle 19:18 - Dangers of meditation retreats 20:31 - Essence of Buddhism 22:01 - Misunderstandings about meditation posture 28:16 - Magical body postures and siddhi powers 32:29 - The Donald Trumps of Buddhism 33:56 - What attracts people to extreme asceticism and psychedelics? 35:23 - Does Dhammarato’s approach merely suppress suffering? 43:00 - The myth of life enhancing meditation 47:24 - Dhammarato’s advice for regular practice 50:22 - The value of noble friends 55:49 - The Open Sangha Foundation 59:23 - Getting out of magical thinking 01:01:08 - How to make Dhamma friends … Dhammarato Episode Playlist - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=DHAMMARATO … To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Dr Nida Chenagtsang, Buddhist teacher, doctor of Tibetan Medicine, and author of ‘Foundations of Sowa Rigpa: A Guide to the Root Tantra of Tibetan Medicine’. Dr Nida discusses the traditional Tibetan medical system of Sowa Rigpa and reveals its core doctrines such as health as balance, pulse and urine analysis, and how to discover your body’s typology. Dr Nida also delves into the esoteric side of Sowa Rigpa, including Tibetan demonology, the crossovers with tantra, and the use of magic rituals and spells to treat mental and physical illness. Dr Nida also discusses the similarities between Sowa Rigpa and Ancient Greek medicine, the importance of sleep, the toxicity of emotion, and offers a direct warning to spiritual people around the world. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep240-foundations-of-sowa-rigpa-dr-nida-chenagtsang Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - What is Sowa Rigpa? 03:27 - Connecting to the European medical tradition 07:02 - Pros and cons of modern medical science 10:05 - How Dr Nida’s teaching changed after integration into European culture 12:46 - Cultural conditioning in Asia vs Europe 17:58 - Similarities between Ancient Greek medicine and Sowa Rigpa 21:19 - 8th century international medical conference in Tibet 24:21 - A universal medicine 25:14 - What is medical tantra? 27:33 - The ‘4 Tantras’ 30:34 - Why study an 8th century medical text today? 32:34 - A new translation by Dr Ben Joffe 35:47 - Compiling Dr Nida’s commentary 36:56 - Sowa Rigpa Institute 37:47 - The core of Sowa Rigpa 41:11 - How to understand your typology 44:15 - Healthy sleep 45:03 - 3 methods of diagnosis in Sowa Rigpa 46:27 - Urine analysis 47:57 - 3 levels of pulse reading 52:03 - How to receive to the body’s signals 54:15 - Bedside manner 56:58 - Connecting to the unconscious mind 01:00:03 - Art of conversation 01:02:54 - Buddhist influences on Sowa Rigpa 01:07:48 - Emotional toxins 01:11:02 - Toxic energy 01:14:49 - 3 nyepas and the 3 doṣas 01:18:18 - Monastics vs ngakpas 01:22:36 - The esoteric specialisms of the village ngakpa 01:27:44 - Tibetan demonology 01:29:21 - How spirits cause health problems 01:33:57 - The esoteric side of Sowa Rigpa 01:36:37 - Dr Nida’s warning to spiritual people 01:38:37 - Dangers of materialism Previous episodes with Dr Nida Chenagtsang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=nida To find out more about Dr Nida Chenagtsang, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Ralph White holistic learning pioneer, international speaker on cultural transformation and the history of the Western esoteric tradition, and co-founder of the New York Open Centre. Ralph reflects on his decades at the centre of the American spirituality and human potential movements and discusses the life and works of figures such as poet Robert Bly, Ram Dass, Colin Wilson, RD Laing, and Rupert Sheldrake and tells personal anecdotes of his time spent with each. Ralph also reflects on today’s psychedelic renaissance, the pros and cons of AI, and why he is more motivated than ever before to bring about an enlightened cultural shift. … https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep239-gurus-i-have-known-ralph-white-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 02:14 - Ralph on Robert Bly 07:48 - Bly as a source of spiritual strength 08:35 - Where did Bly get his depth of insight? 09:48 - The Rag and Bone Shop of the Heart 11:06 - Spiritual Athlete in an Orange Robe 13:29 - The mysterious Colin Wilson 18:49 - RD Laing’s wildness 20:04 - RD Laing’s alcoholism 22:53 - British vs USA approaches to the esoteric 24:27 - Rupert Sheldrake and the psychedelic renaissance 28:35 - Do psychedelics affect one’s credibility? 31:05 - Ralph on Ram Dass and Timothy Leary 35:30 - Was the 60s psychedelic movement good or bad? 37:13 - Reconnecting to the earth and existential crisis 41:13 - Is civilisational utopia naive? 46:33 - The rise of the religious right in America 49:34 - Engage with society or withdraw into the ark? 54:14 - Ralph’s work organising international conferences 56:29 - Indigenous Peoples’ Resistance To Globalisation 57:56 - Techno utopian attitudes of Silicon Valley 01:00:39 - Revitalising the Western Esoteric tradition 01:04:09 - Ralph on the current frontiers of human potential and culture … Previous episodes with Ralph White: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep140-quest-for-a-life-of-meaning-ralph-white - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep202-mission-to-tibet-ralph-white To find out more about Ralph White, visit: - https://www.ralphwhite.net/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, alchemists, practitioners of Western Esotericism, and authors of ‘Alchemy, The Divine Work’. Katarina and Tommy recount the history of Western alchemy from Egypt, through Ancient Greece, the Islamic golden age, Renaissance Europe, to today and consider critiques of alchemy as mere proto or indeed pseudo-science.. Katarina and Tommy reveal the language of the birds, the hidden language of symbol and intuition used among initiated practitioners. The detail the stages of inner transformation that the alchemist ascends in his quest for spiritual evolution and compares them to the stages of other meditative traditions. Katarina and Tommy also discuss today’s changing cultural mores around masculinity and femininity and their implications for the metaphors used by the alchemical tradition to express polarity and the union of opposites. … Video versions: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep238-alchemy-the-divine-work-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Writing ‘Alchemy, The Divine Work’ 05:56 - The language of the birds and hidden language 09:14 - Are alchemical symbols specific to certain cultures? 11:13 - Alchemy vs other esoteric traditions and religions 14:20 - Intuition vs intellectual study 19:39 - People have changed in the last 5 years 21:03 - Me too movement & the pandemic 24:42 - Are masculine-feminine paradigms of polarity still relevant? 29:47 - Polarity is essential to alchemy 30:55 - Tommy’s hopes for masculinity and femininity in culture 35:32 - History of Western alchemy 41:57 - Spiritual alchemy vs metallurgical techniques 46:47 - Proto-science or pseudo-science? 49:17 - The relationship between the outer and the inner 56:56 - Who is attracted to study alchemy? 01:01:24 - The role of experimentation 01:03:44 - Collaboration with the egregore of the tradition 01:05:26 - Katarina and Tommy’s collaboration 01:09:32 - Greek philosophical influence on alchemy 01:11:40 - The first element of creation 01:12:52 - Pythagoras 01:15:44 - Cosmogony and alchemical application 01:18:01 - Metaphilosophy 01:18:47 - The prima materia 01:20:48 - The principle of love 01:22:24 - Gnosticism and alchemy 01:25:04 - The gnostic revolution 01:29:26 - Religious traditions as living metaphors 01:31:00 - Alchemical stages 01:35:44 - The dark nights of the mind and soul 01:41:47 - Blissful stages and beyond … To find out more about Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, visit: - https://www.alkemiskaakademin.se/eng/about-us/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr Chencho Dorji, Bhutan’s first psychiatrist and the Professor of Psychiatry at Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan. Dr Dorji recalls his traumatic childhood growing up in Bhutan with a psychotic, alcoholic father. He describes the impact of living in constant fear of violence on he and his siblings, the resultant psychotic breakdown of his elder brother and the extreme methods used by the shamans, lamas, and traditional doctors who were recruited to heal them. Dr Dorji also recalls his arduous progress through medical training, special placements for psychiatry in Sri Lanka and Australia, compares Bhutanese and Western societies, and begins to consider the interaction between modern psychiatry and traditional Bhutanese approaches to mental health. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep237-bhutans-first-psychiatrist-dr-chencho-dorji Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Life in Bhutan before modernisation 03:23 - Community and family networks 05:26 - Ashi Kunzang Choden 07:08 - Radical social change in Bhutan 08:45 - Living in fear with a psychotic father 12:00 - Father’s traumatic background 17:23 - Elder brother’s breakdown and psychosis 20:31 - Devastated by brother’s illness 21:44 - Attempting to cure Nima’s psychosis through shamanic and religious rituals 26:30 - Supernatural vs modern approaches to mental health 29:58 - The limits of modern medicine 32:48 - Struggles and successes in education 37:28 - Deciding to become a psychiatrist to help family 41:42 - Lost opportunity to pursue psychiatry 47:00 - Studying psychiatry in Sri Lanka 49:03 - Fever and depression 52:22 - First experience of holiday 55:32 - One year clinical placement in Australia 57:40 - Problems in Australian society and healthcare system 01:00:56 - A challenging case 01:03:24 - All societies have problems 01:04:40 - Children’s schooling experience in Australia 01:09:15 - Warning to young Bhutanese emigrating to Australia 01:13:06 - Return to Australia and hosting Bhutanese migrants 01:14:28 - Social impact on Bhutan of large scale emigration 01:18:14 - Time travel and predicting the future 01:19:47 - Interactions between psychiatry and traditional medical models 01:21:16 - Praise for Dr Caroline Van Damme 01:24:59 - Reflections on the US healthcare system … Previous Bhutan episodes playlist: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=bhutan To find out more about Dr Chencho Dorji, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057403100633 For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Lama Lhanang, a spiritual teacher of the Nyingma Longchen Nyingthig lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and an expert in meditation, geomancy, art, cultural and historical studies, and Tibetan medicine. Lama Lhanang discusses the Tibetan Buddhist and traditional Tibetan medical beliefs about death, including a detailed description of the death process itself, physical signs of imminent death, and the system of divination and omens that can indicate that one’s life will soon end. Lama Lhanang reveals the methods and mechanisms of the yogic death practices of phowa, tukdam, and rainbow body, and tells stories of his own role in guiding his students through the death process. Lama Lhanang also gives his heart advice to those facing death and to those who are supporting the dying, and explains how to die well. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep236-art-of-dying-lama-lhanang-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - What is the Tibetan Book of the Dead? 06:52 - Practice for the living and the dead 08:22 - A story of a Lama performing phowa for a woman 11:11 - Phowa, a magical meditation 12:24 - Who can perform phowa for others? 14:26 - Lama Lhanang performed phowa for a dying student 17:52 - How to perform phowa for others 21:49 - Omens of impending death 25:56 - The three energies of life and how to retrieve life force 27:01 - Asking a demon about death 29:25 - Predicting life and death 32:12 - Signs of imminent death 34:50 - The process of death 41:19 - Beyond the Western scientific point of death 48:18 - Advice for when being around dying people 51:19 - Fake tukdam 54:06 - What is tukdam? 56:32 - How to achieve tukdam 59:54 - The crazy yogi 01:01:10 - How to recognise a Buddha 01:03:40 - Tukdam vs rainbow body (jalu) 01:06:48 - Story about Lama Lhanang’s teacher who achieved rainbow body 01:09:15 - What it means to be a yogi 01:12:43 - Advice for facing death 01:19:42 - The secret to having peace at death 01:20:19 - A woman who died well … Previous episode with Lama Lhanang: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep226-nyingma-master-lama-lhanang To find out more about Lama Lhanang, visit: - https://www.buddhistsandiego.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Jason Miller, occultist, author, and teacher. Jason discusses how to judge authenticity in the occult, considers the different levels of magickal practitioner in the world today, and whether it is more efficacious to curse your enemies or to pray for them. Jason also reveals the origin and unfolding of his passion for the occult, considers the role of talent in successful spell casting, and recounts his astral awakening. Jason also shares the art of protection magick, gives his advice on occult protection for political candidates, and explains the steps he would take to extend magickal protection for a client if hired to do so. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep235-strategic-sorcery-jason-miller Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - Dilettantes and the spirit of the age 05:03 - Levels of magickal practitioner in the world 08:01 - How to judge authenticity 11:35 - Holding claims to account 15:38 - Results now or over lifetimes? 20:50 - Jason’s passion for the occult 25:53 - Professionalising one’s meditation practice 28:20 - Jason’s priorities 29:34 - A major flaw in today’s meditation teachings 31:52 - Shambala’s marketing campaign 34:01 - Effects of advanced practice on negative emotions 36:46 - Kunzang Dorje’s human failings 38:41 - The origin of Jason’s fascination with magick 39:24 - Visitation experiences 41:08 - Discovering an aptitude for magick 44:04 - Early success with spells 45:20 - Summoning spirits and other early studies 51:09 - Jason’s astral awakening 53:49 - Jason’s father’s psychic experiences 55:49 - The role of natural talent in magick 01:02:44 - Delusions about meditation skill 01:05:08 - The importance of practicing idle time 01:10:23 - Steve’s śamatha practice 01:12:07 - Why do people study magick? 01:18:00 - Feeling the call to be spiritual 01:18:39 - How magic really works 01:22:24 - Wiccans against Trump 01:26:20 - Curse your enemies or pray for them? 01:31:17 - Jason’s advice on magickal protection for political candidates 01:36:38 - What Jason would do if hired to protect a politician 01:41:07 - Isolating the workings from your environment … To find out more about Jason Miller, visit: - https://strategicsorcery.net/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I travel to deepest of Wales to visit Drala Jong, the headquarters and retreat centre of the Aro gTér sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen give a tour of the grounds of Drala Jong, discuss the esoteric geomancy of the site, and reveal the methods used to identify and propitiate the local spirit of the land. Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen detail the methods and practices of the Aro gTér, guide practice sessions in the Dzogchen meditation of sky gazing and other techniques, and tell stories of their lamas such as Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, Chimé Rigdzin Rinpoche, Dudjom Rinpoche, and more. I also meet the ordained caretakers of the centre, witness the sangha in their daily rituals of chanting and song, and receive a lesson in their physical movement system of Kum Nye from lineage specialist Sang-gyé A-tsal. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep234-dzogchen-valley-aro-gtr-sangha Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 01:23 - Tour of the grounds 04:01 - Geomancy of the site 05:07 - Appeasing the land spirits 10:17 - The right wing 13:47 - Plans for a statue of Dudjom Rinpoche 17:31 - Plans for the left wing 25:37 - The requirements and procedure of Aro gTér ordination 32:57 - Pilgrimage and normalising Vajrayana religion 35:38 - The main house 42:57 - The shrine room 45:59 - Ritual practice at Drala Jong 46:56 - Range of Aro gTér practices 48:16 - Shiné vs śāmatha 51:19 - The 4 Naljors and approaching Dzogchen 56:20 - Practices of shiné and lhagtong 59:44 - Showing the ritual objects, statues, and thangkas 01:11:08 - Attention to detail and creating a lineage place 01:14:05 - The role of personal shrine rooms and care for ritual objects 01:16:35 - Caring for people 01:18:19 - Weapon collection 01:24:57 - Role of prostrations 01:26:13 - Ngakchang Rinpoche’s reflections on his 70th birthday 01:28:17 - Drala and the practice of relating the natural world 01:31:30 - Why Wales is good for Dzogchen practice 01:35:48 - Ancient woodland 01:37:36 - The caretakers Jagyür and Métsal 01:39:52 - Tour of Jagyür and Métsal’s accommodation 01:44:21 - Living at Drala Jong 01:45:36 - Daily practice regime 01:48:35 - Recent ordination of disciples 01:50:52 - Ngakpa vs Naljorpa ordination 01:52:21 - Origins of Aro gTér ordination lineages 01:54:05 - Weather making for Chime Rinpoche 01:58:31 - Lunchtime song 01:59:54 - Ngakchang Rinpoche gives sky gazing instruction (namkha arte) 02:04:52 - The 21 semdzin of Dzogchen 02:08:28 - Reflecting on having a retreat centre after 30 years 02:09:40 - Meditation on sound 02:10:56 - On the practice of retreat 02:13:06 - 3 part approach and the practice of suspension 02:16:12 - Markers of progress in spiritual practice 02:20:10 - A story of Dungse Thinley Norbu Rinpoche 02:21:48 - Anecdote about Dzogchen shouts 02:22:42 - Dreams of Dudjom Rinpoche 02:24:52 - Sang-gyé A-tsal introduces Kum Nye 02:27:29 - Steve receives a Kum Nye lesson 02:46:26 - The drinking song of Dudjom Rinpoche 02:49:19 - Wine drinking mudra of Chimé Rigdzin Rinpoche 02:50:41 - Is Dzogchen a religion? 02:52:51 - Taking Dzogchen out of Buddhism 02:56:21 - Imitating culture 02:59:05 - Religion is ‘bigger than me’ 03:00:52 - Providing community 03:05:26 - Organised religion 03:09:46 - Starting new religions vs being part of a lineage 03:11:48 - Unthinking use of language 03:13:23 - The value of being contained by religion 03:14:38 - Inspiration between teacher and student … Previous episodes with the Aro gTer: - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxvlIXraR8zs4j4vNebA8os&si=BJvxADcKcGuUPOSc To find out more about Drala Jong, visit: - https://www.drala-jong.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Naomi Levine, author, under her birth name Norma Levine, of several books including ‘The Miraculous 16th Karmapa’, ‘A Quest For The Hidden Lands’, and ‘Chronicles of Love and Death: My Years With The Last Spiritual King of Bhutan’. In this interview, Naomi discusses her first book ‘Blessing Power of the Buddhas’, an account of her 3 year investigation into the sacred relics and holy men of Himalayan Buddhism and the field of supernatural happenings that surround them. Naomi recounts her insider meetings with Tibetan Lamas such as the polarising Dzongsar Khyentse, the reclusive Tarthang Tulku, and the wrathful Orgyen Tobgyal; and recalls stories of talking statues, sky metal magical implements, and the necessity of a female consort for certain tantric workings. Naomi also talks about the naive faith of the fresh convert, what it’s like to be burned by a guru, and how to survive the waning of the honeymoon phase in one’s religious devotional life. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep233-blessing-power-of-the-buddhas-naomi-levine-4 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Evolution of Naomi’s faith and writing 03:19 - Writing her first book 06:04 - The esoteric side of Tibetan Buddhism 07:33 - Naive faith of the neophyte 09:35 - Interviewing the who’s who of Tibetan clergy 12:27 - Hunting down sacred objects 18:13 - Getting burned by the guru 21:55 - Saved by the lineage blessings 24:44 - Quest for the hidden 25:55 - When devotion matures 28:30 - Guru scandals and Vajrayana vows 31:48 - You can’t return to the honeymoon phase of religiosity 37:34 - Corporate Buddhism and today’s guru circuit 44:21 - Naomi’s impressions of Dzongsar Khyentse 50:11 - Meeting the enigmatic Tarthang Tulku 56:41 - Meeting the wrathful Orgyen Tobgyal 59:43 - Stories of sky metal 01:05:57 - Sacred objects of Tibetan Buddhism 01:10:04 - Categories of sacred objects and hidden treasures 01:13:17 - Rethinking how to get explanations about reality 01:15:37 - True meaning of ‘hidden’ 01:16:25 - Talking statues and other miracles 01:21:43 - The necessity of the female consort 01:24:37 - The mysterious phenomenon of rangjung … Previous episodes with Naomi Levine: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep190-love-death-in-the-himalayas-naomi-levine - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep208-karmapa-tales-naomi-levine-2 - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep223-the-spiritual-odyssey-of-freda-bedi-naomi-levine-3 To find out more about Naomi Levine, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/naomilevine111 - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Norma-Levine/author/B001K86LZ4?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Joe Evans, founder of the Rangdröl Foundation and teacher of Dzogchen under the name Jigme Rangdröl. Joe explains the significance of the guru-disciple relationship in Dzogchen, details the various forms it may take, and reveals his own special relationship with Dzogchen master teacher Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche. Joe considers the power of devotion, describes the practice of guru yoga, advises on how to assess a Dzogchen teacher’s authenticity and motivation. Joe also discusses his own journey as a Dzogchen teacher, reflects on the significance of the endorsements he has received from his gurus Dungse Rigdzin Dorje Rinpoche and Acharya Malcolm Smith, and offers his heart advice to those who wish to practice Dzogchen. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep232-dzogchen-devotion-joe-evans-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - A significant evolution in Joe’s practice 05:39 - Establishing a relationship with Namkhai Norbu 05:55 - Guru-disciple relationship in Dzogchen 11:15 - Does your teacher need to know who you are? 13:03 - A common Dzogchen confusion 14:35 - Sudden or gradual? 16:27 - 1-1 time with Namkhai Norbu 18:20 - Namkhai Norbu’s powers of knowing 20:21 - The role of bodhicitta 22:18 - The practice of guru yoga 27:35 - How to assess a Dzogchen teacher 32:27 - The power of following instructions 33:47 - The most significant teaching Joe has received 36:31 - Being a hidden yogi 37:28 - Insufficient practice 39:38 - Simple advice for the Dzogchen aspirant 41:24 - Namkhai Norbu’s three pieces of advice 44:00 - Facing difficulty and mistakes on the path 46:51 - The power of devotion 50:39 - Meeting Dungse Rigdzin Dorje Rinpoche 56:38 - Meeting Acharya Malcolm Smith 01:01:53 - The period of internet message boards about Buddhism 01:04:52 - Flame wars and schisms 01:05:51 - Joe’s unusual endorsements to teach Dzogchen 01:13:20 - Joe’s reason for teaching 01:16:06 - Joe examines his own motivation 01:19:16 - What does an endorsement to teach Dzogchen mean? 01:24:03 - Why Joe uses the title ‘Lama’ 01:26:31 - Demystifying the experience of teaching the Dharma 01:29:26 - Joe’s heart advice to those interested in practicing Dzogchen 01:31:34 - Where does Joe’s confidence in Dzogchen come from? … Previous episode with Joe Evans: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep224-american-dzogchenpa-joe-evans To find out more about Joe Evans, visit: - https://www.rangdrolfoundation.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by John Maki Evans, teacher of Japanese swordsmanship, practitioner of several syncretic esoteric Japanese disciplines of tantra and magic, and author of ‘Kurikara: The Sword and the Serpent’. John recalls aspects of his intense training in Japan, traces his lifetime spent uncovering the higher esoteric dimensions of the Japanese arts, and details the 9 stage journey from novice to master. John maps the subtle body and its correspondences to the five elements and the dragon king protectors known as nāgarāja, explains the demands of following the inner path of transformation, and considers the special role of the sword in religious life. John also reflects on the process of opening the body and mind, recovery from severe back and brain injuries, and on the dangers of reaching your spiritual goals. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep231-esoteric-arts-of-japan-john-maki-evans Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - John’s 3 practitioner names 02:30 - Prescience of John’s sensei 04:21 - John reflects on his qualities 06:19 - Pros and cons of personal characteristics 07:48 - The process of opening up 09:09 - The danger of reaching your spiritual goals 11:19 - John’s 3 phase grading system 12:30 - 3 levels of transmission 18:26 - 5 elements, 9 Stages 22:01 - The power of the sword 25:29 - Nakamura Sensei’s special forces combat experience 28:53 - Taking up the sword 30:39 - Back injury and meeting Shandor 32:47 - Healing serious back injuries 33:40 - A powerful sexual awakening 36:19 - Japanese tantric and esoteric knowledge 41:37 - Piecing together an inner yogic system 43:44 - The nāgarāja dharma protectors 46:33 - 9 syllable magick 48:57 - Mapping the subtle body 49:48 - An intensive Shingon retreat 52:52 - Discovering a genuine master 54:22 - Squat practice 55:15 - Severe brain injury 58:18 - Left and right hemispheres 59:06 - Working with the brain mandala 01:02:56 - John’s mother’s death 01:05:08 - John’s post-surgery vision 01:07:09 - Post-surgery recovery 01:10:40 - Esoteric yogic techniques 01:13:21 - A profound Japanese spiritual poem 01:18:08 - Memorising Patañjali’s yoga sūtras 01:19:56 - The death of John’s father and John’s childhood death-ritual … To find out more about John Maki Evans, visit: - https://www.battodo-fudokan.co.uk/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by John Brehm, American poet and author of ‘The Dharma of Poetry’. John recalls his early life in Nebraska, formation as an unlikely poet, use of psychedelics, and discovery of the aesthetic impulse. John reads ‘Non-Harming’, a poem from his latest book ‘Dharma Talk’, and reflects on the use of poetry for personal and religious edification, as well as the power of exposing one’s darker dimensions in verse. John also discusses how to achieve profundity in poetry, the skilful use of language, why T.S. Eliot is so often criticised, and how to detect the unmistakable whiff of ego. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep230-the-dharma-of-poetry-john-brehm Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - A controversial poem 02:58 - Self awareness of one’s foibles 04:21 - How poets present themselves 04:56 - Ikkyu 05:21 - Making the sinful sacred 07:02 - Overly solemn poetry readings 07:52 - John reads ‘Non Harming’ 10:05 - Reflections on the poem 11:54 - Working class upbringing in Nebraska 13:04 - An unlikely poet 14:46 - The poetic calling 16:29 - Psychedelics 18:19 - Early poetic influences 20:06 - The art of seeing one’s local place 24:42 - An aesthetic impulse 25:53 - How to relate to a poem 27:46 - Aggressive approaches to poetry 29:09 - Nondual poetry practice 31:21 - How the high modernists made poetry elite 32:41 - Williams vs Eliot 34:08 - Anybody can enjoy poetry 36:16 - Poetry as edification 39:57 - The unmistakable whiff of ego 41:56 - The one who stops 45:41 - How to reach profundity in writing 50:23 - How to craft effective language 53:32 - How to read a poem aloud 55:34 - The role of memorisation … To find out more about John Brehm, visit: - https://www.johnbrehmpoet.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by John Riley Perks, author, teacher, and was for seven years the butler and attendant of Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche. Born in 1934, John recounts his childhood during World War 2, where he learned how to harness his intuition and psychic capacities under the guidance of his mother while avoiding air strikes and other dangers. John recalls moving to the USA in 1950 and tells of his life there through the decades of cultural change that marked the latter half of the 20th century. John describes his first meeting with renowned guru of Tibetan Buddhism Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and the subsequent years in his service as personal attendant and butler. John recalls the powerful spiritual field of tantric masters and details how Trungpa worked to dismantled John’s ego in a variety of potent ways. John also reflects on the line between so called crazy wisdom activity intended to enlighten students and the abuse of trust of which so many celebrity spiritual masters, including Trungpa himself, have been accused. John also explains how to send and receive messages on the wind, the protocol for interacting with spirit beings, and how to live in the mystery. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep229-butler-of-vajrayana-john-riley-perks Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:27 - Childhood during WW2 04:36 - Seances with John’s mother 07:54 - Britains’ native lineages of psychic and healing abilities 08:26 - Clearing the mind of psychic interference 10:00 - Interacting with other beings 11:43 - Learning to live in the mystery 12:57 - Recurring visions throughout John’s life 14:18 - Sending and receiving messages on the wind 16:38 - Importance of deity yoga and Vajrayogini practice 17:47 - Playing the Great Game 20:12 - Fantasy and reading 22:46 - Advice for those who have psychic experiences 25:06 - Panic attacks and PTSD 26:44 - Living in the USA in the 1950s 27:22 - Working as a farmhand and heading West 31:13 - Running a school for exceptional children 34:19 - The assassination period and gun culture 39:35 - The 60s and comments on drug use 42:38 - Living with Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 43:48 - Meeting Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 45:29 - Powerful first impression 49:19 - The energy field of spiritual masters 51:29 - Dismantling John’s ego 53:26 - The art of serving the guru 54:39 - John’s love for Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 57:58 - The terror of being so close to the guru 59:55 - How did John last so long? 01:01:51 - Not trying to get enlightened 01:04:38 - Stories of Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 01:08:38 - Accusations of abuse and cruelty 01:13:38 - Facing things as they are 01:14:19 - Đid Trungpa Rinpoche go too far? 01:15:32 - Trungpa Rinpoche’s drinking 01:18:07 - Working for Bill Cosby … To find out more about John Riley Perks, visit: - https://www.celticbuddhism.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Buddhist teacher and doctor of Tibetan Medicine Dr Nida Chenagtsang and author and Buddhist teacher Justin Von Bujdoss. Dr Nida and Justin discuss the esoteric Dzogchen practices of trekchö and tögal, and comment on their application to inner emotional disturbance and to times of external conflict and war. Dr Nida and Justin extensively discuss the mysterious practice of dark retreat, in which the retreatant seals himself in complete darkness for days or weeks at a time, triggering powerful hallucinations which can be worked with using special techniques for spiritual advancement. Dr Nida and Justin discuss the history of dark retreat, compares the differences in the various schools of its practice, warns of its dangers in terms of psychosis, and considers the potential it offers for attaining Buddhist enlightenment. Dr Nida and Justin also explore themes of fixation, nationalism, translation, and spiritual trauma. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep228-dzogchen-dark-retreat-dr-nida-chenagtsang-and-justin-von-bujdoss Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Geomantic energy of Bhutan 03:55 - The Dzogchen practice of trekchö 05:02 - Cutting through hardness 07:53 - The importance of using Sanskrit and Tibetan words 08:18 - The hardness of conceptual thinking 08:47 - Translating trekchö 09:45 - Dr Nida’s new approach to translation 11:54 - Dharma as medicine 12:27 - Freeing difficult emotions 14:24 - Palestine and political polarisation 17:29 - The pressure to take sides 21:10 - Meditation as medicine 21:33 - Bringing dharma experience to politics 25:09 - The value of softness and passivity 26:10 - Nationalism and fixation 28:09 - The price of enlightened politics 30:27 - Ashoka’s dharma reign 32:47 - Dr Nida’s new book about Yuthok’s Mahāmudrā 35:00 - Varieties of Dzogchen tögal practice 37:42 - The history of dark retreat 45:01 - Nyingma vs Kālachakra dark retreat versions 47:35 - Transforming energy and perception 49:57 - Yuthok and other dark retreat yogis 52:40 - Special characteristics of dark retreat 53:51 - The actual practice 55:07 - Dr Nida’s remarkable dark retreat teacher 01:00:29 - How Dr Nida’s teacher introduced him to the nature of mind 01:09:18 - The signs of success in practice 01:09:42 - The mystical story of Dr Nida and Justin’s karmic connection 01:17:21 - Mahasiddha way vs the educational path 01:20:19 - Side-effects of meditation and dark retreat 01:28:04 - Fun vs beneficial 01:29:48 - Requirements for a dark retreat location 01:30:47 - Dark retreat psychosis 01:35:01 - The need for financial support 01:36:43 - When to break your retreat 01:38:07 - Looking for experiences 01:42:43 - Dr Nida’s recent lucid dream 01:44:23 - Hallucinations and visions 01:47:59 - How to get involved 01:49:51 - Multi-cultural enlightenment 01:52:51 - How did Dr Nida assess Justin’s readiness for dark retreat 01:55:34 - Dark retreat progression 02:03:54 - The power of ngondro 02:04:34 - ‘Spiritual not religious’ 02:13:48 - Spiritual trauma 02:16:14 - Why Dr Nida wrote his book in Tibetan 02:19:07 - Questions for the practitioner 02:21:42 - Bad spiritual pedagogy … Previous episodes with Dr Nida Chenagtsang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=nida Previous episode with Justin Von Bujdoss: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=justin … To find our more about Justin Von Bujdoss, visit: - https://justinvonbujdoss.com/ - https://www.yangtiyoga.com/ To find out more about Dr Nida Chenagtsang, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, a tantric priest in a centuries old Newari Buddhist family lineage, and master of the religious dance tradition of Charya Nritya. Prajwal Vajracharya recounts his upbringing and early training, explains why his lineage was kept secret for hundreds of years, the reasons for its emergence into public awareness, and why his family received criticism for opening up their sacred secrets. Prajwal describes the holy dance tradition of Charya Nritya and details its layers of spiritual meaning, impact on the subtle energetic body, and emphasis on embodied awakening. Prajwal also shares the application of Charya Nritya to meditation, deity yoga, and ritual, and reveals the stages of enlightenment in the Newari Buddhist tradition. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep227-the-vajra-master-prajwal-ratna-vajracharya Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:54 - Prajwal’s sacred family lineage 02:53 - 800 years of secrecy under oppressive Hindu rule 04:14 - Newari family rituals of the 10 paramitas 06:20 - 2200 years of lineage 07:38 - Secret Newari tantric masters 10:40 - Prajwal’s remarkable father, Ratna Kaji Vajracharya 12:48 - Prajwal’s family dynamics 15:23 - Learning holy dance at 8 years old 16:32 - The meditative training process of Charya Nritya dance 17:53 - The importance of the five Buddhas and their animals 19:56 - Charya Nritya key to enlightenment 20:44 - Embodying the deity 21:24 - Inner, outer, and secret mudras 22:12 - Practice in every moment 22:56 - The power of hand mudra 24:37 - The outer mudra of nature 25:20 - The role of sitting meditation 26:52 - Making a mind connection to the deity 27:40 - Becoming one with the deity 28:37 - The effect of holy dance on the audience 29:36 - Embodied vs intellectual dharma 30:31 - Breaking the secrecy and facing opposition 35:36 - Powerful subtle body effects 37:30 - Ritual and working with spirits 39:06 - Stages of Newari enlightenment 42:13 - Prajwal’s teaching activities … To find out more about Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, visit: - https://www.dancemandal.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Lama Lhanang, a spiritual teacher of the Nyingma Longchen Nyingthig lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and an expert in meditation, anuyoga, geomancy, art, cultural and historical studies, and Tibetan medicine. Lama Lhanang describes his upbringing in a nomad family in Golok, Tibet, and how an encounter with a wrathful mahasiddha changed his childhood for ever. Lama Lhanang details his education in religion, ritual, and meditation as well as the disciplines of astrology and Tibetan medicine; and recounts stories of his teachers’ miraculous powers and spiritual realisations. Lama Lhanang also reveals his initial struggles upon arriving in America, highlights the distinctive qualities of American disciples, and shares his perspective on today’s turbulent events such as war in Europe and the Middle East and political division in the USA. … Link in comments. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - Nomadic childhood in Golok, Tibet 04:16 - Recognised by the local mahasiddha 06:17 - Religious study and pilgrimage 07:57 - Invited to America by Tarthang Tulku 09:06 - Initial struggles living in America 11:40 - The turning point 13:17 - Details about monastery education 17:46 - Various lineages and transmissions 19:14 - Extraordinary enlightened teachers 20:58 - Stories of miracle powers 28:14 - Wrathful teachers 29:41 - Trinley Norbu Rinpoche 30:15 - Lama Lhanang’s Sowa Rigpa teacher’s remarkable abilities 32:25 - The genius of Lama Lhanang’s astrology teacher 36:17 - How to cultivate siddhi 39:20 - Miracles of Milarepa 41:33 - Enlightened masters 42:52 - Meditation during dental operation 44:06 - Work with the mind 45:38 - Don’t worry about tomorrow 48:40 - Astrologer’s advice for the future 49:52 - Recognised as abbot by various monasteries 51:45 - Eastern vs Western disciples 55:27 - Group vs 1-1 instruction, and prerequisites to receive teachings 58:45 - Advice for those who are worried about the state of the world 01:01:00 - War in Palestine 01:04:10 - Create peace 01:05:23 - Don’t take sides 01:07:52 - The importance of communication 01:09:52 - The opportunity cost of war 01:11:22 - A story of mercy … To find out more about Lama Lhanang, visit: - https://www.buddhistsandiego.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by David Johnson, a meditation teacher and author of ‘A Path to Nibbana’. In this episode David describes the forgiveness meditation technique that he teaches to his students who encounter emotional blocks in meditation practice. David recalls his own journey with forgiveness, including his experience forgiving a toxic boss, and shares his students’ accounts using this technique. David also explains the links between keeping Buddhist precepts and a peaceful mind, and details other benefits of a moral life, including increase in personal power and acquisition of siddhi. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep225-forgiveness-meditation-david-johnson-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Dealing with emotional blocks in meditation 01:47 - Metta vs breath as meditation object 02:37 - Advantages of metta meditation 03:16 - Emotional and psychological blocks to feeling good 04:20 - When the 6R’s aren’t enough 05:55 - The process of forgiveness 07:32 - How to forgive 08:47 - Don’t dredge the mind 10:09 - How David forgave his toxic boss 13:19 - Anecdotes of students’ forgiveness 17:51 - The power of the habit of forgiveness 19:27 - Phrases to unlock forgiveness 20:38 - A common metta meditation mistake 24:11 - The Buddha’s forgiveness method 25:19 - Meditation dosage 27:17 - David on psychiatry and therapy 31:22 - When to stop the technique 32:55 - Will forgiveness make me a pushover? 35:44 - Developing personal power 36:33 - David’s fears 37:30 - The root of fear 43:01 - Why keep the precepts 42:22 - How negative karma ripens 44:55 - Benefits of following the precepts 48:33 - Investing virtue for positive rewards … Previous episode with David Johnson: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep212-path-to-nibbna-david-johnson To find our more about David Johnson visit: - https://www.dhammasukha.org/forgiveness-meditation - https://www.dhammasukha.org/david-johnson For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Joe Evans, founder of the Rangdröl Foundation and teacher of Dzogchen under the name Jigme Rangdröl. Joe discusses his impoverished upbringing, recounts unusual childhood resonances with aspects of Tibetan Buddhism, and reveals how his boyish fantasies about meeting a guru were shattered when he met Gelek Rinpoche in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Joe shares his own practice journey, including his dream yoga skills and understanding of the Great Perfection, and recalls a transformative Vajrayogini retreat in which powerful meditation and dream experiences saw him seek the guidance of famous Dzogchen master Namkhai Norbu. Joe also shares his love of books, gives a tour of his library, highlights volumes of particular significance, and discusses the role of study in the path of Dzogchen. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep224-american-dzogchenpa-joe-evans Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Joe’s love of books 02:52 - Tour of Joe’s library 06:09 - Showing some favourite books 07:32 - Study vs practice in Dzogchen 10:57 - Higher standards for teachers 12:22 - Learning the Tibetan language 12:55 - Tibetan terms that require better translation 13:22 - Meaning of ‘yeshe’, ‘sherab’, and ‘dhatu’. 16:30 - Joe’s upbringing and early interest in meditation 21:17 - Teenage reading about Buddhism 22:41 - Fantasies about meeting a teacher 23:21 - Meeting Gelek Rinpoche 28:18 - University study of Buddhism and Tibetan language 28:54 - Praise for Professor Luis Gómez 32:22 - Decision not to enter graduate school 34:22 - Director of marketing for Wisdom Publications 37:01 - A life transforming Vajrayogini retreat 37:51 - Inspiration to seek out Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche 39:10 - Mystical experiences and spiritual dreams on retreat 41:18 - Namkhai Norbu’s revelatory dreams 44:16 - Joe’s talent for dreaming 45:27 - Namkhai Norbu’s emphasis on dream yoga 46:10 - Joe’s current dream yoga practice 47:29 - Meeting Namkhai Norbu in a dream 50:41 - 24hr Dzogchen practice 56:06 - Founding the Rangröl Foundation … To find out more about Joe Evans, visit: - https://www.rangdrolfoundation.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Naomi Levine, author, under her birth name Norma Levine, of multiple books including ‘The Miraculous 16th Karmapa’, ‘A Quest For The Hidden Lands’, and ‘Chronicles of Love and Death: My Years With The Last Spiritual King of Bhutan’. In this interview, Naomi discusses the life of Freda Bedi, born in 1911 and also known as Sister Palmo; activist, radical, and the first Western woman to take full ordination in Tibetan Buddhism. Naomi recounts Freda’s upbringing, education at Oxford University, controversial marriage to the communist activist BPL Bedi, flight from Nazi Germany, and arrival in India. Naomi describes Freda’s conversion to Buddhism, ordination, and founding of the ‘Young Lama’s Homeschool’, where she taught English to young Tulkus such as Chogyam Trungpa, Ringu, Thupten Zopa, Chokyi Nyima, and more. Naomi also discusses Freda’s religious practice, the remarkable circumstances of her death, and shares the accounts of Buddhist lamas who ascribe to Freda high spiritual attainments. … Video episode: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep223-the-spiritual-odyssey-of-freda-bedi-naomi-levine-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - Writing about Freda Bedi 06:00 - The extraordinary death of Freda Bedi 10:56 - Living through remarkable times 12:30 - Born in a working class family 13:06 - Time at Oxford University 14:34 - Marrying Baba Pyare Lal ‘BPL’ Bedi 16:02 - Participation in Gandhi’s freedom movement 17:36 - Childhood meditation 20:41 - Flight from Nazi Germany 21:57 - Trouble in Kashmir 26:04 - Learning meditation under Sayadaw U Titthila and experiencing shunyata 27:14 - Friendship with Indira Gandhi and refugee work in Assam 29:02 - Founding the Young Lama’s Homeschool 31:01 - Convincing 16th Karmapa to travel to the West 33:31 - First Western woman to attain enlightenment? 35:01 - Didi Contractor on Freda Bedi 40:36 - Why is Freda Bedi not better known? 45:33 - Turbulent times and war 44:57 - Complexity and charisma 46:42 - How did Freda Bedi penetrate elite political and religious circles? 51:36- Ayang Rinpoche on Freda Bedi’s death 54:40 - Freda Bedi’s Marxism 58:27 - Ambiguities and motherhood 01:01:20 - The home life of great humanitarians 01:04:30 - BPL Bedi’s miraculous healing powers 01:09:32 - Freda Bedi’s spiritual and meditation practices 01:17:09 - Audio recording of Freda Bedi 01:35:44 - Kabir’s intention to make a film about Freda Bedi 01:36:16 - Naomi’s great admiration for Freda Bedi … Previous episodes with Naomi Levine: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep190-love-death-in-the-himalayas-naomi-levine - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep208-karmapa-tales-naomi-levine-2 To find out more about Naomi Levine, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/naomilevine111 - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Norma-Levine/author/B001K86LZ4?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview, I am once again joined by Professor Arthur Versluis, a professor and Department Chair of Religious Studies in the College of Arts & Letters at Michigan State University, author of over 25 books on subjects ranging from Western esotericism, magic, Christian Theosophy, ancient mystery schools, and more. In this episode Arthur discusses his latest book ‘American Gnosis’ in which he explores the surprising connections between the Gnostic tradition and contemporary American spirituality, politics, and popular media. Arthur shows the ways in which gnostic religious themes explicitly and implicitly express in political groups such as the dissident right, probes Eric Voegelin’s theories which propose links between gnosticism and left wing political movements, and explores the blend of cosmological and metaphysical gnosis in the writings of David Icke. Arthur also details the key features of neognosticism, discusses the meme battles over the Matrix film’s ‘red pill’, and considers the overlaps between light work, conspiracy theories, and Tibetan Buddhism. … Video episode: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep222-american-gnosis-arthur-versluis-phd-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:19 - American Gnosis 02:17 - Origins of and surprises in the research 06:03 - An anecdote of American Gnosticism 08:02 - The gnosis of Twin Peaks 08:38 - Defining Gnosticism 12:18 - Emerging 20th century Neo-Gnosticism 14:30 - Cosmological vs metaphysical gnosis 17:19 - A surprising claim of awakening 21:26 - Crossover between Buddhist and Neo-Gnostic awakenings 23:40 - Political gnosis on the left and right 25:50 - Psychedelic gnosis 26:33 - Neo-gnosticism and the dissident right 29:31 - Is there neognosticism on the left? 34:01 - Are analyses in terms of whiteness and patriarchy neognostic in structure? 36:14 - Double-view of gnosticism on the right 40:44 - A problem in the American Buddhist world 42:23 - Struggle between the left and right over the symbolism of the Matrix’s red pill 49:22 - The pseudo-religion of the state and the 2nd reality 53:03 - Overreach of the label of ‘gnostic’ 55:18 - The gnosis of David Icke 01:02:14 - Suicidal nihilism of neognosticism vs Icke’s metaphysical gnosis 01:06:02 - Lightwork and conspiracy theory overlap with Buddhism 01:13:33 - Entities and dark forces in Tibetan Buddhism … Previous episodes with Prof. Arthur Versluis: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep106-arthur-versluis-phd-conversations-in-apocalyptic-times/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep113-arthur-versluis-phd-2-american-gurus/ … To buy ‘American Gnosis’, visit: - https://global.oup.com/academic/product/american-gnosis-9780197653210?cc=gb&lang=en& To find out more about Prof. Arthur Versluis, visit: - https://arthurversluis.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by John Myrdhin Reynolds, also known as Lama Vajranatha: writer, teacher, translator, and scholar/practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. John begins with a discussion about the unique characteristics of Dzogchen, common misunderstandings that have arisen from its widespread popularity, and the differences between Dzogchen, Mahāmudrā, and the kenshō of Zen. John discusses his extensive field research into Himalayan shamanism, spirit possession and rituals of exorcism, shamanic diagnosis and healing, and what it takes to become a shaman. John also explores the various classes of spirit including gyalpo spirits who manifest as authoritarianism and sectarianism, recounts experiences of spirit attacks, and explains the differences between the shaman, lama, and magician. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep221-exorcism-himalayan-shamanism-john-myrdhin-reynolds-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Lama Vajranatha’s Dzogchen teaching 03:35 - Unique characteristics of Dzogchen 04:27 - Misunderstandings about Dzogchen 08:34 - The metaphor of the mirror 09:53 - The tantric context and the practices of deity yoga and tummo 12:12 - Entering Dzogchen through sadhana practice 13:52 - Mahāmudrā vs Dzogchen 16:26 - Sakya Pantida’s criticisms of Gampopa’s Mahāmudrā teachings 17:30 - Spontaneous Zen awakenings 19:51 - Dzogchen vs hypnotic trance induction 23:26 - Meeting Himalayan shamans 27:42 - Childhood visions of spirits 30:11 - Spirit possession and exorcism in Himalayan Buddhism 31:28 - Tribal shamans vs Tibetan Lamas 33:01 - Guardian pujas and the power of blood sacrifice 45:13- Buddhism vs shamanism 49:40 - Shamanic diagnosis, healing, and trance states 54:03 - Paying karmic debts to cure disease 57:00 - Banishing ghosts, poltergeists, and preta 01:00:02 - Exorcism rituals and la-hooking 01:05:07 - How to become a shaman 01:08:01 - Western shamans and Carlos Castaneda 01:09:47 - Magicians vs shamans 01:14:16 - Life balance and spirit encounters 01:16:58 - Personal communication with dakinis 01:17:49 - Gyalpo spirits of authoritarianism and sectarianism 01:18:56 - Dorje Shugden 01:23:17 - Dalai Lama’s illness when practicing Dzogchen after Dorje Shugden empowerment 01:25:46 - Geshe Kelsang’s Gyatso’s Buddhist group 01:27:40 - Namkhai Norbu retreat attacked by a gyalpo spirit 01:29:49 - Dangers of receiving empowerments 01:31:56 - Leaving the USA under the direction of the dakinis 01:34:00 - Contacting Lama Vajranatha 01:36:27 - Importance of asking questions … Previous episodes with John Myrdhin Reynolds visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep200-lama-vajranatha-professor-john-myrdhin-reynolds - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep211-magick-systems-of-the-west-east-john-myrdhin-reynolds-2 To find our more about John Myrdhin Reynolds visit: - https://vajranatha.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Morgan O Smith, teacher of non-duality, and under the stage name ‘Mista Mo’, was a stand-up comedian and host of the Gemini award winning television show ‘Buzz’. In this episode Morgan discusses his latest book ‘Bodhi in the Brain’, a guide to meditation using Morgan’s Yinnergy method. Morgan describes how he developed the method, as well as its role in his own awakening journey, and shares the results of applying it in schools, prisons, and in his role as a youth worker. Morgan also reveals how it was he integrated the devotional path of Bhakti yoga into his spiritual, what he has learned about the power of the guru’s shaktipat energy transmission, the necessity of purification and catharsis, and the transformative effects of awakening the heart and not just the head. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep220-bodhi-in-the-brain-morgan-o-smith-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00- Writing ‘Bodhi in the Brain’ 04:40 - Morgan’s writing routine and process 04:53 - Darshan blessings from Paramahamsa Vishwananda 07:56 - Morgan’s current and future book projects 11:18 - Swallowing Vedanta 12:24 - Discovering the power of bhakti yoga and devotion to a guru 15:21 - Meditation and shaktipat 17:26 - Purging after powerful shakipat transmission 20:18 - Clearing the energy and karmic bodies 22:42 - Opening the heart chakra 23:57 - Brain waves, binaural beats, and Yinnergy 33:17 - How to practice with Yinnergy 40:19 - What is gained and what is lost with enlightenment 45:17 - Letting go of discrimination and opening the heart 48:36 - Impulse control, visions, and spiritual experiences 52:35 - Catharsis and bliss 54:13 - Morgan’s work in the prison system 59:22 - Morgan’s spirit of service 01:04:52 - How to get find Yinnergy and Morgan’s books 01:07:04 - Morgan invites communication from listeners … Previous episodes with Morgan O Smith: - www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep176-the-awakening-of-mista-mo - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep195-enlightened-comedian-morgan-o-smith-2 To find out more about Morgan O Smith, visit: - https://www.instagram.com/morgano.smith/ - https://linktr.ee/morganosmith For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Lionel Snell, a contemporary English magician, publisher, and, under various pen names such as Ramsey Dukes, a renowned author on magic and philosophy. Lionel explores the idea that people, societies, and even cultures cycle through 4 distinct phases with profound affects. Lionel traces the history of the last hundreds and even thousands of years and identifies the emergence of these phases with periods of religious fervour, scientific progress, magickal revivals, and artistic eruption. Lionel explains the similarities and differences between magick and art, the archetypes of the feminine, and the fear of the free woman. Lionel also provides analysis of our current time, reveals how finding the Trickster can unravel polarised and dualistic thinking, and how a deep understanding of the occult can be noted in leading political and cultural figures. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep219-cycles-of-the-occult-ramsey-dukes-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Cycles and modes of thought and culture 03:52 - Cycles vs linear time 05:38 - Suspicion of thinking in cycles 07:01 - Time of magickal revival 08:47 - The art movements of the 1920s and the 1980s 11:31 - Cycles of Ramsey’s life 12:40 - Why magick emerges from science and religion 14:55 - Magick vs art 16:52 - The miracle of the axial age 18:29 - Magickal revival in the early ADs and the rise of alchemy 20:34 - The silent art of Greek medicine (ἰατρική) 22:40 - Ramsey on astrology 23:41 - Process of Pluto into Capricorn 26:01- Pluto into Aquarius and corrosion of democracy 27:24 - Danger of the free female 29:01 - Shadow projection onto the individual 31:50 - Social media, war, and the shadows of Aquarius 36:42 - Egregores and the power of othering 41:50 - God, Devil, Trickster 43:14 - Archetypes of the feminine 46:04 - Transcending duality 47:00 - The rich-poor cycle 51:49 - Political polarisation and spotting the trick 56:38 - Using polarity to act on the world 01:00:08 - The terror of the linear view 01:06:44 - Do politicians use magick to influence world events? 01:11:44 - Did Trump study the occult? 01:12:36 - Ramsey on the Illuminati 01:14:41 - Rosicrucianism, fact of fiction? 01:18:23 - Interactions between personal and societal cycles 01:27:09 - The skeptical movement and chaos magick 01:30:08 - Using cycles to inspire and infuriate 01:38:18 - How to work with cycles as an individual 01:44:00 - Addendum: What might the future hold? … Previous episode with Ramsey Dukes: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep209-the-english-magician-ramsay-dukes To find out more about Ramsey Dukes, visit: - https://ramseydukes.co.uk/ - https://www.youtube.com/@RamseyDukes ... For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of ‘Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas’. Leigh reveals his upcoming solo retreat plans and personal meditation goals and considers why it is that he continues to meditate after so many decades of practice. Leigh recalls his career as a computer programmer and draws analogies from the computer world to the workings of human beings on the Dharma path. Leigh expresses his views on AI, in particular whether or not AI will replace meditation teachers, and goes on to explore what makes a great meditation teacher and what makes a bad one, as well as the importance of heart connection when leading retreats, and answers the question ‘how enlightened should someone be before they can teach meditation?. Leigh also shares an exchange he had with an AI in which he asks questions about jhana meditation and evaluates the AI’s answers. Leigh goes on to offer his take on Shinzen Young’s ultrasound neuromodulation research and questions the possibility of its efficacy to bring about meaningful spiritual progress. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify. … 01:20 - Why does Leigh still go on solo meditation retreats? 06:15 - How has meditation changed Leigh’s life? 06:42 - Leigh’s meditation goals 08:30 - Why do intermediate and advanced practitioners stop practicing? 11:42 - The early days of computer programming 14:40 - Working as a computer programmer 18:09 - Writing a Tibetan-Tibetan dictionary for Tsoknyi Rinpoche 21:33 - Building his own DOS box 23:41 - Overlaps between computer programming and meditation 26:47 - Pros of cons of computer metaphors for describing humans and the Dharma 28:53 - KISS and other computer metaphors for meditation 32:02 - Buddhist fundamentalism and the doctrine of rebirth 34:41 - Did the Buddha really believe in rebirth? 38:21 - The lies of the Buddha 42:32 - Is Buddhist fundamentalism compatible with enlightenment? 45:46 - Does belief in rebirth prevent enlightenment? 49:02 - The immortality project 49:26 - Did Buddhism degrade or evolve? 53:34 - Mahayana writers who Leigh enjoys 54:07 - Why Leigh loves Shantideva’s chapter on dedication 55:55 - Computers and Buddhism 58:33 - Will AI replace human programmers? 01:05:15 - Will AI teach meditation better than human teachers? 01:06:54 - What makes a really good meditation teacher 01:10:22 - Leigh asks AI dharma questions: what is the cause of dukkha? 01:13:41 - How do I know if I’m practicing jhana correctly? 01:15:05 - Why are the jhanas important? 01:16:23 - How can I tell whether I’m in 3rd of 4th jhana? 01:17:15 - How does one go from 4th to 5th jhana? 01:17:49 - Trouble entering the 1st jhana 01:19:12 - The human connection in meditation interviews 01:19:54 - How to establish a heart connection with your meditation students 01:23:11 - Is AI better than a mediocre meditation teacher? 01:26:30 - What makes a bad meditation teacher? 01:30:13 - How to spot a teacher with an agenda 01:32:56 - Why Leigh dislikes the Mahasi noting practice 01:34:53 - How enlightened should a meditation be? 01:40:12 - How Leigh tests Westerners who claim full enlightenment 01:42:17 - Buddhist faith claims vs other religions 01:48:28 - Buddhist vs Christian faiths 01:51:09 - Leigh challenges Shinzen’s attempts to use ultrasound to induce nirodha 01:52:05 - How stream entry really works 01:54:13 - Using ultrasound to induce jhana states 01:56:23 - Does Leigh see any use in Shinzen’s research? 01:57:42 - Could ultrasound jumpstart mediocre and fearful meditators? 02:01:20 - The spiritual path is about letting go … Previous episodes with Leigh Brasington: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=brasington To find our more about Leigh Brasington visit: - http://www.leighb.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Alexander Arguelles, world-renowned polyglot, linguist, and scholar of comparative religion. Dr Arguelles discusses the spiritual dimension of language, recounts his own experiences of self-transcendence, and comments on the power of reading sacred works in their original languages. Dr Arguelles reflects on his personal explorations in meditation, pranayama, and prayer and shares his own method to silence the monkey mind with a combination of breath control and linguistic meditation. Dr Arguelles also discusses how to include work and study as a part of spiritual practice, details the lifestyle habits required to nourish the life of the mind, and warns against the deleterious effects of the convenience traps found in modern life. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep217-spiritual-life-of-the-mind-dr-alexander-arguelles-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Spiritual dimension of language 05:34 - Silencing the monkey mind 09:41 - Superior meditation 10:14 - Experiences of profundity and trance 13:39 - Power of sacred languages 15:11 - Realisation of vastness 16:50 - Self transcendence and choosing the hard path 18:51 - Life without the monkey mind 20:51 - Comparisons to classic meditation paths 21:53 - Dr Arguelles spiritual experiences studying Sanskrit and Russian 29:51 - The source languages of the world 31:40 - Powerful sacred works in Latin 32:57 - The Bhagavad Gita 33:51 - Reading as a spiritual exercise 34:50 - Obtaining mother language’s blessing 41:26 - Working with resistance 42:54 - Professor Arguelles’ linguistic meditation technique 49:06 - Traits of great polyglots of the past 51:38 - The art of shadowing 53:56 - Degradation of intellect 57:18 - The convenience trap 57:59 - The dumbing down of the 20th century 59:23 - Urbanisation and natural living 01:02:51 - Lifestyle and dietary habits for maximising the life of the mind 01:05:37 - Learning as a mental and spiritual exercise 01:06:02 - Keeping your edge as you age 01:07:52 - The Rule of St Benedict 01:09:35 - Work and study as prayer and meditation 01:12:31 - Working with Dr Arguelles … Previous episodes with Dr Alexander Arguelles: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep199-path-of-the-polyglot-dr-alexander-arguelles - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep207-wandering-polyglot-dr-alexander-arguelles-2 To find our more about Dr Alexander Arguelles and his Academy, visit: - https://www.alexanderarguelles.com/academy/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Mordy Levine, serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author of ‘The Tibetan Book of the Dead for Beginners’ with Lama Lhanang and published by Sounds True. Mordy reveals the origins of the Tibetan Book of the Dead, considers the validity of the claims of its supernatural transmission, and pulls back the curtain on his own writing process in collaboration with Nyingma meditation master Lama Lhanang. Mordy discusses the subject of money and spirituality and recounts his own journey from poverty and avarice to financial and business success and beyond, to a more enlightened view informed by Buddhist doctrines. Mordy also addresses the range of dysfunctional money attitudes found in American Buddhism such aversive attitudes to money based on beliefs that money is fundamentally unspiritual, immoral, and evil. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep216-death-money-dharma-mordy-levine Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:50 - Tibetan religious teachings about death 02:35 - Why another book on the Tibetan Book of the Dead? 05:04 - Collaborating with Lama Lhanang 08:03- Lineage vs psychedelics and Timothy Leary 10:34 - Does Mordy really believe in Tibetan terma claims? 12:31 - Mordy’s experiences of the supernatural 14:05 - ’God of the gaps’ 18:03 - How important are the supernatural claims of the Tibetan Book of the Dead’s transmission? 21:27 - Energetic transmission of spiritual lineage 23:05 - The purpose of energy transmission 24:40 - Perceiving the light body 26:20 - Mordy’s practice of karate 31:55 - Conversion to Buddhism 34:03 - From Zen to Tibetan Buddhism 37:29 - Initial experiences of Tibetan Buddhism and search for a teacher 39:24 - Meeting Lama Lhanang 41:33 - About Lama Lhanang 44:21 - Applying lessons from the business world to dharma organisations 46:42 - Origin of Mordy’s motivation to become rich 48:45 - Addiction to success and money 50:47 - Grasping and clinging to feed one’s identity 53:17 - Childhood programming about money 56:03 - What woke Mordy up to his money addiction? 59:36 - Seeing through the BS of identity 01:02:04 - Addictions and grasping 01:04:04 - American Buddhists’ dysfunctional attitudes to money 01:08:34 - Advice for contemplating one’s relationship to money 01:11:47 - Is money unspiritual? … To purchase ‘The Tibetan Book of the Dead for Beginners’, visit: - https://www.soundstrue.com/blogs/authors/mordy-levine To find out more about Mordy Levine, visit: - https://www.mordylevine.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Anthony Metivier, author and internationally renowned memory expert who’s meditation practice is reciting sacred Sanskrit texts from memory. Anthony takes us on a journey through the memory techniques that enable them to memorise hours of material in a variety of languages, including Sanskrit texts such as the Ribhu Gita, swathes of Shakespeare, and detailed facts and figures. Anthony demonstrates his use of the memory palace technique, pulls back the curtain on the art of spaced repetition, and recounts the life of 16th century Hermetic occultist and memory master Giordano Bruno. Anthony also reveals how he used memory techniques to face severe childhood trauma, to untangle a pattern of generational rage, and reflects on subjects such as non-duality, radical honesty, and consciousness. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep215-unlocking-the-power-of-memory-anthony-metivier-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - The lineage of memory mastery 03:56 - Comparing the world’s memory traditions 06:47 - The fascinating life of Giordano Bruno 10:16 - Bruno’s memory techniques 14:48 - Neitzsche, Spinoza, and analysing the current times 19:05 - Shakespeare’s ‘Julius Caesar’ 20:20 - Can we really learn from the past? 24:10 - How implicit memory influences decision making 25:43 - Generational rage and the spectre of Anthony’s father 28:50 -Clearing generational trauma via sacred Sanskrit memorisation 30:46 - Sudden vs gradual 33:16 - What motivated Anthony to face his generational patterns? 37:26 - Consciousness and why we talk to each other 42:42 - How to memorise sacred Sanskrit texts 46:32 - Anthony’s memory palace 58:33 - Power of spaced repetition 01:03:10 - Experiments in forgetting 01:05:17 - Hermann Ebbinghaus’ forgetting curve 01:06:53 - Spacial memory and Anthony Hopkins 01:09:36 - Is a memory palace really necessary? 01:11:38 - Radical honesty 01:13:22 - Delusional memory experts 01:17:17 - Do memory techniques obscure the sacred meaning of the texts? 01:22:49 - How to memorise Shakespeare 01:31:20 - Sherlock Holmes myth 01:33:10 - Memory demands of being a working musician 01:35:41 - Benefits of improving memory 01:37:14 - Transformative effects on meditation 01:41:02 - The ego and non duality 01:46:27 - Studying with Anthony … Previous episode with Anthony Metivier: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep123-master-of-memory-anthony-metivier/ - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep203-unlock-the-enlightened-mind-anthony-metivier To purchase Flyboy, visit: - https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/fb-sq/ To find out more about Anthony Metivier, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMetivierMMM - https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Julian Schott, Indologist & Tibetologist, trained at institutions such as the renowned Center for the Study of Manuscript Culture at the University of Hamburg. In the first section of the episode, Dr Schott discusses the idea that Buddhist Studies as an academic discipline is in decline, with meagre enrolment, falling standards, and the deemphasis on philology and mastery of the tradition’s scriptural languages. Dr Schott also reflects on the skills and attitudes that make a good scholar. For the rest of the episode Dr Schott discusses his re-edition of ‘Indrabhūtis Jñānasiddhi: An In-depth Study of it’s Indian Origins and Early Tradition within the Indo-Tibetan Mahāmudrā Teachings’, details the philological process of reconstructing this important text and explains the pathway from the inception of the idea to obtaining funding to eventual publication. Dr Schott also remarks on the early tantric tradition in India, compares its character to later tantric forms such as the Yogini Tantras in both India and Tibet, and shares some surprising insights from Indrabhūti’s text on attaining siddhi and enlightenment. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep214-tantric-philology-dr-julian-schott-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:29 - Dr Schott’s recent appointment at University of Vienna 03:04 - Which universities have a high philological standard? 04:10 - Bringing classical philology into today’s context 06:23 - The declining quality of Buddhist Studies 08:30 - Weakness in today’s mindfulness research 09:46 - Causes of academic decline 13:41 - The flourishing of philology and Indology 17:32 - The economics of Sanskrit 101 20:48 - What function does today’s university perform? 24:31 - Does it matter of Buddhist studies declines? 27:32 - The qualities of a good scholar 33:09 - Setting a good example 36:24 - The work of a philologist 37:22 - Choosing the Indrabhūti project and getting funding 43:25 - Why Indrabhūti and early Tantric Buddhism? 45:01 - Characteristics of the early Tantric traditions 48:02 - Early Tantra vs later Yogini Tantras 51:38 - Surprising aspects of Indrabhūti’s Jñānasiddhi 01:01:01 - How to attain siddhi through tantra 01:04:20 - The process of Sanskrit translation and producing a critical edition 01:10:44- Profiling the mind of an ancient author 01:12:30 - Human nature and the presentation of truth 01:16:17 - Challenges in reconstructing the Jñānasiddhi 01:19:26 - Navigating the spiritual landscape, what can we rely upon? 01:22:43 - What has Steve learned from over 200 podcast episodes? 01:24:07 - Liberation of ignorance and knowing your place 01:28:10 - The final steps of a critical edition … Previous episode with Dr Julian Schott: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep197-scholar-practitioner-dr-julian-schott To find our more about Dr Julian Schott, visit: - https://www.aai.uni-hamburg.de/indtib/personen/schott.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr Nicholas Van Dam, the inaugural Director of the Contemplative Studies Centre and an Associate Professor in the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences at the University of Melbourne, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience graduate. Dr Van Dam discusses his 2018 paper ‘Mind the Hype: A Critical Evaluation and Prescriptive Agenda for Research on Mindfulness and Meditation’ which levels serious criticisms at his own field of mindfulness research and contemplative neuroscience, taking aim at poor methodological practices, problems with definitions, and the strong incentives in the field which can conflict with the pursuit of science. Dr Van Dam reveals what he calls the unholy triad of mindfulness research, explores the theme of elitism in meditation, and raises questions about the studies conducted on Buddhist contemplative Matthieu Ricard, known as the ‘happiest man in the world’. Dr Van Dam also considers the degree to which mindfulness can be meaningfully isolated apart from its traditional religious contexts, notes the adverse effects of meditation, and shares his thoughts for the individual meditator on how to practice and who to trust in todays meditation marketplace. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep213-mind-the-hype-dr-nicholas-van-dam-chelsey-fasano Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:26 - Mind the Hype 03:02 - Realising something was wrong with the mindfulness field 05:30 - Has the field improved? 06:20 - Perverse incentives 08:08 - The unholy triad of mindfulness 09:53 - The definition problem 11:56 - Poor standards of evidence 14:36 - Misunderstanding of neuroplasticity 16:36 - The Matthieu Ricard problem and elitism 19:17 - Olympians of the mind 21:21 - Adverse effects of meditation 22:11 - History of elitism in Buddhist meditation 23:48 - Controversies about defining mindfulness 29:16 - The judgment trap 31:58 - Operationalising mindfulness to serve the research agenda 32:58 - Missing the traditional context 35:40 - To what extent can science be informed by traditional schema? 42:01 - Consequences of moving away from religious thinking 46:45 - Scientism as a faith position 47:41 - Profit incentives 51:17 - What motivates mindfulness researchers? 51:29 - How to we recognise authority? 52:43 - Omertà and corrupt science 59:22 - Career risks in criticising mindfulness research 01:02:33 - Mindfulness is passé 01:04:28 - Critique of psychedelic and tech interventions 01:08:56 - Why bother with meditation? 01:12:39 - Importance of practice goals 01:13:50 - Is enlightenment really worth the effort and risk? 01:16:40 - Is meditation just practicing skilful suffering? 01:18:21 - Real practice doesn’t sell 01:20:46 - Advice for meditation practitioners 01:23:22 - Recommendations for mindfulness researchers 01:23:58 - Gaslighted by religious traditions 01:24:51 - Who can we trust? 01:27:26 - Contemplative Studies Centre … To find out more about Dr Van Dam, visit: - https://www.nicholastvandam.com/ - https://psychologicalsciences.unimelb.edu.au/CSC - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29016274/ To find our more about Chelsey Fasano visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I was recently interviewed by Mark V Wiley for his ‘Transformations Podcast' with a particular focus on ritual, religion, meditation, martial arts, my teenage apprenticeship to a Christian mystic, and more. ... Mark's Shownotes: Our discussion touched a wide variety of subjects from Steve early childhood entering karate, being an altar boy and the comparative rituals of both, early fiction writing, and introduction to a Celtic mystic; crossing thresholds, energy work, altered states and meditation; ways to manage pain, merge with it and let it go; Movement Koan Method and migraine relief. 0:14 The Guru Viking - not just a guy on a boat 4:38 Non-ordinary lifestyle, aesthetic and embodied nature of karate 7:45 Profound Altar boy ritual experience, shared ideology but private faith, personal contemplative space 11:45 Story: Wado-Ryu karate 12:17 crossing thresholds: martial art and religious space and ritual 16:56 The young contemplative, TV sound meditation and thought problems 19:02 Observation of martial arts with and without ritual, Arrogance 21:30 Skatipat, no-mind, how thought brings you out of the altered state, meditative practices 23:48 The untangling of pain from emotion and psychological reactivity and physically bracing against it 27:21 Heroic "strong determination' sitting of Shinzen Young, working through pain in meditation 38:50 Ann array of techniques, ego, meditating with others on their terms, not being bound by dogma 41:22 More thoughts on Catholicism, the Bible, and door-knocking sects 44:00 Novel, Celtic mystic writing group, learn by doing and observing, listening to God and the still, small voice within, seeing with God's eyes 51:28 Mentoring, learning by osmosis and proximity, apprenticeship, The Paris Review 54:44 Scotitsh fencing team, weight training, if strong appear weak, deception/perception 1:01:29 Movement Koan Method, what to do after a spiritual epiphany, body movement riddles, muscular activation and somatic reference points, investigation and inquiry over imposition of answer 1:10:41 Somatic emphasis on the concept "there is only here and now, don’t fight just feel and be" with it. 1:14:22 Zhan Zhuang qigong, water seeks its level, muscles, migraines, why we hold pain 1:15:34 Holding tension to withstand migraine and headache. Parallel to sitting meditation pain. Why we hold onto pain, persistent pain, mind/body pain, phantom pain, referred pain. 1:19:34 Dr. Wiley's Migraine cure - Headache's Relieved (book), Natural Solutions to Pain and Inflammation (book) 1:25:27 Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Framework of excess, stagnation, deficiencies 1:27:35 Extending the sweet spot in wellness 1:29:33 Deliberate exposure to weak causing, homeopathy, resources for pain relief 1:34:18 ending comments More on Steve James and The Guru Viking Podcast found here: https://www.guruviking.com/ Transformations Podcast brought to you by: www.TambuliMedia.com ... To watch more of Mark's episodes, click here: https://www.youtube.com/@markvwiley
In this episode I am joined by David Johnson, a meditation teacher and author of ‘A Path to Nibbana’, a complete meditation guide to TWIM. David shares details about the life of his recently deceased teacher, Bhante Vimalaramsi, including their first meetings in the 1970s meditation scene, the last days of Bhante Vimalaramsi’s life, and the consequences of his death for the religious organisation he left behind. David recounts his own life story, including twenty years of meditation in the Vipassana movement and a detailed description of how he achieved its version of stream entry. David explains how practicing Bhante Vimalaramsi’s teachings showed to him that the stream entry achieved through Vipassana meditation is merely a mental blackout, and explains how to achieve true awakening through the practice of TWIM. David also defines enlightenment, discusses psychic siddhi powers, and questions the enlightenment of figures such as Dipa Ma, suggesting their attainments were much less than widely believed. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep212-path-to-nibbna-david-johnson Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 03:12 - Death of Bhante Vimalaramsi 09:12 - Meeting Bhante Vimalaramsi in 1975 11:42 - Disco killed meditation 12:24 - Becoming a millionaire and going to India 16:52 - David’s work as librarian of Bhante Vimalaramsi’s teachings 18:42 - Filming Dipa Ma and other famous teachers 21:22 - What’s next after Bhante Vimalaramsi’s death? 25:56 - David’s middle class upbringing in the USA 27:17 - Teenage interest in hypnosis 27:58 - Talking about guitars and music 30:29 - Attending Evergreen College, LSD, and Carlos Castaneda 33:04 - Bouncing between colleges 36:06 - Extensive experience in vipassana meditation 38:22 - David details passing through the progress of insight stages 45:54 - Did David achieve stream entry? 47:08 - Discovering the real stream entry 50:18 - Real stream entry vs vipassana black-outs 55:35 - The practice story of the Buddha 01:02:00 - The importance of tranquillising the mental formations 01:07:02 - The dangers of meditation and psychedelics 01:10:56 - Secularising meditation 01:13:50 - David asks Steve, ‘What is enlightenment?’ 01:16:01 - David accuses Steve of eel-wriggling 01:17:11 - David defines enlightenment in terms of the 4 noble truths 01:22:19 - Dipa Ma was not as enlightened as she thought she was 01:29:29 - Dipa Ma’s mastery of psychic powers 01:34:16 - Going to hell after suppressing the mind with concentration 01:36:58 - How to evaluate your enlightenment level 01:48:04 - Why did Buddhism go wrong? … Previous episodes with Delson Armstrong and Bhante Vimalaramsi visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep112-bhante-vimalaramsi-relaxing-into-nibbana To find our more about David Johnson visit: - https://www.dhammasukha.org/david-johnson For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
John Myrdhin Reynolds, also known as Lama Vajranatha, is a writer, teacher, translator, and scholar/practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. In this episode I am once again joined by John Myrdhin Reynolds, also known as Lama Vajranatha: writer, teacher, translator, and scholar/practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. John explains his own involvement with Western occult systems, including ordination into the OTO and as a Wiccan priest, and traces the history of the Western Esoteric tradition from the Italian Renaissance to the present day. John describes how to accumulate magickal power, explains the workings of the spirit world from the perspectives of both Western occultism and Himalayan shamanism, and comments on subjects such as Aleister Crowley, John Dee, Enochian magick, and more. John also gives a detailed step-by-step description of tantric guardian spirit pujas, compares them to the spirit invocation rituals of Western esoteric systems, and warns against the dangers of working with occult forces without proper protection. … Video version: Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Early Christian experiences 04:14 - Zen vs Tibetan Buddhism 05:24 - The power of Catholic ceremony and ritual 06:24 - Childhood encounters with nature spirits 10:07 - Pagan symbolism and Greek mythology 12:45 - Fascination with science fiction 14:53 - Columbia University and an interest in Asia 16:01 - Meeting esoteric groups in California and India 20:14 - Return to USA and association with various Tibetan lamas 23:08 - Initiation into Wicca and the OTO 27:00 - History of Wicca in the USA 32:17 - History of Western Esotericism from the Renaissance to the present day 39:22 - John Dee and Enochian Magick 43:03 - Magickal workings with spirits 47:34 - Comments on Aleister Crowley 49:18 - How to develop magickal capacity in Vajrayana Buddhism 52:42 - Comparing Western magick invocations to tantric spirit pujas 55:02 - Essential steps in tantric guardian spirit rituals 01:15:42 - Inside the sacred space of the mandala 01:17:29 - Invocation vs channelling 01:25:43 - Propitiating local spirits 01:27:23 - The tantric feast 01:32:00 - Signs of psychic and magickal capacity 01:38:59 - The psychic power of the 16th Karmapa 01:40:11 - Developing siddhi … Previous episode with John Myrdhin Reynolds visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep200-lama-vajranatha-professor-john-myrdhin-reynolds To find our more about John Myrdhin Reynolds visit: - https://vajranatha.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Charlie Morley, lucid dreaming teacher and best-selling author, and Dr Garret Yount, a scientist at the Institute of Noetic Sciences. Charlie and Garret discuss their recent pilot study entitled ‘Decreased Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Following a Lucid Dream Healing Workshop’, published in the May 2023 issue of Traumatology, and explain why their initial results may show great promise for the use of lucid dreaming techniques in the treatment of PTSD. Charlie and Garret lay out the study’s design, the participant recruitment process, the lucid dreaming techniques taught to the subjects, and reveal what they consider to be the most effective techniques for relief of PTSD symptoms. Garret responds to criticisms of the study design, including that limiting the participants to individuals with prior experience of lucid dreaming may have biased the findings, and that the significant psychotherapeutic aspects of the intervention prevent any conclusions being drawn about the efficacy of the lucid dreaming component for PTSD relief. Charlie also discusses how his religious beliefs as a Buddhist influence his work, and reflects on the flowering of the altruistic motivation known as Bodhicitta in his own life and practice. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep210-science-of-lucid-dream-healing-charlie-morley-dr-garret-yount Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:29 - How the study came to be 06:12 - Securing private funding 08:22 - Charlie’s predictions for the study 10:23 - Anxiety about possible lack of lucid dreams in subjects 17:02 - Garret explains the results of the study 20:05 - The study design and participant selection 26:14 - Charlie’s workshop design 31:21 - Dream planning and Charlie reads participant reports 38:53 - Charlie praises the scientists 40:14 - Saliva sample collection 43:33 - Follow up study with a control group 48:13 - Was the participant selection biased? 54:15 - Why the psychological aspects of the workshop prevent conclusions being drawn about lucid dreaming efficacy 01:00:23 - Charlie on Keith McKenzie 01:01:33 - Hope vs false hope 01:05:35 - The importance of reframing nightmares 01:10:23 - Has the follow-up study broadened the selection criteria? 01:12:28 - Charlie’s speculations about the mechanism of effect 01:18:16 - Charlie’s altruistic motivation 01:22:05 - The flowering of Charlie’s bodhicitta 01:27:24 - Religious doubts and struggles in practice 01:30:33 - Charlie assesses his own religious practice … Previous episode with Charlie Morley: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/guru-viking-interviews-ep2-charlie-morley-2 - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep148-wake-up-to-sleep-charlie-morley-2 To read the paper: - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371051446_Decreased_posttraumatic_stress_disorder_symptoms_following_a_lucid_dream_healing_workshop To find out more about Charlie and Garret, visit: - http://www.charliemorley.com/ - https://noetic.org/profile/garret-yount/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Lionel Snell, a contemporary English magician, publisher, and, under various pen names such as Ramsey Dukes, a renowned author on magic and philosophy. Lionel shares his life’s journey with magick, explores his years reading mathematics at Cambridge University, immersing in the work of British occultists Aleister Crowley and Austin Spare, and how an experimental group ritual had unexpected and tragic implications. Lionel discusses the true meaning of initiation, the serious dangers of becoming involved in magick, and his time in the OTO alongside figures such as Gerald Suster. Lionel also considers subjects such as the importance of magical thinking, the tension between structure and freedom, the role of banishing rituals, and the cycles of a person’s life. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep209-the-english-magician-ramsay-dukes Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Childhood interest in magick 04:12 - The mystery of alchemy 06:04 - Exploring Aleister Crowley’s writings while at Cambridge University 07:26 - Meeting Gerald York and discovering Austin Spare 08:37 - The Zen of Western Magick 10:39 - Writing books about magick 13:00 - Joining the Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO) 14:38 - The Kindred of the Kibbo Kift 19:31 - From maths to magick 25:11 - Education as a ritual of initial 29:24 -The true meaning of initiation 32:25 - Initiation in British and American culture 36:38 - Experiments in practicing the occult 40:52 - The role of psychedelics in the 60s occult revival 42:06 - Lionel’s life changing experience with psychedelics 50:37 - Meditation and practicing the occult 55:06 - The Yang form of Tai Chi 56:17 - Gerald Suster and transforming experience through magick 01:02:24 - Lionel’s talent for ritual magick 01:05:04 - Crowley on ritual 01:06:19 - Lionel’s occult ritual at Emmanuel College with unexpected results 01:13:21 - The dangers of practicing magick 01:17:47 - Beyond occult power 01:20:48 - Strength vs power 01:24:37 - Structure and freedom - a secret to magick 01:29:25 - Banishing rituals and self protection 01:31:54 - A profound dream and making one’s magickal implements 01:35:43 - About cycles 01:40:44 - Magical thinking and the cyclical phases of life … To find out more about Ramsey Dukes, visit: - https://ramseydukes.co.uk/ - https://www.youtube.com/@RamseyDukes For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Naomi Levine, author, under her birth name Norma Levine, of multiple books including ‘The Miraculous 16th Karmapa’, ‘A Quest For The Hidden Lands’, and ‘Chronicles of Love and Death: My Years With The Last Spiritual King of Bhutan’. Naomi discusses her various publications about the Karmapas, focusing in particular on the lives and activities of the 16th and 17th of that line. Naomi describes the magical powers and spiritual aura of the 16th Karmapa, recounts her own and others’ experiences of his supernatural potency, and recalls the process of compiling stories of his miraculous activities. Naomi explores the controversies around the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje, including his recognition, escape from Tibet, interactions with the Tibetan government in exile, and various accusations in the media. Naomi also speculates about the futures of both the Tibetan political cause and the Tibetan religious institutions after the death of the Dalai Lama. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep208-karmapa-tales-naomi-levine-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - 16th Karmapa’s miraculous powers 02:51 - Meeting the 16th Karmapa in England 05:08 - Apolitical 06:51 - Political intrigue and persecution of the Karmapas 09:02 - The 16th Karmapa’s freedom 10:13 - The controversy of the 17th Karmapas 11:50 - Escaping from Tibet but captured in Dharamsala 22:35 - Politics and Dharma 24:03 - The unravelling of the Tibet cause 26:23 - The future of Tibetan religion 28:56 - Did the Tibetan government In exile block the 17th Karma’s activities? 31:41 - The 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje’s current situation 34:11 - Compiling satires for ‘the book’ 36:15 - A black hat ceremony story 43:18 - How did the Karmapa become so supernaturally powerful? 48:22 - Allegations against the 17th Karmapa 57:05 - The role of the 17th Karmapa in discovering the Shabdrung’s yangsi 01:07:54 - Separating personal religious practice from religious politics … Previous episode with Naomi Levine: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep190-love-death-in-the-himalayas-naomi-levine To find out more about Naomi Levine, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/naomilevine111 - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Norma-Levine/author/B001K86LZ4?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Alexander Arguelles, linguist, world-renowned polyglot, and scholar of comparative religion. Dr Arguelles continues the biographical thread taken up in his previous episode, recalling, after his years of intense language study in Korea, accepting a Professorship in Lebanon to immerse in Arabic and later fleeing the country with his family as war erupted there. Dr Arguelles recalls teaching positions in California, Singapore, Dubai, and the language immersions that those posting facilitated. Dr Arguelles also critiques current trends in the American university system, compares it to the past, proposes alternative structures and reformations, and offers his thoughts on the future of academia. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep207-wandering-polyglot-dr-alexander-arguelles-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 02:54 - Accepting a professorship in Lebanon to immerse in Arabic 05:26 - Reflecting on learning Arabic 08:19 - Mental technique to turn off the English mind 09:18 - Fleeing Lebanon when war broke out 15:01 - Teaching at the New College of California 19:27 - :Early activity on ‘How To Learn A Language’ forum 21:47 - How would Professor Arguelles reform education in America today? 26:11 - Learning 4 languages at once 32:30 - Teaching in Singapore as a Language Specialist 35:14 - Collaboration with linguist Paul Nation 38:34 - Teaching adults vs university students 42:42 - Accepting a professorship in Dubai and more Arabic immersion 40:03 - Being studied as a polyglot and learning Hebrew 51:08 - The rich story tradition of Arabic 53:47 - Death of Prof Arguelles’ brother 56:07 - Homeschooling his sons in multiple languages 58:51 - Mixed experiences at the Concorida Language Villages in Minnesota 01:08:59 - Professor Arguelles Academy 01:12:23 - Criticisms of academia and today’s University system 01:21:29 - Predicting the future of Universities in the USA 01:23:30 - Language learning as meditation … Previous episode with Dr Alexander Arguelles: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep199-path-of-the-polyglot-dr-alexander-arguelles To find our more about Dr Alexander Arguelles and his Academy, visit: - https://www.alexanderarguelles.com/academy/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dean Sluyter: meditation teacher and best-selling author of several books including ‘The Dharma Bum’s Guide to Western Literature: Finding Nirvana in the Classics’. In this episode Dean challenges unexamined assumptions about meditation, reveals how to teach meditation well, how to communicate technique and spiritual ideas in plain language, when and how to effectively use Sanskrit or Tibetan terms, and considers whether or not meditation teachers need to know where the paths they teach lead. Dean also shares his passion for language and literature, lists his favourite authors, recalls his time teaching English at the illustrious Pingry School, and gives his top tips for how to write well. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep206-art-of-teaching-meditation-dean-sluyter-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - Harry Potter and the Summer Solstice 04:13 - Dean’s life and work 05:34 - The beginning of Dean’s love for literature 10:12 - Fascination with etymology 10:56 - The meaning of names 12:19 - Dean’s name and background 15:12 - Knowing stuff is fun 15:59 - 1066 and the rich English vocabulary 17:22 - How to write in a post-Hemingway world 19:52 - Monetise your neuroses 20:22 - Dean’s psychedelic sadhu period 22:32 - Getting hired at the Pingry School 23:59 - Inspiring teenagers to read classics 25:30 - Curriculum vs mission 27:07 - The importance of writing well 27:49 - The Pingry Manual of Style 30:05 - Style and writing well 34:11 - Steve and Charles Dickens 37:25 - Dean on Joyce, Nabokov, 41:29 - Did Hemingway have a near death experience? 43:37 - Dharma Bum’s Guide to Western Literature 45:55 - How to teach meditation 47:26 - Precision in language when teaching meditation 50:24 - Using Sanskrit and Tibetan terms 52:04 - Bad translations of śamatha and vipaśyanā 53:03 - Unexamined assumptions about meditation 55:58 - This is it 56:34 - Teaching meditation is simple 58:18 - Do meditation teachers need to have meditation experience? 01:00:17 - Do meditation teachers need to be enlightened? 01:00:41 - How Transcendental Meditation works 01:04:27 - Mindfulness in schools 01:06:46 - Teaching from experience 01:09:36 - The death of Dean’s first wife 01:12:18 - Imitate, assimilate, innovate … Previous episodes with Dean Sluyter: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/163-dharma-bums-guide-to-western-literature-dean-sluyter - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep189-effortless-awakening-dean-sluyter-2 To find out more about Dean Sluyter, visit: - https://deansluyter.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once joined by Justin Von Bujdoss, American Buddhist teacher, chaplain, and author of ‘Modern Tantric Buddhism’. Justin describes his powerfully transformative dark retreat practice in which he embarked on multiple 7-day and 49-day meditation retreats in complete darkness under the guidance of Dr Nida Chenagtsang. Justin recalls his life-changing encounter with the rarefied religious experience of rigpa, and details his visions of spiritual beings, animals, elements, and Bardo deities. Justin recounts his first meeting with Dr Nida, how he became his student, and explains the significance of Dr Nida’s endorsement of Justin as both a Dzogchen teacher and dark retreat guide. Justin also reveals the daily routine and practice instructions for dark retreat, and reflects on current trends within Buddhism and nonduality in America today. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep205-my-49-day-dark-retreat-justin-von-bujdoss-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:07 - Justin’s personal practice revolution 02:27 - Meeting Dr Nida Chenagtsang and showing him a secret text 06:10 - Dr Nida’s qualities as a teacher 08:00 - Justin’s 25 years of Mahamudra practice 08:18 - Preparing to enter dark retreat 08:56 - The impact of multiple 7 and 49-day retreats 13:35 - 7-day preparatory dark retreat 15:03 - Intense visionary experiences and risk of psychosis 18:38 - Dr Nida’s dark retreat terma 20:48 - Justin’s previous experience with dream yoga and visions 22:57 - Dark retreat instructions and opening visionary capacity 27:48 - Undermining the visual system binary 24:37 - Justin’s visions of the Bardo deities 27:46 - Contradictions in Mahamudra and forcing it 31:38 - Daily routine and practice schedule in dark retreat 36:38 - No contact with Dr Nida during the retreat 38:45 - Visions of the purified elements 42:00 - Visions of animals and dead people 42:59 - Visions of beings who offered gifts to Justin 43:30 - Did Justin relive his traumas? 45:22 - Quitting prison chaplaincy 47:50 - How chaplaincy falls short of resting in rigpa 50:56 - Profound healing opportunity of dark retreat 54:50 - Rigpa supersedes Justin’s ordination 56:18 - The totality of everything occurs right here 59:54 - Endorsed by Dr Nida to teach Dzogchen 01:04:10 - Justin’s special karmic connection with Dr Nida and other tulkus 01:07:00 - Justin’s loss of social functionality post-awakening 01:09:25 - How Justin’s teacher punctured his ego 01:12:54 - Struggles with students who are fixated on tantra 01:16:42 - Student retention and abusive teaching methods 01:18:18 - Where is Buddhism going in America? 01:19:13 - Is Tibetan Buddhism trendy? 01:23:08 - Dark retreat as liberating psychotherapy 01:25:45 - Dark retreat as the ultimate experience product for psychonauts 01:27:30 - Assessing those who wish to embark upon dark retreat 01:31:22 - Where to find out more … Previous episode with Justin Von Bujdoss: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep196-modern-tantric-buddhism-justin-von-bujdoss Previous episodes with Dr Nida Chenagtsang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=nida To find our more about Justin Von Bujdoss, visit: - https://justinvonbujdoss.com/ - https://www.yangtiyoga.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I was recently interviewed by Louis Mayhew for his ‘Fundamental ‘Frequency podcast about kundalini awakening, mystical visions, embodiment, and more. 00:00 - Intro 00:37 - About the Guru Viking Podcast 02:52 - Adverse side effects of kundalini awakening 04:00 - Louis’ kundalini crisis 12:21 - What Louis has learned about kundalini 13:56 - Paranormal visions 17:20 - Louis’ sleep patterns 18:01 - Practices that trigger a kundalini 20:47 - Massage and acupuncture 22:35 - Managing arousal states 23:00 - Vision of a loving deity 25:07 - Diet and lifestyle considerations 27:35 - Work with Tara Springett 31:01 - Louis reflects on his kundalini journey 32:14 - Louis’ kundalini goals 34:42 - Tara Springett, Mary Shutan, and other resources 39:23 - Are there advanced kundalini teachings in the spiritual traditions? 45:10 - What triggers kundalini awakening? 47:50 - Feldenkrais Method 49:13 - Intimate understanding of the body-mind system 50:28 - Early influences on Steve’s journey 55:05 - Louis’ childhood blissful experiences 57:15- Michaela Boehm and Non-Linear Movement Method® 01:03:21 - Dependency on a teacher 01:05:10 - Louis’ release experience doing NLMM® 01:06:49 - The wisdom of the body 01:12:45 - Kundalini and trauma 01:14:14 - Guru Viking Podcast & Meditation Club Video version: Fundamental Frequency Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-fundamental-frequency-podcast-with-louis-parker/id1667140531 Other times I have been interviewed: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/category/Steve+Interviewed https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Erik Jampa Andersson, a Sowa Rigpa healing practitioner, student of Tibetan Buddhism, meditation instructor, and author of ‘Unseen Beings: How We Forgot The World Is More Than Human’. Erik discusses how he came to write ‘Unseen Beings’ and why he changed its theme from the spirit ontologies of Tibetan culture to the themes of climate change and animism. Taking climate change as his starting premise, Erik follows a traditional 4-part medical model to make a diagnosis, and goes on to present his views on the causes and conditions, prognosis, and treatment. Erik also grapples with moral and cultural dilemmas, compares animal testing in a medical context to hunting practices and animal sacrifices in a traditional context, and challenges the anthropocentrism of both modern culture and the environmentalist movement. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep204-unseen-beings-erik-jampa-andersson Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Celebrating Erik’s first book 02:15 - Unexpected praise 04:09 - Charlie Morley’s author advice 05:49 - 4-part medical model 06:48 - How the book changed direction from spirit ontology to climate change 10:36 - The inspiration of the pandemic 12:44 - Summarising Erik’s argument 13:36 - Rinpoches performing rituals to appease the spirits who sent the pandemic 15:24 - Animism vs materialism 20:21 - A scientific materialist challenge to animism 29:59 - Tolkien on gods and fairy tales 32:58 - Ian McGilchrist and harmonising vs polarisation 37:26 - Should we abandon modernity? 39:19 - Generalisation vs individuality 41:20 - Disenchanting ontologies 43:00 - The danger of sweeping generalisations 44:27 - The lived experience of mice 46:45 - Alienation from nature 51:21 - Moral nuance and confused views 55:46 - Erik considers hunting in animistic societies 58:19 - The trolley problem and perceived consent in hunting 01:00:15 - Is animal sacrifice justified within certain cultural contexts? 01:05:57 - Stewarding the resources of the world 01:08:43 - Anthropocentrism vs animism 01:10:41 - Erik on the climate crisis 01:13:09 - The bloody history of Tibet and other nations … Previous episode with Erik Jampa Andersson: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep108-erik-jampa-andersson-from-tolkien-to-tibet/ To find out more about Erik Jampa Andersson, visit: - https://www.shrimala.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Anthony Metivier, author and internationally renowned memory expert who’s meditation practice is reciting sacred Sanskrit texts from memory. Anthony shares his most recent findings from his personal meditation practice of reciting sacred Sanskrit texts, including using memorisation and recitation to pacify obsessive thinking, the pros and cons of guru and deity devotion, and his experiment with deliberately reducing his practice volume and observing the mindlessness and habitual tendencies that arose as a consequence. Anthony discusses how to enter altered states of consciousness through recitation of memorised texts, why he is now memorising Shakespeare instead of more Sanskrit, and why it is essential to include the body in meditation and other mental feats. Anthony also discusses what can be learned from the examples of figures such as Sherlock Holmes, Giordano Bruno, Arnold Schwarzenegger, as well as discussing his latest book, Flyboy, a crime novel in which the detective protagonist uses specialist memory techniques to track down a serial killer. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep203-unlock-the-enlightened-mind-anthony-metivier Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - Flyboy 02:17 - Effects of taking a break from meditation and memorisation 04:45 - Memorising Shakespeare and Atmabodha 06:02 - Memorising Sanskrit as a meditation to pacify obsessive thinking 09:27 - Ideas vs execution 09:56 - Mindlessness after taking a break from meditation 11:20 - Engine and algorithm of the Ruba Gita 12:28 - The genius of Sanskrit’s construction 16:29 - How to induce altered states through recitation 19:37 - From mystical states to positive behaviour change 22:32 - Gary Weber’s enlightenment and idolising the teacher 25:07 - Pros and cons of deity and guru devotion 27:31 - Why memorise Shakespeare? 30:49 - Vaudeville feats of memory and multi-tasking 33:32 - Essential to include the body in meditation 38:33 - The theory of craft and failed creative writing professors 43:39 - Sherlock Holmes and Gary Gygax 46:49 - Writing Flyboy 50:37 - Memory techniques and PTSD 51:58 - Building puzzles into Flyboy for the readers to solve 57:11 - Memory techniques hidden in Giordano Bruno’s plays 58:13 - Popularising memory techniques for non specialists 59:47 - Recording the audiobook version 01:03:24 - The future of Anthony’s publishing efforts 01:07:45 - Have fun and experiment! … Previous episode with Anthony Metivier: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep123-master-of-memory-anthony-metivier/ To purchase Flyboy, visit: - https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/fb-sq/ To find out more about Anthony Metivier, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMetivierMMM - https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Ralph White holistic learning pioneer, international speaker on cultural transformation and the history of the Western esoteric tradition, and co-founder of the New York Open Centre. Ralph recounts his clandestine mission into Tibet in 1989 on behalf of the Nechung Oracle: hiking solo across the border, evading commissars, escaping from bandit villages, enlisting the aid of Khampa horsemen, and encountering a UFO high in the Himalayas. Ralph recalls founding the Art of Dying Conference, reflects on his own relationship with his father, and describes the religious genius of Rudolf Steiner on death and what lies beyond. Ralph also discusses the Western Esoteric tradition, tells stories of Robert Bly’s Rosicrucian poetry, and critiques logical positivism and the limitations of academia. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep202-mission-to-tibet-ralph-white Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:44 - Arriving at Nechung Monastery, Dharamsala 03:17 - Mission into Tibet 05:11 - Finding a secret route into Tibet via Kham 10:07 - Aftermath of Tiananmen Square 12:06 - High risk adventure 13:04 - Ralph’s daily routine in the mountains 16:34 - Encountering a UFO 20:23 - Evading a Chinese commissar 21:46 - Escaping a bandit village 23:56 - Entering into deep meditation in a crisis 27:12 - Old enough to know better 28:32 - Provisions 29:48 - Further travels in Asia 35:03 - Reflections on the UFO sighting 37:33 - Founding the Art of Dying Conference 43:17 - Rudolph Steiner on karma and reincarnation 44:45 - Multi-cultural views on death 46:19 - Death denial in Western culture 51:21 - The death of Ralph’s father 57:16 - Dealing with emotional residue 01:01:22 - Engaging with the profound issues of life 01:02:29 - Logical positivism and the limitations of academia 01:04:39 - Rudolf Steiner’s genius 01:07:00 - Advice for entering the Western Esoteric tradition 01:10:34 - Founding the Esoteric Quest conference 01:11:32 - Robert Bly’s Rosicrucian poetry 01:12:54 - The rogue’s gallery 01:14:08 - The esoteric side of Robert Bly … Previous episode with Ralph White: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep140-quest-for-a-life-of-meaning-ralph-white To find out more about Ralph White, visit: - https://www.ralphwhite.net/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Special guests Delson Armstrong and Dr Ruben Laukkonen discuss their latest ground-breaking paper ‘Cessations of consciousness in meditation: Advancing a scientific understanding of nirodha samāpatti’ in which Delson Armstrong’s ability to enter the rarefied state of nirodha samāpatti, a feat of extended cessation achievable by only the most virtuoso meditators, was tested by Dr Laukkonen and Prof Slatger's neuroscience team with astonishing results. They join the ongoing discussion with: - Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant - Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience graduate Delson and Dr Laukkonen tell the story of their study, how it came to be, the various tests they administered, and why they believe the results are so remarkable. Delson describes the meditation method he uses to enter into the state of nirodha samāpatti and to stay there for up to seven days, how he can determine in advance to the minute when he will exit the state, and the profound effects on the mind after a period of extended cessation. Shinzen analyses Delson’s abilities, probes the mathematical models used in the study, and shares his own work creating enlightened AI arhats. The panel also discuss possible scientific connections between Buddhist doctrines such as the five aggregates, dependent origination, and the 3 Gates of Liberation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep201-revealing-nirodha-sampatti-delson-armstrong-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-ruben-laukonnen Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:37 - Discovering Delson’s nirodha samāpatti abilities 05:21 - Dr Laukkonen's skepticism 06:48 - Testing Delson in the lab 11:05 - The data analysis and comparison with Harvard lab findings 15:12 - Implications of the decrease in alpha synchronisation 16:47 - Phase lag index 19:08 - Alpha vs gamma frequencies in contemplative neuroscience 20:57 - Delson’s side of the story 23:37 - Rigorous training in ‘jhana hopping’ 25:42 - Delson’s account of the lab tests 28:26 - Timing the exit from jhana using meditative intentions 29:45 - Remaining in nirodhia samāpatti for 6 days 30:51 - How many others can do this? 34:02 - How to enter nirodha samāpatti 46:06 - Shinzen analyses Delson’s report 40:05 - Dr Laukkonen comments on the aggregates and meditative intention 42:50 - Possible links to hibernation 47:40 - The 3 Gates of Liberation and Friston’s free energy 53:25 - Predictive processing all the way down 56:55 - Similarities to St Teresa of Ávila’s stages of Catholic meditation 01:01:13 - Delson’s Catholic family and religious syncretism 01:03:24 - Conseqences of nirodhia samāpatti 01:05:34 - Pratītyasamutpāda for arhats 01:09:05 - The ego as a survival mechanism 01:11:31 - Networks and the multiverse 01:13:53 - John Carlos Baez’s mathematics and modelling pratītyasamutpāda 01:22:28 - Creating enlightened AI 01:32:30 - Creating AI arhats and Shinzen’s vision 01:37:49 - Neurofeedback devices for meditation teaching 01:43:02 - Dr Laukkonen challenges tech interventions aimed at inducing enlightenment 01:46:36 - Setting up the sequel … To read the paper, visit: - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0079612322001984?dgcid=author#t0010 Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxjhwG5wmXRVfrkeGczVPVI Previous episodes with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson To find out more about Delson Armstrong, visit: - https://delsonarmstrong.info/ - https://www.suttavada.foundation/our-teachers/ - https://www.dhammasukha.org/ To find out more about Dr Ruben Laukkonen, visit: - https://rubenlaukkonen.com/ To find out more about Shinzen Young: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey Fasano: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Professor John Myrdhin Reynolds, also known as Lama Vajranatha: writer, teacher, translator and scholar/practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Professor Reynolds recounts his adventurous life of practice and scholarship, including extensive travels throughout Asia and discipleship under revered gurus such as Dudjom Rinpoche, Namkai Norbu, and Lopon Tenzin Namdak. Professor Reynolds details his journey through American academia, explains why he turned down an invitation from the CIA to create Tibetan propaganda, and shares anecdotes of Tibetologists such as Hugh Richardson and Edward Conze, including the latter’s escape from the Nazis and defection from Communist activism. Professor Reynolds also recalls his first out of body experience brought on by a car crash, the mystical visions of water spirits, dakinis, and other beings that have featured in his life since, and tells the story of the tragic consequences of the Gelugpa destruction of the psychic barrier erected by Padmasambhava to protect Tibet from China. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep200-lama-vajranatha-professor-john-myrdhin-reynolds Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:16 - Unusual upbringing and resonance with Greek myth 05:01 - Early interest in Indian religion 07:27 - Encountering the ‘Tibetan Book of the Dead’ 09:46 - Education at Columbia University 10:50 - Western Esotericism and transfer to University of Washington 13:10 - Influence of the British Diplomat and Tibetologist, Hugh Richardson 14:20 - Close relationship with the controversial Professor Edward Conze 16:31 - Escaping the Nazis and running a Communist cell in London 19:29 - Disillusionment with Communism 23:17 - Approached by the CIA to make Tibetan propaganda 28:42 - Leaving his PhD and meeting Tarthang Tulku 33:11 - Boarding a ship for India and meeting Swami Omkar 43:11 - Darjeeling and meeting Kangyur Rinpoche, Dudjom Rinpoche, and others 48:00 - Adventures in Kathmandu 57:49 - Warning about Dharma politics 59:03 - Stories about Namkhai Norbu and other Dzogchen teachers 01:06:19 - Dudjom Rinpoche vs Namkai Norbu’s Dzogchen teaching style 01:07:54 - Surprising Iranian influence on Buddhism and Tibet 01:10:23 - Lopon Tenzin Namdak and Bon 01:14:59 - OBE and a lifetime of psychic experiences and entity visions 01:19:49 - Dakini visionary warning about climate change 01:23:31 - Lama stories of psychic siddhi and the invasion of Tibet 01:27:24 - How to open psychic capacities 01:28:57 - Edward Conze’s Marxism and Buddhism 01:33:48 - Edward Conze’s Visuddhimagga meditation attainments 01:35:41 - Stalin, Buddhism, and Lama Wangyal 01:37:20 - Stories of Tibetan Buddhist missionary incursions into France 01:46:39 - Buddhism’s spread in England via figures such as Ananda Bodhi and Chogyam Trungpa 01:48:32 - The many scandals of Trungpa and his successors 01:49:41 - Dalai Lama tongue-sucking scandal … To find our more about Professor John Myrdhin Reynolds visit: - https://vajranatha.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr Alexander Arguelles, linguist, world-renowned polyglot, and scholar of comparative religion. In this episode, Dr Arguelles recounts his unusual upbringing in counter-culture America, traces his academic career through institutions such as the Universities of Columbia and Chicago, and details his remarkable life as a scholar and teacher. Dr Arguelles illuminates the inner world of the polyglot, listing his dozens of ancient and modern languages and revealing his methods of study, his surprising daily routine, and how deep immersion in language families such as Germanic or Romantic, can unlock all related languages without the need for extensive study. Dr Arguelles also reflects on his own spiritual life, including his mystical conversion to Catholicism, the unravelling of his vocation as a Benedictine monk, his time in Buddhist meditation retreat, and the ways in which a life of study and language learning can be a profound spiritual path of meditation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep199-path-of-the-polyglot-dr-alexander-arguelles Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:14 - How Steve met Dr Arguelles 02:40 - Inspiration behind the Academy 05:06 - The power of peers 07:54 - Dr Arguelles’ unusual upbringing 11:49 - Discouraged from language learning by polyglot father 14:41 - Areligious family context 16:19 - Dr Arguelles’ brother’s catastrophic brain disease 17:45 - Encountering Augustine, Anselm, and Aquinas at Columbia University 19:24 - Drawn to the Mystery and conversion to Catholicism 21:53 - The unravelling of his vocation as a Benedictine monk 24:03 - Obtaining a PhD at the University of Chicago about dreams in the Old 24:56 - Norse sagas 25:30 - Reflecting on his conversion experience 28:18 - Dr Arguelles’ current spiritual position 31:10 - Thomas Merton and the Mystery 32:37 - Born to be a monk 34:08 - Dr Arguelles’ language learning journey 35:29 - Learning French, German, Spanish, Latin, Greek, and Sanskrit at Columbia 36:58 - Old Norse, Old High German, Middle High German, Old English, Medieval French at University of Chicago 38:34 - The murder of Ioan Petru Culianu 40:03 - Postdoctoral work on 1890s neo-paganism at the Berlin Centre for Advanced European Studies 41:09 - Immersing in the Germanic and Romance language branches 44:23 - Seeking a greater challenge 45:30 - Unlocking the entire language branch 46:59 - Different personalities in different languages? 47:55 - Awakening languages rather than learning them 51:09 - How many languages does Dr Arguelles speak? 54:04 - Dr Arguelles’ regret 54:44 - The advantage of reading texts in their original languages 58:21 - Monastic phase in South Korea and intense learning 01:03:42 - Learning more languages and immersing in self-study 01:07:08 - Dr Arguelles’ daily routine, beginning at 2am 01:08:46 - Emerging from the monastic phase and getting married 01:09:32 - Immersion in Sanskrit and pruning his languages 01:11:55 - Immersion in Arabic in Lebanon 01:13:05 - Attending Buddhist retreats at Haeinsa in South Korea 01:16:47 - Committing faux pas on retreat 01:18:11 - Meeting and marrying Park Hyun-Kyung 01:20:44 - Dr Arguelles’ language meditation techniques and learning as a spiritual path 01:22:14 - Languages offered at the Academy 01:24:27 - Learning Sanskrit 01:25:37 - Comparative religions and the Great Books … To find our more about Dr Alexander Arguelles and his Academy, visit: - https://www.alexanderarguelles.com/academy/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com ... Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I host a dialogue between Buddhist lineage teacher Dhammarato and best selling author Dean Sluyter. Dhammarato and Dean compare their presentations of the four noble truths, the 8-fold path, and discuss why the right way to practice the meditative path is to take the easy way out. Dhammarato and Dean illuminate Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Hamlet, liken Dharma to the Boléro, and reveal why Henry David Thoreau was America’s first true yogi. Dhammarato and Dean also critique the Goenka and Mahasi methods, expose the #1 meditation mistake, and express why recognising the sacredness of all things is the end of suffering. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep198-dudes-of-dharma-dhammarato-dean-sluyter Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Buddhism is the easy way out 03:43 - The practice of anapanasati 04:26 - Teaching assistant of meditation 05:26 - Fun and true nature 07:40 - Looking for love in all the wrong places 08:05 - Maharishi Mahesh yogi and Henry David Thoreau 10:05 - Dean’s presentation of the 4 Noble Truths 11:27 - Dhammarato’s presentation of the 4 Noble Truths 13:49 - Problems with Goenka and Mahasi methods 17:11 - What has worked in Dean’s practice 18:11 - Laziness vs scholarship 19:18 - Thoreau, America’s first real yogi 23:22 - Shakespeare’s Macbeth and turning the march into a waltz 25:35 - Boléro and changing you mental meter 28:26 - The art of conversation and true listening 31:32 - The sacredness of all things 34:53 - Living instinctually 38:48 - The #1 meditation mistake 41:55 - Stop running so hard 45:07 - Dodgeball Dharma 46:26 - Are Dhammarato and Dean outsiders? 51:49 - Liking and disliking, the lesson of Genesis and Hamlet 58:36 - The diet of Thai monks 01:01:25 -The Elf code 01:04:36 - Walking on holy ground 01:08:24 - Discussing death 01:11:51 - Dharma of Bugs Bunny … Previous Dhammarato Episodes: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknyGISEfksirYaYpsrXdf8va Previous Dean Sluyter Episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=dean To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ To find out more about Dean Sluyter, visit: - https://deansluyter.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr Julian Schott, Indologist & Tibetologist, trained at institutions such as the renowned Center for the Study of Manuscript Culture at the University of Hamburg. Julian recalls his early interest in philosophy and meditation, and recounts how he emerged from a period of self destruction and found meaning and purpose in academic studies. Julian describes how he fell in love with classical Indic and Tibetan languages, and details the rigorous academic atmosphere at the University of Hamburg, where he immersed in years of reading Sanskrit for many hours a day under masters of philology. Julian makes the case for the vital importance of primary language competency for scholars and religious practitioners alike, and offers his opinion on those who practice or teach religious traditions without an ability to read its writings in the original languages. Julian critiques the idea of Buddhist transmission as a useful lie without historical support which is employed to encourage behaviour in line with the religion’s soteriological aims, and reflects on his own evolving journey as both a scholar and religious practitioner. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep197-scholar-practitioner-dr-julian-schott Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - Julian’s upbringing 02:27 - Origins of Julian’s interest in Indology and Tibetology 03:11 - Investigating meditation traditions 04:13 - Spiritual not religious 05:08 - Early meditation experiences 06:44 - Julian’s favourite meditation techniques 07:18 - Self destructive phase and turning life around 10:37 - The downward spiral 11:28 - Rock bottom 12:44 - The day is full of potential 13:14 - Immersion in the study of history, classical Western philosophy, law, and 14:58 - Falling in love with Indian and Tibetan language 17:04 - Redirecting from law to philology 17:47 - Discovering what real mastery takes 19:21 - Rigorous academic atmosphere at University of Hamburg 20:16 - Reading Sanskrit for 5-6 hours a day 23:46 - Self-teaching Classical Tibetan via Sanskrit 24:44 - How to bridge the intermediate gap in language learning 27:43 - The vital role of primary language knowledge in understanding a religion and culture 31:29 - The incredible level of previous generations of philologists and Indologists 32:29 - The diminishing role of primary language learning in the academy 34:51 - The limitations of not knowing the primary languages 37:17 - To meditators and religious teachers who don’t know the languages 42:05 - Julian’s own religious journey 43:39 - Scepticism vs naivety 44:37 - Liberated by the proliferating unknowns in practice and scholarship 46:54 - Friction with religious institutions 48:23 - Make your own Dharma 50:31 - Mistaken ideas about lineage and transmission in Buddhism 54:05 - The useful lie of Buddhist lineage 55:51 - Critically investigating Buddhist claims 57:42 - Challenging the esoteric claims of Tantric Buddhist transmission 01:00:56 - Surpassing the master and the Jedi dimension 01:05:53 - Julian probes Steve’s opinion on doctrinal contradictions 01:07:23 - Lack of self confidence and making your own Dharma 01:10:42 - Contradictions of modern Buddhist practitioners 01:12:34 - Was Buddha a Buddhist? … To find our more about Dr Julian Schott, visit: - https://www.aai.uni-hamburg.de/indtib/personen/schott.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Justin Von Bujdoss, an American Buddhist teacher and chaplain. Justin recalls his upbringing in Soho, Manhattan as the son of a multi-generational family of painters, immersed in the New York art scene, attending a specialist high school, and engaging in study abroad programs across Europe and Asia. Justin recounts his childhood dreams of saints and spiritual masters, and his early fascination with Ancient Egypt and Western Occultism, which saw him transcribing magickal texts and engaging in rituals of evocation and divination. Justin explains why his conversion to Buddhism was inevitable, describes his meetings with great masters, and shares his passion for Vajrayogini practice and Mahamudra meditation. Justin also reveals why conducting dark retreat and studying Ati Yoga under Dr Nida Chenagtsang has brought him to an experience of the nature of mind so powerful that he has departed from many of the views expressed in his book ‘Modern Tantric Buddhism’, as well as reduced his interest in propagating the Repa lineage in which he is ordained. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep196-modern-tantric-buddhism-justin-von-bujdoss Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Upbringing in Soho, New York 03:35 - Intense childhood spiritual interest 05:28 - Fascination with Ancient Egypt and Western Occultism 09:20 - From Western Occultism to Vajrayana 10:11 - Magickal ritual practice 13:41 - Practical success with Ancient Egyptian magick 16:37 - Childhood dreams of mahasiddhas 18:26 - Past life visions of connections with Tibetan Buddhism and early Indian Tantra 22:11 - Comments on the tulku tradition 24:34 - Attending a specialised high school and Antioch college 27:43 - Travels to India, meeting masters, 32:42 - Affinity with India and Tibet and converting to Buddhism 37:45 - Why Justin did not learn Tibetan or Sanskrit 39:52 - Learning Mahamudra from Tsunma Dechen Zangmo 41:56 - Passion for Vajrayogini practice 44:10 - Learning how to practice and juggling multiple lineages 52:19 - Signs of progress in Justin’s practice 59:30 - Infantilisation of American students in Tibetan Buddhism 01:02:30 - Justin’s critique of the Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition 01:04:38 - Learning culture vs getting enlightened 01:06:05 - Why Justin ordained as a Repa 01:13:36 - Moving away from the Repa lineage 01:17:44 - Ordaining to make a point 01:19:30- To whom was Justin making a point? 01:23:50 - Losing interest in importing Buddhism to the USA 01:25:45 - Learning Ati Yoga from Dr Nida Chenagtsang 01:28:45 - How experiencing the nature of mind revolutionised Justin’s religious life … To find our more about Justin Van Bujdoss, visit: - https://justinvonbujdoss.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Morgan O Smith, teacher of non-duality, and under the stage name ‘Mista Mo’, was a stand-up comedian and host of the Gemini award winning television show ‘Buzz’. In this episode Morgan reflects on his creative journey and its clash with his spiritual awakenings. Morgan recounts his childhood creative impulses and traces his career from his first time on stage to national success. Morgan contemplates the pros and cons of fame and reveals the inner workings of TV marketing requirements. Morgan discusses the surprising engine of his creative process, how to make art from pain and socio-political strife, and why his spiritual awakenings disrupted his creative urge. Morgan explains how the urge to serve the community replaced the need for artistic success, how his friends and fans reacted to his change of direction, and how an immersion into sacred mathematics birthed the creation of his Yinnergy audio meditation program. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep195-enlightened-comedian-morgan-o-smith-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - Childhood fasciations 04:08 - Early creative impulses in music, art, and fashion 13:06 - Getting a recording contract in Rap and Hip Hop 15:04 - Discovering stand-up comedy 16:07 - Coming up with the name ‘Mista Mo’ 17:15 - First spot as a stand-up comedian 18:13 - Following Howie Mandel 19:09 - Honing the craft 20:03 - Support from Dave Chapelle 21:47 - Music activities 22:21 - Getting picked up by the Comedy Network 24:10 - Developing an original voice as a comedian 30:27 - Comedy from inner darkness and authenticity 32:22 - Run in with Russell Peters 33:27 - Making comedy from pain and racism 36:52 - The consequences of making art from darkness and pain 39:34 - Making comedy from taboo subjects and current events 45:18 - Struggles with fame 51:58 - Collaboration with Daryn Jones 55:09 - Financial ups and downs of the creative life 58:33 - ‘You’re here to sell soap’ 01:01:05 - Meditation interrupting the creative drive 01:05:24 - 3-day lucid dreaming experience 01:08:04 - Personality and motivation changes from meditation 01:11:14 - Desire to work in non-profit and work in the community 01:14:01 - Loss and rediscovery of creativity after awakening 01:17:19 - Criticisms from others for pursuing meditation 01:20:20 - A life-changing interaction with a fan 01:25:04 - Realisation of turiya 01:27:02 - Sacred mathematics and creating Yinnergy meditation program 01:39:58 - Psychedelics and channeled information 01:49:17 - Microdosing 01:50:33 - Developing Yinnergy further 01:53:52 - Ayahuasca 01:58:16 - Realising non-duality 02:02:56 - Kundalini awakening 02:06:30 - Final awakening, beyond non-duality 02:24:30 - Advice for creative people and spirituality … Previous episode with Morgan O Smith: - www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep176-the-awakening-of-mista-mo To find out more about Morgan O Smith, visit: - https://www.instagram.com/morgano.smith/ - https://linktr.ee/morganosmith For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Yannis Toussulis, Sufi lineage holder, psychotherapist, and author of ‘Sufism: The Way of Blame’. Dr Toussulis takes a deep dive into the practice and history of Sufism, including its historical interactions with Buddhism, Vedantism, Zoroastrianism, and posits a neoplatonic and Hellenic substructure underpinning Sufi mysticism. Dr Toussulis outlines the 4 phases of Sufism as a living practice, details its 7 stages of wisdom, and explains the role of bliss and tranquility in Sufi contemplation. Dr Toussulis also discusses the crucial role of the teacher, the importance of the circle of fellow practitioners, the role of ethics and direct experience, and why true Sufism must go beyond union with God as the ultimate end and purpose of the path. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep194-sufism-the-way-of-blame-dr-yannis-toussulis-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Why the book? 03:04 - What is Sufism? 05:59 - What is the Way of Blame? 07:29 - Exoteric and esoteric Islam 10:45 - Influences from Christianity, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, and Buddhism 12:44 - Hellenism and the neoplatonic substructure of Sufism 14:02 - What is Neoplatonism? 15:37 - Nondualistic vs dualistic Sufism 21:31 - Evidence of Vedantic influence on Sufism 23:00 - Patanjali and other influence on Sufism 24:00 - Did Islam influence Medieval Christianity? 26:53 - The 4 phases of Sufism as a practice 29:59 - How to enter a school of Sufism 30:33 - Sufi meditative practices and states of direct cognition 33:26 - Sufism vs Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta 34:24 - Different approaches to morality in Sufism 36:52 - Application of the Sharia 38:47 - Sexual ethics in Islam 43:19 - Academic vs practice knowledge 45:43 - Constituents of Sufi practice 49:13 - Group practice 52:49 - 7 stages of wisdom 58:00 - Bliss and tranquility 59:50 - Dark night of the soul 01:02:05 - The role of the teacher and transmission 01:06:16 - Siddhi and spiritual progress 01:08:30 - Human completeness and going beyond union with God 01:11:36 - Effects of success in Sufi practice 01:14:26 - Sufi views on death and the afterlife 01:17:07 - The future of Sufism in the West 01:22:07 - Islam’s critique of secularism 01:23:54 - Dogma vs spiritual potency 01:27:27 - Unprecedented challenges facing humanity today 01:29:34 - A Sufi response? 01:31:54 - Importance of direct experience … Previous episode with Dr Yannis Toussulis: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep179-adventures-of-a-sufi-mystic-dr-yannis-toussulis … To find our more about Dr Yannis Toussulis, visit: - http://www.itlaqfoundation.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Evan Thompson: Professor of Philosophy at the University of British Columbia, an Associate Member of the Department of Asian Studies and the Department of Psychology, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. Dr Thompson discusses his 2014 book ‘Waking, Dreaming, Being’ and takes a deep dive into the self from the point of view of the world’s contemplative traditions as well as neuroscience and philosophy of mind. Dr Thompson shares his life-long fasciation with the way in which consciousness and the sense of self change across different phases of the wake-sleep cycle, and challenges claims that insight into the self is a means to eliminate suffering and attain enlightenment. Dr Thompson reveals his own deep practice of meditation, lucid dreaming, Tai Chi and Chinese energy arts, and explains how he, as both a trained skeptical philosopher and as a dedicated practitioner, approaches the religious framing of practice and related concepts such as ‘chi’ and ‘enlightenment’. Dr Thompson also answers Youtube comments about our previous interview, including a clarification of his critique of Buddhist exceptionalism and a response to Buddhists who feel his work threatens their religious affiliation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep193-waking-dreaming-being-dr-evan-thompson Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:30 - Answering Youtube comments 02:14 - ‘Why I Am Not A Buddhist’ and Bertrand Russel 04:59 - What would Bertrand Russel target today? 06:18 - The non-aligned mystic 08:15 - Does Evan meditate? 10:13 - Evan’s extensive daily qigong and tai chi practice 11:55 - Retreat practice and states of high concentration 13:00 - Why does Evan practice so diligently? 13:15 - How does Evan think about ‘chi’? 17:35 - Traps in understanding of chi 18:24 - Why does Evan still meditate if he is not a Buddhist? 20:11 - Evan’s critiques of the doctrinal framing of practices 22:25 - Response to Buddhists who are threatened by Evan’s work 25:43 - Waking, Dreaming, Being 27:28 - Fascination with how consciousness alters across the sleep-wake cycle 28:11 - Evan reflects on ‘Waking, Dreaming, Being’ 29:58 - How Evan’s views on practice have evolved 31:12 - The sense of self and the experience of consciousness 32:20 - Awareness, contents of awareness, and sense of self 34:21 - Self construction in imagination, memory, and lucid dreaming 37:03 - 1st person vs 3rd person memory 38:23 - View/field dreams vs outside dreams 39:11 - The self experience in lucid dreaming and OBE’s 41:12 - Evan’s lucid dreaming practice 42:38 - Meeting the Dalai Lama and beginning to lucid dream 44:50 - The curriculum of lucid dreaming in Tibetan Buddhism 46:09 - Meditating in the dream state and Alan Wallace’s advice 48:37 - Walking through walls and transforming the dream 49:39 - Evan’s powerful tai chi dreams 50:06 - Variation in lucid dreaming talent 51:07 - What constitutes the sense of self? 52:51 - How does the self complex arise? 54:56 - Metacognition 55:33 - Mindfulness rides on social cognitive capacities 56:40 - Self understanding and claims of liberation 59:10 - The value of the Buddhist view of self 01:01:54 - The claim that insight into self reduces suffering is naive 01:04:12 - How to make the world a better place 01:04:49 - Social is crucial 01:05:57 - Hermit is a social category 01:06:31 - Recognising the value of meditation in a social context 01:09:27 - Vasubandu vs Candrakirti and Metzinger vs Thompson 01:12:32 - Evan’s upcoming projects 01:14:22 - Dying, our ultimate transformation … Previous episode with Evan Thompson: - www.guruviking.com/podcast/158-why-i-am-not-a-buddhist-evan-thompson … To find out more about Evan Thompson, visit: - https://evanthompson.me/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tara Springett, a Buddhist psychotherapist who specialises in treating Kundalini Syndrome. Tara takes a deep dive into the supernatural and reveals why it is so common for those undergoing a kundalini awakening to have paranormal experiences. Tara lists the paranormal abilities and siddhi powers that are available, explains in detail about how to develop them, and sheds light on topics such as remote influence, exorcisms, and astral sex. Tara also offers criteria for differentiating between kundalini awakening and psychosis, reveals her own experiences of ghosts and exorcisms, and explains how to defend against hostile magickal attacks. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep192-kundalini-the-paranormal-tara-springett Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … #TaraSpringett #Kundalini #KundaliniAwakening #GarchenRinpoche #Kundalinicrisis #psychosis … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - 4 modes of consciousness expansion of kundalini 03:31 - Paranormal experiences after kundalini awakening 05:12 - Creativity and the kundalini test 06:02 - Are paranormal experiences inevitable? 06:57- Intuition and clairvoyance 09:52 - Psychosis vs kundalini experience 14:10 - Welcome and unwelcome paranormal experiences 15:47 - Further differential diagnosis between psychosis and kundalini 18:20 - List of possible paranormal experiences 20:14 - Entity attachment 21:24 - Subject-object division does not apply in the paranormal 23:19 - Entities vs sub-personalities 25:55 - Pros and cons of exorcisms 27:56 - Tara’s encounter with a ghost 30:59 - Advice for those who wish to experience the paranormal 32:42 - How to practice paranormal abilities 33:22 - Siddhi powers 34:34 - Paranormal influence of others 36:32 - Black and white magick 37:57 - Astral sex 38:42 - Defending against black magick attack 40:28 - Padmasambhava pacifying demons 43:09 - Book recommendations 43:58 - How to cultivate siddhi powers 48:34 - Spiritual healing 49:22 - The role of practice 52:48 - Powering up the kundalini energy 55:14 - How difficult is it to develop siddhi? 59:03 - Tara’s training in spiritual healing and spiritualism 01:00:06 - Making money from siddhi 01:03:35 - Paying your bad karmic debts 01:08:22 - Tara’s advice … Previous episodes with Tara Springett: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep137-kundalini-awakening-tara-springett - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep172-kundalini-therapist-tara-springett To find out more about Tara Springett, visit: - https://www.taraspringett.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Martin Faulks: author, hermeticist, meditation adept, and memory expert. Martin takes us through a journey of the remarkable people he has encountered in his life as an occultist and meditation practitioner. Including his close inner circle of adepts, a famous American Ninja, Bohemian occult masters, Freemason private detectives, nature mystics, and more. Martin also discusses his own career as a teacher, how he deals with online haters and stalkers, and why it is that so many students fall out from their teachers. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep191-sojourns-in-the-occult-martin-faulks-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:42 - Martin’s powerful group of friends 05:20 - Martin’s two disclaimers 07:41 - Two significant observations about practice and instructions 15:38 - Consistency in the Zen temple 18:31 - Small virtues and the celebration of champions 21:20 - Martin’s unusual upbringing and his clairvoyant grandmother 25:20 - Deep friendship with Swami Atmagyanam 34:17 - Bo Ou Mander the acupuncturist and internal arts master 42:42 - The transformative influence of Martin’s partner Kindra Jones 54:01 - Is Stephen K Hayes the ninja the real deal? 01:02:32 - A remarkable Japanese Zen nun 01:11:44 - Duncan the Freemason private detective 01:22:14 - The spiritual aristocrat and other honourable mentions 01:24:42 - Practicing Franz Bardon brought Martin everything he ever wanted 01:25:34 - How to really practice Franz Bardon’s system 01:36:45 - Training with a reclusive nature mystic 01:43:30 - Martin’s occult students 01:49:08 - Learning from all sources 01:51:41 - Working with Martin and advice for practitioners 01:55:53 - Dealing with conflicts and haters 02:01:40 - Martin’s female stalkers 02:04:38 - Does Martin have a nemesis? 02:15:33 - Falling out with your teacher … Previous episode with Martin Faulks: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/162-the-hermeticist-martin-faulks To find out more about Martin Faulks, visit: - https://martinfaulks.co.uk/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Naomi Levine, author, under her birth name Norma Levine, of multiple books including ‘The Miraculous 16th Karmapa’, ‘A Quest For The Hidden Lands’, and ‘Chronicles of Love and Death: My Years With The Lost Spiritual King of Bhutan’. Naomi recalls why she dropped out of academia to pursue an alternative lifestyle, and through a series of life-changing encounters with Tibetan gurus such as Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, 16th Karmapa, and Tai Situpa, converted to Buddhism and moved to India to pursue a life of yogic practice. Naomi describes her close discipleship under Tai Situpa, and recounts her initial meeting, and subsequent multi-year relationship, with the Shabdrung - a highly revered Bhutanese tulku said to possess potent magical abilities. Naomi also discusses the difficulty of differentiating between crazy wisdom and abusive behaviour, reflects her own naivety about what the practice of Vajrayana really entails, and describes the signs of enlightenment after the death of great beings. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep190-love-death-in-the-himalayas-naomi-levine Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:14 - Naomi’s recent autobiographical writings 04:58 - The last free generation 09:53 - How the world and culture changed and became less open 11:51 - Post war culture and music’s effect on culture 12:50 - Naomi’s PhD thesis on the English playwright Arnold Wesker and moving to England 14:37 - The extraordinary village of Hay-on-Wye 16:05 - Naomi’s family of origin and upbringing 17:48 - A powerful Saturn return 19:34 - Meeting Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche at Samye Ling 21:46 - Impressions of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche 25:19 - Life changing meeting with the 16th Karmapa 26:30 - Becoming a disciple of Tai Situ Rinpoche 27:48 - Conversion to Buddhism 30:18 - Naivety about the realities of Vajrayana practice 33:23 - The Guru is not your best friend 34:20 - Not ready for Tantra 37:17 - What’s really required for Vajrayana practice 40:24 - Vajrayana cannot be taught in today’s culture 45:11 - Meeting the Shabdrung for the first time 49:06 - Falling in love with the Shabdrung and beginning a relationship 51:16 - The remarkable story of the previous Shabdrung incarnations 53:02 - Great beings can still experience trauma 55:08 - Crazy wisdom or just crazy? 01:01:13 - Impressions of Bhutan 01:03:49 - Supernatural experiences around the Shabdrung 01:05:58 - The death of the Shabdrung and revealing realisation 01:08:31 - Shabdrung’s opinion of other lamas 01:10:14 - How Naomi’s book was received 01:13:14 - Not a great Khandro … To find out more about Naomi Levine, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/naomilevine111 - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Norma-Levine/author/B001K86LZ4?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dean Sluyter: meditation teacher and best-selling author of several books including ‘Cinema Nirvana: Enlightenment Lessons from the Movies’. Dean explores the distinction between the art and craft of meditation, what it means to rest in effortlessness, and critiques much meditation practice is egoic aggrandisement and fetishisation. Dean discusses the edifying effect of finding religious themes in literature and cinema, and discusses the approach he takes in his books to analyse both the Western Canon and the great movies of the past. Dean also recounts stories of his time studying with Ngak’chang Rinpoche of the Aro gTer Buddhist group, draws parallels between jazz and enlightenment, and weighs in on the direction of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep189-effortless-awakening-dean-sluyter-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Stories about Ngak’chang Rinpoche of the Aro gTer 06:48 - The living edge of practice 08:43 - Craft in art 09:54 - Creativity and the secret of improvisation 11:21 - The vocabulary of jazz 11:47 - Work to play 13:01 - Meditation does not require work 15:38 - Resting in effortlessness 17:43 - Egoic meditation heroics 18:23 - Dean guides contacting effortlessness 20:45 - Dealing with being caught up with thoughts 23:19 - Meditation on-ramp 26:59 - Dean’s favourite mantras 28:23 - Fetishising meditation 29:42 - Dean’s free meditation classes 30:19 - Facsimiles of true meditation 30:43 - Mood making and intellectualisation 33:59 - Spontaneous openings to awakening 37:40 - Practice vs effort 43:14 - What is the ultimate practice? 43:49 - The moment of enlightenment 46:28 - Evaluating results of practice 49:34 - Emily Dickinson and the watershed moment 51:55 - Finding dharma in literature 52:45 - Finding dharma in cinema 53:19 - Interpreting art 57:46 - Dean’s interpretive approach 01:00:51 - Spreading dharma in the dialect of the people 01:03:53 - Addiction to intensity and the Marvel Cinematic Universe … Previous episode with Dean Sluyter: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/163-dharma-bums-guide-to-western-literature-dean-sluyter Interview with Ngak’chang Rinpoche: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep16-ngapka-chogyam-and-khandro-dechen-guru-viking-interviews To find out more about Dean Sluyter, visit: - https://deansluyter.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Bruce Frantzis, world renowned Taoist master and author of books such as ‘Opening the Energy Gates of your Body’ and ‘Taoist Sexual Meditation’. Bruce recounts his training as a Taoist priest in an ancient secret society, including psychic training, sexual training, spiritual training, and more. Bruce discusses his training in Taoist exorcism, recalls the first exorcism he witnessed, and tells stories about exorcising trapped spirits in concentration camps and other sites of historical suffering. Bruce goes into depth about his training with Liu Hung Cheh, the Taoist immortal who would become Bruce’s most significant master, and shares impressions and memories from that time including Liu Hung Cheh’s last great miracle. Bruce also reflects on personal enlightenment, astral projection, the business of religion, compares Buddhism with Taoism, and considers his own legacy as a Taoist master. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep188-esoteric-taoism-bruce-frantzis-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:09 - Wang Shu Jin and Taoist priesthood 03:01 - China’s history of secret societies 04:39 - Inducted into a secret society 08:36 - Branches of learning 09:39 - Witnessing an exorcism 10:50 -Bruce’s Taoist sex education 11:55 - Secret psychic training 14:16 - Problem with modern presentations of Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity 16:23 - The role of a Taoist priest 17:16 - Sexual tests 19:39 - Learning qigong tui na 20:45 - Feeling chi and releasing trauma 26:14 - Varieties of enlightenment 29:42 - Personality development and the human condition 34:31 - Becoming aware of what’s inside and clearing out trauma 38:39 - Bruce’s teachers’ extreme methods 42:50 - Enlightenment and the 10,000 identities 47:53 - Internal alchemy after enlightenment 48:23 - Seeing beyond this life 51:33 - Astral body journeys to other planets 53:28 - The life of Bruce’s master, Liu Hung Cheh 57:06 - Bruce reflects on Liu Hung Cheh 59:27 - Life with Liu Hung Cheh 01:03:55 - The death of Liu Hung Cheh and leaving China 01:09:36 - Kalu Rinpoche and mystical visions 01:15:49 - Compassion and Bruce’s tonglen practice 01:22:00 - Bruce’s greatest gift 01:22:04 - The cultural revolution 01:23:26 - Beginning to teach meditation 01:25:03 - Clearing out trapped spirits in concentration camps and comments on Kabbalah 01:27:53 - Comments on Scientology 01:31:18 - Miraculous physical feats of Liu Hung Cheh 01:32:31 - Liu Hung Cheh’s final miracle 01:36:39 - Taoist exorcism 01:38:57 - Sex with 1000 women 01:40:37 - Full effort with no force 01:44:44 - Dzogchen vs Taoism 01:47:53 - The martial and spiritual potentials of Tai Chi 01:52:26 - Buddhism vs Taoism 01:54:54 - Beyond happiness 01:53:44 - Difficulties teaching Taoism in the West 01:56:44 - Bruce’s legacy 01:57:40 - Taoism is practical … Previous episode with Bruce Frantzis: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep171-taoist-master-bruce-frantzis To find out more about Bruce Frantzis, visit: - https://www.energyarts.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr K.A Shakoor: spiritual life coach, doctor of traditional Chinese medicine, and author of several books such as ‘Ghetto Sutras’ and ‘Maahaah Yoga’. Dr Shakoor discusses his own meditation practice, including periods of extreme mantra recitation, and recounts his struggles to reconcile the Bodhisattva ideal with corporate culture and for-profit medicine. Dr Shakoor shares his experiences teaching energy and meditation techniques to the mentally ill, and discusses the discipline needed to acquire mastery of such techniques. Dr Shakoor also recounts his own encounters with evil, including anecdotes of exorcisms, sorcery, and occult attacks, as well as magickal self defence advice for healers and spiritual practitioners. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep187-the-bodhisattva-occult-self-defence-dr-ka-shakoor-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:54 - Training in Sufism 04:04 - Extreme Buddhist mantra practice 04:58 - Expressing the Bodhisattva ideal 05:36 - Disillusionment with corporate culture and racial politics 10:24 - Work as a social worker and counsellor 11:31 - The business of medicine 14:34 - The art of leadership 18:35 - Struggles navigating the healthcare industry 23:33 - Teaching energetic practices to the mentally ill 25:14 - Fake teachers of energy arts 27:05 - Discipline in personal practice 27:50 - 1-1 instruction is vital 30:05 - Direct teaching and Dr Nida Chenagtsang 31:27 - Facing challenges in practice 36:09 - Novelty seeking vs persistence and follow-through 38:23 - Old school teaching methods 39:03 - Wrong Tummo meditation and damaging chi 41:13 - Encountering evil 43:01 - Sorcery and ritual trauma 44:56 - Magick is easy to do, but difficult to fix 45:57 - Tools to help victims of magick 48:16 - Influence of Chagdud Rinpoche 49:28 - Exorcisms and spiritual healing 50:10 - Dr Shakoor’s first exorcism 52:58 - Possession vs psychological imbalances 53:30 - The importance of buy-in 54:29 - Occult attacks on Dr Shakoor 57:37 - Why healers and spiritual practitioners come under occult attack 01:00:35 - Psychic self defense advice 01:05:31 - Psychic recoil 01:06:39 - The basics are most important Previous episode with Dr K.A. Shakoor: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/164-dr-ka-shakoor-ghetto-sutras To find out more about Dr K.A. Shakoor, visit: - https://www.drkashakoor.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Camille Maurine, meditation mentor, dancer, and author of ‘Meditation Secrets For Women’ written with her husband Dr Lorin Roche. Camille describes her turbulent upbringing and how her discovery of practices of mediation and embodiment saw her embark on over 50 years of adventure and exploration. Camille recalls her performance career in dance and theatre, how she used movement to learn to feel her emotions, and the practices she uses to process strong feeling. Camille recounts meeting Lorin Roche at a time when she had rejected romantic relationships, and how she drew on inner processes and practices to open into relationship with him. Camille also discusses meditation secrets for women, why one should not fear the depths, how to honour one’s rhythms, and reflects on the limitations of male-oriented religious and spiritual systems. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep186-meditation-secrets-for-women-camille-maurine Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Camille’s upbringing 05:32 - Discovering dance at the time of her mother’s death 06:40 - The path of spirituality, creativity, and love 10:16 - Studying philosophy and looking for the essence in all 12:51 - Marriage to Lorin Roche 15:09 - Learning how to feel emotion 19:00 - Calling the inner beloved 20:32 - Camille leads a drinking practice 22:26 - Meeting Lorin Roche 28:13 - Empowerment and vulnerability 30:14 - From inner marriage to relationship with Lorin 36:25 - When love feels like dying 38:49 - Connection and awe 40:12 - Practices for working with strong emotion and deep patterns 45:16 - Primal, primary, and primordial creativity 52:39 - Meditation Secrets For Women 57:10 - Do not fear the depths 01:01:08 - Honouring your rhythms and hormonal cycles 01:05:02 - Male-oriented religions and spiritual traditions 01:09:37 - Tragic misunderstanding about meditation 01:13:02 - Camille’s contribution to Lorin’s ‘Radiance Sutras’ rendering of the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra 01:19:40 - Training meditation teachers 01:26:30 - Concluding remarks … Previous episodes with Lorin here: - https://www.guruviking.com/the-guru-viking-interviews-ep1-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep6-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep30-lorin-roche-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep55-lorin-roche-instinctive-meditation/ To find out more about Camille visit: - https://www.camillemaurine.com/ - www.meditationtt.com - www.radiancesutras.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Lorin Roche PhD, meditation teacher and author of ‘The Radiance Sutras’. Lorin describes meditation as an affair with life force itself, explores the role of sleep and rest, and explains the discipline of following the cosmic impulse in one’s practice. In the context of this meditative view and drawing from his experience of 40 years of marriage, Loren reflects on intimate relationship, including his own journey in understanding intimacy, meditation keys to a thriving relationship, and how to use meditation to keep love alive. Lorin also discusses tantric sex, including the difference between technique and art, common errors and misunderstandings, and the redemptive power of spiritual union. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep185-meditation-and-tantric-sex-lorin-roche-phd Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:54 - Meditation as an affair with life force 04:19 - How to thrive in a long term relationship 07:39 - Psychedelic origins of meditation traditions 08:55 - Childhood in 1950’s Malibu 12:14 - Teenage schooling in Santa Monica and summer hunting in Kenya 15:48 - Meditating with the Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra and discovering Tantric Sex 19:57 - Seeking a romantic relationship between equals 22:46 - How to use meditation to keep love alive 25:09 - Spontaneous meditation and healing trauma 30:37 - Psychedelic intensity of reality 35:32 - Celebration of thinking in meditation 38:35 - What is tantric sex? 41:32 - Technique and the art of touch 43:53 - Errors in tantric sex 46:54 - Prerequisites to practicing tantric sex 49:40 - Patanjali’s 8 Limbs and the yogic lifestyle 51:59 - Sleep and deep rest 55:52 - Following the cosmic impulse 56:46 - Beyond solo meditation into union with a partner 58:51 - Yogic science of the senses and sound 01:02:32 - The power of craving for fullness of being 01:07:39 - Redemptive power of spiritual sex 01:14:31 - Meditation in the modern world 01:18:02 - Attending to the electricity of sensation 01:20:18 - Lorin’s meditation teacher training program 01:24:30 - How Lorin teaches meditation 01:26:30 - The power of deep listening … Previous episodes with Lorin here: - https://www.guruviking.com/the-guru-viking-interviews-ep1-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep6-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep30-lorin-roche-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep55-lorin-roche-instinctive-meditation/ To find out more about Lorin visit: - www.lorinroche.com - www.radiancesutras.com - www.meditationtt.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between doctor of Tibetan Medicine and Buddhist spiritual teacher Dr Nida Chenagtsang and Dr Ian A. Baker, author, scholar, and initiate of Buddhist, Taoist, and Hindu Tantric lineages. Drs Nida and Ian explore the theme of Vajrayana in the 21st century, including issues such as tradition and innovation, mass empowerments vs 1-1 discipleship, and what is essential for successful practice. Drs Nida and Ian discuss common mistakes in practicing the 6 Yogas of Naropa, religious syncretism, and dark triad traits of narcissism, psychopathy, and machiavellianism in spiritual teachers. Drs Nida and Ian also discuss the role of religious institutions in the history of Vajrayana and explore the tensions between the critical historical approach of academia with traditional views often held by religious teachers and practicing Buddhists. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep184-the-vajra-path-dr-nida-chenagtsang-dr-ian-a-baker Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - The Vajra Path 03:42 - Tradition and innovation 08:25 - Mass empowerments 10:24 - 84 Mahasiddhas and individualised practice 13:14 - Vajrayana is experiential 14:52 - Correcting misunderstandings 16:53 - What is essential for Vajrayana to be effective? 19:11 - The role of empowerment 21:00 - Listen, study, meditate 23:19 - The power of place 25:03 - Discerning effective methods for contemporary audiences 28:23 - Secrecy and education 32:18 - How much practice is needed for Varjayana? 36:30 - Struggles with dream yoga and tummo 40:14 - Working with your talents 42:34 - 6 Yogas study mistakes 44:05 - Misguided attitudes to ngondro, preliminary practices 47:06 - Spiritual cocktails and narcissism 49:02 - How to relate to other traditions 50:49 - Syncretism the critical historical perspective 54:51 - Fundamental values 58:12 - Dark triad traits in spiritual practitioners and teachers 01:02:12 - Vajrayana and institutions 01:03:35 - Distilling the essence or taking out of context? 01:05:00 - Dr Nida’s vision of Vajrayana institutions 01:06:38 - Cultural trappings vs the essence of Buddhism 01:12:49 - Dr Ian on religious institutions and the evolution of Vajrayana 01:16:41 - Essence of Vajrayana 01:20:45 - Who does Vajrayana belong to? 01:22:25 - Critical historical vs traditional perspectives 01:26:39 - Dr Nida reflects on the power of simplicity 01:30:09 - Friendship and collaboration 01:31:33 - Hijacking of Buddhism 01:34:47 - Deelaboration and the beautiful adventure 01:36:40 - Future trips, courses, and activities … Previous episodes with Dr Nida Chenagtsang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=nida Previous episodes with Dr Ian A. Baker: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=baker … To find out more about The Vajra Path, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088040336775 - https://www.instagram.com/thevajrapath/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Dr Caroline Van Damme, an adult psychiatrist and family and systemic psychotherapist specialising in chronic psychotic disorders, and co-teacher of Buddhist guru and Sowa Rigpa doctor Nida Chenagtsang. Dr Caroline draws on her extensive clinical experience as a psychiatrist, as well as her personal meditation practice, to explore the adverse effects of meditation, including psychosis, depersonalisation/derealisation, and spiritual bypass. Dr Caroline considers the pros and cons of sleep deprivation as a spiritual training tool, visualisation practices of Buddhist Vajrayana, and shares stories of extended meditation retreats gone wrong. Dr Caroline gives recommendations for those who wish to practice intensively, including dangers signs to watch for, the markers of high-risk individuals, and the importance of a a strong psychology and deep foundation in preliminary practice. Dr Caroline also details her own success in using meditation with her patients in clinical settings, including with populations typically considered to be at high risk, and recounts her patient reports about the significant benefits of their practice. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep183-adverse-effects-of-meditation-dr-caroline-van-damme Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:21 - Adverse effects of meditation 05:13 - Meditation and psychosis 08:42 - Matthieu Ricard’s advice 10:37 - Meditation success with schizophrenia 16:25 - Willoughby Britton’s work on adverse effects 18:39 - Caroline reflects on her own meditation practice 20:52 - Dangers of visualisation meditation 23:04 - Traumatic meditation retreats 27:42 - Modulating intensity and pre-practice warnings 30:57 - Spiritual bypass and tantric Buddhist practice 32:00 - Sleep deprivation as a sign of enlightenment 33:32 - When to push through hell 38:20 - Caroline’s monk patient who developed schizophrenia 41:17 - Sleep deprivation as a training tool 48:30 - Recommendations for those who wish to engage in intense practice 51:53 - The Dalai Lama’s sleep schedule 52:45 - Delusions of special powers 53:58 - Insomnia 55:36 - Cannabis and meditation 57:07 - Profile of a high risk person 57:43 - Enlightenment vs depersonalisation / derealisation 01:02:39 - Dream yoga and derealisation 01:07:50 - Caroline’s clinical experience teaching meditation to her patients 01:20:19 - Mechanism of benefit in meditation 01:24:50 - Impulse control and inner peace 01:29:03 - The stigma of mental illness … Previous episode with Dr Van Damme: - www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep143-dr-caroline-van-damme-psychiatry-religious-experience To find out more about Dr Van Damme, visit: - https://www.sowarigpainstitute.org/dr-caroline-van-damme … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Adam Mizner, internationally renowned tai chi practitioner and meditation teacher. Adam recounts how a troubled childhood saw him begin martial arts and meditation training, and he reflects on his childhood psychic visionary experiences. Adam discusses the nature of internal cultivation, the role of standing practice, and provides a detailed analysis of the remarkable abilities and attainments of his teacher, the Thai Buddhist Arahant, Luang Por Jamnian. Adam also shares his current understanding about the true path of meditation, criticises visualisation practices found in Vajrayana Buddhism, questions the efficacy of tummo meditation, and elaborates on the mechanics of his famous push hands abilities. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep182-meditation-maverick-adam-mizner Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Difficult childhood & psychic visions 03:13 - Are psychic powers actually an ailment 04:26 - Pros and cons of psychic openness 06:10 - Beginning Tai Chi and meditation 08:09 - Hard training 08:54 - Internal cultivation is not gentle 10:37 - Becoming a Tai Chi creature 15:38 - Adam’s early training 18:20 - The power of standing practice 21:21 - Harnessing obsessive qualities for practice 23:15 - Leaving fight training 24:24 - Adam’s teachers 26:05 - Aversion to lineage 26:48 - Meeting the arhat Luang Por Jamnian 30:34 - The remarkable spiritual feats of Luang Por Jamnian 33:44 - The life and training of Luang Por Jamnian 36:39 - Beyond mind and body 38:28 - How to transcend mind and body 44:29 - Attained people vs charismatic talkers 47:42 - Different types of enlightened people 52:59 - The true path of meditation 58:41 - Cultivate stillness 01:02:42 - Learning to sit still, even with injuries 01:08:27 - Realising your limits 01:10:29 - Acclimatisation vs transcendence 01:14:46 - Adam on morality 01:18:51 - Imaginary enlightenment 01:19:46 - Critique of visualisation practices of Vajrayana 01:24:39 - The secret of metta cultivation 01:28:08 - Adam on the mirage of tummo 01:31:01 - Can authentic tummo be restored? 01:33:44 - Real transformation 01:42:44 - Practice techniques as sectarian conditioning 01:45:11 - Adam on sex and sexual practice 01:49:47 - Ejaculation and orthorexia 01:52:57 - Men vs women on the path 01:54:46 - Men’s hormonal tendencies 01:56:26 - Secret to Adam’s Fajing and push hands skills 02:07:07 - Advice for the seeker … To find our more about Adam Mizner, visit: - https://heavenmanearth.com/en/adam-mizner - https://discovertaiji.com/en - https://discovermind.com/en … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Dr Thomas Clough Daffern philosopher, educator, peace activist, and peace officer for the Council of British Druid Orders. In this episode, Thomas shares his lifetime of research into the druid tradition of the British Isles and Europe, including his historical research and personal contact with druids today. Thomas reveals why most modern day druid groups are reconstructionists, and probes the possibility of a living druid lineage in certain areas of Ireland. Thomas explains why he believes Jesus was an initiate of the mystery schools of his day, discusses the connections between Celtic culture and mystical Christianity, and shares his current research into the Gnostic Gospels and the Gospel of Mary Magdalene. Thomas also considers the guru disciple relationship, what ‘enlightenment’ means in different traditions, the dangers of prematurely declaring one’s enlightenment, and offers warning signs for recognising guru and cult figures. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep181-druidic-enlightenment-and-european-mysticism Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Discovering the druids 02:06 - Researching the occultist Dr John Dee 03:07 - Meeting a druid 04:28 - Advocacy for access to British sacred sites 09:42 - Druid spread across Europe 12:08 - History of the druids 16:26 - Was Jesus Christ an initiate of the mysteries? 18:54 - Gnostic gospels and the inner disciples 20:56 - Love and wisdom confronting false power and ignorance 22:06 - Celtic-Christian connections 23:42 - Thomas’ current research into the Gospel of Mary Magdalene 25:55 - Are current druid groups reconstructions or part of a living lineage? 31:44 - Advocacy for Irish culture 32:37 - Druidry should be taught in schools 33:36 - Druids and enlightenment 37:32 - Buddhism vs the druid path 42:16 - What is enlightenment? 42:59 - Common root of Vedic, Kabbalist, and Druid teachings 49:31 - Druid revolutionaries 54:27 - The Judas mystery 58:47 - Great teachers and bad disciples 01:00:47 - Keats’ school for souls 01:01:24 - Planetary enlightenment or bust 01:03:31 - Golden Gate Project 01:04:47 - The Eastern gate of Jerusalem 01:08:51 - Transcending revenge consciousness … Previous episodes with Dr Daffern: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=daffern … To find our more about Dr Daffern, visit: - http://www.educationaid.net/ - https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/iipsgp - https://interfaithpeacetreaty.wordpress.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Jack Haubner, ex-Zen Monk and prize winning author of the memoirs Zen Confidential: Confessions of a Wayward Monk; and Single White Monk: Tales of Death, Failure, and Bad Sex. In this interview Jack reveals the interaction between his creative process and his Zen journey, from his screenwriting days in Hollywood, to journalling as a Zen monk, to penning his award winning spiritual memoirs. Jack also considers the role of self-disclosure and comedy in his writing, reflects on why Sasaki Roshi did not emphasise art in his spiritual training, and recounts stories of fellow Zen student and renowned singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen. Jack also discusses how even senior Zen monks can become complacent during intense retreat, how to break through stagnancy in practice, and what it means to make spiritually resonant art. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep180-zen-and-the-art-of-being-funny-jack-haubner Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - The Book of Questions 03:31 - Moving to LA and failing as a screenwriter 05:08 - Jack’s influences as a writer 05:58 - Stories of ‘dog eat dog’ Hollywood life 12:21 - Rupert Spira vs Henry Shukman 15:05 - Creativity vs becoming a Zen monk 19:47 - Zen Confidential 20:22 - The role of art in Zen and Japanese culture 22:32 - Zen is the direct path 23:25 - Harada Roshi’s enso 23:59 - Sasaki Roshi did not emphasise art at all 25:09 - Complacent Zen practitioners 28:32 - Sweet spot of great art 30:06 - Passivity in advanced Zen students of Sasaki Roshi 35:45 - Prostate problems during sesshin 38:25 - Strife with other monks as training 42:55 - How Jack found his voice as a writer 48:03 - Moral superiority vs self deprecation 49:32 - - Jack’s ‘why’ 51:36 - Escaping the nihilism trap of low motivation 58:30 - Jack’s Zen friendship with Leonard Cohen 01:00:23 - Cohen’s love songs to God 01:02:52 - More about Leonard Cohen 01:03:48 - Jack on humour 01:05:25 - Jack on taking risks as a writer 01:06:51 - Making art out of Sasaki Roshi’s sex scandal 01:08:10 - Criticism of Jack’s books 01:11:19 - Edgy humour, cruelty, and cultural changes 01:16:29 - Current writing projects 01:18:40 - Jack’s Youtube channel 01:20:42 - Artists must finish … Previous episode with Jack Haubner: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep126-zen-scandal-jack-haubner/ To find out more about Jack Haubner, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt9Q74t3o7AUCJ_bKTc5CgA For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr Yannis Toussulis, Sufi lineage holder, psychotherapist, and author of ‘Sufism and the Way of Blame’. Dr Toussulis recounts his upbringing in Manhattan, New York and how a childhood vision of Jesus Chris changed his life forever. Dr Toussulis recalls several profound mystical experiences and traces his life of travel and study with gurus and sheiks, including his time at the Esalen Institute, close studies with Tibetan Lama Khenchen Palden Sherab, experiments in psychedelic assisted therapy, travel to India, personal time with Osho, and more. Dr Toussulis also critiques new age presentations of Sufism, including modern interpretations of Rumia and early 20th century ideas of the Sarmoung Brotherhood, and considers the case of Idries Shah and the collusion between teachers and disciples to create exaggerated origin myths. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep179-adventures-of-a-sufi-mystic-dr-yannis-toussulis Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Upbringing in Manhattan 03:04 - Inspired to attend church after a vision of Jesus Christ 04:30 - First encounter with Sufism 07:17 - Meeting first Sheikhs 08:43 - Close study with Khenchen Palden Sherab 09:32 - Return to Sufism 12:42 - A vision of Jesus Christ 15:52 - Interpreting mystical experiences 17:15 - More visionary experiences 21:55 - Realising that God is everywhere 24:09 - Psychedelic experimentation 27:16 - Psychedelic therapy in Vancouver 31:04 - Carlos Castaneda 31:39 - Travel to India and studies with Osho 39:26 - Final conversation with Osho 44:35 - What is enlightenment? 50:23 - Meeting gurus 53:15 - Meeting his Lama in a lucid dream 01:04:40 - ’Nyingthik Drak’ and learning Buddhist tantra 01:08:46 - Sarmoung Brotherhood and misconceptions about Sufism 01:13:57 - What is Sufism? 01:18:25 - Origin myths and the naive audience of the early 1900s 01:22:17 - Collusion and mystification 01:25:39 - The modern inversion of Rumi … To find our more about Dr Yannis Toussulis, visit: - http://www.itlaqfoundation.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between Dr Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and professor at Naropa University, and Julia Shannon, trainee clinical psychotherapist and researcher. In the first part of this interview, Dr Ian discusses his current thinking on what the traditions of Dzogchen and Western hypnosis can learn from each other, challenges Herbert Benson’s relaxation response theory of meditation, and questions dualistic frameworks in science and experimental psychology. Then, Dr Ian and Julia dialogue about the prevalence of mental illness and regressive coping in Buddhist meditators, the personality types of religious mystics, and Julia’s own experience using hypnosis to cure her phone addiction Dr Ian and Julia also consider the implications of teaching advanced Buddhist meditation methods in a clinical setting, including ethical issues and concerns about violating sacred vows, and they discuss their experiences of personal identity and professional life as biracial adults in America. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep178-buddhist-meditation-hypnosis-dzogchen-dr-ian-wickramasekera-julia-shannon Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 01:26 - Dzogchen and hypnosis 05:37 - Going beyond dualism in science 06:19 - Crisis in clinical psychology 09:37 - Suffering & serotonin 20:01 - Dzogchen philosophy in clinical hypnosis 22:14 - Invalidating Herbert Benson’s relaxation response theory of meditation 29:08 - What really brings cessation of suffering 30:14 - Aestheticism is needed in science 32:05 - Specific Dzogchen practices and hypnotic hallucinations 36:31 - A daily practice of hypnosis 40:01 - What science can offer Dzogchen 46:45 - Julia’s background 49:05 - Overcoming phone addiction via hypnosis 52:08 - Hypnotic trance vs meditative states 53:46 - Stigmata of hypnosis and meditation 57:56 - High hypnotisable people and the prevalence to mystical experience 01:01:10 - Ronald J. Pekal’s Phenomenology of Consciousness Inventory (PCI) 01:03:15 - Myth of meditation brain states such as alpha 01:07:23 - Bringing Buddhist practice into clinical practice 01:08:53 - Mental illness in religious practitioners 01:10:44 - Repressive coping in tummo meditators 01:23:02 - Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche and finding one’s innate experience 01:25:06 - Presenting completion stage practices in a secular context 01:29:20 - Trekchod and togyal vs post-hypnotic suggestion 01:31:23 - Which Buddhist practices Dr Ian gives to his patients 01:33:32 - Experimental vs clinical psychology 01:34:41 - Does teaching Buddhist practice to non-Buddhists break Samaya? 01:38:03 - Hypnotising Dzogchen practitioners 01:39:49 - Counselling dissatisfied Buddhists 01:41:33 - Nervousness about teaching Dzogchen and Vajrayana 01:43:02 - The importance of devotion 01:45:08 - Training clinicians and counsellors 01:50:38 - Dr Ian asks Julia about her experience being hypnotised 01:54:14 - Catharsis, clinging, and the battle of addiction 01:56:19 - Executive ego and skepticism 01:57:19 - Pointing out instructions and polypsychic therapy 02:01:32 - Rapid behaviour change and eschatological pressure 02:03:15 - Race, empathy, and therapeutic efficacy 02:10:33 - Integrating dualistic racial identities 02:12:08 - Identity dimensions of the therapist 02:16:22 - Chogyam Trungpa and reconciling racial identity 02:24:23 - Role-taking theory and hallucinated intensity 02:29:26 - Myths of hypnosis and the role of expectancy … Previous episodes with Dr Ian Wickramasekera: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=wickramasekera To find our more about Dr Ian Wickramasekera, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Amoda Maa, spiritual teacher and author of books such as ‘Embodied Enlightenment’ and ‘Falling Open in a World Falling Apart’. Amoda Maa shares her experience of falling into the abyss of emptines and the consequences that followed. She describes the dark night of the soul that preceded this experience, and how its aftermath healed her childhood abandonment trauma. Amoda Maa also talks about the life of a spiritual teacher, how she went from living an ascetic life of anonymity in the English countryside to moving to America to become a well known teacher, and shares her observations of the boys’ club dynamic in the spiritual teaching scene. Amoda Maa also recounts relearning relationship after her enlightenment when she met her now husband, and discusses the feminine frequency of awakening and how that relates to the inner marriage. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep177-becoming-a-spiritual-teacher-amoda-maa Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Falling into the abyss of emptiness 03:56 - After awakening, living from the unknown 08:07 - Purification of relationship with mother 11:53 - Dark night of the soul, abandoned by God 19:20 - Recognising avoidance, the moment of enlightenment 24:11 - Healing of abandonment 26:05 - Changes in relationship with others 28:02 - Spiritual openness vs learning to say ‘no’ to others 34:15 - Meeting a new partner, and a new way of relationship 37:58 - Thoughts and narratives 41:35 - Being in relationship with an enlightened person 45:05 - Abiding goodness 49:52 - First book publishing period 55:19 - Invited to speak and purifying self-consciousness 57:06 - Learning to speak from enlightenment, not about it 59:41 - Change your life, change your world 01:02:28 - Living like an ascetic for 12 years 01:08:37 - Encountering the term ‘non duality’ 01:12:31 - Teaching career launched on BATGAP and at SAND 01:18:04 - The American non-duality scene 01:22:29. Feminine face of awakening vs the boys’ club of spiritual teachers 01:25:41 - The feminine frequency of awakening 01:27:22 - The patriarchy is over 01:28:56 - Inner marriage 01:29:35 - The boys club and suppression of women 01:33:28 - The flow of life … Previous episode with Amoda Maa: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep147-falling-open-amoda-maa To find out more about Amoda Maa, visit: - https://www.amodamaa.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Morgan O Smith, teacher of non-duality, and under the stage name ‘Mista Mo’, was a stand-up comedian and host of the Gemini award winning television show ‘Buzz’. Morgan recalls his painful childhood of trauma growing up in what he describes as a Christian cult, and discusses how the damaging consequences of that environment affected him into adulthood. Morgan recounts how, even at the height of his professional success in television and comedy, he felt spiritually unfulfilled and began searching for answers in hypnotherapy and Holosync meditation. Morgan shares his subsequent spiritual journey of deep meditation, powerful psychedelic experimentation, contact with gurus and spirit guides, kundalini activation, and profound spiritual awakenings. Morgan also discusses the lasting effects of his awakenings, his prolific creative projects, and shares his insights on enlightenment, the personality, and more. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep176-the-awakening-of-mista-mo Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Morgan’s support for the podcast 01:59 -Morgan’s painful upbringing 03:19 - First memories 04:17 - Memories of church 05:48 - Abuse in a Christian cult 08:42 - Anger and other effects of childhood trauma 11:14 - Beginning a healing journey 12:44 - Clash with Morgan’s father 15:00 - Unfulfilled by comedy and TV success 17:41 - Psychedelic experimentation 19:49 - Hypnotherapy for audition nerves and creative breakthrough 23:10 - Holosync meditation and purging repressed subconscious material 28:28 - Leaving TV and taking 2 years off 30:56 - Combining Holosync meditation with psychedelics for 5 years 33:48 - Meeting spirit guides and other experiences 36:08 - An experience of enlightenment 40:19 - After stream entry 43:40 - Further spiritual breakthroughs 45:13 - Powerful DMT journey 50:39 - LSD experiments and turiya 53:33 - Ayahuasca and 5-MeO-DMT 58:48 - Kundalini activation 01:02:25 - Receiving darshan from Paramahamsa Vishwananda 01:04:17 - Full realisation 01:12:51 - Paramahamsa Vishwananda returns 01:13:31 - Lasting changes 01:14:32 - Sexual changes 01:16:30 - Even temper 01:17:08 - Facing pain and challenges 01:19:23 - Final or is there more to come? 01:22:00 - Traumatised by in a good way 01:22:44 - Noticing divinity 01:24:48 - PTSD from awakening 01:26:18 - Morgan’s writing and videos 01:28:55 - Morgan’s upcoming books 01:32:05 - Personality types of awakening 01:37:26 - Personality disorders and enlightenment 01:43:16 - Advice to those seeking awakening … To find out more about Morgan O Smith, visit: - https://www.instagram.com/morgano.smith/ - https://linktr.ee/morganosmith For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I was recently interviewed by Artem Zen for his 'Elevating Consciousness' podcast. Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/steve-james-interviewed-on-the-elevating-conciousness-podcast [Artem's Show notes] 0:00 - Introduction 1:00 - Steve speaks about his early experiences with martial arts, meditation, and contemplation 5:55 - The downside of organized religion 8:45 - Steve’s interest in both western and eastern religious traditions 13:47 - The benefit and challenge of extreme outdoor survival 26:23 - If you don’t come to the dragon it will come to you 29:17 - Why embracing discomfort is key to learning 34:04 - Psychedelics 38:32 - Using the Grinberg Method for healing 41:34 - Steve unpacks his somatic practice “The Movement Koan Method” 46:53- Steve speaks about dealing with a serious illness and having a near-death experience 1:05:31 - How the near-death experience transformed Steve 1:10:08 - Was that an Awakening? 1:12:09 - Artem speaks on integrating his 5-me0-DMT experience 1:15:58 - Letting go of mystical and spiritual experiences 1:24:08 - Models of Awakening 1:26:17 - Deconstructing the Guru Viking Podcast 1:37:49 - The genius and impact of Shinzen Young 1:46:42 - Other spiritual teachers that greatly impacted Steve Elevating Consciousness Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCieDzvmBXXZX9VuKa9MvHqQ Other times I have been interviewed: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/category/Steve+Interviewed www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Adele Tomlin, Buddhist practitioner, writer, poet, independent scholar-translator of Tibetan Buddhist texts, and founder of the Dakini Translations website. Adele recalls her upbringing in England, training as a barrister, and work as a strategist in the city of London, before a chance meeting with the 17th Karmapa changed her life forever. Adele traces her beginnings in becoming a Buddhist, her studies of the Tibetan language in Nepal, and thriving in the academic rigour of Tibetology at the University of Hamburg. Adele discusses her published works, shares her research and translation process, and explores the implications of the shentong vs rangtong doctrines of emptiness. Adele also expresses her frustration with gate-keeping in academia, reveals the reasons behind her founding of DakiniTranslations.com, and shares her research into the forgotten female mystics of India and Tibet. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep175-dakini-translations-adele-tomlin Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Endorsed by scholars 02:53 - Miranda Shaw 03:48 - Adele’s upbringing 04:35 - Training as a barrister and entering the city of London 07:39 - Dissatisfaction with life and training in yoga and philosophy 08:53 - Life changing meeting with the 17th Karmapa 14:47 - Reaction of friends and family 15:33 - Learning Tibetan to be closer to the guru 17:33 - Studying Tibetan in India and Nepal 20:28 - Discovering a talent for the Tibetan language 21:46 - The power of past life connections 28:22 - Studying Tibetology at the University of Hamburg 30:08 - Adele adjusts to the academic rigour at Hamburg 32:29 - The importance of practice experience when translating Vajrayana texts 34:54 - Publishes her first critical edition translation 36:30 - Philological and philosophical challenges of translating Taranatha's commentary on the Heart Sutra 41:04 - Rangtong vs Shentong 48:13 - The implications of the shentong view for practice 54:11 - Taranatha’s shentong reading of the Heart Sutra 55:08 - Frustration with gatekeeping in academia and founding dakinitranslations dot com 01:00:25 - Making Buddhist translation and research accessible and relatable 01:03:16 - Ethics of profiting from dharma 01:04:23 - The secret of Adele’s prolific output 01:06:33 - How Adele chooses which texts to translate 01:11:14 - Research into forgotten female mystics and masters 01:15:39 - Humour in Vajrayana and pointing out all male panels 01:18:36 - Male dominated lineage trees 01:20:08 - ‘Dakini Translations’ and British humour … To find out more about Adele Tomlin, visit: - https://dakinitranslations.com/ - www.facebook.com/dakinitranslations For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I was recently interviewed by Andres Valdivieso for his 'Innercraft' podcast. Topics include: 0:00 – Episode Intro 2:10 – The Guru Viking Podcast: origins and vision going forward 4:45 – Steve’s learnings from conducting The Guru Viking Podcast 13:30 – Steve’s current main priorities, activities and hobbies 24:51 – The intersection of music and meditation 37:00 – Steve’s background and how he got started in contemplative practices 51:50 – Steve’s goals and intentions regarding meditation/spirituality 58:44 – How formal sitting meditation impacts Steve’s life experience 01:07:55 – Meditation in daily activity 01:17:35 – Steve’s current daily meditation practice 01:23:29 – Relationship with daily activities that can be detrimental to meditation practice 01:35:00 – The intersection of movement, somatic practices and meditation 01:47:55 – The Movement Koan Method: nourishing the joints and bringing awareness to subtle body sensations. Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/steve-james-interviewed-on-the-innercraft-podcast Innercraft website: https://www.inner-craft.com/ Other times I have been interviewed: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/category/Steve+Interviewed www.guruviking.com
Damo Mitchell is an author, teacher, and student of the internal arts of Asia including Tai Chi and Daoist Inner Alchemy. Damo recounts his childhood of fear, inadequacy, and martial arts. And recalls how his rage, born from childhood trauma, was healed by the direct energetic intervention of a Daoist master. Damo shares his adventures throughout Asia, seeking authentic teachings of inner spiritual alchemy and internal martial arts, baiting teachers into fights to test their skills, and eventually discovering hidden lineages of spiritual and energetic transmission. Damo also explains the Taoist theory of the Dan Tien, why this crucial idea is so often misunderstood even by advanced practitioners of spiritual alchemy, and reveals his own encounters with paranormal powers such as electrokinesis and pyrokinesis. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep174-daoist-inner-alchemy-damo-mitchell Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - From martial arts to inner alchemy 03:35 - Childhood fear and inadequacy 05:39 - The limits of martial arts for personal growth 08:20 - The pros and cons of martial arts 09:51 - UFC vs traditional martial arts 11:53 - Practical combat vs spiritual development 14:48 - The problem with Chinese martial arts 17:14 - Confusion of the purpose of training 20:37 - Geoff Thompson and radical combat effectiveness as a spiritual portal 23:16 - Damo’s rage stemming from childhood trauma 25:38 - Early meditative experiences 27:49 - Damo’s childhood meditation system 29:36 - Two types of practitioner 31:00 - Leaving school and travelling to Asia 33:03 - Dead ends when seeking teachers 34:12 - Secrecy in Chinese arts 35:10 - Reflecting on the dead ends 37:34 - Baiting teachers into fights 38:25 - How Damo found real siddhi and internal power 40:41 - The truth about Fa Jin 43:34 - How a controversial master healed Damo’s rage and trauma 48:27 - Damo analyses his chi healing 50:10 - Damo’s life fell apart 52:03 - Full engagement with the spiritual path 53:27 - Calibrating breakthrough experiences 55:14 - Damo on the Self 59:23 - Daoist inner alchemy 01:03:35 - Damo’s inner alchemy journey 01:07:05 - Misconceptions about the dan tien 01:09:20 - Building and filling the dan tien 01:11:04 - Breath work in inner alchemy 01:13:52 - Optimising efficiency 01:14:40 - Enlightenment in Daoism vs Buddhism 01:18:03 - Immortality in Daoism 01:19:34 - Meeting immortals 01:21:15 - Siddhi as evidence of progress 01:22:39 - Electrokinesis and pyrokinesis siddhi 01:24:45 - The importance of morality 01:27:43 - How Damo’s teacher challenges his morality 01:29:35 - How to improve one’s morality and conduct 01:34:03 - Sex and Daoism 01:38:31 - Learning Chinese … To find out more about Damo Mitchell, visit: - https://damomitchell.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche, Dzogchen master, teacher of Tibetan Buddhism, and author of over 15 books. Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche recounts his gruelling journey fleeing Tibet across the Himalayas, his years in refugee camps and monasteries in Nepal and India, and his eventual arrival in the United States. Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche discusses his love of poetry, the cultural divide between Tibet and America, and why he still experiences nightmares about his time as a refugee. Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche also reflects on his recognition as a tulku, explains tantric dream yoga techniques, how to find a guru, when to reveal secret teachings, and gives his opinion on Westerners who use the title ‘Lama’. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep177-dreaming-tulku-yeshi-rinpoche-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Crossing the Himalayas 03:28 - Arriving in Nepal and life in the refugee camp 06:02 - Gruelling travel across India 10:21 - Arriving at Drepung Monastery and death of the monks 12:24 - Learning English in Seattle 15:50 - Love of poetry and published as a poet 19:22 - The poetry of Dzogchen and Mahamudra 21:39 - Cultural divide between Tibet and America 23:51 - Connecting to Steinbeck’s ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ 25:45 - Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche shares a religious poem 28:00 - Nightmares about Tibet 33:02 - Dream yoga techniques 38:08 - How Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche learned dream yoga 39:39 - Being recognised as a tulku by Trulshik Rinpoche 42:44 - Politics and nepotism in the tulku system 44:23 - Motive to help sentient beings 46:47 - The weight of having a title 49:47 - A warning to Western lamas 50:47 - Opinion of Western lamas 53:01 - Religion is not art 58:50 - Why is tantric Buddhism so popular? 01:03:07 - Powerful techniques of the vajrayana 01:05:40 - How to find a guru 01:10:41 - The importance of samaya 01:13:08 - Differences between students from different countries 01:14:19 - Shy to be a Buddhist 01:19:12 - How to keep Buddhism alive into the future 01:21:36 - When to share secret teachings … Previous interview with Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/160-nomad-master-tulku-yeshi-rinpoche To find out more about Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/HerukaInstitute/ - https://www.herukainstitute.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tara Springett, a Buddhist psychotherapist who specialises in treating Kundalini Syndrome. Tara reveals how she works with her private clients, including how she assesses kundalini symptoms, her 5 step kundalini test, and emergency strategies for acute distress. Tara discusses the 3 part foundation for psychological and spiritual health, as well the essential role that relationship plays in the enlightenment process. Tara also shares her experience working at the intersection of kundalini with narcissism and other cluster B disorders, why it is that kundalini magnifies one’s latent negative tendencies, and why paranormal experiences and entity contact are inevitable for those with an awakened kundalini energy. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep172-kundalini-therapist-tara-springett Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:54 - How Tara assesses a kundalini patient 05:20 - The 5 Step Kundalini test 05:57 - How rare is kundalini awakening? 08:37 - Criterion 1: An extreme interest in spirituality 09:00 - Criterion 2: Intensified emotions 09:54 - Criterion 3: Feeling energy movements in the body 10:30 - Criterion 4: Hypersensitivity 11:24 - Criterion 5: Paranormal experiences 12:55 - The most important symptom 13:15 - The anti-anxiety technique 16:21 - Enlightenment happens in relationship 18:30 - Bringing spirituality and psychology together 21:03 - Cultivating self love 22:29 - The 3 parts of an essential foundation 22:59 - Applying the anti-anxiety technique 27:54 - The importance of the client-therapist relationship 31:24 - Healing emotional attachment issues by relating to a divine being 33:31 - Tara’s approach to the relationships with her clients 34:58 - Challenges working with narcissists 35:39 - Interaction of kundalini awakening and cluster B personality disorders 40:17 - Religious conversion as a medicine for narcissists 42:12 - Kundalini and Borderline Personality Disorder 42:59 - Awakened gurus with personality disorders 45:33 - 5 chakra enlightenment 47:00 - Reckoning with one’s sexuality 47:44 - Cult leaders and spiritual power 49:59 - Kundalini magnifies one’s tendencies 52:10 - Advice for when choosing a guru 59:29 - How Tara keeps herself grounded and morally straight 01:04:05 - Tara’s history of being hard on herself 01:05:27 - Kundalini and different demographics 01:07:23 - The #1 cause of kundalini awakenings 01:08:53 - Paranormal experiences are inevitable 01:10:11 - Entities attachment and possession 01:13:00 - Dealing with horror visions … Previous episode with Tara Springett: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep137-kundalini-awakening-tara-springett To find out more about Tara Springett, visit: - https://www.taraspringett.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Bruce Frantzis, world renowned Taoist master and author of books such as ‘Opening the Energy Gates of your Body’ and ‘Taoist Sexual Meditation’. Bruce recalls his turbulent childhood living with a schizophrenic mother, witnessing murders in New York city, and early training in martial arts and meditation. Bruce recounts a lifetime of adventurous travel and powerful encounters with spiritual and energetic masters in Japan, China, and India. Bruce describes his induction into a secret Taoist priesthood, his discipleship under Taoist immortal Liu Hung Cheh, and his training under Dzogchen masters such as Dudjom Rinpoche, Namkhai Norbu, and Lama Wangdor. Bruce also discusses the keys to Taoist meditation, the mechanics of mind-to-mind spiritual transmission, and how to heal mental, emotional, psychic, and karmic traumas. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep171-taoist-master-bruce-frantzis Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Bruce’s troubled childhood with his schizophrenic mother 03:10 - Boarding school at 6 and appetite for learning 07:12 - Spontaneous meditation practice as a child and other karmic presages 09:18 - Witnessing violent killings and beginning martial arts 14:13- Participation in the 60s counter culture 17:55 - Facing death at first Zen sesshin 20:03 - The New York scene 23:03 - Intense martial arts training in Japan 26:07 - Shocking meeting with Wang Shujin 30:31 - Adventures travelling in Asia 34:59 - Life changing experiences in India 42:38 - Getting busted in Okinawa 44:32 - Encountering a secret Taoist priesthood and further adventures in America 49:58 - Travelling through Europe 51:47 - Dangerous encounters in the Middle East 54:24 - One year of kundalini practice in a cave in India 58:19 - Surviving hepatitis and travel to Kashmir 01:03:27 - Further studies in East Asia 01:06:02 - Return to the USA 01:06:21 - More Hong Kong anecdotes 01:08:56 - Bagua and challenge matches 01:17:16 - Bruce’s observations about meditation after 60 years of practice 01:19:16 - The problem with the Buddhist valorisation of mothers 01:25:05 - Resolving childhood trauma 01:28:33 - Bruce’s teacher confronts his attitude 01:30:21 - Meetings with survivors of torture 01:42:45 - Essence of spirituality 01:48:08 - Past life karma with Dudjom Rinpoche 01:53:22 - Mental illness in America and impending environmental catastrophe 01:59:11 - The golden age of the baby boomers 02:02:02 - Medical gigong tuina 02:03:37 - Teaching meditation and exploitative gurus 02:06:06 - Taoist view of the spiritual path 02:10:20 - Taoism vs Buddhism 02:13:21 - Dzogchen studies with Namkhai Norbu and Lama Wangdor 02:17:10 - Realisation of clear light 02:19:47 - Advice for those facing difficult times 02:22:57 - Mind to mind transmission 02:25:08 - Understanding the totality of something 02:25:56 - First attain stability of mind 02:27:33 - Nityananda, Muktananda, and shaktipat 02:29:45 - How to do mind-to-mind transmission 02:38:26 - Potential for abuse in mind-to-mind transmission abilities 02:40:36 - Muktanada, Satchidananda, and sexual repression 02:46:00 - Mental vs emotional vs psychic vs karmic traumas … To find out more about Bruce Frantzis, visit: - https://www.energyarts.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Nadia Rafaat, yoga and meditation teacher, doula, and former journalist with a special interest in female empowerment and female spirituality. Nadia recounts her difficult childhood, early career in gymnastics, and multi-year rebellious phase of class A drug use in London. Nadia recalls how attending her first yoga class radically changed her life direction, and how bringing her spiritual practices of meditation and pranayama into her own pregnancy journeys unlocked profoundly transformative effects. Having trained extensively as a doula and in pregnancy yoga, Nadia dives deep into the world of pregnancy and birth, criticising the mainstream medicalising model and offering an alternative, more intuitive approach. Nadia also shares the powerful spiritual potential of giving birth, including her own spiritual experiences during labour, and shares her perspective on female empowerment and spirituality. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep170-yoga-of-birth Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Childhood and gymnastics career 04:47 - A difficult upbringing and the beginnings of spirituality 07:38 - Rebellious phase and drug use 11:39 - Class A’s vs psychedelics 14:17 - First yoga class and a change in life direction 16:30 - An unplanned pregnancy and life uncertainty 19:44 - Going into labour at a meditation retreat 24:40 - Birth and attachment mothering 29:25 - Second pregnancy and pushing for a home birth 35:36 - Training in pregnancy yoga with Francoise Freedman and ongoing studies 38:18 - Nadia’s meditation training 45:24 - Yogic meditation experiences 47:54 - Mindfulness for mothers 49:01 - Third pregnancy and attentiveness to the mind 53:09 - Insight into suffering during labour 54:53 - History of childbirth from domestic to medical 01:01:32 - An intuitive birthing countercurrent 01:07:47 - Agendas behind the C-section trend 01:17:11 - The spiritual dimensions of giving birth 01:21:53 - Bringing birth back home 01:24:12 - The yoga of pregnancy 01:31:01 - Pratyahara during labour 01:34:15 - Female empowerment and spirituality 01:41:56 - Yoga on a woman’s terms 01:46:07 - Nadia’s work … To find out more about Nadia Rafaat, visit: - https://nadiaraafat.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I travel to the tropical island of Ko Pha-ngan in the Kingdom of Thailand, to visit recurring podcast guest Dhammarato, a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition who is known for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. I arrived at Dhammarato’s home and over the course of two days engaged in discussions with him about his life, practice, and teaching. Dhammarato shares stories of his childhood in the American South, where he faced conflict and racism that influence his world view today. He recalls his time in Ana Arbor where, immersed in the New Age movement, he studied with a witch, and attended meetings with the Indian siddha Muktananda. Dhammarato unfolds his approach to teaching Buddhism, and addresses commonly misunderstood topics such as the 8 fold noble path, stream entry, paticca samuppada, the power of placebo, how to deal with malicious people, and the importance of sangha. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep169-visting-dhammarato Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Finding Dhammarato 02:15 - Life after the Wat 06:04 - Starting to teach on Skype 07:30 - Noble Dhamma vs ordinary Buddhism 08:30 - Respect for Bikkhu Buddhadasa in Thailand 11:22 - Other teachers of the Noble Dhamma 13:27 - Skilful means 14:44 - Dhammarato’s approach to concentration and jhana 16:37 - Common practice mistakes 19:25 - How to practice the Supra-mundane Dhamma 20:05 - Right view 22:20 - Right effort and sati 23:53 - Remember to look, then make a change 25:08 - From victim to winner 28:53 - No need for examples 36:09 - Is stream entry permanent? 37:16 - Does it get easier? 42:19 - Fear and the self 48:04 - Realisation of no-self is overrated 01:01:21 - Identification with the body 01:06:31 - Liking and disliking 01:23:06 - Tour of Dhammarato’s house 01:25:30 - ‘The Handful of Leaves’ sutra 01:26:58 - Dhammarato’s Skype teaching set-up and protocol 01:30:20 - Dinner with Dhammarato 01:31:39 - Placebo and meditation 01:44:27 - Dhammarato’s upbringing 01:48:05 - Paticca samuppada and movie projection 01:52:10 - Racism in the American South 01:56:46 - Why did Dhammarato’s family move from place to place 01:58:18 - Experiences of racism and jealousy 02:03:25 - Dhammarato’s childhood dreams 02:05:24 - New age period in Ana Arbor 02:06:31 - Studies with a witch 02:11:17 - Swami Muktananda and shaktipat 02:16:23 - Dhamma is playful 02:19:02 - Anything goes? 02:25:55 - Dealing with malicious people 02:34:04 - The sangha and good friends 02:38:31 - Capitalism vs socialism 02:41:52 - Dhammarato’s work to build the Western Sangha 02:46:04 - What is Dhammarato’s motive? 02:48:18 - Dhammarato’s students and graduates … Dhammarato Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknyGISEfksirYaYpsrXdf8va … To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between Stephen Snyder, meditation teacher and author of several books including ‘Buddha’s Heart’ and his new release ‘Trust in Awakening’; and Mark Mininberg, Zen master, dharma heir to Bernie Glassman, and founder CEO of Environ Energy. Stephen and Mark recount how they met and why they decided to become each others’ teacher, Stephen teaching Mark heart meditation methods while Mark completed Stephen’s Zen koan training. Stephen and Mark pull back the curtain to give us an intimate view into their mutual teaching relationship, including accounts of mind-to-mind transmission, powerful spiritual epiphanies, and a blossoming friendship. Stephen also announces his new book ‘Trust In Awakening’, a reworking with commentary of the classic Tang Dynasty Chan poem of awakening the XinXin Ming, and offers a teaching and commentary on two of the stanzas from the book. Stephen and Mark also discuss their rigorous new program for training the next generation of teachers, their plans to open a residential retreat centre, and reflect on the dharma politics of traditionalists vs innovators. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep168-trust-in-awakening-stephen-snyder-mark-mininberg Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - First meeting 03:35 - Becoming each others’ teacher 06:47 - Adding heart to Zen 12:54 - Zen master learning heart practices from Stephen 17:09 - A powerful heart experience 20:50 - Receiving Dharma transmission in the Glassman-Roshi lineage 24:27 - Deepening koan practice 26:18 - Meeting the minds of the ancient masters 29:04 - Trust in Awakening 33:48 - Stephen and Mark teach about awakening from the 5th stanza of Stephen’s reworking of the Xinxin Ming 39:59 - How to practice with Xinxin Ming stanzas 43:40 - Stephen and Mark teach from the 8th stanza 50:17 - What is the Zen transmission process? 55:09 - Demonstration and the Mu koan 01:00:21 - Buddha’s Heart Meditation Centre 01:07:44 - Training the next generation of teachers 01:08:37 - Qualities needed in a trainee teacher 01:15:29 - The program for trainee teachers 01:18:45 - Respect for the Zen tradition 01:24:00 - Stephen’s in-person retreats 01:25:26 - Dharma politics and traditionalists vs innovators … Previous episode with Stephen Snyder: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=Stephen%20Snyder To find our more about Stephen Snyder, visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/ To find out more about Mark Mininberg, visit; - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mininberg-3ba7b2a … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Michael Taft is a meditation teacher, author, and host of the ‘Deconstructing Yourself’ podcast. In this episode, Michael reveals why he dislikes maps of meditation, and why he believes the Progress of Insight, a widely taught meditation map in Theravada Buddhism, causes more problems than it solves. Michael also discusses his points of agreement and disagreement with the Buddhist four path model, how he defines and teaches stream entry, the common traps on the way to enlightenment, how to cut through spiritual ego, and why Michael questions if becoming an arhat is actually good for anybody. Michael goes on to explain his own meditation map, based on the teachings of Shinzen Young, and shares his takes on emptiness, jhana, fire kasina, and how life changes after awakening. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep167-maps-to-enlightenment-michael-taft-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Cons of meditation maps 06:06 - Why the Progress of Insight map causes more problems than it solves 09:50 - Disagreement with Daniel Ingram 10:37 - Controversy of claiming Arhatship 14:15 - Teaching towards stream entry 15:06 - Defining stream entry 18:16 - Do meditators really want stream entry? 20:17 - Where Michael diverges from the 4-path model 22:42 - different approaches to spiritual practice 23:24 - What changes after enlightenment? 29:01 - Stress tolerance of enlightenment 30:09 - Michael’s perceptive 31:16 - Dangers on the way to stream entry 36:29 - Post-stream entry pitfalls 37:54 - Spiritual ego trips 38:35 - How Michael slices through spiritual ego 39:39 - Michael’s own map of vipassana 45:35 - The failure mode of high concentration 48:05 - Differences between low concentration and insight into emptiness 51:05 - The problem with cessation 52:47 - Emptiness of self and other 54:37 - Pointing to the self 56:02 - When Michael’s students achieve stream entry 57:02 - Welcome to the club 57:41 - Sutra vs Mahamudra 58:53 - Running the map backwards 01:01:21 - Emptiness and form 01:05:07 - The big temptation of emptiness and bliss 01:08:35 - Why leave emptiness? 01:13:10 - Vipassana vs vipasyana 01:15:41 - Quick fire round 01:16:13 - Wet of dry vipassana? 01:16:39 - Hard or soft jhana? 01:17:22 - Breath or fire kasina? 01:18:21 - BIT or SHF? 01:19:09 - Shinzen Young’s evolution … Previous episode with Michael Taft: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep149-deconstructing-yourself-michael-taft To find out more about Michael Taft, visit: - https://deconstructingyourself.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Daniel Ingram, independent Buddhist writer, author of ‘Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha’, and co-founder of the Emergent Phenomenology Research Consortium (EPRC). Daniel recounts his history with the obscure but powerful fire kasina technique, which uses a candle flame to enter into advanced states of meditative concentration. Daniel shares his successes and failures, encounters with occultists and meditation masters, and investigations into ancient texts. Daniel reveals the many uses of the powerful concentration that can be developed using fire meditation, discusses his own experiences of psychic powers and out of body experiences, and considers the risks of mental illness when dabbling in esoteric realms. At the time of recording, Daniel had just returned from a three week intensive private fire kasina meditation retreat, and he also gives a detailed practice report from his meditative seclusion, as well as practical advice for those who wish to explore this technique for themselves. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep166-fire-kasina-mystic-daniel-ingram Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Daniel’s history with the fire kasina technique 06:23 - Bhante Gunaratana 07:03 - Honeybunny the ceremonial magician 09:08 - Retreats at Gaia house and first out of body experience 12:15 - Breakthrough retreat 17:36 - Correlating fire kasina experiences with Daniel’s insight levels 19:43 - What age is best for peak meditation attainment? 25:50 - Ceremonial magic path to high concentration 27:25 - Crowley’s Book Four 28:00 - Concentration vs liberation 29:44 - A powerful experience on retreat 32:22 - Various applications of fire kasina 34:42 - Safety warning 36:55 - Experiences of OBE’s and the powers 43:09 - Divine eye and divine ear experiences 46:54 - Psychic powers or a daydream? 50:30 - Dangers of the powers 52:15 - Daniel’s guide for group retreats 01:02:14 - Practice dose advice and ideal retreat duration 01:09:10 - Aftershock and afterglow 01:19:15 - Intention, summoning entities, and retreat goals 01:29:32 - Mania, psychosis, and the clinical view 01:35:07 - Daniel’s report from his recent intensive fire kasina retreat 01:51:19 - Kripal’s flip and coping mechanisms … Daniel Ingram Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdkny_MJSecHyvKHPpvxTskBAC To find out more about Daniel, visit: - https://theeprc.org/ - integrateddaniel.info - https://firekasina.org … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James x
In this interview I host a conversation between iconoclastic yoga teacher Angela Farmer, and internationally renowned counsellor, workshop teacher, and author of ‘The Wild Woman’s Way’, Michaela Boehm. Michaela shares her admiration for Angela’s work, and Angela describes the journey of her relationship to her body, including childhood struggles , meeting her pain, and beginning a love affair with the body. Angela discuses her life’s process of teaching and eventually going beyond traditional yoga, as well as sharing the remarkable account of recovery from severe injuries received in a recent fall. Angela and Michaela also discuss Milarepa and the feminine, surrender vs giving up, the wisdom of the body, structure and imposition, learning to receive, and how to meet the world with all one’s fullness. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep165-wisdom-and-the-body-angela-farmer-michaela-boehm Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - How Michaela first encountered Angela 05:31 - Angela’s struggle to connect with her body 08:08 - Finding yoga 09:25 - The story of the body and judging oneself 12:30 - The spiral and childhood challenges 13:53 - Meeting one’s pain and disfunction 23:03 - Beyond the social persona 24:24 - Freedom from traditional yoga 30:32 - Learning about women 31:20 - Students’ projections 35:05 - Milarepa and the feminine 37:20 - Women’s empowerment 38:50 - A love affair with the body 43:38 - Deepening practice in pandemic sabbatical 45:47 - Angela’s recent fall 48:54 - Angela’s remarkable recovery process 52:09 - Be here now 56:26 - Surrender vs giving up 58:06 - Being in the head and being stuck in the underworld 01:01:27 - Wisdom of the body 01:04:36 - Structure and imposition 01:08:23 - Learning to receive 01:10:55 - Softening inside to meet the world 01:14:58 - Role models and learning through resonance 01:17:45 - Animals as role models 01:21:58 - Inspiring others 01:24:05 - Zoom vs in-person teaching … Previous episode with Angela: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep117-angela-farmer-a-life-in-yoga Previous episodes with Michaela: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=michaela%20boehm To find our more about Angela, visit: - https://angela-victor.com/ To find out more about Michaela, visit; - https://www.michaelaboehm.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr K.A Shakoor: spiritual life coach, doctor of traditional Chinese medicine, and author of several books including ‘Ghetto Sutras’ and ‘Maahaah Yoga’. Dr Shakoor recalls his childhood upbringing in which he overcame illness and bullying through martial arts and meditation. Dr Shakoor recounts his early martial training, the unfolding of his psychic abilities, and the influential mystical experiences and people that influenced his life. Dr Shakoor reveals how he learned to be assertive and handle conflict, how he developed his own variation of tonglen meditation, and the importance of trusting one’s first thought. Dr Shakoor also shares his training in various religious and energetic systems, including qigong, yoga, aikido, Buddhism, traditional Chinese medicine, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/164-dr-ka-shakoor-ghetto-sutras Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Growing up in Detroit Michigan 03:17 - Childhood illnesses and bullying 05:09 - Discovering martial arts and meditation in 1963 07:38 - Existential turning point after seeing a baby’s corpse 09:34 - Disillusionment with religion and a search for experience 12:59 - Psychic talents 15:06 - Deciding to become a yogi 16:13 - The influence of Catholic nuns 17:55 - A mystical encounter with a stranger 22:27 - Touring as a musician and training with many teachers 27:17 - Studying with Gelek Rinpoche and reading about Buddhism 28:54 - Academic achievement in the family 30:08 - Transformative effects of Dr Shakoor’s childhood Aikido training 33:44 - An experience of racism 38:28 - Learning to be assertive and handling conflict 41:09 - Psychic development 44:43 - Changing attitudes towards women 46:16 - Women’s psychic power 46:52 - Trusting what you feel 49:04 - Significant teachers 53:37 - Discussing karmamudra with Lama Wangchuk 56:07 - Dr Shakoor’s tonglen practice 57:54 - A spiritual epiphany 59:25 - S3men retention and pop tantra 01:05:21 - Becoming a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine 01:10:36 - Meeting Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche and encountering traditional Tibetan medicine 01:14:11 - Training with Dr Nida Chenagtsang ... To find out more about Dr K.A. Shakoor, visit: - https://www.drkashakoor.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I’m joined by Dean Sluyter: meditation teacher, best-selling author of several books including his most recent ‘The Dharma Bum’s Guide to Western Literature: Finding Nirvana in the Classics’. Dean recounts his fortunate upbringing, how he began to realise he had an unusually fast mind, and the early mystical experiences that would change his life in profound ways. Dean talk about his parent’s radical left activism, and how one event caused him to re-examine his family’s beliefs. Dean shares the arc of his spiritual life, including his psychedelic sadhu period, his twenty years as a teacher of Transcendental Meditation while teaching English at the illustrious Pingry School, his studies in Buddhism and Dzogchen, and why he now considers himself to be a spiritual elder. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/163-dharma-bums-guide-to-western-literature-dean-sluyter Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Origins of the book 03:05 - Dean’s Moby Dick karma 04:02 - A literature primer 05:16 - Art comes through people 06:30 - Dean’s fortunate upbringing 07:55 - A special mind 09:01 - Spontaneous childhood mystical experiences 12:18 - The mystery of awakening experiences 16:13 - Is Dean spiritually talented? 17:48 - Teaching literature and enlightenment at the illustrious Pingry School 20:03 - Dean’s emotional and social development 21:51 - Radical left activism of Dean’s parents 24:40 - Being wrong is a precious opportunity 30:57 - The appeal of certainty 32:18 - How to examine one’s inherited views 36:59 - Dean’s psychedelic sadhu phase 42:35 - Encountering Transcendental Meditation 48:09 - Mood making enlightenment 52:09 - Making your day a practice 54:20 - Why Dean left TM 57:15 - True meditation is effortless 01:00:12 - Life after TM 01:05:17 - Interest in Buddhism and Dzogchen 01:06:39 - Studying with Ngakchang Rinpoche and Surya Dass. 01:07:45 - Umbanda explorations 01:09:31 - Becoming a spiritual elder 01:11:14 - Rupert Spira as a spiritual reality check 01:13:36 - Emily Dickinson’s pure nonduality 01:16:39 - Facing the impossible in art 01:17:44 - Dean’s writing routine 01:18:18 - Dean’s teaching activities … To find out more about Dean Sluyter, visit: - https://deansluyter.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Martin Faulks: author, hermeticist, meditation adept, and memory expert. Martin recalls his upbringing in Norwich England, including his childhood love of martial arts, the dissonance between an intellectual home life and school yard bullying, and an intuition for something more in life. Martin shares his first steps in practicing hermeticism according to Franz Bardon's methods, and offers the fruits of his unbroken daily practice of over thirty years. Martin also reveals elemental personality strategies for facing adversity and how to balance them, how to find one’s authentic self amidst society's mixed messages of approval, and how the Renaissance era memory techniques of Giordano Bruno can be used today as a path to enlightenment. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/162-the-hermeticist-martin-faulks Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Upbringing in nature 03:40 - Childhood love for martial arts 06:57 - An intuition for something more 08:14 - Bullying at school vs intellectual home life 11:36 - Learning to learn 13:06 - Testing martial arts claims 15:58 - Discovering Franz Bardon and hermeticism 18:44 - Genuineness is a super power 22:02 - Coming home to hermeticism 24:24 - Developing awareness beyond the normal level 29:40 - Were there enlightened world leaders in the past? 31:51 - Elemental strategies to get ahead 35:17 - Correcting elemental imbalance 38:43 - First steps on the hermetic path 41:14 - Sources of authority 42:46 - Martin’s rigorous practice regime 45:18 - Initial exercises of Franz Bardon’s system 51:44 - How to discover your authentic self 54:37 - Mixed signals of societal approval 01:00:07 - Esoteric aspects of hermeticism 01:03:50 - Everything is real 01:06:59 - Meetings with extraordinary people 01:07:53 - Proving Giordano Bruno’s memory wheel system 01:13:20 - Renaissance era memory techniques for enlightenment … To find out more about Martin Faulks, visit: - https://martinfaulks.co.uk/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Beth Upton, meditation teacher, ex-nun, and student of renowned meditation master Pa Auk Sayadaw. Beth shares her emphasis on meditation with the natural rhythms of the body and reveals how she deals with students who experience low motivation, psychological challenges, and even psychosis as a result of meditation practice. Beth also discusses her own relationship difficulties after disrobing as a nun, why she embarked on special communication trainings to address them, and explains why erotic feeling diminishes as one becomes more enlightened. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/161-natural-meditation-beth-upton-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:43 - Beth’s Sanditthika meditation community in Spain 04:16 - Different modes of community 07:36 - Meditation with one’s natural rhythm 10:45 - The structure at Pa Auk monastery 12:04 - Resting for the first few days of retreat 14:35 - Working with low motivation to practice 17:30 - Facing challenging mental and emotional states during retreat 19:47 - Psychosis on retreat 21:34 - Common teacher mistakes when dealing with emotional states and psychosis 23:12 - Fear of litigation and criticism 27:14 - Scandal, transparency, and patriarchal models 31:57 - Living in harmony with nature 33:12 - Relationships after leaving monasticism 40:12 - Does enlightenment eliminate erotic function? 41:58 - Begin in a relationship with an enlightened person 43:49 - Tantric and kundalini practices 47:05 - The value of relational and communication practices 48:14 - Meditation isn’t enough to heal relational patterns 52:04 - Beth’s training in relational practices 53:20 - Truth in relationship 55:32 - Balancing retreat practice and practice in life 58:51 - Off-cushion meditation toolkit 01:01:09 - Beth’s personal practice rhythm 01:03:48 - Sense restrain is a gift to oneself 01:06:00 - The consequences of indulgence … Previous episode with Beth Upton: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep138-trained-as-a-nun-beth-upton … To find out more about Beth Upton, visit: - https://bethupton.com/ - https://www.sanditthika.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche, Dzogchen master, teacher of Tibetan Buddhism, and author of over 15 books. Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche recounts his nomad upbringing in Amdo, Tibet including his family circumstances, early education in his local tent school, and more. Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche recalls, the spiritual influence of his mother, his rigorous religious education under the mahasiddha Lama Tamcho Gyatso, and the early signs of his being a tulku. Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche also describes his love of books and reading, and how the circumstances of his early life have shaped him today. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/160-nomad-master-tulku-yeshi-rinpoche Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:44 - Nomad upbringing in Amdo, Tibet 11:08 - Early education in a tent school 16:43 - Further education at boarding school 26:36 - Mother’s religious influence 28:13 - Reopening of the local temples and monasteries 30:34 - Studies with the mahasiddha Lama Tamcho Gyatso 36:45 - Rigorous learning regime in the monastery 38:36 - About Lama Tamcho Gyatso 44:16 - Receiving the name ‘Yeshi Gyatso’ 45:12 - Early signs of being a tulku 54:51 - A love of books and reading 01:02:28 - Journey to India … To find out more about Tulku Yeshi Rinpoche, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/HerukaInstitute/ - https://www.herukainstitute.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between Tibetologist and Tantric Buddhist Lama Glenn Mullin and doctor of Tibetan Medicine and Yuthok Nyingthig spiritual teacher Dr Nida Chenagtsang. Lama Glenn and Dr Nida discuss impact of three key revolutionary figures in Tibetan Buddhism from historical and doctrinal perspectives: Padmasambhava, Atisha, and Tsongkhapa. The discussion extends to include the history and evolution of the famous 6 Yogas of Naropa. Both Lama Glenn and Dr Nida are known to teach these hitherto secretive practices relatively openly, and they discuss the issues that have influenced them to do so, including prophecy, the true meaning of secrecy, and the importance of including the body in religious practice. Lama Glenn and Dr Nida also discuss subjects such as the geomancy of Samye and the surrounding areas, the pros and cons of the multiplicity of religious sects in Tibet, similarities between Buddhist lineages and Western psychological schools, and more. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep159-meeting-of-ngakpas-lama-glenn-mullin-dr-nida-chenagtsang Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Jimi Hendrix and Je Tsongkhapa 03:29 - 3 revolutionaries: Padmasambhava, Atisha, Tsongkhapa 09:38 - Tsongkhapa’s 5 stages of the Dzogrim vs 6 Yogas of Naropa 14:13 - Padmasambhava’s big breakthrough 18:07 - Civil war, religious persecution, and Muslim invasion 20:08 - Why was Atisha special? 21:09 - Sect consciousness 21:41 - Tsongkhapa and the Sarma Renaissance 23:27 - Importance of historical perspective in understanding Tibetan Buddhism 26:16 - Samye College & the 5 Perfections 29:27 - Similarities with psychology schools 31:07 - Milarepa and experiential learning 35:38 - Core of all the schools 37:24 - Pros and cons of many schools 41:16 - The geomancy of Samye and Tibet 48:26 - Geomancy and dream yoga 51:36 - Historical evolution of the 6 Yogas of Naropa 56:34 - Why secrecy? 59:06 - Experiential vs academic learning 01:04:07 - Completion stage secrecy doesn’t make sense 01:08:08 - Body liberation is essential in tantra 01:12:47 - Physical activity is important 01:15:07 - Subtle body yogas of vajrayana 01:23:29 - Glenn’s closing remarks on the pros and cons of recent spread of Buddhism 01:33:19 - Nida’s closing remarks on social awareness and finding balance in Buddhist teaching 01:41:14 - The need for female teachers 01:43:32 - BONUS: Lama Glenn & Dr Nida's first meeting (in Tibetan) … Previous episodes with Lama Glenn Mullin: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=glenn%20mullin Previous episodes with Dr Nida Chenagtsang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=chenagtsang … To find out more about Lama Glenn Mullin, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn To find out more about Dr Nida Chenagtsang, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Dr Evan Thompson is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of British Columbia an Associate Member of the Department of Asian Studies and the Department of Psychology, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. Evan recounts his upbringing in his father’s intentional community, the Lindisfarne Association, and shares stories of childhood encounters with teachers of Zen, Sufism, Tibetan Buddhism, Yoga, and more. Evan traces his intellectual and academic trajectories, and reflects on the problems of community dynamics and religious perennialism that his father’s community faced. Evan then outlines his critique of what he calls ‘Buddhist Exceptionalism’, as laid out in his book ‘Why I Am Not A Buddhist’. As part of this critique, Evan addresses subjects such as why Buddhism is not a science of the mind (or of anything else), why presentations of the historical Buddha used by figures such as Goenka are a useful fiction, the problems of borrowing the authority of science for the purposes of Buddhist evangelism, and the surprising influence of Protestantism on Buddhism’s development in Asia. Evan also reflects on the future of Buddhism and explores the question, ‘what is enlightenment?’. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/158-why-i-am-not-a-buddhist-evan-thompson Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:23 - Evan’s upbringing in his father’s intentional community 06:38 - Exposure to Zen via Richard Baker Roshi 09:34 - Zen takeover of the Lindisfarne Association 11:13 - Childhood encounters with Buddhist, Sufi, Yoga, and Christian teachers 14:29 - Evan’s distaste for Chogyam Trungpa’s scene 16:48 - Fractious community dynamics and the Zen takeover 21:19 - Problems of perennialism 25:03 - An ecology of mysticism 26:32 - Religious superiority 28:18 - Evan’s intellectual development and academic trajectory 35:36 - Buddhist exceptionalism and the Mind & Life Institute 41:20 - What is Buddhist modernism 44:065 - Evan’s misgivings about Buddhist exceptionalism 47:37 - Evan summarises his critique 49:21 - Reactions from colleagues 54:44 - Why do elite academics engage in Buddhist apologetics? 56:58 - Goenka’s useful fiction of the historical Buddha 01:01:09 - B Alan Wallace and religious vs academic register 01:04:19 - Exceptionalism as evangelism and exhortation 01:05:20 - The core philosophical engine of Buddhism 01:07:41 - Buddhism is not scientific 01:10:56 - Personal experience and ‘test and see’ 01:15:59 - Is Buddhist philosophy uniquely rich? 01:21:12 - What is enlightenment? 01:25:00 - Awakening as a regulative ideal 01:27:20 - What counts as the experience of awakening? 01:32:28 - Protestant Christianity’s surprising influence on Buddhism in Asia 01:40:23 - What would convert Evan to Buddhism 01:42:22 - Exceptionalism harms Buddhism and science … To find out more about Evan Thompson, visit: - https://evanthompson.me/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Tseyang Osel is a Buddhist yogini who has spent most of her twenties in solitary retreat in remote mountain areas. Recorded in Tang Valley, Bhutan. Tseyang tells the story of her childhood, the beginning of the inspiration to become a yogini, and her attraction to solitary retreat. Tseyang details the practicalities as well as the dangers of spending months in the remote mountains, and the unique challenges of being a female practitioner in today’s world. Tseyang also discusses her love of Vajrayogini practice, the effect of kye-rim naljor on the subtle body channels, themes of devotion and attachment, and gives her heart advice to those who wish to practice well. … Video version: Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Tseyang’s childhood and upbringing 04:25 - The desire to become a mountain practitioner 06:35 - Searching for female inspirations 12:07 - Solitary retreats and attraction to remote mountain areas 16:05 - Special qualities of mountain retreats 20:25 - Food and provisions on remote retreats 23:28 - Challenges and dangers in the mountains 29:07 - Five elements practice as sustenance 30:43 - Nomad encounters 32:30 - Vajrayogini practice 36:51 -Generation stage and the subtle body 39:33 - Tendrel and devotion 41:34 - Skill in practice 42:37 - Being a female practitioner 44:40 - Long hair and attachment 51:59 - Wearing religious robes 53:51 - Advice to male and female practitioners 59:51 - Tseyang’s upcoming mountain retreat 01:01:20 - What inspires Tseyang’s practice … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Candia Raquel recently interviewed me for her ‘Sensual Sessions’ Podcast. Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/steve-james-interviewed-on-the-sensual-sessions-podcast 00:00 - What does Steve do? 02:00 - Does Steve have magical powers? 03:36 - Is Steve enlightened? 06:14 - Why is Steve interested in mysticism and relationship? 08:45 - Are Steve’s interests useful in daily life? 10:17 Applying sublime and subtle practices in daily life 14:31 - Falling in love with the mundane 17:22 - Feeling pleasure in meditation 22:37 - Do men struggle to describe feeling? 26:40 - 3 blocks to feeling pleasure 31:20 - Relaxations vs excitation 36:05 - Pleasure in martial arts and competition 39:11 - The ritual of preparation 42:53 - Winning 45:17 - Candia on ritual and the unexpected 47:08 - Biggest challenges for men in feeling pleasure 48:55 - Do men have unique stresses? 50:36 - Stoicism and emotions 54:47 - Candia on macho culture 58:42 - Repression vs narcissism 59:52 - How Steve works with people who want to feel more pleasure 01:04:52 - Mapping pleasure and going beyond method 01:07:39 - Movement as a portal 01:12:36 - Steve describes his present experience 01:13:20 - Steve online Candia Raquel: https://www.centrodepoder.com/ Other times I have been interviewed: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/category/Steve+Interviewed #guruviking #stevejames #candiaraquel
In this episode I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ‘A Mind Without Craving’. Delson draws on his scriptural knowledge and personal experience to take a deep dive into dependent origination, the doctrine believed by many Buddhists to be the key to enlightenment. In practical and relatable terms, Delson explains how this doctrine works, why it is important yet so often misunderstood, and how to use meditation to move from an intellectual understanding to the experiential understanding that is Buddhist enlightenment. Delson also compares the enlightened to the unenlightened experiences of time, memory, and decision making process, and gives a surprising answer to the question: can enlightened people make mistakes? … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/155-key-to-enlightenment-delson-armstrong-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - How to obtain an experiential understanding 05:56 - Essence of Dependent Origination 07:37 - How choices create reality 11:09 - Delson explains the 12 links 21:38 - Common mistakes in understanding the 12 links 24:25 - 6R’s as a craving intervention 30:09 - Consequences of disrupting the 12 links via meditation 36:30 - Does the wisdom mind generate karma? 39:01 - Exhaustion of past life karma 41:09 - Enlightened vs unenlightened experience of life 45:14 - Enlightened vs unenlightened experience of time, memory, and future planning 48:38 - Enlightened vs unenlightened decision making processes 55:22 - Why do enlightened people make mistakes? 01:00:03 - Lifting the veil that filters reality 01:06:36 - Trauma how to recondition the mind 01:15:01 - Letting go of craving is wholesome 01:17:21 - Is cultivation of wholesome states necessary? 01:20:39 - How purification works 01:23:42 - Healing trauma and MDMA-assisted therapy 01:27:39 - Simply observing suffering is not enough 01:31:24 - Riding the 12 links to stream entry and beyond 01:41:46 - Practical advice for the practitioner ... Previous episodes with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep120-meditation-virtuoso-delson-armstrong/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep127-siddha-tales-delson-armstrong-2/ - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep136-meeting-of-the-dharmas-daniel-ingram-delson-armstrong To find out more about Delson Armstrong, visit: - https://www.suttavada.foundation/our-teachers/ - https://www.dhammasukha.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Brad Warner, Zen teacher and best-selling author of ‘Hardcore Zen’ and ‘The Other Side of Nothing’. Brad recounts his unusual childhood, his passion for Punk rock ethics, and reveals what thwarted his teenage desire to become a born again Christian. Brad describes his first encounter with Zen, shares the secret of his decades of daily practice, and explains why he is at odds with the culture and institutions of mainline American Zen. Brad also discusses his awakening experience, the significance of dharma transmission, his new book on ethics, and what Dogen’s mysterious metaphors have in common with the TV show ‘Ancient Aliens’. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/155-hardcore-zen-brad-warner Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:48 - Brad’s writing process 01:54 - ‘I’m not saying it was Aliens, but it was Aliens’ 03:25 - Brad’s unusual upbringing 06:22 - Finding Zen and moving to Japan 09:38 - Punk rock ethics 11:38 - Trying to become a Christian 14:39 - Practice vs belief 18:09 - At odds with institutional Zen 20:57 - Brad’s Zen vs American Zen 25:08 - American Buddhist politics 26:25 - The secret of Brad’s daily meditation practice 36:01 - Meditation consequences permanent or temporary? 39:11 - The danger of stopping practice after awakening 40:56 - Nishijima Roshi cutting Brad down 46:36 - Brad’s awakening experience 49:37 - Receiving Dharma transmission 54:01 - Links to SFZC 55:09 - Dharma transmission wars and institutional power 01:02:06 - Secret lineage of transmission 01:05:06 - Will Brad give dharma transmission? 01:09:35 - What if Nishijima Roshi had moved to the USA? 01:13:41 - Does Brad have a teacher now? 01:17:15 - Brad’s new book about ethics and non-duality 01:25:13 - Dogen’s elusive metaphors 01:30:44 - Brad on race and being a foreigner … To find out more about Brad Warner, visit: - http://hardcorezen.info/ - https://www.youtube.com/c/HardcoreZen For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Richard Ayling recently interviewed me on his 'Man Reimagined' Podcast. Topics include: 00:00 - Rich on Steve and interesting topics 03:07 - Steve’s background 08:46 - What is average? 11:06 - Growing up on the Shetland Islands 13:41 - Discipline and delayed gratification 22:54 - Guru Viking Meditation Club 34:10 - Strong determination sitting 36:51 - Dedication from enjoyment 43:07 - ‘Masculine and feminine’ 01:00:36 - Fundamentalism trap 01:03:08 - Rich’s doubts about men’s work 01:07:30 - Rich’s professional trajectory 01:18:36 - Methods are limited + Steve on men’s work 01:29:03 - Enquiry over imposition 01:34:23 - Movement Koan Method 01:42:43 - Meditation vs movement practices 01:44:40 - About relationship 01:49:27 - On conversation 01:51:42 - Steve’s future Richard Ayling: https://www.re-align.co/ Other times I have been interviewed: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/category/Steve+Interviewed
Special guest Dr Jonathan Lunine, distinguished American planetary scientist and physicist, joins the ongoing discussion with: - Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant - Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student Dr Lunine is the David C. Duncan Professor in the Physical Sciences and Chair of the Department of Astronomy at Cornell University. Dr Lunine has published over 380 research papers and is at the forefront of research into planet formation, evolution, and habitability. Dr Lunine’s work includes the Cassini mission to Saturn, the James Webb Space Telescope, and the Juno Mission to Jupiter. Dr Lunine is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and has participated in and chaired advisory and strategic planning committees for the Academy and for NASA. In this episode, the group question the compatibility of faith and science, explore the writings of St Thomas Aquinas and the radical theology of T.S Eliot, and consider the controversial theories of Sir Roger Penrose. Dr Lunine also discusses his research into life on other planets, reveals the possibility of cyanide-based life, and speculates about the role of God in the universe of the Big Bang. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep145-faith-and-science-jonathan-lunine-shinzen-young-chesley-fasano Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:23 - Faith and Reason 04:42 - How big is life? 07:57 - Physics & God 08:57 - Buddhist exceptionalism 09:33 - Are science and faith compatible? 13:59 - The Society of Catholic Scientists 15:17 - Georges Lemaître and the Big Bang 16:03 - Dr Lunine’s search for life on other planets and moons 17:36 - Titan’s methane seas and hydrogen bonding mechanisms 20:03 - Cyanide-based life and information molecules 28:52 - Future missions to Titan 30:57 - Definition of a habitable zone 33:20 - Detecting water on extra-solar planets 37:04 - How big is life and where is information stored? 43:55 - Is life on Earth the ultimate pinnacle of self-organisation? 45:42 - Meta-life and Sir Roger Penrose 48:04 - The radical theology of T.S Eliot 50:24 - Aquinas on diversity as an expression of order 52:14 - Time and timelessness 55:44 - God as the Infinite and eternal foundation of all reality 56:46 - Chaos and Dr Sanguinetti … Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxjhwG5wmXRVfrkeGczVPVI … To find out more about Dr Lunine, visit: - https://astro.cornell.edu/jonathan-lunine To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Mary Shutan: author, occultist, and spiritual teacher. Mary shares her journey from a traumatic early childhood to adoption into an upper-middle class family, and how spiritual overwhelm in her teenage years, and a subsequent kundalini awakening, drove her to in-depth study of spiritual themes. Mary details her own kundalini experience, including challenging side effects, kundalini traps, and the role of sacrifice on the spiritual path. Mary also discusses her love of reading and magical realism, recounts her time as a ritual magician working with the dark feminine, advises on encounters with entities and extra-terrestrials, and describes the different types of spiritual protection employed by institutions and public figures. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/153-mary-shutan-kundalini-and-the-occult Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Prolific publications 01:41 - Mary’s writing process 02:35 - Upper-middle class upbringing as an adoptee 04:56 - Early childhood trauma 08:28 - Spiritual overwhelm during teenage years 13:03 - Magical realism and Mary’s writing influences 17:29 - Spiritual truths in fiction 18:41 - Pan’s Garden, elementals, and Clive Barker 20:34 - Magic in art 22:37 - Mary’s kundalini awakening 26:04 - What is kundalini? 28:04 - Challenging side-effects of Mary’s kundalini awakening 32:35 - Active vs passive surrender 34:49 - Common misconceptions about kundalini 37:59 - What triggers kundalini awakening? 40:58 - Spontaneous kundalini awakenings 42:46 - Direct methods to awaken kundalini 45:40 - Kundalini traps 48:07 - Sacrifice on the spiritual path 49:48 - Losing martyrdom and other identity markers 52:31 - Years in ritual magic and occultism 55:31 - Misogyny in Western Occultism and the dark feminine 59:01 - How to know if an occult ritual has worked 01:01:29 - Are occultists hired by governments and celebrities? 01:07:12 - Different types of spiritual protection employed by institutions and public figures 01:09:09 - Mary’s near death experience 01:12:23 - Working with non-corporeal teachers and other entities 01:14:39 - Voluntary possession practices 01:18:06 - Encounters with extra-terrestrials 01:20:25 - Adi Da’s ‘Knee of Listening’ 01:22:38 - Working with Mary … To find out more about Mary Shutan, visit: - http://maryshutan.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I travel to the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, where I visit world renowned Bhutanese author Ashi Kunzang Choden at her family seat of Ogyen Choling in the Tang Valley, Bumthang. Ashi gives a tour of her home, which her family have occupied for hundreds of years, including a rare look into a remarkable multi-story temple with rich religious frescos, sacred artefacts, and entire floors dedicated to Tara and Guru Rinpoche. Ashi also recounts her remarkable life that embodies so much of Bhutan’s recent history. Ashi was born into a family of feudal lords, witnessed the reformations of the 1950s, was educated in Catholic convents in India, and worked for the United Nations, before returning to her family home which she now runs as a cultural centre and guest house. Ashi also recalls the spiritual advice given to her by Dudjom Rinpoche, reveals why her exposure to Christianity opened her up to the heart of Buddhism, and discusses the impact of feminist thought on her perspective of Bhutanese culture and her place in it. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/152-voice-of-bhutan-ashi-kunzang-choden Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - About Ogyen Choling 04:53 - Entering the temple 06:15 - The main temple featuring Buddha Shakyamuni, Dorje Lingpa, & Longchenpa 08:55 - Bardo Thodol fresco 09:28 - Sacred relics 12:49 - Frescoes of Guru Rinpoche and Kalachakra Shambala 16:53 - The Tara temple with unique family statues 18:36 - Frescos of the 84 Mahasiddhas, Avalokiteshvara, & the Buddha 20:44 - History of Ashi’s family temple 22:26 - Preservation of Dorje Lingpa’s texts 26:43 - Tour of the family museum 28:14 - About the local spirits 30:48 - Pre-reformation life of self-sufficiency 32:44 - Effects of global warming on crops 35:14 - Rice, grain, and alcohol practices 38:16 - History of Ashi’s family 42:44 - Ashi’s memories of Bhutan’s reformations 46:43 - Education at Catholic convents for 11 years 50:28 - Opening to Buddhism to through Christianity 53:41 - Meetings with great Lamas and the advice of Dudjom Rinpoche 01:00:03 - Ashi on feminism 01:06:28 - Ashi’s writing career 01:11:19 - Ashi’s closing remarks … To find out more about Ashi Kunzang Choden, visit: - https://www.olingheritagehouse.com/about - https://www.riyangbooks.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
David recounts his upbringing in Scotland, and how a lifetime of frustrated spiritual seeking was resolved in a profound spiritual experience that changed everything. David details the results of this transformative experience and discusses themes such as religiosity, the zeal of the convert, falling into the spirit of God, advice for prayer and meditation, and the mystic’s view of identity. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/151-scottish-mystic-david-mcmurdo Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:37 - David’s upbringing in Scotland 03:50 - David’s love of the Scottish town of Thurso 05:56 - Frustrating spiritual seeking 07:57 - A life-changing spiritual experience 10:56 - Piercing the roof of the intellect 12:32 - Jesus Christ 15:43 - The Mystery 18:01 - Changes in David after the experience 20:06 - Gnosis and experiential spirituality 21:55 - Zeal of the convert 26:50 - Disagreement with the doctrine of the trinity 30:52 - Zealots aren’t fun 31:48 - Leaving the tribe 34:12 - Falling into the spirit of God 36:43 - The ultimate truth 40:04 - Depression and the Dark Night of the Soul 42:13 - What is God? 47:04 - Heaven, hell, and the afterlife 49:57 - Experiential vs intellectual knowledge 54:35 - Advice for spiritual practice 59:56 - Prayer and meditation 01:02:39 - How to meditate 01:04:51 - What is love? 01:09:26 - Pacifism and conflict 01:14:35 - Repentance and purification 01:17:57 - The mystic’s view of identity 01:23:25 - David’s YouTube channel … To find out more about David McMurdo, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/DavidMcMurdo For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Nida Chenagtsang, master of Tibetan Medicine and spiritual teacher of the Yuthok Nyingthig tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Dr Nida reveals why in 2021 he withdrew from public teaching to take an extended personal retreat lasting the year, and details the overall structure, daily routine, and practices that he engaged. Dr Nida recalls the obstacles he encountered and how he overcame them, and shares the powerful experience towards the end of his retreat that caused lasting significant change in his personality and activity. Dr Nida also discusses the danger of ego inflation and narcissism in spiritual practice, the serious psychological risks of rigorous training, and offers his advice on those who wish to embark on meditation retreat. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Why did Dr Nida go on retreat? 04:31 - Longchenpa on life’s busyness 06:23 - Overall retreat structure 09:28 - Daily retreat routine 11:32 - 2 different styles of practice 19:20 - Pros and cons of using an altar 21:46 - Chulen retreat diet 23:52 - Facing obstacles 26:51 - Bliss interrupted 30:00 - Changes in Dr Nida after the retreat 31:25 - Clarity, public opinion, and compassion burnout 39:02 - A beautiful inner understanding 41:08 - A transformative experience during the retreat 43:07 - Exclusive specialness 46:05 - Dr Nida’s retreat reading 47:31 - Feedback from others after retreat 49:34 - The ultimate spiritual expression 51:20 - Ego inflation from retreat practice 56:26 - Psychological disorders and retreat 59:06 - Spiritual narcissism 01:00:04 - Tough retreats and when training is too hard 01:01:52 - Retreat suicides 01:05:21 - Avoiding ego inflation on retreat 01:07:18 - Dangers of demanding higher practices 01:09:45 - Strict retreat vs quality of practice 01:11:11 - Advice for those embarking on retreat 01:16:17 - Dr Nida’s plans for future retreat 01:18:17 - Stiff mindfulness vs relaxed mindfulness … Previous Interviews with Dr Nida: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=nida To find out more about Dr Nida, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Lian Brook-Tyler recently interviewed me about magic and the esoteric for her ‘Primal Happiness’ podcast. Topics include: 00:00 - Steve is a muggle 03:07 - Who is Daniel Ingram? 08:29 - Musing on magic 18:04 - Cheat code or apotheosis? 19:46 - Magic as listening 22:22 - Dream yoga 25:00 - Lian on magic 26:55 - Siddhi and special powers 28:48 - Magic in modern culture 35:02 - Lian’s journey with magic 42:18 - Lian’s magical evolution 47:21 - Magical dark night 49:30 - Advice for those interested in magic 51:59 - Seeing beyond yourself 56:11 - Lian and the rose Lian’s ‘Primal Happiness’ Show - https://www.youtube.com/c/WakingTheWild Other times I have been interviewed: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/category/Steve+Interviewed
In this interview I am joined by Michael Taft: maverick meditation teacher, bestselling author, host of the ‘Deconstructing Yourself’ podcast, and founder of the Alembic community. Michael recounts his lifelong meditation journey, describes his initial reluctance to teach meditation, the writing of ‘Mindful Geek’, and his divergence from Shinzen Young. Michael reveals his troubled upbringing, crippling teenage anxiety, and intense experimentation with LSD and the occult. Michael also shares a transformative mystical experience in Japan, his practice of classical Hindu tantra, and details experiences of seeing other dimensional entities in daily life. … Link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:57 - Looking back at ‘Mindful Geek’ 03:09 - Reluctance to teach 04:49 - Secular mindfulness 10:09 - Diverging from Shinzen Young 12:52 - Michael’s troubled upbringing 17:32 - Crippling anxiety attacks and discovering meditation 21:35 - Experiments with the occult 22:36 - Michael’s magical explorations 25:40 - Chaos magic and massive doses of LSD 28:12 - The essence of Robert Anton Wilson 31:31 - David Chapman ruins everything 34:10 - Shapeshifting as a meditation teacher 41:36 - More on LSD 43:06 - Moving to Japan 46:46 - A transformative psychedelic experience 49:38 - Analysing Michael’s psychedelic experience 54:32 - Living in the Jewel Ornament Sutra 56:48 - Seeing entities 01:00:17 - Learning to see other realms 01:04:20 - Extensive kundalini work 01:08:23 - Michael’s practice of classical tantra 01:10:38 - Intensive underground retreat practice 01:11:16 - The essence of Michael’s tantric journey 01:14:33 - Trauma healing and the energy body 01:17:20 - Integration and personal relationships ... To find out more about Michael Taft, visit: - https://deconstructingyourself.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by lucid dreaming teacher and best-selling author Charlie Morley. Charlie recounts a trip to South Africa to see his Buddhist guru Lama Yeshe, and recalls a mystical experience he had there while on retreat with Dr Daniel P Brown. Charlie reveals his most effective lucid dreaming techniques, explains why meditation can be bad for trauma, details his work with veterans with PTSD, and demonstrates a powerful breath technique to regulate the nervous system. Charlie also speaks openly about his recent life struggles, including the terminal diagnosis of his mother, the end of his marriage, and an emotional breakdown that led to suicidal ideation. Charlie shares how these struggles have profoundly transformed every aspect of his life and clarified his life mission to help others. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep148-wake-up-to-sleep-charlie-morley-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Visiting Lama Yeshe in South Africa 09:00 - Charlie on Dr Daniel P Brown 12:42 - Mystical experience on retreat with Dr Daniel P Brown 15:50 - Pure vision and experiencing emptiness in the dream state 18:39 - Awareness and learning in lucid dreams 20:07 - Claiming spiritual attainments 26:09 - Charlie’s work with with veterans and PTSD 31:56 - 5 pillars of trauma work with veterans 34:36 - The power of coherent breathing 44:12 - Meditation bad for trauma? 46:10 - Guided coherent breathing practice 54:53 - Tummo, and Wim Hof, and trauma 59:24 - Why sleep hygiene tips don’t work 01:01:33 - Charlie’s ketamine trauma at 17 years old 01:03:11 - Charlie on tummo practice 01:07:04 - The most effective lucid dreaming technique 01:10:08 - Story of a powerful lucid dream 01:19:38 - Charlie’s brutal obstacle year of Alzheimers and divorce 01:24:58 - Charlie’s breakdown and suicidal ideation 01:28:27 - A profound growing up 01:29:43 - What Charlie learned from his breakdown 01:33:46 - Waking up and growing up 01:35:53 - Rupert Spira vs Henry Shukman, creativity and trauma 01:43:14 - Profound shifts in Charlie’s motivation and lucid dreaming practice 01:46:53 - The reflection of Charlie’s mentors 01:49:34 - Charlie’s mission statement … Previous episode with Charlie Morley: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/guru-viking-interviews-ep2-charlie-morley-2 To find out more about Charlie, visit: - http://www.charliemorley.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Amoda Maa, spiritual teacher and author of books such as ‘Embodied Enlightenment’ and ‘Falling Open in a World Falling Apart’. Amoda Maa shares how her troubled upbringing including secretive paternity, abuse, and financial instability, saw her fall into a profound depression with multiple suicide attempts. Amoda Maa discusses how psychedelic experimentation led her to leave her PhD and embark on 7 years of homelessness and consciousness exploration in the London drug scene, experiencing mystical states and healing her trauma through therapies and personal practice. Amoda Maa recounts her travels in India, joining Osho’s ashram, and subsequent awakening which she describes as ‘falling into the abyss of being’. Amoda Maa also reveals why she thinks the egoic state of humanity has comets a peak, and why each person must hold the line of presence and openness in an increasingly divided world. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep147-falling-open-amoda-maa Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Troubled upbringing 07:59 - Secrecy about Amoda Maa’s father 12:02 - Educational excellence and further domestic challenges 15:31 - Abuse and suicide attempts 21:44 - Lack of financial stability and making ends meet 24:46 - Becoming homeless and 7 years in the London drug scene 28:17 - Psychedelic experimentation and leaving her PhD 35:00 - Spiritual reading and recognising the clear light of mind 41:35 - Healing trauma through rebirthing and other therapies 45:07 - Experiencing the trauma healing potential of MDMA 52:53 - Out of body experiences and mystical visions 57:43 - Amoda Maas’ prophetic vision of current events 59:20 - Egoic state of humanity has come to a peak 01:02:31 - Holding the line of presence and openness 01:10:33 - Travels in India and joining Osho’s ashram 01:14:01 - Receiving the name ‘Amoda Maa’ and a profound spiritual experience 01:16:49 - Returning to London and falling into the abyss of being 01:20:26 - After awakening and the feminine face of awakening … To find out more about Amoda Man, visit: - https://www.amodamaa.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host part 2 of an ongoing dialogue between Rupert Spira: a teacher of the direct path method of Advaita and an internationally acclaimed ceramic artist; and Henry Shukman, Zen teacher and award winning poet and writer. Rupert and Henry discuss the path of deep training in both art and spirituality, why traditional forms are repositories of generational understanding, and the meaning of spiritual friendship. Rupert reflects on how art points to truth, and Henry discusses Koan training as a means to stabilise awakening. Rupert and and Henry also reflect on what it takes to create effective art and why it is vital for the apprentice to surpass the master. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Rupert on Henry’s zen memoir 03:46 - Henry on Rupert’s books 06:01 - Evolution of Rupert’s art from ceramics to language 13:00 - Discipline teaches the process of art 15:42 - The student must surpass the teacher 20:06 - Premature teaching vs submission to deep training 25:30 - Henry’s journey as a poet 30:17 - Imitation before innovation 33:57 - Koan training to stabilise awakening 36:48 - Forms of the tradition are the repositories of generations of understanding 39:33 - Key moments in Henry’s koan training 42:48 - 1-1 teaching vs group teaching 49:02 - Are new koans evolving? 52:52 - Rupert and Henry discuss koans 57:18 - What is required of the artist to make effective art? 01:00:26 - What Henry’s art seeks to convey 01:06:38 - Rupert on how art points to truth 01:12:47 - Art of expressing suffering 01:16:05 - The experience of artistic work 01:21:54 - The master’s view 01:24:31 - Rupert and Henry on Steve’s facilitation 01:27:18 - On teaching … Previous dialogue between Spira and Shukman: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep131-art-spirituality-rupert-spira-henry-shukman To find out more about Rupert Spira, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep124-art-of-awakening-rupert-spira - https://rupertspira.com/ To find out more about Henry Shukman, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shukman - https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/henry-shukman/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Gregory Blann: mystic, artist, author, and initiate of the Inayati and Halveti-Jerrahi orders of Sufism. Gregory discusses his latest book on the remarkable life of Lex Hixon, aka Sheik Nur, the influential American mystic, author, and broadcaster who was initiated into several of the world’s mystery traditions and was a key figure in inter-faith dialogue. Gregory recounts his own encounters with Lex Hixon, and reveals why he decided to write a biography of his old friend and colleague. Gregory also discusses the heart of the Quran, the power of the feminine, and why Swami Vivekananda said ‘American women will be the salvation of the world’. Gregory and his wife Silvia end the episode by singing two Turkish Ilahis of the Sufi Tradition. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep145-living-open-space-lex-hixon Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Meeting Lex Hixon 06:10 - The heart of the Quran 08:11 - The source behind all religions 12:45 - The early life of Lex Hixon 15:50 - Why Gregory wrote Lex’s biography 26:55 - Lex’s four main religious lineages 31:18 - The power of the feminine 43:14 - ‘American women will be the salvation of the world’ 49:33 - Clashes with religious institutions 01:07:31 - Interspirituality 01:09:03 - Reflections on Lex Hixon 01:14:24 - What are Turkish Sufi Ilahis? 01:18:44 - Gregory and his wife sing two Ilahis … Previous episode with Gregory Blann: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep96-gregory-blann-the-garden-of-mystic-love/ To find out more about Gregory, visit: - https://blanng.wixsite.com/blanngallery For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Guo Gu, Chan Buddhist teacher, author, and scholar of Buddhism. Guo Gu describes how ongoing bullying and violent confrontations as a teenager led him to form influential music groups Death Before Dishonor and Judge. Guo Gu reveals why a feeling of hypocrisy as a monk led him to study social work and eventually obtain a PhD from Princeton University's Department of Religion on self-inflicted violence in Chinese religions Guo Gu also reveals why he became Straight Edge, considers the role of religious asceticism and the body in today’s world, and comments on what others have called a meaning crisis in today’s society. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep144-hardcore-and-body-in-spiritual-practice-guo-gu Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:43 - Bullied as an adolescent 08:53 - Meeting Mike Ferraro and getting good at fighting 14:29 - Imprint of his violent past 21:30 - Death Before Dishonor and heavy metal influences 23:26 - Becoming Straight edge 33:05 - Guo Gu’s PhD on religious asceticism 33:47 - A feeling of hypocrisy as a monk 44:30 - Reflecting on religious asceticism 47:43 - Bodily aptitude in spiritual practice 50:52 - Meaning crisis in society 54:12 - New book on the Gateless Barrier 59:31 - The practice of silent illumination 01:13:02 - Apophatic and cataphatic practice … Previous episode with Guo Gu: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep127-chan-master-guo-gu To find out more about Guo Gu, visit: - https://guogulaoshi.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
J Brown recently interviewed me for his Yoga Talks Podcast. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/j-brown-yoga-talks-interviews-steve-james- Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - J’s Intro 06:22 - J meets Steve 07:49 - J’s alter-ego 10:18 - Living on a boat 15:43 - Outdoor survival and unraveling the mystery 19:57 - Facing fear 22:12 - Altar boy and martial arts 26:52 - Yoga training with Godfrey Devereux 27:18 - Pranayama 32:15 - The context of doing 38:19 - Steve’s influences 39:57 - Shinzen Young 44:05 - Movement vs Sitting Meditation 51:05 - Working with Michaela Boehm 54:20 - Non-Linear Movement Method® 01:01:20 - Structured vs non-linear practice 01:07:30 - Long meditation sitting 01:13:43 - Why meditate? 01:20:32 - Mystical and supernatural experiences 01:33:43 - Experiences of profundity 01:38:32 - The mystic and structure 01:43:59 - J’s concluding comments … J Brown Yoga: https://www.jbrownyoga.com/ Other times I have been interviewed: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknzwdzEdv0Q4Y9a25xDv_Xuv You can find me at: www.guruviking.com
In this interview I am joined by Dr Caroline Van Damme, an adult psychiatrist and family and systemic psychotherapist specialising in chronic psychotic disorders, and co-teacher of Buddhist guru and Sowa Rigpa doctor Nida Chenagtsang. Caroline discusses the cultural complexity of being raised in Belgium, how an early interest in the mind saw her train as a psychiatrist, and the reasons for her specialising in chronic psychosis. Caroline also recounts her first encounters with Buddhism, including a meeting with a mysterious Lama, and the story of her collaboration with Dr Nida Chenagstang to train counsellors informed by both Western psychology and traditional Tibetan medicine. Caroline draws on her professional experience to reveal rapport building skills for clinicians, as well as discussing religious experience as a form of psychosis, and the the pros and cons of the religious mind. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep143-dr-caroline-van-damme-psychiatry-religious-experience Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Upbringing in Catholic Belgium 05:25 - Interest in Buddhism & neuroscience and studying in America 09:51 - Training to become a psychiatrist 14:17 - Specialising in chronic psychosis 16:39 - Brussels Night Hospital 18:54 - Cultural complexity of Belgium 23:45 - Choosing clinical practice over a research career 30:11 - Discovering Buddhism and co-teaching with Dr Nida Chenagtsang 34:55 - An encounter with a Tibetan guru 40:01 - Meeting Dr Nida 44:32 - What so impressed Dr Caroline about Dr Nida? 50:13 - The healing relationship 53:22 - Attachment theory 58:54 - How to build trust with a patient 01:03:57 - How to cut through evasive small talk 01:07:33 - The #1 reason patients lose trust 01:12:56 - Insights into parenting and setting boundaries 01:20:38 - Transference and keeping your centre as a therapist 01:30:35 - Is religious experience a kind of psychosis? 01:44:56 - Religiosity as pathology 01:47:50 - Scientism as over-reach 01:50:55 - Religious abuses 02:06:09 - Personality disorders and meditation gone wrong … To find out more about Dr Van Damme, visit: - https://www.sowarigpainstitute.org/dr-caroline-van-damme Interviews with Dr Nida Chenagtsang: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep49-dr-nida-chenagtsang-heart-of-a-nomad/ https://www.guruviking.com/ep71-dr-nida-chenagtsang-karmamudra/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep41-dr-nida-chenagtsang-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Stephen Synder, meditation teacher and author of many books including ‘Demsystifiyng Awakening’ and ‘Buddha’s Heart’, offers a ‘guided meditation into the unmanifest Absolute to contact and abide in the deep peacefulness there’. Stephen’s students have found this meditation helpful when working with the fear and anguish of the war in Ukraine, and Stephen generously offered to share it here. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/peace-meditation-stephen-snyder-bonus-episode Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 03:46 - Guided meditation ... Check out my previous interviews with Stephen: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep24-stephen-snyder-a-stroke-of-realisation-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep33-stephen-snyder-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep70-stephen-snyder-buddhas-heart/ - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep141-demystifying-awakening-stephen-snyder Purchase ‘Demystifying Awakening’: - https://awakeningdharma.org/book/demystifying-awakening/ To find out more about Stephen Snyder, visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Dr Jud Brewer - pioneering psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and New York Times best-selling author - returns to once again join the ongoing conversation featuring: - Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant - Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student - Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Professor at the University of New Mexico In this episode, the group take a deep dive into concepts of the ‘Self’, comparing and contrasting religious models with the latest theories in neuroscience and psychology. Shinzen rethinks Early Buddhist craving and aversion doctrines in the light of modern mathematics and Jud considers the clinical implications of neuro-modulation and psychedelics. The group also discusses the typical learning curve to enlightenment, as well as the role of connection and communion in contemplative endeavours. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep142-science-the-enlightened-self-brewer-shinzen-fasano-sanguinetti Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - What is the self? 06:24 - DFN hubs of the self 09:13 - The multi-dimensional self 10:14 - 6-fold aspects of the self 12:58 - The experiential self and seeing through illusion 16:35 - Shinzen on mathematics, the self, and early Buddhist teachings 24:11 - Distinctions around dimensional analysis 31:03 - Clinical considerations and psychedelics 34:28 - Stickiness and surprising results of ultrasound neuro-modulation on meditators 37:45 - Different kinds of self-stickiness can be directly targeted by ultrasound 39:11 - Shinzen rethinks craving and aversion doctrines 47:00 - More on targeting self-clinging with ultrasound 48:32 - How to attain stream entry 55:09 - Jud on phase change and the ice cube analogy 01:00:22 - Typical learning curve to enlightenment 01:05:41 - Connection and communion 01:15:21 - Three important concepts for current and future meditation researchers 01:23:25 - Jud on his clinical observations 01:31:26 - A kinder, gentler B.F. Skinner … Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxjhwG5wmXRVfrkeGczVPVI … To find out more about Dr Brewer, visit: - https://drjud.com/ - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Judson-Brewer To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep102-dr-jay-sanguinetti-cults-science-the-dalai-lama/ - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Stephen Snyder, meditation teacher, author, and the first non-monastic Western man to master the virtuoso-level shamata meditation system of Pa Auk Sayadaw. In this interview we discuss Stephen’s latest book ‘Demysifying Awakening: A Buddhist Path of Realization, Embodiment, and Freedom’. Stephen gives detailed comparisons between the maps of Theravadan and Zen Buddhism, explains the difference between Kensho and Satori, and reveals why it is so easy to stall after an initial awakening experience. Stephen also shares techniques to open the Wisdom Eye, loosen allegiance to the body, and transcend the superego; and reveals how he assesses others spiritual experiences and how an individual can self-assess their own level of awakening. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep141-demystifying-awakening-stephen-snyder Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:51 - Why is Stephen writing so many books? 05:42 - What is the probability of awakening? 08:46 - Kensho vs Satori probabilities 11:06 - Languishing between Kensho and Satori 13:57 - Self-administered tests of awakening 15:37 - How Stephen assesses his students’ awakenings 17:39 - Opening the Wisdom Eye 20:27 - Energetic resonance of awakening 21:31 - Facsimiles of awakening 23:53 - Confusion around awakening 30:09 - Rebirth, reincarnation, and tulkus 33:00 - Superego and trauma 39:43 - Purifying the body via the four elements 45:44 - Stephen’s experience of the crystal body 48:06 - Loosening allegiance to the body 49:37 - Resistances to jhana and awakening 54:05 - Steve’s practice challenge 58:16 - How to work with intensity and blocks 01:02:09 - The will to live 01:05:17 - Boat meditation 01:06:15 - Comparing the maps of Theravada and Zen 01:13:29 - Fear of No-Self 01:16:32 - Integrating the No-Self 01:19:31 - Koan practice 01:23:16 - Flavours of enlightenment 01:27:24 - Keeping a spiritual journal … Check out my previous interviews with Stephen: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep24-stephen-snyder-a-stroke-of-realisation-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep33-stephen-snyder-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep70-stephen-snyder-buddhas-heart/ Purchase ‘Demystifying Awakening’: - https://awakeningdharma.org/book/demystifying-awakening/ To find out more about Stephen Snyder, visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Ralph White holistic learning pioneer, international speaker on cultural transformation and the history of the Western tradition, and co-founder of the New York Open Centre. Ralph reveals his difficult upbringing in working class England, and how his intellect served as his escape route, emigrating to America as a Fulbright scholar in 1970. Ralph shares a life-changing spiritual experience on Route 66, reflects on the role of psychedelics in raising consciousness, and details his personal path as a nature mystic heavily influenced by Western Esotericism. Ralph recounts his adventures throughout Canada, hitch hiking to Machu Picchu, getting streetwise in Columbia, and eventually landing in New York to co-found the world-famous Open Centre. Ralph also reflects on what years of booking spiritual teachers taught him about spotting spiritual fakes, what it means to be in the third of act of one’s life, and shares his vision for the future of world culture … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep140-quest-for-a-life-of-meaning-ralph-white Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 03:22 - Ralph’s childhood in working class England 08:12 - Education as the escape route 12:45 - Move to America and travelling Route 66 17:19 - A life-changing spiritual experience 22:01 - Ralph on psychedelics 25:01 - The future of psychedelics research 29:37 - Ralph’s meditation practice and explorations in Western Esotericism 34:35 - Nature mystic 38:17 - Misconceptions about Western Esotericism 50:14 - Ralph’s Esoteric Quests 52:21 - Adventures in Vancouver 58:39 - Hitch hiking for 6 months to Machu Picchu 01:00:30 - Profound experience in the Andes 01:06:55 - The role of pilgrimage in finding one’s purpose 01:16:21 - Streetwise in Colombia and New York 01:20:11 - How to spot spiritual fakes and baloney 01:29:10 - Integrity and the spiritual marketplace 01:35:06 - Ralph reflects on the erotic 01:41:28 - The third act of one’s life 01:45:41 - The future of world culture … To find out more about Ralph White, visit: - https://www.ralphwhite.net/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Dr Thomas Clough Daffern philosopher, educator, peace activist, and peace officer for the Council of British Druid Orders. Most widely known as a peace activist and academic, Dr Daffern is also an esotericist and in this episode he reveals his system of peace magic which draws on a wide range of occult systems. Dr Daffern explains the difference between a peace magician and a war magician, warns of the dangers of magical practice, and gives advice for navigating today’s information landscape. Dr Daffern also gives a series of case studies of his own career in peace and reconciliation, including work in Ireland and the Middle East, before giving his detailed analysis of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. … Video version: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep139-peace-magic-dr-thomas-clough-daffern-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - What are magi and druids? 05:16 - What is peace magic? 07:28 - Out of body peace magic examples 14:14 - Dangers in magical practice 21:43 - Dr Daffern’s peace work at Stonehenge 24:01 - Dr Daffern’s peace work in Ireland 27:26 - Celtic oppression in the British Isles 30:24 - History of spiritual oppression in the Byzantine model 35:31 - Dr Daffern’s peace work in the Middle East 41:32 - War magic and war magicians 43:24 - Can peace really be achieved? 47:40 - Interfaith mediation 49:43 - Dr Daffern’s peace work in the Caucasus 54:14 - Peace magic vs war magic 55:54 - Dr Daffern on the invasion of Ukraine 57:05 - The influence of Ivan Ilyin and Julius Evola 01:03:35 - Spartans vs Athenians 01:05:00 - How to resolve European conflict 01:11:40 - How wars end and Dr Daffern’s interfaith peace treaty 01:16:32 - Acharya Tulsi and peace declarations 01:21:33 - Planetary enlightenment 01:25:51 - Advice for navigating the information war … Previous episode with Dr Daffern: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep132-student-of-the-mysteries-dr-thomas-clough-daffern … Dr Daffern's upcoming course on Enlightenment: https://gal.infusionsoft.app/app/orderForms/A-Course-on-Enlightenments To find our more about Dr Daffern, visit: - http://www.educationaid.net/ - https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/iipsgp - https://interfaithpeacetreaty.wordpress.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Beth Upton, a meditation teacher, ex-nun, and student of renowned meditation master Pa Auk Sayadaw. Beth reveals why reading economics at Cambridge caused her to fracture with today’s economic system and eventually led to her ordaination as a nun in Myanmar. Beth details her rigorous training under renowned meditation master Pa Auk Sayadaw, addresses skepticism of the Visuddhimagga, and criticises so called ‘soft jhana’ teachings as watered down dharma. Beth contrasts popular soft jhana teachings with how she was trained at Pa Auk, discusses the 10-fetter model of enlightenment, and explains how samadhi can be used to remember past lives and generate siddhi such as the ability to see devas and ghosts. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep138-trained-as-a-nun-beth-upton Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:51 - Upbringing and and reading economics at Cambridge 03:56 - The problem at the heart of money 05:44 - Money as a monastic vs a lay person 09:32 - Beth’s current thinking on money 16:14 - Encountering Buddhism 19:21 - Becoming a nun and meeting the meditation master Pa Auk Sayadaw 23:26 - Is the Visuddhimagga overblown? 25:03 - Soft Jhana teachings are watered down 28:43 - Hard jhana vs soft jhana distinctions 31:42 - Is there duality in jhana? 34:11 - Is jhana necessary for effective vipassana? 36:06 - Is progress possible without retreat? 38:57 - Beth’s 1-1 mentorship 40:14 - The curriculum of Beth’s training as a nun 44:10 - How to remember past lives 48:45 - Observing the causal links of karma 50:45 - How to develop siddhi via deep samadhi 53:44 - Opening the divine eye to perceive devas and ghosts 56:11 - Not claiming attainments 01:00:42 - Choosing the right meditation object 01:03:36 - Beth’s dislike of Dharma talks 01:05:57 - 1-1 mentorship with Beth 01:08:10 - Change technique after stream entry? 01:19:14 - Beth on the 10 Fetters and 4 Path Model … To find out more about Beth Upton, visit: - https://bethupton.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Tara Springett, a Buddhist psychotherapist who specialises in treating Kundalini Syndrome. Tara recounts emerging from a troubled childhood to experience her first of several spiritual awakenings through a type of consciousness expansion known as kundalini. Tara shares the diverse consequences of these experiences in her own life including a reckoning with her unconscious mind, a life-changing yearning for the divine, and paranormal encounters. Tara recounts her conversion to Tibetan Buddhism and time spent with teachers such as Rigdzin Shikpo and Garchen Rinpoche, who would both go onto encourage her to teach Buddhism. Tara details learning a range of Buddhist practices including compassion meditation, manifestation wish practice, and the inner yogas of tummo. Tara also shares her experiences channeling White Tara, and reflects on her understanding of the process of spiritual awakening and karmic purification that working with kundalini energy is said to bring about. … Video version at: www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep137-kundalini-awakening-tara-springett Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - A troubled childhood and initial kundalini awakening 03:42 - What is kundalini? 04:48 - 4 effects of kundalini activity 07:05 - Paranormal experiences after kundalini awakening 09:16 - Are the different kundalini systems related? 12:51 - Radical transformation after Tara’s kundalini awakening 23:07 - Turning to God in the depths of kundalini crisis 28:28 - Finding Tibetan Buddhism 30:19 - Time in an unusual Buddhist community 36:24 - Studying with Lama Ole Nydahl and meeting Rigdzin Shikpo 38:37 - Buddhist manifestation techniques 40:12 - Receiving Dzogchen transmission from Garchen Rinpoche 44:17 - Encouraged to teach Buddhism by Garchen Rinpoche 47:33 - Bliss and purification 49:05 - The essence of Tara’s approach to kundalini awakening 54:14 - Difficult experience with tummo meditation 56:01 - Kundalini and extreme purification 59:42 - Rainbow appearance 01:02:29 - Marriage strife and Tara’s husband’s kundalini awakening 01:03:13 - Tantric relationships and taking your partner as your guru 01:12:50 - Tara’s recent intense lower chakra purifications 01:23:12 - Channeling the Buddhist deity White Tara 01:33:10 - Has Tara faced criticism for her channeling? 01:37:38 - Are there spiritually gifted people? 01:40:53 - The power of taking a spiritual name … To find out more about Tara, visit: - https://www.taraspringett.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com
In this episode I host a dialogue between Daniel Ingram and Delson Armstrong. Daniel Ingram is an independent Buddhist writer, author of ‘Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha’, and co-founder of the Emergent Phenomenology Research Consortium (EPRC). Delson Armstrong is a spiritual teacher, author of ’A Mind Without Craving’, and the star student of Bhante Vimalaramsi. Daniel and Delson discuss the similarities and differences between their doctrinal positions and personal experiences of the 4-path model of Buddhist enlightenment, which ranges from stream entry to arhatship. In this collegial yet rigorous dialogue, Daniel and Delson engage in detailed debate on the differences in their positions and draw on personal experience, scriptural examples, and issues of scientific verification. They also discuss the effect of enlightenment on psychopathy and other personality disorders, reflect on which meditation methods best fit different personality types, and conduct in-depth analysis of the phenomenon of ‘nirodha samapatti’. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep136-meeting-of-the-dharmas-daniel-ingram-delson-armstrong Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:49 - Daniel on stream entry 05:03 - Delson on stream entry 08:08 - Afterglow of stream entry and dependent origination 14:34 - 3 fetters discussion 24:24 - Does stream entry result in moral improvement? 28:49 - Can you retrain a sociopath with loving kindness meditation? 30:51 - Does stream entry make sociopaths and psychopaths more dangerous? 35:18 - Saints & psychopaths - how can we differentiate? 41:03 - 2nd path and the reduction of craving and aversion 47:30 - 2nd path vs stream entry - which is more profound? 53:13 - Daniel on 3rd path 56:18 - Delson on 3rd path 59:23 - Daniel’s critique of the traditional 3rd path position 01:03:05 - Delson and Daniel dialogue about 3rd path 01:10:40 - Is it possible to completely eradicate craving and aversion? 01:16:00 - Scientific testing and Bikkhu Analayo’s critique 01:23:39 - Delson on TWIM the importance of method 01:26:18 - What is nirodha samapatti? 01:28:08 - Comparing Daniel and Delson’s abilities 01:29:33 - How to train for nirodha samapatti 01:32:25 - Different personalities and jhana aptitude 01:36:43 - Resolution training and balancing enlightenment factors 01:38:18 - Steve on Delson’s yoga training and the three humours 01:43:40 - More on matching personality types to meditation methods 01:53:58 - Arhatship and agency 01:56:20 - Agency vs conceit 02:00:21 - Disagreement between Daniel and Delson about outcomes of arhatship 02:08:30 - Compassion vs suffering 02:13:01 - Suicide and arhatship 02:21:17- The dusty end of the path … Daniel Ingram Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdkny_MJSecHyvKHPpvxTskBAC Delson Armstrong Episode Playlist: - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxiWzbRXNY29pSwlAcDYF_r To find out more about Daniel, visit: - https://theeprc.org/ - integrateddaniel.info To find out more about Delson Armstrong, visit: - https://www.suttavada.foundation/our-teachers/ - https://www.dhammasukha.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this bonus episode, I am once again joined by Dhammarato – a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition who is known for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. This footage was recorded right before a dialogue about the Mahasi Method between Dhammarato and Daniel Ingram. Due to a scheduling miscommunication, Dhammarato and I arrived to the recording one hour early. It wasn’t long before Dhammarato began sharing his insights with his characteristic humour and precision and so we decided to release this informal exchange as a bonus episode. Dhammarato discusses the role of story and how to wake up from it, what stream entry really is and how can it be verified, and the difference between sati and psychological repression. Dhammarato also teaches a coffee meditation, talks about mindfulness in daily life, and reveals the real practice of anapanasati. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... 00:00 - Intro 01:24 - The role of story and memory 04:10 - Waking up to the story 10:52 - Verifying stream entry 12:44 - What is stream entry really? 19:04 - Is stream entry a sudden event? 22:27 - Motor habit and Steve’s coffee 24:21 - Dhammarato teaches a coffee meditation 27:50 - The real practice of anapanasati 32:33 - Spiritual materialism and buying books 36:12 - Catch the rabbit 31:05 - All fires have a fuel 44:28 - Repression, catharsis, and the mechanism of waking up … Dhammarato Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknyGISEfksirYaYpsrXdf8va … To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Alejandro Chaoul PhD to discuss his latest book ‘Tibetan Yoga: Magical Movements of Body, Breath, and Mind’ published by Wisdom Publications. Alejandro tells the story of the creation of this book, describes its textual sources, and explains his decision not to include images of the sacred movements. Alejandro reveals the different uses of Tibetan Yoga movements, including physical healing, clearing obstacles, enhancing meditation, and spiritual advancement. Alejandro also discusses personality typologies, the flavour of Dzogchen awakening, the importance of the full lotus posture, and compares Buddhist tummo techniques to the inner heat methods of the ‘Iceman’ Wim Hof. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep134-tibetan-yoga-alejandro-chaoul Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - The story of Alejandro’s new book 08:04 - Textual sources and Alejandro’s use of image 13:37 - Different uses of tsa lung trulkhor 17:21 - Trulkhor for health 19:49 - - The breath-body trulkhor process 21:32 - Vertical and all-pervasive energies 24:04 - Clearing obstacles and enhancing meditation 29:33 - Approaches to trulkhor for different personality types 35:08 - The flavour of Dzogchen awakening 38:58 - Full lotus posture 43:18 - A dynamic practice 44:20 - Shardza’s 100 day retreat curriculum 47:40 - Tummo vs Wim Hof method 51:29 - Anecdotes and advice from Alejandro’s practice … Previous episode with Alejandro Chaoul: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep92-dr-alejandro-chaoul-magical-movements-of-tibet/ To find our more about Alejandro Chaoul, visit: - www.alechaoul.com - www.ligmincha.org - www.mbsihouston.org For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Dr Thomas Clough Daffern, poet, historian, philosopher, educator, and peace officer for the Council of British Druid Orders. Thomas recounts an unusual upbringing, a love affair with classics and poetry, and dropping out of school at 15 to pursue philosophical enquiry. We learn of Thomas’ immersion in study of the world’s religious and mystical traditions, and his early tantric and druidic initiations. Thomas discusses the Ancient Greek mystery schools, the cultural consequences of their closure, and what it would take to revive them in the world today. Thomas reflects his time as a celibate, why every student of the mysteries should have a brahmacharya phase, and why a sense of duty and civic responsibility eventually saw him marry and start a family. Thomas also talks about reconciling the schools of Islam, compares Eastern and Western enlightenments, and reveals the inspiration behind his relentless intellectual curiosity. … Video version at https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep132-student-of-the-mysteries-dr-thomas-clough-daffern Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:07 - Dr Daffern’s family and educational background 03:51 - Discovering classics and poetry 05:50 - Dropping out of school at 15, discovering philosophy, and first love 09:34 - LSD, first druid initiation, and intensive self-study of world religions 15:08 - Psychedelic experiences as a mystery tradition 18:17 - About the Ancient Greek mystery schools 21:51 - Eastern and Western enlightenments 23:33 - What are the essential ingredients of a mystery school? 26:24 - Music and the mysteries 29:53 - Kabbalah and verbal fluency 30:56 - The importance of a brahmacharya phase 33:02 - Thomas’ philosophical enlightenment 35:10 - The consequences of the closing of the Greek mystery schools 39:21 - The Delphic games 40:50 - The influence of Thomas’ mother 51:16 - Baháʼí and interfaith activities 54:42 - Reconciling the schools of Islam 57:24 - Relentless intellectual curiosity 01:01:53 - Writing a sequel to Newton’s ‘Principia Mathematica’ 01:06:39 - The secrets of Thomas’ prodigious work ethic 01:09:50 - Enlightenments, the book of Enoch, and Comparative Diabology … To find our more about Dr Daffern, visit: - http://www.educationaid.net/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
A dialogue between Rupert Spira, a teacher of the direct path method of Advaita and an internationally acclaimed ceramic artist; and Henry Shukman, Zen teacher and award winning poet and writer. Well known as influential spiritual teachers, both men have also had prestigious careers in the arts, and in this episode they discuss the intersection of art and spirituality. Rupert and Henry consider such issues as the true purpose of art, narrative as a healing device, art as interruption of the subject object distinction, the darshan of Rembrandt, and how Chekov relates to the Vedantic witness. Rupert and Henry also reflect on their own artistic careers, including the importance of mentors, finding one’s unique voice, and the relationship between discipline and spontaneity. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep131-art-spirituality-rupert-spira-henry-shukman Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Art and awakening 02:34 - Rupert Spira as a ceramic artist 03:03 - Henry Shukman as a poet and author 03:40 - Differences between Spira and Shukman 06:09 - The purpose of art 11:06 - What Henry discovered in poetry 19:07 - Intimacy and collapsing the subject-object distinction through art 25:40 - Tang Dynasty poetry and interrupting linearity 27:37 - Imagination vs conceptualisation 30:57 - Using concepts to point to the pre-conceptual 33:36 - Art as interruption and portal 35:53 - Narrative as a healing device 36:33 - The disinterested affection of great art 42:44 - Rembrandt’s darshan 44:24 - Irony and sympathy of the vedantic witness 47:00 - The most real and essential thing in life 50:14 - The power of apprenticeship in Rupert’s life 55:00 - Liberation from the teacher and finding your own voice 58:37 - Henry’s poetry apprenticeship 01:00:58 - Discipline and spontaneity 01:02:38 - Finding a teacher 01:05:20 - The death of Zen 01:07:20 - The real lineage 01:14:55 - The artistic process 01:17:26 - What makes effective art and an effective artist? 01:18:14 - The master’s eye view … To find out more about Rupert Spira, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep124-art-of-awakening-rupert-spira - https://rupertspira.com/ To find out more about Henry Shukman, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shukman - https://originallove.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Research Professor at the University of Arizona, Assistant Director at the Center for Consciousness Studies, and co-director of the SEMA Lab with Shinzen Young. In this episode, Dr Sanguinetti reveals his personal secrets for optimal brain function and cognitive high performance that enable him to perform at his intellectual best. Jay also gives us deep dive phenomenological reports of accessing boundary-less states of meditation, experiencing the unraveling of his self identification, and how self-administered brain stimulation in tandem with Dr Jeffrey Martin’s Finder’s Course and close 1-1 coaching with Shinzen Young radically expedited these processes. Jay also shares how his spiritual epiphanies have transformed his communication strategies with his staff and mentees, and explains the power of vulnerability in optimising decision making. … Video version at: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:44 - How Jay optimises his mental function 05:25 - Jay’s current meditation approach 08:59 - Working 1-1 with Shinzen 09:53 - A state without boundaries and Jay’s jhana practice 12:15 - Dr Jeffrey A Martin and the ‘Finder’s Course’ 19:18 - Jay’s transformative experience on the Finder’s Course 20:33 - Falling into the void 23:11 - Using brain stimulation on himself 27:52 - Fear of dissolution 29:44 - Jay’s changing practice motivations from is 20s to 30s 31:40 - Identifying with enlightenment 38:06 - Unravelling the self-identification process 43:47 - The exponential happiness curve and further ultrasound 48:55 - Transformed relationships 49:54 - Shinzen’s ongoing coaching and correspondences to traditional maps 53:37 - Jay’s key spiritual insight 01:00:13 - Defining ‘equanimity’ and is ‘vulnerability’ a weakness? 01:06:50 - - Equanimity and optimised decision making 01:10:12 - Suffering is essential for growth 01:13:00 - Jay’s mentoring approach of vulnerability 01:18:03 - ‘Defining vulnerability’ 01:30:37 - Vulnerability in conflict situations 01:31:46 - The emerging science of compassion … Previous episodes with Dr Sanguinetti: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=sanguinetti … To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Guo Gu, Chan Buddhist teacher, author, and scholar of Buddhism. Guo Gu shares stories of his early training under the mysterious hermit Gūang Qìn, who’s siddhi powers were sought after by locals for healing and divination. Guo Gu also details his decades as the attendee and disciple monk of Chan Master Sheng Yen, including examples of Master Sheng Yen’s unusual and sometimes painful teaching methods, and shares how a powerful practice brought about Guo Gu’s stream entry in a moment of profound repentance. Guo Gu compares the powerful spiritual presences of his teachers, reflects on the means of acquiring siddhi and why Chan Buddhism deemphasises such powers, and shares the power of humility as a path to enlightenment. … www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Childhood training under the hermit Master Gūang Qìn 11:15 - Meeting Master Sheng Yen and other masters 17:03 - The powerful presences of great masters 21:16 - A wrathful display 23:26 - Intense training under Master Sheng Yen 26:30 - How did Master Gūang Qìn acquire his siddhi powers? 29:10 - Further tales of clairvoyance 31:55 - How to acquire siddhi powers vs Chan’s emphasis 37:10 - The motivation behind Master Gūang Qìn’s ascetic lifestyle 43:16 - Exposing Guo Gu’s self-involvement 54:10 - Public pointing out as a teaching tool 57:33 - The practice of repentance 59:15 - The spiritual power of humility 01:07:07 - Kensho via humility 01:14:26 - An experience of clarity without a reference point 01:17:38 - Master Sheng Yen confirms Guo Gu’s stream entry 01:21:36 - Guo Gu’s most powerful awakening experience 01:38:24 The death of Master Sheng Yen … To find out more about Guo Gu, visit: - https://guogulaoshi.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Had an enjoyable and wide-ranging conversation with Connor Beaton of the popular 'ManTalks' podcast: From Connor's shownotes: 'This was one hell of a conversation. Steve and I cover wide ground, but the central hub of our talk is the state of modern masculinity. What are men asking about? What are they rejecting? What are they loving, losing, and leaving behind? What are men choosing? So yeah. Only light questions in this episode. Listen in for some brilliant insight from a brilliant guest.' 00:00 - ‘Tell us a story about a defining moment in your life’ 07:34 - ‘What is the state of men today?’ 11:25 - Sweeping statements 15:07 - What men think about 18:02 - Why are men questioning relationship? 27:24 - Navigating choice and finding your way 36:15 - Grief and praise 38:45 - Death and the self-contraction 40:58 - How to get out of the head and into the body Find Conor at: https://www.youtube.com/c/ManTalks Find Steve at: www.guruviking.com
In this episode special guest Dr Jud Brewer - pioneering psychiatrist, neurosciencist, and New York Times best-selling author - joins the ongoing conversation featuring: - Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant - Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student - Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Professor at the University of New Mexico In this episode Dr Brewer gives a fascinating summary of his ground-breaking work, and shares his wildest secret dream for the future of neuroscience and humanity at large. Dr Sanguinetti and Shinzen reveal the latest science in their lab, and dialogue with Dr Brewer about pseudo-arhats and the power of conditioning. The panel also map the 4 noble truths using the latest neuroscience theories, debate the pros and cons of including subjective experience in serious research, explore how to translate academic language into common parlance, and raise serious concerns about healthy integration of altered states. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep128-pioneering-science-dr-jud-brewer-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-sanguinetti/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 00:00 - Intro 01:29 - Dr Jud Brewer summarises his pioneering work 18:41 - Jud’s vision for the future of the field 29:19 - Hope for the future 37:31 - Shinzen’s meta comment 40:08 - Jud’s wildest secret dream 44:58 - Dr Jay Sanguinetti tells the story of his work 49:51 - Jay’s collaboration with Shinzen Young 54:11 - Jay and Shinzen go deeper into the science 59:24 - Mapping the 4 Noble Truths with the neuroscience 01:06:19 - Pseudo-arhats and interruption of conditioning 01:08:13 - Getting unstuck and inducing equanimity 01:13:24 - Exciting developments at SEMA Lab 01:16:44 - Discussing different areas of the PCC 01:20:19 - Pros and cons of integrating first person subjective experience 01:24:54 - Next steps at SEMA Lab and integrating mindfulness training 01:26:19 - Jud reflects on the pragmatic public health implications 01:28:59 - Crucial considerations around integrating altered states 01:34:32 - Jud’s latest work on integration 01:36:48 - Shinzen on academic vs street language 01:44:41 - Chelsey’s reflections … Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxjhwG5wmXRVfrkeGczVPVI … To find out more about Dr Brewer, visit: - https://drjud.com/ - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Judson-Brewer To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep102-dr-jay-sanguinetti-cults-science-the-dalai-lama/ - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher and star student of Bhante Vimalaramsi. In this interview, Delson recalls tales of unusual spiritual mentors, including an Indian cobbler who taught Delson to read peoples’ karma, unlocking the ability to see not only others’ past lives, but also their future fate. Delson engages in a detailed discussion of how to acquire, refine, and master siddhi, aka special powers, discusses his own encounters with entities while on dark retreat, reveals his experience with the yogas of dream and sleep, and offers advice on dealing with periods of karmic reckoning. Delson also describes the 31 planes of existence, from the Brahma Lokas to the Hell Realms, and shares his opinion on figures such as Mara, Patanjali, and Jesus Christ. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep127-siddha-tales-delson-armstrong-2/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - The Indian cobbler who taught Delson to read peoples’ karma 09:24 - Delson’s powerful precognitive experiences 10:41 - How to unlock precognition 15:33 - Acquiring, refining, and mastering Siddhi (aka special powers) 20:54 - Delson’s mentor Greg Halpern who had 13 near-death experiences 30:53 - Delson on psychedelics and anti-aging herbs taken during dark retreat 32:41 - Visions of entities on dark retreat 35:39 - Delson’s yogic experience of sleep 39:05 - How Delson can operate without sleep 42:40 - Delson on dream yoga 47:23 - Periods of intense karmic purification 53:58 - How to relate skilfully to karmic reckonings 56:40 - 31 Planes of Existence 01:00:47 - Who is Mara? 01:02:56 - Brahma Lokas and Hell Realms 01:06:27 - The Formless Realms 01:11:57 - Do this before interacting with entities 01:22:30 - Can entities influence our lives? + Nagas and reptilian entities 01:26:22 - Was Patanjali a Naga? 01:26:55 - What did the ancient Naga teach humans? 01:27:45 - Delson on astral travel 01:32:48 - Contacting deceased masters and alien teachers 01:36:29 - How Delson perceives Jesus 01:39:31 - Dependent origination and future episodes … Previous episode with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep120-meditation-virtuoso-delson-armstrong/ Previous episode with Bhante Vimalaramsi: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep112-bhante-vimalaramsi-relaxing-into-nibbana/ To find out more about Delson Armstrong, visit: - https://www.suttavada.foundation/our-teachers/ - https://www.dhammasukha.org/ ... For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Jack Haubner, prize winning author of the memoirs Zen Confidential: Confessions of a Wayward Monk; and Single White Monk: Tales of Death, Failure, and Bad Sex. In this interview Jack shares his early spiritual openings, his strict Catholic upbringing, subsequent break from Christianity, and discovery of Buddhism. Jack reveals his complex relationship with his first Zen mentor, describes the development of his personal meditation practice, and recounts his initial meetings with renowned and latterly infamous spiritual teacher Joshu Sasaki Roshi. Jack went on to become the head monk of Sasaki’s monastery, a role which he occupied during the widely publicised sexual misconduct allegations made against the aged abbot, who was then in his hundreds. Jack reflects on the decades long open secret of Sasaki’s conduct within the Zen community, and discusses the widespread and complex fallout of a charismatic religious leader’s fall from grace. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep126-zen-scandal-jack-haubner/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Catholic childhood and early spiritual opening 05:03 - Explaining the opening in Zen terms 08:05 - Leaving Catholicism 11:59 - Steve’s Catholicism 14:35 - European vs American Catholicism 18:07 - Encountering Lama Ole Nydahl and Shambala Buddhism 22:59 - Why Zen? 25:56 - Jack’s Zen mentor 28:07 - The evolution of Jack’s meditation practice 31:20 - ‘Finally learning to sit’ 35:43 - The Rinzai style of training 37:17 - How to express No-Self in a Los Angeles bar 39:24 - Sexually propositioned by his mentor 45:23 - Meeting Joshu Sasaki Roshi 46:25 - First impressions of Joshu Sasaki 48:28 - Who was Joshu Sasaki? 51:59 - How much persona did JS have? 53:16 - JS’s daily routine 55:36 - Does Jack still orient to JS? 56:53 - JS’s sexual scandal 01:01:54 - The open secret of JS’s sexual misconduct in the Zen community 01:10:50 - Being Head Monk during the scandal 01:17:50 - The legacy of JS’s scandal 01:24:23 - Does Jack teach Zen today? 01:26:15 - Joshu Sasaki’s death 01:32:28 - Where does Zen lead? … To find out more about Jack Haubner, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt9Q74t3o7AUCJ_bKTc5CgA For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host a third dialogue between Dhammarato and Daniel Ingram, this time on the vipassana meditation method of the highly influential Burmese monk Mahasi Sayadaw. While Daniel’s own path has been deeply informed by the Mahasi Method, Dhammarato has critiqued it as incomplete - particularly as it has been applied by the American Vipassana movements that it influenced. In this episode Daniel and Dhammarato share their own experiences of the method, reflect on its changes from Mahasi to U Pandita to America, and reveal rarely seen teachings from Mahasi’s own writings. Daniel and Dhammarato also debate different approaches to working with meditation hinderances, compare the results of Mahasi practitioners to those of fire kasina meditation and Culadasa’s ‘Mind Illuminated’ school, and address topics such as the Dark Night, Stream Entry, and perennialism. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep125-the-mahasi-debate-dhammarato-daniel-ingram/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - Dhammarato vs Daniel on the internet 03:55 - Daniel’s practice history with the Mahasi Method 12:47 - Who was Mahasi Sayadaw and what was his emphasis? 16:16 - Dhammarato’s experiences with the U Pandita and the Mahasi method 18:52 - ‘U Pandita was not the nicest of people’ 19:20 - What was lost in the translation of Mahasi’s method to America? 29:46 - Dry vs wet vipassana 31:08 - Daniel on rare and surprising Mahasi teachings 32:52 - U Pandita’s stern personality 34:45 - The joyful vibe at the Malaysian Buddhist Meditation Centre 37:53 - Open discussion of attainments 38:47 - Does Mahasi noting dwell on hinderances and cause Dark Nights of the Soul? 39:57 - Do different people need different meditation methods? 46:16 - How to deal with hinderances 49:52 - Comparing Mahasi, TMI, and Fire Kasina 01:00:21 - Is there a good side to hindarances? 01:07:03 - Is the Dark Night inevitable or a sign of practice gone wrong? 01:23:42 - Dhammarato’s rock bottom and investigation vs noting 01:29:03 - The richness of the full Buddhist tradition 01:30:28 - Different definitions of stream entry and Daniel’s personal experience 01:35:47 - Perspective on practice 01:40:33 - Daniel’s concluding reflections on the varieties of insight experiences 01:42:59 - Has Daniel nuanced his perennialsm? .. Dhammarato Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknyGISEfksirYaYpsrXdf8va Daniel Ingram Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdkny_MJSecHyvKHPpvxTskBAC … To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ To find out more about Daniel, visit: - https://theeprc.org/ - integrateddaniel.info … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Rupert Spira: a teacher of the direct path method of Advaita, and an internationally acclaimed ceramic artist. In this episode Rupert discusses his childhood in British boarding school, his disenchantment with science, and his discovery of spirituality. Rupert explains how his decision to pursue a career in pottery caused a rift with his father, and reveals the profound significance of their subsequent reconciliation many years later. Rupert recounts his intensive apprenticeship with the Zen Master-like British studio potter Michaela Cardew, and shares the essence of his artistic process as it expresses both in ceramics and in his work as a teacher of nonduality. Rupert also discusses personality cults in the arts and spirituality, the seductiveness of adulation as a spiritual teacher, the apparent conflict between beauty and truth, and why awakening so often still the artistic impulse but can also liberate it. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep124-art-of-awakening-rupert-spira/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:11 - Rupert’s upbringing and education at boarding school 05:25 - Disenchantment with science 08:00 - Discovery of spirituality and the arts 10:32 - Rupert’s parents’ mixed response to his career in the arts 10:58 - Estrangement and powerful reconciliation with Rupert’s Father 15:31 - Apprenticeship under the Zen-like master potter Michael Ambrose Cardew CBE 23:04 - The education of a master artist 27:37 - Spiritual interests kept secret from Michael Cardew 30:57 - The essence and process of Rupert’s internationally acclaimed 30 year career as a ceramic artist 35:35 - Transitioning from pottery to spiritual teaching 36:58 - Similarities between Rupert’s arc as a potter and as a spiritual teacher 38:00 - Leaving the master and the emergence of the artist’s own voice 42:36 - Rupert’s art in every aspect of teaching 50:14 - Personality cults in the arts and spirituality 55:06 - Navigating student’s projections 57:06 - The seductiveness of adulation 01:04:48 - Resolving the conflict between beauty and truth 01:11:00 - The liberation of Rupert’s art 01:17:19 - Why awakening can kill art, and why it didn’t kill Rupert’s art … To find out more about Rupert Spira, visit: - https://rupertspira.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Anthony Metivier, author and memory expert who’s life was unexpectedly transformed by the meditation practice of memorising long form Sanskrit texts. Anthony recounts his childhood of familial chaos and extreme religion, and how a psychotic break at university saw him wrestle with his mental health for years while self-medicating with anti-psychotic drugs and alcohol. A lifelong meditator, Anthony shares how applying his world-class memory skills to the practice of memorising and reciting long-form Sanskrit texts caused a series of profound spiritual experiences that revolutionised his perception of reality. Now a world-renowned memory educator, Anthony also reveals his daily routine for optimal mental performance, and shares insights into the role of memory in identity formation and in spiritual awakening. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep123-master-of-memory-anthony-metivier/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - Childhood of chaos and extreme religion 02:46 - Exposure to meditation and memorising sanskrit texts 07:05 - Charismatic religious experiences 12:18 - Psychosis and self medication 21:07 - Psychedelics and Carlos Castaneda 25:48 - Past life regression 27:16 - Spiritual entities and rational skepticism 30:59 - Gary Weber and the effect of memorising long-form Sanskrit 35:15 - The essence of spiritual insight 39:25 - Plato and being vs non-being 41:45 - Sanskrit memorisation as a spiritual practice 49:18 - A profound spiritual experience 52:51 - Loss of the fear of death and the psychopathic danger 56:51 - Storytelling and identity 01:01:52 - Narrative drift and how memory works 01:07:34 - Anthony’s daily routine for optimal memory and productivity … To find out more about Anthony, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMetivierMMM - https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher to discuss his new book ‘Dependent Origination and Emptiness: SODAPI’. Leigh lifts the lid on his writing process, including how he overcame severe writer’s block to complete the book that his students had been asking for years, and shares his reasoning for making the book free. Leigh reveals why he considers the dependent origination to be at the heart of the Buddha’s teaching, and traces different interpretations of the doctrine throughout the Buddhist literature. Leigh draws on the works of Nagarjuna to discuss emptiness, and levels a critique of the teaching of reincarnation which he calls an ‘immortality project’. Leigh explains why he translates ‘dukkha’ as the hippy slang word ‘bummer’, how he came up with the acronym SODAPI - Streams of Dependently Arising Phenomena Interacting, and offers medium and long term strategy advice for how to practice this powerful method to achieve the liberation of promised in Buddhism. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep122-mysteries-of-dependent-origination-leigh-brasington/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Leigh’s new book 02:24 - Why the book is free 06:00 - Dharma teacher income 09:35 - What is dependent origination? 13:21 - Inspired by teachers 18:00 - The writing process 20:15 - Overcoming writer’s block 23:00 - Dukkha is a bummer 30:36 - Various sutta presentations on dependent originations 37:55 - Dependencies not causes 43:04 - Consciousness and the body 45:25 - Critique of religious immortality projects 49:12 - kāmataṇhā (NB: Leigh meant to use the word bhavataṇhā, not kāmataṇhā) 52:35 - Moment to moment model 55:17 - Buddhism without reincarnation? 01:01:37 - Jakatta tales and the tulku system 01:08:56 - Short and long term practice strategies 01:16:27 - Is mindfulness of vedana enough to uproot ignorance? 01:19:56 - Nagarjuna and the implications of the emptiness doctrine 01:23:43 - How did Leigh come up with SODAPI? 01:29:07 - Sañña and the Honeyball Sutta 01:32:27 - How to practice dependent origination for jhana meditators … Previous episodes with Leigh: - https://www.guruviking.com/?s=BRASINGTON … To find out more about Leigh, visit: - http://leighb.com Read Leigh’s new book ‘Dependent Origination and Emptiness: SODAPI’: - http://sodapi.leighb.com/download.htm For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Thupten Phuntsok, Buddhist teacher who, after 21 years as a monk in the Gelugpa order, disrobed to live the life of a lay person in New York City. Phuntsok describes his childhood in Haiti, and the awakening of his desire to become Christ-like and dedicate his life to spiritual contemplation. Phuntsok shares his subsequent explorations in Western Esotericism, Indian yoga, and Tibetan Buddhism including studies under Rato Rinpoche and Geshe Lobsang Tharchin. Phuntsok also shares his views on the dysfunctions of modern sexuality, the scholastic emphasis of his Gelugpa training, the 6 Yogas of Naropa, and reveals the surprising reasons why after two decades he chose to leave the monastic life behind. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep121-leaving-monasticism-thupten-phuntsok/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - Childhood spiritual leanings 03:21 - Why Phuntsok did not become a Catholic priest 04:46 - Christian vs Buddhist monasticism 06:13 - Interest in reading and meeting Kyongla Rato Rinpoche 09:50 - What does it mean to be Christ-like 12:46 - Tonglen and substitutionary atonement 13:55 - Studies with Rato Rinpoche, the Himalayan Institute, and Rosicrucianism 19:31 - Meeting Sermey Khensur Rinpoche Geshe Lobsang Tharchin 23:55 - Social context, Hinduism & Buddhism 25:26 - Phuntsok’s daily practice 27:24 - Daily esoteric practice of Rosicrucianism 31:00 - States of high concentration and the lack of masters 34:45 - Ordination as a Buddhist monk 40:28 - Family opinion on Phuntsok’s ordination 42:34 - Struggles as a monk 49:22 - Sexuality and celibacy 51:52 - Modern sexuality is dysfunctional, multi-generational trauma 55:22 - Analysis of dysfunctional sexuality 01:02:50 - How did Phuntsok arrive at this view? 01:21:31 - Why Phuntsok didn’t live in a monastery 01:30:00 - Doctrinal education under Geshe Lobsang Tharchin 01:39:05 - 6 Yogas of Naropa and sacrilegious views on tantra 01:43:49 - Disrobing as a monk after 21 years 01:50:23 - Out of touch with people 01:57:43 - Teaching activities ... To find out more about Thubten Phuntsok, visit: - https://www.thuptenphuntsok.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/c/ThuptenPhuntsok - https://www.patreon.com/thuptenphuntsok For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I was recently interviewed on Shane Hanner’s ‘Humint’ podcast. We talk about meditation, Dzogchen, embodiment, trauma, and more… https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-on-the-humint-podcast/ 00:00 - Steve’s background 09:55 - Steve’s practice 14:00 - Shane on meditation 18:13 - Shane’s background and Dzogchen studies 21:32 - Realising rigpa 25:24 - What motivated Shane’s spiritual seeking? 27:40 - Shane’s search for meaning 30:35 - The War of Art 33:16 - Why meditate? 40:14 - Steve’s daily process 42:35 - What is embodiment 45:32 - Trauma and meditation 52:30 - Embodiment and relationships Check out Shane’s other interviews at: https://linktr.ee/shanehanner You can find me at: www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher and star student of Bhante Vimalaramsi, who’s senior student David Johnson has said ‘Delson Armstrong has mastered every practice we have given him. He is the most amazing student we have ever seen.’ In this interview, Delson recalls his early life training in the Himalayas where he mastered the system of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, attaining to all of its highest states of Samadhi; attained all 6 levels of Kriya Yoga under three separate lineages; studied Sanskrit; and was exposed to practices of Shaiva Tantra through students of Osho. Delson shares his subsequent explorations of Buddhism, including Mahamudra, Dzogchen, and the TWIM practice of Bhante Vimalaramsi. Delson recounts and contrasts his experiences accomplishing the 8 jhanas, attaining the 4 levels of Buddhist awakening, and realising Rigpa. Delson also reveals yogic feats such as recalling past lives and entering into a type of suspended animation called nirodha-samāpatti for up to six days, and reveals his passion for neuroscience and recent participation in a study at the University of Amsterdam that has examined his brain and body in this state of yogic suspension. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep120-meditation-virtuoso-delson-armstrong/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:17 - David Johnson’s endorsement 02:46 - Raised in America, and return to India 04:57 - First encounter with yoga 06:16 - Leaving school to study the practices of the yoga sutras and kriya yoga in the Himalayas 11:07 - Return to the US and meeting Bhante Vimalaramsi 14:29 - How was Delson able to master Raja Yoga, Kriya Yoga, and Buddhism so quickly? 15:17 - Raja Yoga path 23:56 - The Kriya Yoga path 26:29 - Delson’s timeline to mastery of Raja and Kriya yogas 28:51 - Brahmacharya and sexuality after realisation 31:34 - Is Delson beyond sexuality? 34:41 - Yogic vs Buddhist samadhi 41:13 - Studies of the Yoga Vasistha 46:00 - Intergalactic beings 47:09 - Studies of Shaiva Tantra 51:55 - Learning from Osho’s lineage 52:52 - Studying Dzogchen and Mahamudra with Lama Lena 55:10 - Rigpa vs TWIM 59:24 - Achieving all challenges set by Johnson and Bhante Vimalaramsi 01:07:14 - Attaining Stream Entry and the other path attainments 01:18:22 - How to see past lives and Delson’s previous life as a Sadhu 01:25:02 - Entering suspended animation of nirodha-samāpatti for 6 days 01:27:55 - Studied at University of Amsterdam 01:30:33 - Surprising results from the study 01:35:09 - Conflicts between traditional accounts and the scientific data 01:43:06 - Is Delson an outlier? 01:51:06 - Why do so few people become enlightened if anyone can do it? 01:54:30 - Why do people keep enlightenment secret? 01:55:35 - Delson’s view on his future 02:00:25 - Delson’s upcoming book and previous publications … Previous episode with Bhante Vimalaramsi: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep112-bhante-vimalaramsi-relaxing-into-nibbana/ To find out more about Delson Armstrong, visit: - https://www.suttavada.foundation/our-teachers/ - https://www.dhammasukha.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode we consider the effect of meditation practice and classical enlightenment on sexuality, as we continue the ongoing conversation between: - Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant - Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student - Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Professor at the University of New Mexico We recall Leigh Brasington’s statements in episode 115 that many of his students experience states of meditative absorption as erotic in nature, and we consider Chelsey’s observation that Leigh’s brain scans in these absorption states resemble images of the brain during orgasm. I contrast early Buddhist scriptural statements which state that it is impossible for enlightened people to have sexual intercourse with later, highly sexual accounts of enlightened masters such as ‘The Saint of 5000 Women’, Drukpa Kunley, and Rinzai saint and erotic poet Ikkyū Sōjun, and pose the question, ‘What does the data say?’. In the face of this apparent disagreement within the wisdom traditions about the effect of realisation on sexuality, what trends have the panel observed in the sexuality of their meditation students, and in their ultra-sound subjects, and what might that tell us about the real world consequences of deep meditation practice and/or brain stimulation aimed at classical enlightenment. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep119-sex-and-enlightenment-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:29 - Jhana and orgasm 04:31 - Buddha vs Durkpa Kunley 11:07 - Shinzen on the sutras 15:12 - Who was Drukpa Kunley? 17:13 - Ikkyu and Zen 18:52 - Are arhats impotent? 22:37 - Jay on relationship to drives 24:33 - Screwing up on the job 26:43 - Different practices, different results? 31:12 - Being enlightened vs acting enlightened 36:07 - The single most important factor 39:22 - What is integration? 44:47 - Ethical guidelines vs commandments 50:53 - What does the data say? 56:33 - Neuroscience interventions in sexuality 01:01:58 - A logical conundrum 01:03:08 - Shinzen’s experience from the field 01:06:23 - Can any human being be free of sin? 01:08:13 - Benchmarks vs complete liberation as an end point 01:10:58 - What does it mean to be a certified a teacher 01:13:36 - Jay analyses the logic 01:16:25 - Chelsey’s dimensional analysis 01:18:53 - A job for applied category theory 01:24:00 - Shinzen’s advice to mathematicians and category theorists 01:26:30 - Aversion and the system 01:28:39 - Compassion cascading 01:32:57 - Complex systems … Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxjhwG5wmXRVfrkeGczVPVI … To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep102-dr-jay-sanguinetti-cults-science-the-dalai-lama/ - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Henry Shukman, award-winning poet, Zen teacher, and author of ‘One Blade of Grass; a Zen memoir’. In this interview Henry discusses the dangers of early spiritual openings, reflects on personality changes after awakening, and questions the complexifying of enlightenment in such activities as the yogas of dream and sleep. Henry also shares his own journey rediscovering the power of community as crucible, how to navigate religious trauma, and offers his thoughts on a viable formula for Zen in America. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep118-henry-shukman-3-zen-the-crucible/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:43 - What’s it all about? 05:29 - Early openings can cause trouble 11:24 - Self as a seed 15:54 - What happens to the self after awakening? 20:31 - Personality changes after awakening 27:14 - Zen and sleep yoga 31:06 - Complexifying enlightenment 34:32 - Nondual experience can assist trauma resolution 36:26 - Community and wearing down the sharp edges 41:00 - The lone wolf finds a guide 45:29 - Navigating sangha after religious trauma 49:48 - The negative influence of power on religious leaders 50:50 - A plausible formula for Zen community 53:23 - Henry’s zen is not religious 56:05 - The Sambo Zen lifestyle … Previous episode with Henry Shukman: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep101-henry-shukman-one-blade-of-grass/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep107-henry-shukman-2-zens-true-miracle/ To find out more about Henry Shukman, visit: - https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/henry-shukman/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by internationally renowned yoga teacher Angela Farmer. Angela recounts the story of her life in yoga, from her birth in 1939 pre-war England, to her studies under yoga guru BKS Iyengar, to her international teaching career spanning over fifty years. Angela reveals how after a decade of rigorous training under Iyengar, she broke away from strict asana practice to find her own path of listening to the body. Despite the resultant blacklisting by the yoga community, Angela uncovered a radically different way of practicing yoga. Angela also shares what it means to be receptive to life in the face of fear, trauma, and change, and offers her heart advice to women of all ages. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep117-angela-farmer-a-life-in-yoga/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - Angela’s childhood during WW2 04:37 - Differences between girls’ and boys’ education 08:02 - Major childhood injuries and surgeries 14:20 - Reading Huxley and discovering yoga 16:30 - Meeting B.K.S. Iyengar and time in India 22:01 - Challenges teaching yoga in English schools 25:37 - Teaching career in America and meeting Victor van Kooten 27:31 - Breaking from Iyengar and beginning to feel the body 31:25 - Injuries incurred practicing Iyengar yoga 35:34 - Radical change in teaching style 39:38 - Connecting to the woman inside 44:18 - How to be with the body 47:18 - Working with fear and trauma 53:17 - Do you really want to hug? 55:54 - Receptivity vs passivity 59:56 - Being a woman 01:05:34 - Being blacklisted by the Iyengar school 01:12:36 - Angela’s heart advice to women … To find our more about Angela, visit: - https://angela-victor.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Greg Kaminsky, host of the Occult of Personality podcast and author of ‘Pronaos: Reflections on the Preliminary Practices of Buddhist Tantra’. In this episode, Greg details over twenty years of extensive occult studies, including his daily magickal practice regime, and reveals why an encounter with American born spiritual teacher Traktung Khepa Rinpoche, saw him leave the path of Western esotericism in favour of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Greg shares just why Traktung Rinpoche impressed him so much, and contrasts the view of magic and entity binding in the occult and Buddhist traditions. Greg also discusses his new book on ngondro, so-called preliminary practices involving hundreds of thousands of repetitions of special prayers and prostrations, and recounts the profound spiritual transformations that occurred when he himself took up this practice. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep116-greg-kaminsky-occult-of-personality/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Greg’s book on ngondro 04:04 - Upbringing and early mystical experiences 06:36 - Exploring Western Esotericism, Freemasonry, & Tarot 09:01 - Transformative kundalini experience on salvia divinorum 11:48 - Greg’s daily magickal practice regime and its results 16:41 - Siddhis and working with angelic entities 19:51- Binding spirits in tantra vs occultism 21:58 - Meeting Traktung Khepa Rinpoche 24:55 - Who is Traktung Khepa Rinpoche? 26:55 - Assessing the teacher 32:45 - An inability to follow instruction 33:49 - Teaching in casual situations 36:52 - Does Traktung Rinpoche have any teachers? 38:09 - Unseen teachers 41:23 - Is Traktung Rinpoche’s biography known? 43:13 - Is Traktung Rinpoche connected with the wider Tibetan Buddhist community? 46:22 - What is ngondro practice? 52:24 - Intensity of practice a key ingredient for transformation 56:27 - Physical injury as spiritual purification 01:02:01 - Sarno back pain and learning by experience 01:03:56 - Managing lyme disease 01:07:10 - Changes to Greg’s life after ngondro 01:09:35 - Greg’s daily practice 01:13:04 - Working for his guru and upcoming publishing projects 01:14:20 - The Grail legends and the spiritual path 01:20:27 - The place of failure … To find our more about Greg, visit: - https://harvard-ext.academia.edu/GregKaminsky - http://occultofpersonality.net/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode special guest Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of ‘Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas’, joins the ongoing conversation featuring: - Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant - Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student - Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Professor at the University of New Mexico In this episode Shinzen and Leigh engage in a detailed discussion about the variety of classifications of jhana in Buddhist scripture and the competing interpretations of them that exist today. They examine the contents and political context of 5th century text the Visuddhimagga and its author Buddhagosa and consider possible conflicts between its jhana system and the those of the Sutta and Abhidhamma literature. Chelsey reveals fascinating research on the neuroscience of pleasure and its relationship to meditational bliss, Jay shares the research on cognitive bias and religious belief, and the group ask the question if jhana and kriya phenomena are actually forms of epileptic seizure. … Video version available at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep115-jhana-ego-orgasm-leigh-brasington-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-sanguinetti/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:45 - Sutta vs Visuddhimagga jhanas 06:53 - Complete absorption and nimitta 09:35 - Do jhanas confer an evolutionary advantage? 11:54 - Orgasmic jhanas 14:18 - Shinzen and Leigh discuss jhanas and lineage 25:40 - How enlightened was Buddhagosa? 29:55 -Sutta vs Abhidhamma vs Visuddhimagga 33:01 - Why did the Visuddhimagga become so popular? 37:14 - Leigh’s orientation vs Shinzen’s orientation 43:36 - The spiritual ego 47:11 - Cognitive bias and defense mechanisms in spiritual practice 54:38 - Sutta Nipāta on dogmatism and bias 59:05 - Is grasping fundamental to the brain? 01:01:54 - Leigh’s enlightenment test 01:07:34 - The nature of pleasure 01:14:28 - Reducing inhibition to reveal states of bliss 01:15:33 - Centre-surround neurons 01:22:25 - Sensory processing according to Buddhism 01:27:24 - The neuroscience of pleasure 01:32:43 - Jhana and kriya as kinds of epileptic seizure 01:42:58 - Leigh’s upcoming book on dependent origination … Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxjhwG5wmXRVfrkeGczVPVI To find out more about Leigh, visit, - https://www.guruviking.com/ep18-leigh-brasington-guru-viking-interviews/ - http://www.leighb.com/ - Case Study of Ecstatic Meditation: fMRI and EEG Evidence of Self-Stimulating a Reward System - https://www.hindawi.com/journals/np/2013/653572/ - How Many Jhanas Are There? http://www.leighb.com/howmanyjhanas.htm To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep102-dr-jay-sanguinetti-cults-science-the-dalai-lama/ - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
n this episode I host a dialogue between Dhammarato and Daniel Ingram on the question ‘Lineage: Who May Teach The Authentic Dharma?’. Dhammarato is a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition, a student of the meditation master Bikkhu Buddhadasa, and is known for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. Daniel Ingram is an independent Buddhist author and co-founder of the Emergent Phenomenology Research Consortium (EPRC), a multidisciplinary, multinational alliance of researchers, clinicians, and patrons who share a vision of bringing scientific methods and clinical sensibilities to the study of emergent phenomena. In this episode Dhammarato and Daniel offer various definitions of the word ‘lineage’ and debate the value of lineage authorisation as a qualification to teach the Buddhist religion. Dhammarato recalls his own monastic training in what he calls the ‘noble lineage’ under teachers such as a Ajahn Po and Bikkhu Buddhadasa and critiques the lack of authentic lineage in the West, while Daniel reflects on the pros and cons of the concept of lineage purity and institutional persecution of the outsider. Dhammarato and Daniel also consider generational preferences in lineage styles, the roles of religious institutions, and predict the evolution of Buddhism in America. … Video version at https://www.guruviking.com/ep114-lineage-who-may-teach-the-authentic-dharma-dhammarato-daniel-ingram/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:59 - Lineage - who may teach the authentic dharma 03:36 - Dhammarato’s opening address 18:51 -Daniel’s opening address 33:31 - What is lineage? 38:55 - Lack of lineage in the West 41:57 - Christopher Titmuss on what makes a dharma teacher 44:31 - Aesthetics vs dhamma 47:59 - Dhammarato’s noble training under Ajahn Po 54:10 - Goenka approach is the end a lineage 55:42 - Lineage as family and pure blood perspective 59:04 - Noble vs ordinary lineage 01:06:48 - Lineage as outsourced social proof 01:13:08 - Spending time with role models 01:20:37 - The roles of institutions 01:24:20 - With whom should you share your attainments? 01:31:11 - The maverick and the institution 01:33:02 - Generational preferences 01:37:22 - The evolutional of Western Buddhism 01:43:23 - Evaluating competency and judging others 01:44:07 - Daniel’s closing address 01:49:00 - Dhammarato’s closing address .. Dhammarato Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknyGISEfksirYaYpsrXdf8va Daniel Ingram Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdkny_MJSecHyvKHPpvxTskBAC … To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ To find out more about Daniel, visit: - https://theeprc.org/ - integrateddaniel.info … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview, I am once again joined by Professor Arthur Versluis, a professor and Department Chair of Religious Studies in the College of Arts & Letters at Michigan State University, author of over 25 books on subjects ranging from Western esotericism, magic, Christian Theosophy, ancient mystery schools, and more. In this episode we discuss Arthur’s 2015 book, ‘American Gurus’ and trace the uniquely American cultural and philosophical factors that lead to the prevalence of independent spiritual teachers such as Adi Da, Andrew Cohen, and Ken Wilber. Arthur argues that a philosophy he calls immediatism is the key cultural force and traces its origins from Plato to Emerson to the 60s counter-culture and beyond. Arthur recounts personal meetings with figures such as Stephen Gaskins, Bill Ayers, and Bernadette Roberts as well as reflecting on his own affiliation with Tibetan Buddhism as both a practitioner and teacher. Arthur also shares his take on the psychedelic movement, the revolutionary politics of the counter-culture figures, and the essential ingredients of the modern American Guru. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep113-arthur-versluis-phd-2-american-gurus/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - Current writing projects 02:42 - Immediatism and the transcendentalists 08:26 - American individualism and the emphasis n personal mystical experiences 12:14 - Meister Eckart to Bernadette Roberts 14:56 - Adi Da as the avatar of immediatism 19:24 - The psychedelic movement 21:57 - Stephen Gaskin and the counter-culture of the 60s 28:29 - Mysticism and revolutionary politics 40:02 - The confidence of the American gurus 46:53 - Social dynamics and the role of the devotee 58:54 - The charismatic powers of the guru 57:36 - Arthur as a Tibetan Buddhist practitioner and teacher 01:03:01 - American Gnosis and writing about heresy 01:04:54 - American influence on Zen and Tibetan Buddhism … Previous episode with Dr Arthur Versluis: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep106-arthur-versluis-phd-conversations-in-apocalyptic-times/ … To find out more about Dr Arthur Versluis, visit: - https://arthurversluis.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Bhante Vimalaramsi: author, American Buddhist monk, and abbot of the Dhamma Sukha Meditation Center in Annapolis, Missouri. In this episode Bhante Vimalaramsi describes how twenty years of dedicated practice of Mahasi-style vipassana meditation left him unsatisfied and how discarding that method and learning to relax and smile unlocked the spiritual path. Bhante describes how his current teaching approach, based not on Buddhaghosa’s Visuddhimagga but on Vimalaramsi’s interpretation of the earlier Buddhist scriptures, sees anything from 25% to 50% of his students attain nibbana in a single 10-day retreat. Bhante Vimalaramsi also details the four path model of enlightenment found in the Theravada schools, and claims that his advanced students experience a permanent cessation of sexual activity and the ability to meditate for up to 7 days without breathing or heart beat. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep112-bhante-vimalaramsi-relaxing-into-nibbana/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Krishnamurti and Ram Dass 02:30 - Beginnings in Mahasi-style vipassana meditation 07:55 - Attending to U Sīlānanda and ordaining in Thailand 09:56 - Dissatisfaction with the Mahasi method 13:49 - Learning to relax and discarding the Visuddhimagga 32:05 - 50% of students attain stream entry in Bhante’s 10-day retreats in Asia 37:10 - How to handle hinderances 44:59 - Defining ‘mindfulness’ 46:39 - The importance of having fun 52:41 - 25-30% of students attain nibbana in Bhante’s 10-day retreats in America 54:37 - How to become enlightened 59:38 - Overcoming anxiety and PTSD 01:03:58 - Effects of becoming a stream enterer, sakadāgāmin, anāgāmi, and arahant 01:09:30 - Dipa Ma and other anagamis can sit for up to 7 days without breathing … To find our more about Bhante Vimalaramsi, visit: - https://www.dhammasukha.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Mike Crowley, Buddhist Lama, musician/composer, and author of ’Secret Drugs of Buddhism: Psychedelic Sacraments and the Origins of the Vajrayana’. We learn about Mike’s childhood as the son of a psychopath, and his extensive experimentation with all manner of drugs and psychoactive substances. Mike recalls his encounters with Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, and his 7 year apprenticeship with Lama Yungdrung which eventually resulted in Mike becoming a lama himself. Mike reveals details of his training and experiences practicing the yogas of Naropa including dream yoga, tummo, and more. Mike lays out his argument that psychedelic sacrament was an essential part of Buddhist Vajrayana, discussing symbolism in sacred art, references in hagiographical accounts, and artefacts of psychedelic use in modern practice forms. Mike also discusses how to transform negative emotion into wisdom, and compares Taoist inner alchemy to the inner yogas of Tibet. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep111-mike-crowley-secret-drugs-of-buddhism/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Upcoming books and memoirs 05:17 - Growing up with a psychopathic father 07:45 - Extensive drug and psychedelic experimentation 09:52 - A life-changing vision of Indra’s net 14:53 - Mike’s understanding of the fifth precept 18:41 - Meeting Chogyam Trungpa and studying with Lama Yungdrung 21:37 - Hippy vs vajrayana psychedelic use 25:12 - Drug use in Buddhism 34:34 - 7 year training apprenticeship with Lama Yungdrung and becoming a lama 45:22 - Tummo, dream yoga, and the 6 Yogas of Naropa 56:16 - Learning Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Chinese 01:01:47 - Tummo and pranayama as psychedelic substitutes? 01:07:18 - Longchenpa’s psychedelic ganacharka 01:10:13 - Tantric deities emerging from psychedelic experience 01:27:45 - To those who doubt the use of psychedelics in Buddhism 01:32:37 - Implications for vajrayana practitioners who have been practicing without psychedelics 01:35:39 - Transforming negative emotions into wisdom energy 01:42:07 - Taoist drugs, and comparing Taoist alchemy with Tibetan inner yogas 01:53:24 - Mike demonstrates some of his musical instruments … Buy ‘Secret Drugs of Buddhism’: - https://synergeticpress.com/catalog/secret-drugs-of-buddhism-psychedelic-sacraments-and-the-origins-of-the-vajrayana/ To find our more about Mike, visit: - http://amritadzong.com/AD_LamaMike.html - https://www.facebook.com/SecretDrugs/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode special guest Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of ‘Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas’, joins the ongoing conversation featuring: - Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant - Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student, - Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Professor at the University of New Mexico In this episode Leigh shares his work with jhana meditation and neuroscience, summarising his 2013 paper ‘Case Study of Ecstatic Meditation’ and showing his brain scans in profound states of samadhi. Dr Sanguinetti offers his own interpretation of Leigh’s scans, and Chelsey asks why mystics report states of nothingness as so much more satisfying than the mundane pleasures associated with the reward systems of the brain. Listen in as Shinzen and Leigh, old friends with decades of elite-level meditation experience, engage in far reaching discussions of samadhi, , the nature of spiritual insights, deathlessness vs immortality, bliss and the cosmic leela, and what foundational math debates about set vs category have to say about Buddhist notions of paticca-samuppada. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep110-case-study-of-ecstatic-meditation-leigh-brasington-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-sanguinetti/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:22 - Leigh overviews his work in jhana meditation and neuroscience 06:10 - Leigh’s brain scans in jhana states 10:26 - What are the jhanas? 15:32 - Dr Sanguinetti comments on Leigh’s brain scans 17:50 - Samadhi and the positive feedback loop 26:53 - Shinzen and Leigh on foundational math, set vs category, and paticca-samuppada 39:42 - Why is no-self so fulfilling? 47:00 - Shinzen and Leigh on death 54:07 - Jhanas are just the warm-up 01:00:01 - What are spiritual insights and why are they so rewarding? 01:08:29 - Dr Sanguinetti comments on nested levels and jhana practice protocol 01:16:30 - Retraining the default mode to nothingness 01:22:34 - A test of spiritual liberation and sensory deprivation hallucination 01:33:19 - Attention both amplifies and inhibits 01:35:37 - ‘The Emperor’s New Mind’ 01:38:37 - SODAPI 01:40:59 - Bliss and the Cosmic Leela 01:50:47 - Three Gates of Liberation 01:55:31 - Immortality project vs deathlessness … Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep76-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-2-the-science-of-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep81-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-3-orgasm-epilepsy-mystical-experience/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep86-bliss-enlightenment-fristonian-physics-feat-chelsey-fasano-shinzen-young-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep94-the-enlightenment-button-feat-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep103-dopamine-meditation-fibonacci-feat-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ To find out more about Leigh, visit, - https://www.guruviking.com/ep18-leigh-brasington-guru-viking-interviews/ - http://www.leighb.com/ - Case Study of Ecstatic Meditation: fMRI and EEG Evidence of Self-Stimulating a Reward System - https://www.hindawi.com/journals/np/2013/653572/ To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep102-dr-jay-sanguinetti-cults-science-the-dalai-lama/ - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhist Lama Glenn Mullin. Glenn takes a deep dive into the use of yidam, or meditation deities, in Buddhist tantra including the role of personal preference, karmic coincidence, and divination in choosing the right yidam for you. Glenn reveals his own primary yidam practice and details the unusual experiences around his initiation as well the effects of the yidam practice over his lifetime. Glenn also explains the use of ritual instruments, mudra, and choreographed hand gestures in Tantric practice, and discusses what it means to become an accomplished practitioner of these disciplines. … Full episode link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - How to choose a practice deity 11:54 - How to determine your karmic dispositions and tales of empowerments 18:13 - Divination and karmic coincidence 24:57 - Effects of Yamantaka tantric practice on Glenn 44:42 - What is a yidam really? 54:10 - What does it mean accomplish a practice? 01:02:23 - Tantric use of ritual instruments, mudra, and choreographed hand gestures 01:26:04 - Founding ‘The Mystical Arts of Tibet’ touring group … Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/?s=glenn+mullin Buy ‘The Dalai Lamas on Tantra’: - https://www.shambhala.com/from-the-heart-of-chenrezig-2783.html To find our more about Glenn, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Erik Jampa Andersson, a teacher of Tibetan medicine, astrology, and meditation endorsed by luminaries of the field such as Dr Nida Chenagtsang and Lama Tsultrim Allione. Erik recounts how childhood tragedy and an early interest in the occult saw him deeply influenced by the works of J.R.R Tolkien, and to eventually become a Buddhist in the Nyingma lineage of Tibet. Erik reveals his personal journey in resolving friction points with the Buddhist religion, including doctrines of hell realms and heteronormative ethical standards. Erik also discusses his education in Tibetan medicine, and shares his deep interest in and personal experience of the realm of spirits and unseen beings, both as mythic devices and also as influences in mental health and physical disease. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep108-erik-jampa-andersson-from-tolkien-to-tibet/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:28 - Childhood interest in the occult 04:39 - From Tolkien to Tibetan Buddhism 11:15 - Becoming a student of Lama Tsultrim Allione 13:12 - Attraction to Tibetan Buddhism 17:37 - Christian vs Buddhist ethics 20:51 - Frictions points with Buddhism 26:09 - Homosexuality and Buddhism 40:39 - Queer liberation and religious marginalisation 48:15 - S3xual ethics and Buddhism 50:52 - The myth of Padmasambhava 55:13 - From acting to Tibetan medical studies 01:01:36 - Modern vs traditional education styles 01:09:13 - Cultural and medical exchange in antiquity 01:17:47 - Erik’s work on unseen beings and spirit provocations 01:28:17 - Endorsed by Lama Tsultrim Allione and Dr Nida Chenagtsang 01:32:57 - Becoming a professional astrologer 01:47:26 - Personal entity encounters 01:53:33 - Experiments with states of high concentration and plant medicines 02:03:20 - The genius of Tolkien 02:17:02 - Erik’s upcoming book on rational animism 02:27:09 - Contacting Erik … To find out more about Erik Jampa Andersson, visit: - https://www.shrimala.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I was recently interviewed by James Iandoli at 'Engaging the Phenomenon', where we discussed meditation, psychic powers, and UFOs 👽 00:00 - Who is Steve? 02:10 - Why ‘Guru Viking’? 05:05 - Becoming interested in meditation 07:52 - Contemplative Christianity 10:13 - UFOs 18:08 - Close encounters as catalysts for awakening 21:58 - Siddhi and psychic experiences 34:15 - CE5 and contacting entities 48:27 - Meditation, perennialism, and being fun at parties 58:59 - Advice when starting meditation Check out James Iandoli's 'Engaging the Phenomenon' podcast at: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnFc2oM4A60NcG0LCjKoH8g Find out more about Steve and the 'Guru Viking Podcast' at: - www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am once again joined by Henry Shukman, award-winning poet, Zen teacher, and author of ‘One Blade of Grass; a Zen memoir’. In this interview Henry reveals what he calls Zen’s true miracle, and shares his own personal journey of healing childhood trauma in the context of spiritual awakening and integration of enlightenment. Henry also explores the two purposes of Zen koan training, contrasts different models of enlightenment, and explains how to awaken in the midst of intense suffering and pain. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep107-henry-shukman-2-zens-true-miracle/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:36 - Endorsed by Dr Rick Hanson 01:25 - Evolving definitions of trauma 05:16 - Cold War espionage and Henry’s infant trauma 08:18 - Profound insights from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy 10:43 - Exploring Jungian dream work 17:36 - Can one be enlightened and traumatised? 21:08 - Integration and the Heart Sutra 29:46 - Asymptote of enlightenment vs ‘just this’ 37:04 - Awakening in extreme trauma 40:40 - The two purposes of koan training 49:19 - Extraordinary states of mind vs ordinary reality 57:40 - Addendum: The true miracle of Zen … Previous episode with Henry Shukman: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep101-henry-shukman-one-blade-of-grass/ To find out more about Henry Shukman, visit: - https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/henry-shukman/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James …
In this interview, I am joined by Professor Arthur Versluis, a professor and Department Chair of Religious Studies in the College of Arts & Letters at Michigan State University, author of over 25 books on subjects ranging from Western esotericism, magic, Christian Theosophy, ancient mystery schools, and more. In this episode we discuss Arthur’s latest book, ‘Conversations In Apocalyptic Times’ and trace a thread of esoteric Christianity that stretches back to the mystery schools of Ancient Greece. We discover fascinating figures such as shoemaker and mystic Jakob Böhme; priest, alchemist, and astrologer John Pordage; and learn about the negative theology of Christian Neoplatanist Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, contrasting it with Buddhist notions of emptiness and the ‘neti neti’ method advocated by Shankara. Arthur also explains the differences between historical and a-historical lineages and discusses the recurring friction between the religious mystic and the religious institution. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep106-arthur-versluis-phd-conversations-in-apocalyptic-times/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Arthur’s academic and popular writing 02:30 - Arthur’s childhood interest in the unknown 03:59 - Jakob Böhme, John Pordage, and Christian Theosophy 07:33 - Lineage and ahistorical continuity 10:00 - Christianity as a Mystery Tradition 18:28 - Christian Theosophy as an alchemical, contemplative path 24:32 - Why are mystics persecuted by the institutions? 30:04 - Negative theology, mystical transcendence, and Platonic mysticism 35:53 - Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite 39:39 - Comparisons and differences between negative theology and shunyata 44:43 - How are a-historical lineages revived and reconstructed? 49:35 - Robert Fass’ synthesis of Western psychology and Christian Theosophy ... To find out more about Dr Arthur Versluis, visit: - https://arthurversluis.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview, I am joined by Dr Angelo Dilullo, anaesthesiologist, spiritual teacher, and author of ‘Awake! It’s your Turn’. We learn how a profound existential angst in childhood and adolescence propelled Angelo into spiritual practice and, at the age of 24, precipitated a radical spiritual awakening. Angelo details the practices, shifts, and consequences of his awakening, and shares the process of coming face to face with deeply held conditioning. Angelo also discusses certainty and religious experience, and reveals why he is absolutely certain that not only can anyone wake up, but that anyone who wants to will. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep105-dr-angelo-dilullo-simply-always-awake/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - Profound existential suffering during childhood and adolescence 05:44 - Transcendental Meditation and a life-changing encounter 09:56 - Angelo’s awakening 14:11 - More on Angelo’s teenage existential angst 19:42 - Anyone can wake up 20:20 - Awake nature and Angelo’s certainty 24:54 - Is certainty a valid basis for truth claims? 31:11 - Certainty = truth? 41:14 - More on Angelo’s pre-awakening practice and awakening experience 45:26 - Past life recall and disappearance of the self structure 50:31 - Sampling Zen 54:07 - More details on Angelo’s past life experience 55:20 - Consequences of awakening 59:18 - Sexuality after awakening 1:12:08 - Agency and motivation after awakening 1:21:51 - Facing conditioning, behavioural guard rails, & people pleasing 1:35:15 - Authenticity and socialisation 1:44:26 - Differentiating Angelo’s truth claims 1:54:34 - How Angelo began to teach 2:02:49 - Paradox, objective claims, and moving beyond concept ... To find out more about Dr Angelo Dilullo, visit: - www.simplyalwaysawake.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I am once again joined by David Curtis, a Lama in the Shangpa-Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism and founder of the Tibetan Language Institute. In this interview, David shares his passion for the Tibetan language and insights gained from his 27 year career teaching Tibetan to thousands of students. We learn about David’s unique approach to language learning, the unique characteristics of the Tibetan language that David loves, and how different approaches to grammar can open up meaning at different points in a student’s journey. David also reveals how to approach language learning as a spiritual practice, and shares stories of his interactions with prominent gurus and translators. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep104-lama-david-curtis-teaching-the-tibetan-language/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - Tibetan Language Institute 02:26 - Developing language learning materials over 27 years of teaching 07:45 - Early dictionaries assumed a knowledge of Greek and Latin 08:43 - David’s approach to teaching the Tibetan language 11:44 - The connection between enlightened nature and language 14:07 - The integration of Sino-Tibetan and Indo-European elements in the Tibetan literary language 22:18 - Chomsky and how to teach grammar 29:08 - Language learning as a spiritual practice 33:04 - The three aspects of language, and advice for the intermediate language learner 39:01 - Resources from Joe B Wilson and John Rockwell 40:39 - How David sees his role as a language teacher 41:39 - Benefits of learning Tibetan and some student success stories 44:33 - The profile of an ideal student Previous interviews with Lama David Curtis: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep84-lama-david-curtis-hitchhiking-in-samsara/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep99-lama-david-curtis-2-making-of-a-tantric-lama/ To find out more about Lama David Curtis, visit: - http://www.bigskymindmontana.org/ - http://www.tibetanlanguage.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host part 6 of an ongoing conversation between Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student, and Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Professor at the University of New Mexico. In this episode we take a deep dive into the dopaminergic reward system, including current thinking on its function and role, and its interaction with meditation practice and Buddhist notions of craving and suffering. We also discuss what to do after enlightenment, and speculate about the Fibonacci sequence as a universal constant. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep103-dopamine-meditation-fibonacci-feat-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:44 - International attention and Sir Roger Penrose 02:38 - What is the reward system and how does it function? 06:45 - The punishment system 09:50 - Social media and the basal ganglia 11:09 - Meditation’s effects on the basal ganglia 14:50 - SART and the work of Dr David Vago 19:37 - Meditation and resting tonic dopamine levels 22:24 - Knytl & Opitz on meditation and negative reinforcement 25:14 - What is resting tonic dopamine? 27:04 - Leigh Brasington and Haggerty’s jhana study 30:19 - Is the Haggerty study fatally flawed? 32:21 - More to pleasure than dopamine 33:05 - The different jhana systems of Buddhism 35:36- Jay suggests a jhana study at his lab 37:26 - Integration of ecstatic experience across traditions 43:13 - Integrating the the top-down Self with the basal ganglia 45:47 - After enlightenment, what to do? 49:10 - Shinzen on measuring the endorphin rush 53:14 - Endorphins, Dopamine, and craving 55:48 - Hard and soft jhana, wet and dry vipassana 01:01:02 - Jay on in-brain competition and behaviour change 01:04:51 - Outcomes from Shinzen’s life of practice 01:07:54 - The Fibonacci sequence as the universal constant 01:21:01 - Craving, conflict, and suffering … Previous episodes in this series: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep76-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-2-the-science-of-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep81-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-3-orgasm-epilepsy-mystical-experience/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep86-bliss-enlightenment-fristonian-physics-feat-chelsey-fasano-shinzen-young-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep94-the-enlightenment-button-feat-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ - To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep102-dr-jay-sanguinetti-cults-science-the-dalai-lama/ - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Research Professor at the University of Arizona, Assistant Director at the Center for Consciousness Studies, and co-director of the SEMA Lab with Shinzen Young. In this episode, Jay recalls his upbringing in Mississippi, falling in love with science, and how his work synthesising MDMA as a promising undergraduate brought him o an ethical crisis . Jay recounts a life changing encounter with the Dalai Lama that radically altered his research path and inspired him to personally take up the practice of meditation. Jay reveals how a profound meditation epiphany led to an existential crisis, and the role that psilocybin had in reintegrating his body and mind. Jay also discusses Olympic level meditators, the role of identity in self-transformation, and what it’s like to collaborate with noted meditation teacher Shinzen Young. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep102-dr-jay-sanguinetti-cults-science-the-dalai-lama/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Research resources and recent media interest 03:12 - Jay’s upbringing in Mississippi and falling in love with science 06:00 - Manufacturing MDMA and an facing an ethical crisis 10:04 - How Jay’s upbringing affected his life and career 13:11 - A profound encounter with the Dalai Lama 18:58 - Discussing the Dalai Lama’s spiritual power 25:40 - Jay’s life-changing spiritual epiphany and ensuing existential crisis 32:22 - Reintegrating the psyche with psychedelics 36:26 - Lasting consequences of Jay’s epiphany 42:14 - Olympic level meditators and becoming the Dalai Lama 51:04 - The malware of religion and science 58:28 - The bias lensing mechanism 01:01:21 - Identity and spiritual bypass 01:13:25 - Jay imagines the future of contemplative neuroscience 01:15:01 - Cults, conversion, and meditation progress 01:21:38 - Inner resources and reducing cognitive load 01:27:15 - Jay on Shinzen Young … Previous episodes with Dr Sanguinetti: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep86-bliss-enlightenment-fristonian-physics-feat-chelsey-fasano-shinzen-young-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep81-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-3-orgasm-epilepsy-mystical-experience/ … To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ Jay’s TEDx Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGEjmwaIPZk Jay at USC - https://youtu.be/ljl7tapTCh4 Jay and Shinzen in the Guardian - https://youtu.be/spukj-4sYS0 … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Henry Shukman, award-winning poet, Zen teacher, and author of ‘One Blade of Grass, a Zen memoir’. In this interview Henry discusses his upbringing in Oxford, as the son of a don and a graduate of the illustrious Dragon School, and how in poetry he found the liberating aspect of literary life. Henry reveals his first awakening experience, the breakdown that occurred thereafter, and how finding meditation saw him begin a quest to deepen his spiritual life. Henry discusses the importance of finding a teacher, how he overcome a childhood-learned distrust of men to do so, and why his Zen practice brought an end to his professional writing career. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep101-henry-shukman-one-blade-of-grass/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Henry’s learned upbringing in Oxford 06:30 - An award-winning career as a poet and author ended by Zen 09:13 - Henry’s education at the illustrious Dragon School, Oxford 15:12 - Poetry as the liberating aspect of literary life 17:17 - Henry as a poet and ‘is poetry high-brow’? 22:56 - First awakening experience 28:11 - Post-awakening breakdown and despair 30:26 - Discovering meditation and unwinding the nervous system 35:00 - Distrust of men and finding a spiritual teacher 43:49 - Inside the teacher-student relationship 51:31 - Did Zen kill Henry’s writing process? To find out more about Henry Shukman, visit: - https://www.mountaincloud.org/about/henry-shukman/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ian A. Baker, international fellow of the Explorers Club and the Royal Geographic Society, author of 7 books, and an initiate of Buddhist, Taoist, and Hindu Tantric lineages. In this interview Ian recounts a life-changing encounter with a Shakta tantric Siddha in Nepal, who healed Ian of severe climbing injuries and initiated him into the Kaula Tantric order. Ian compares the hitherto secret practices of this sect - such as pranayama, asana, and kundalini techniques - with their Tibetan Tantric equivalents. Ian reveals the surprising reactions of his Tibetan teachers to his initiations into Kaula Tantra, including Chatral Rinpoche and Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, and shares a drinking practice taught to him by his Kaula guru. Ian also discusses Himalayan Beyul, the thin places of the Scottish Highlands, and how a trip to the Isle of Skye brought him into living contact with local Faerie lore. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep100-ian-baker-emancipated-passion-of-kaula-tantra/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Recent research into esoteric Burmese spiritual elixirs and the Soma tradition 09:55. Exploring the thin places of the Scottish Highlands 15:15 - Encountering the human the faerie tradition of the Isle of Skye 18:21 - Psychoactive substances in Buddhism 22:32 - Tantric Buddhism in Burma 28:38 - Ian on Mike Crowley’s book ’The Secret Drugs of Buddhism’ 34:12 - Initial interest in Kaula Tantra 39:59 - Padmasambhava and the Nyingma Sects of Tibetan Buddhism 41:41 - Love vs renunciation and the Indian roots of Tibetan Tantra 47:18 - Emancipated passion, Yab Yum, and Maithuna 52:14 - Touring the sacred Shakta sites of Kamakya, Assam with Sakya Trinzin 59:29 - Ian’s first Kaula Tantric initiation 1:03:05 - Meeting a Shakta master and experiencing Siddhis (paranormal powers) 1:05:06 - Extensive physical healing by the Shakta master after Ian’s climbing accident 1:16:05 - Ian’s second Kaula Tantric initiation and Maithuna practice 1:20:11 - Tulku Urgyen and Chatral Rinpoche’s responses to his Kaula experiences 1:23:50 - Ian demonstrates a pranayama drinking practice 1:29:58 - Criticisms of mulabhanda and visualisation practice 1:35:08 - Comparison of Shakta and Tibetan pranayama practices 1:37:46 - Integration of Sahaja and the core practices of Dzogchen 1:41:32 - Comparison of approaches to the pelvic floor in the esoteric traditions 1:49:04 - Female masters and the overlooked roots of Tantric practice 1:52:14 - Ian recommends some recent scholarship ... To find out more about Dr Ian A Baker, visit: - https://www.ianbaker.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I am once again joined by David Curtis, a Lama in the Shangpa-Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism and founder of the Tibetan Language Institute. In this interview, we pick up David’s story as he emerges from 3 years of closed retreat as a fully qualified Lama, and see his return to America to teach both the Tibetan language and the Buddhist religion. David also recounts many unexpected meetings and powerful mystical experiences with Buddhist masters including Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche, Anam Thubten Rinpoche, Thinley Norbu Rinpoche, Lama Tharchin, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep99-lama-david-curtis-2-making-of-a-tantric-lama/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - Becoming a Lama in the Kagyu tradition 05:12 - Finishing the 3 year retreat and studying Tibetan medicine 09:40 - Meeting Dzogchen master Nyoshul Khen 11:38 - A powerful encounter with Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche and Vajrayogini 17:53 - Shaktipat & mystical experiences with Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche 25:55 - Return to America and beginning to teach the Tibetan language 32:58 - Collaborations with Anam Thubten Rinpoche and Professor Sarah Harding 36:48 - Encounters with Lama Tharchin and Thinley Norbu Rinpoche 43:23 - Divination and encouragement from Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche 49:11 - Endorsed to teach by Anam Thubten Rinpoche 53:33 - David’s approach to teaching Buddhism 1:00:31 - Founding the Big Sky Mind sangha Previous interviews with Lama David Curtis: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep84-lama-david-curtis-hitchhiking-in-samsara/ To find out more about Lama David Curtis, visit: - http://www.bigskymindmontana.org/ - http://www.tibetanlanguage.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Meido Roshi, Rinzai Zen Abbot of Korinji Monastery, Wisconsin, and author of ‘Hidden Zen: Practices for Sudden Awakening and Embodied Realisation’. In this episode we discuss how childhood existential panic set Meido Roshi on a quest for spiritual meaning, travelling Asia to meet famous meditation masters such as Shri Munindra, Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, & Sheng Yen before finally finding a home in the practice of Zen. Meido Roshi details his years of rigorous training, his subsequent awakening, and critiques the shortcomings of today’s American Zen lineages. Meido Roshi reveals the Rinzai Zen principle of ‘Ba’, how to cultivate spiritual charisma and use it to impact others, and offers a comparison of the different flavours of spiritual charisma possessed by the masters that he has met. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep98-meido-roshi-hidden-zen/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Childhood existential panic and religious personality 05:42 - Attraction to the Catholic priesthood 07:27 - Encounters with Anagarika Shri Munindra, Chokyi Nyima, Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, & Sheng Yen 10:29 - Meeting Tenzan Toyoda Rokoji, Meido’s first teacher 12:19 - Comparing the spiritual charisma of various enlightened masters 15:37 - Meido Roshi’s view on perennialism 17:46 - Deficiencies and shortcomings of Western Zen 26:18 - Conflation of Zen and psychotherapy 27:48 - What can be changed in Zen? 32:40 - Is Meido Roshi’s critique of American Zen inconsistent with his own modifications to the tradition? 38:00 - Why have the techniques in ‘Hidden Zen’ been unknown by scholars and practitioners? 41:18 - 7 years of intense apprenticeship with Tenzan Toyoda Rokoji 44:02 - How Tenzan Toyoda Rokoji burned through Meido’s cloudiness 47:11 - Acknowledged by Tenzan Toyoda Rokoji 48:27 - Hard training or abuse? 51:42 - Traditional martial arts training 54:19 - 15 years with Hosokawa Roshi 57:05 - Training with So'zan Miller Roshi 59:10 - The progression of the Zen path towards and beyond Kensho 1:04:08 - Profound states of Samadhi + shattering vs distraction 1:07:41 - Prerequisites and obstacles to profound Samadhi 1:10:29 - Individualism and bad habits in meditators 1:14:08 - Spiritual charisma as a teaching tool 1:20:22 - How to train spiritual charisma in Rinzai Zen 1:23:55 - How Meido Roshi uses spiritual charisma with students 1:25:57 - Developing Siddhi and special powers 1:31:23 - Siddhi in Meido Roshi’s teachers 1:34:59 - Meido Roshi’s own Kensho experiences … To find our more about Meido Roshi, visit: - https://www.korinji.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhist Lama Glenn Mullin. Glenn explains the 4 Classes of Buddhist Tantra - Kriya, Charya, Yoga, and Anuttarayoga - including their history and development, and what distinguishes them from each other in practice and view. Glenn reveals the structures of each level of Tantra, compares their creation and completion stage practices, and discusses the possible Persian origin of the Bön and Nyingma schools and their classification systems. Glenn also guides a walk-through of the Kriya Tantra practice of Avalokiteshvara, using his own translation of the 3rd Dalai Lama’s practice text to illuminate each step. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep97-glenn-mullin-from-the-heart-of-chenrezig/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:48 - Life update and current projects 06:29 - The history and development of the 4 Classes of Tantra 18:18 - The classic metaphor for explaining the 4 Class classification system 21:45 -The secret code language of the Hidden Meaning Tantras 24:04 - The structures of the different classes of Tantra 26:24 - Generation stage and the three Kayas 31:54 - Each Tantra is a living lineage 34:31 - Bön influence on the Nyingma School’s Tantric classification 40:54 - Ati Yoga and Dzogchen 43:43 - Prerequisites for practicing Tantra 44:22 - Persian influence on the Bön and Nyingma codification 49:54 - Differences in the khyerim practices of the 4 Classes of Tantra 54:08 - Detailed Kriya Tantra practice walkthrough 1:10:47 - Chenrezig, Majushri, Tara, and Amitayus Kriya Tantras 1:13:10 - Kriya Yoga dzogrim practices 1:14:37 - How to practice multiple Tantras 1:17:24 - 3rd Dalai Lama on the 7 Stages of Chenrezig Kriya Tantra … Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/?s=glenn+mullin Buy ‘The Dalai Lamas on Tantra’: - https://www.shambhala.com/from-the-heart-of-chenrezig-2783.html To find our more about Glenn, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Gregory Blann: mystic, artist, author, and initiate of the Inayati and Halveti-Jerrahi orders of Sufism. Gregory reveals the rich history and practices of Sufism, including meditation techniques, Zikr, and the dream practices of the Halveti-Jerrahi. Gregory also recounts his own spiritual journey from Evangelical Christianity to Gurdjieff to encounters with great Sheiks of the 20th century such as Pir Vilayat Khan, Sheik Nur, and Muzaffer Efendi. Gregory also explains the 4 Levels of Religion, connections between Sufism and Kabbalah, and discusses the possibility of an allegorical reading of the Gospels. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep96-gregory-blann-the-garden-of-mystic-love/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - The history and context of Sufism 12:41 - The 4 levels of religion 17:14 - The ‘Verse of the Sword’ and the inner path 27:34 - Inclusiveness of Sufism 32:44 - Are there connections between Sufism and Indic Tantric thought? 38:58 - Zikr practice of Sufism 48:57 - Gregory’s spiritual journey 53:29 - Gurdjieff’s work and encountering Sufism 1:02:35 - Initiating into the Inayati Order of the West with Pir Vilayat Khan 1:05:25 - About Pir Vilayat Khan 1:10:32 - About Lex Hixon aka Sheik Nur 1:20:07 - Initiation into the Halveti-Jerrahi Order with Sheik Nur 1:20:49 - Granted permissions of the Sheik by the Grand Sheik Muzaffer Efendi in Istanbul 1:21:24 -Retreat practice and the history of the Halveti-Jerrahi Order of Sufism 1:30:12 - Muzaffer Efendi and the transmission of Turkish Sufism to the West 1:36:34 - Levels of initiation as a Sufi Sheik 1:42:45 - Dream practices of the Halveti-Jerrahi Order 1:44:51 - Sufism and Kabbalah 1:47:20 - Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi and Jewish Renewal 1:51:31 - Reading the Gospels on an allegorical level … To find out more about Gregory, visit: - https://blanng.wixsite.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. In this interview Ben takes us on a deep dive into the theory, practice, and scholarship of coitus reservatus as a Tantric religious practice. Ben compares these practices within various Buddhist lineages, as well as exploring the similarities and differences between Shaiva Tantra, Western Occultism, and modern Neo-Tantric approaches. Ben also discusses the various applications of this practice - including spiritual, medical, and magickal - how to choose a consort, and draws on religious texts to discuss previously secret catheter practices. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep95-dr-ben-joffe-4-coitus-reservatus/ This podcast is also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 0:42 - Ben’s move to South Africa and work with Dr Nida Chenagtsang 04:10 - Ben’s line-by-line ngondro translation class 06:59 - About ngondro practice 11:27 - Why is Dr Nida going on extended retreat? 15:10 - Coitus reservatus in popular culture 23:00 - A summary of academic and popular views on Karmamudra 33:04 - An overview of ejaculation control and orgasm in Vajrayana 45:53 - Shaiva Tantra and Western S3x Magick 1:16:30 - The female experience and further considerations 1:33:10 - Medical and magickal use of s3xual fluids in Tibetan texts 1:52:13 - Thoughts about the origins of Tantric practice formulations 1:57:55 - Choosing a consort 02:12:31 - The ‘Self’ and identity in Tantra 02:28:33 - The diversity of Tantric practices 02:34:35 - Vajrolīmudra and urethral catheter practices 02:39:44 - Methods of ejaculatory control 03:03:26 - Similarities between traditional and Neo-Tantric practices 03:08:44 - Everything is Karmamudra … Ngakpa series with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep52-dr-ben-joffe-3-dakinis-consorts-beyond-heteronormativity/ Ben’s PhD dissertation: - https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2335180529.html?FMT=ABS&fbclid=IwAR3bXYiUmC6YcOgR09-GuSiC_UwwXYuTcLJ-kce_tI3-8e-smZS99wy1HMY To find out more about Ben, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ - https://www.sowarigpaonline.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host part 5 of an ongoing trialogue between Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student, and Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Assistant Professor at the University of New Mexico. In this episode we discuss topics such as is there an enlightenment button and is it enough, extracting the essence of religious approaches, multi-dimensional integration after enlightenment, a deep dive on trauma and the no-self, and more. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep94-the-enlightenment-button-feat-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ This podcast is also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:41 - Is there an enlightenment button and is it enough? 03:46 - The scope of the enlightenment button 09:01 - How deep can a state level change go? 11:24 - Spontaneous awakening trends 14:21 - Extracting the essence 17:18 - Operationalising enlightenment and the context of awakening 20:53 - Embodied interdependent cognition and integration 24:43 - Wilber’s ‘clean up, grow up, wake up’ 27:16 - Shinzen comments on Wilber’s formulation 29:42 - Shinzen responds to criticisms of modern mindfulness 34:43 - Embedding the practice 38:30 - Can no-self reinforce trauma? 41:00 - Harnessing reward systems for meditation 42:29 - Defining no-self 44:09 - Multi-dimensional self alteration 47:29 - Shinzen on trauma and the dying process 58:30 - The Christian religious experience 1:00:12 - Pattern completion and changing relationship to trauma 1:08:55 - After enlightenment, why heal? … Previous episodes with Shinzen and Chelsey: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep76-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-2-the-science-of-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep81-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-3-orgasm-epilepsy-mystical-experience/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep86-bliss-enlightenment-fristonian-physics-feat-chelsey-fasano-shinzen-young-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ Previous Interview with Shinzen Young: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Amalia Rubin - internationally known singer, Buddhist practitioner, 8 language polyglot, and scholar currently conducing her PhD research on ‘Gesar as an ongoing mode of reality in the lives of modern Tibetan youths in Eastern Tibet’ at the University of Leeds. In this interview, Amalia reveals her unusual upbringing and subsequent life of adventure, intensive language immersion, life and work throughout Asia, and encounters with high Lamas including an ongoing friendship of the 17th Karmapa. We learn about Amalia’s research interests, including the shamanic healing practices of the Steppes, the babdrung trance-bards of the Gesar tradition, and the similarities between the modern revivals of traditional shamanism in Mongolia and the Gesar Ling traditions of Eastern Tibet,. Amalia also discusses her special relationship with Tana monastery, and how she became an internationally renowned singer and performer. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep93-amalia-rubin-the-epic-of-king-gesar/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 00:57 - ‘I come from a weird family’ 05:00 - Intersection of Judaism and Buddhism 10:25 - Childhood meetings with high Lamas of Tibetan Buddhism 13:33 - Beginning formal Tibetan language study 15:21 - Asian Studies at University of Buffalo 17:11 - Intensive language study at Sarah College 18:40 - Advice for students pursuing higher education 19:35 - Travel to Mongolia and completing a masters at University of Washington 22:37 - Shamanic migraine healing 23:44 - 3 years in India and spiritual relationship with the 17th Karmapa 27:44 - Personal stories about the 17th Karmapa 32:52 - Parallels between Tibetan Gesar and Mongolian Shamanic revivals 34:26 - The babdrung trance-bards of the Gesar tradition 36:32 - Involuntary tradition revivals 37:33 - How do the babdrung enter trance? 39:26 - Are the babdrung chanellings philologically consistent? 42:04 - Pop culture expressions of the Gesar revival 46:00 - Eschatalogical aspects of the Gesar myth 47:33 - Who was Gesar and what is his cultural significance? 52:10 - Origin of the name ‘Gesar’ 53:26 - Amalia’s Gesar practice and connection with Tana monastery 58:28 - Further details on Gesar practice 1:01:45 - Amalia’s academic work on Gesar 1:03:21 - Sacred artefacts of Tana monastery 1:11:30 - How Amalia was invited to begin her PhD 1:15:38 - Hospitalised in Tibet 1:17:50 - Research during the pandemic 1:18:45 -Recovering from COVID 1:19:40 - Amalia’s international singing career ... To find our more about Amalia Rubin, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/groups/708269639856653 - www.baganmongolian.com - https://www.instagram.com/thewildamalia/ - ahanarubin @ gmail [dot] com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Alejandro Chaoul PhD, author, meditation teacher, Huffington Foundation Endowed Director of the Mind Body Spirit Institute at the Jung Center of Houston. Alejandro is an expert in tsa lung trulkhor, also known as Tibetan Yoga, and in this episode we discover the practices and encounters that kindled Alejandro’s fascination with this subject. We learn about Alejandro’s travels through India and encounters with gurus such as UG Krishnamurti, Namkhai Norbu, and the exorcist and weather maker Ngakpa Yeshe Dorje. Alejandro reveals the details of his path and practice, tells stories of his personal relationships with many great teachers, and his entry into academia. Alejandro also discusses the inner heat practice of tummo and I ask him about traditional dietary recommendations for yogis and the tantric practice of breath retention. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep92-dr-alejandro-chaoul-magical-movements-of-tibet/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:51 - Learning yantra yoga from Namkhai Norbu 03:55 - Studying trulkhor in Nepal 08:34 - The teacher-student relationship and what attracted Alejandro to the Bön religion 13:02 - Converting to Buddhism 14:14 - From Buddhism to Bön 17:08 - Being dismantled by UG Krishnamurti 21:15 - Studying with exorcist and weather maker Ngakpa Yeshe Dorje 30:55 - Stories of personal relationship with Namkhai Norbu 38:13 - Converting to Buddhism from Judaism 40:59 - Becoming a rug buyer 42:53 - Learning Tibetan and becoming an academic 46:01 - Studying Tibetan with Jeffrey Hopkins 49:07 - Alejandro’s pHD in Bön trulkor and joining academic study with practice 53:56 - The teacher-student relationship 58:20 - Interpersonal relationship with Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 1:00:21 - The magical movements of Tibetan Yoga 1:03:19 - Tummo ‘inner heat’ yoga 1:04:33 - Kum Nye 1:06:23 - Upcoming book on Tibetan Yoga 1:07:46 - Diet and semen retention 1:08:53 - Diet recommendations for yogis 1:12:25 - S3xual practices and semen retention 1:14:02- Working with Alejandro ... To find our more about Alejandro Chaoul, visit: - www.alechaoul.com - www.ligmincha.org - www.mbsihouston.org For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Anna Lutkajtis author of ‘Dark Side of the Dharma: Meditation, Madness, and Other Maladies on the Contemplative Path’. Anna is a postgraduate researcher at the University of Sydney who’s research focuses on mysticism, the dark night of the soul, and the healing potential of altered states of consciousness. We learn how Anna’s own existential crisis saw her embark on a spiritual quest, including deep exploration of meditation and yoga, and close contact with pragmatic dharma teachers Daniel Ingram and Kenneth Folk. Anna reveals where a senior teacher placed her on the 4-path model of enlightenment, and why that framework is no longer the focus of her personal practice. We also discuss Anna’s research into adverse meditation effects, explore three different theories of the dark night of the soul, and consider the friction points between enlightenment and psychological health. Anna then asks me about my experience sharing meditation with others and we discuss my interests in the parallels between mindfulness and mainstream Christianity, the mechanisms of religious conversion, and the pros and cons of intensive retreat. … Video version available at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep91-anna-lutkajtis-dark-side-of-the-dharma/ Episode also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Anna’s meditation history 04:38 - Encountering Daniel Ingram and Kenneth Folk 09:53 - Personal outcome of working 1-1 with Kenneth Folk 11:03 - Fire kasina practice and yoga asana 11:40 - Anna’s fire kasina story 15:56 - Anna’s ‘relentless seeking phase’ 16:57 - Perspective on the 4-path model 19:22 - Who diagnosed Anna’s path attainments and on what basis? 20:59 - Anna’s dark night, depression, and Daniel Ingram’s help 24:59 - 3 different dark night theories 29:40 - Scripting and experience construction 33:36 - Why are adverse meditation effects ignored? 36:00 - Religious vs psychological friction points 40:18 - Bikkhu Analayo’s critique 42:57 - Defining ‘adverse effects’ 44:53 - Trauma and adverse meditation effects 45:51 - Pros and cons of intensive retreat 48:03 - Frequency of adverse meditation effects 52:29 - The goals of practice 55:21 - Further definitions and variables 1:00:02 - Spiritual but not religious? 1:03:32 - Mindfulness as a religious movement 1:05:17 - Peak experiences and religious conversion 1:07:20 - Dangers of psychedelic-assisted therapy 1:07:50 - Encountering resistance during research and publication 1:11:51 - Anna’s psychedelic research 1:12:25 - The life-cycle of the mindfulness trend ... Buy Anna’s book with discount code DS20 (valid until 4/30/21): - USA https://redwheelweiser.com/detail.html?id=9781913504595 - UK https://www.aeonbooks.co.uk/product/the-dark-side-of-dharma-meditation-madness-and-other-maladies-on-the-contemplative-path/94921/ To find our more about Anna Ludkajtis, visit: - https://annalutkajtis.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Andrew Holecek, author, spiritual teacher, and expert on lucid dreaming and the Tibetan yogas of dream and sleep. In this interview, Andrew reveals his childhood fascination with the occult, including seances, Ouija boards, and channellers such as Edgar Cayce and Jane Roberts. We learn how a series of powerful spiritual openings set Andrew on a quest into the world’s mystical traditions, eventually to find a home in the practices of Tibetan Buddhism. Andrew discusses the limitations of scientific materialism, the similarities and differences between his training as a concert pianist and the discipline of meditation, and gives a lucid dreaming primer for those in lockdown. Andrew also shares his thinking on the role of lineage in religion, the recent scandals in the Buddhist tradition, and reflects on his own departure from the controversial religious organisation Shambala after decades of study. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep90-andrew-holecek-nocturnal-meditation/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 01:30 - Childhood interest in the occult 04:09 - Edgar Cayce and Jane Roberts’ Seth Material 06:05 - Powerful experience with Transcendental Meditation 07:24 - Practicing seances and using ouija boards 11:16 - Inspiration from the Kung Fu TV series 13:27 - Dimensional travel and contacting entities in lucid dreams 18:39 - Is ‘the West’ equivalent to scientific materialism? 28:53 - Similarities and differences between Andrew’s concert piano training and meditation 32:54 - Lucidity is the natural state 37:07 - Andrew’s profound spiritual opening into rigpa 40:30 - Post-awakening crash 43:19 - Conversion to Buddhism 44:44 - Reasons for leaving Shambala 46:50 - Travels in Asia and connecting to teachers 50:28 - Studies in non-dual Shaiva tantra 51:28 - Why is lineage backing important? 58:48 - Does Andrew have lineage backing? 1:02:53 - Seeing problems in Shambala and deciding to leave 1:07:15 - Andrew’s reflections on abuse by spiritual teachers 1:10:35 - Andrew’s lockdown lucid dreaming guide 1:20:58 - The Night Club 3.0 … To find our more about Andrew Holecek, visit: - https://www.andrewholecek.com/ - https://nightclub.andrewholecek.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James …
In June 2020 I was interviewed for the second time by Dan Doty of DanDoty.com. Topics include: 0:00 - Living on a boat 2:59 - ‘Is Steve living the dream?’ 05:51 - Steve’s premonition 08:04 - A strange dream 12:00 - Unravelling and thinning out 15:12 -Steve’s practice approach 19:00 - Service and attention 22:38 - Being in shape 25:08 - Braindump on how to get a daily practice 31:51 - Confidence and tasting the result 36:43 - Different types of meditation 43:48 - Men, helping, and society Dan is known around the world for his work with men and his latest online offering is 'Ring of Fire', a 5 month mastermind for men's coaches: http://dandoty.com/ringoffire For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com
In this episode I host a dialogue between Dr Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counselling at Naropa University, and Petra Tauchner, a student at the University of Vienna with a degree in microbiology and genetics, whose current batchelor’s thesis in psychology is based on Dr Ian’s ‘Empathic Involvement Theory’ of hypnosis. In the first part of this interview, Dr Ian gives an overview of the history of the mysteries and theories of hypnosis, lays out his own journey to formulating EIT, and discusses its implications for therapy and enlightenment. Then, Dr Ian and Petra dialogue about how to increase one’s own hypnotisability, why empathy does not guarantee pro-social outcomes, and the very particular empathy skills of psychopaths - including a case review of Dr Ian’s own psychopathic client. Dr Ian also recounts his own experiences practicing Dzogchen, meeting spiritual gurus, and taking ayahuasca, while Petra reveals her own passion for first hand research, including a life-changing 21 day water fast undertaken to reset her dopamine system. … Video version at https://www.guruviking.com/ep89-dr-ian-wickramasekera-petra-tauchner-dzogchen-hypnosis-psychopaths/ Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 01:12 - What is EIT? 04:43 - How Ian began to suspect a connection between empathy and hypnotisability 08:12 - A summary of the main theories of hypnosis 13:23 - Trance states in client centred therapy 19:19 - Empathy-induced hypnosis and correlations with absorption 29:26- Studying transference and the Self 34:40 - Reconciling the two main theories of hypnosis 42:50 - ‘Real’ experience and the default mode network 48:10 - Clinical application of hypnosis for chronic pain 1:08:48 - EIT Summary 01:11:55 - Petra’s research interests and first set of questions 1:12:31 - Does Scacchia and De Pescalis (2020) challenge EIT? 1:16:32 - 4 different kinds of empathy 1:26:51 - Do psychopaths have empathy? 1:27:42 -Dr Ian’s first client was a psychopath 1:30:55 - Empathy is not compassion 1:34:22 - The case of the Hillside Strangler 1:42:10 - Rethinking empathy measurement techniques 1:44:26 - How to increase your hypnotisability 1:52:26 - Gurus & ayahuasca 1:55:26 - Measuring enlightenment 2:04:53 - Practicing Dzogchen 2:14:14 - Petra’s 21 day water fast 1:16:35 - Ian’s take on detox, Tummo diets, and the ayahuasca dieta 2:22:12 - Why did Petra undertake a 21 day water fast? 02:24:14 - The importance of first hand research 02:29:43 - Ian encourages Petra’s research 02:31:00 - Petra’s reflections … Previous episodes with Dr Ian Wickramasekera: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep67-dr-ian-wickramasekera-tummo-hypnosis-realising-rigpa/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep74-dr-ian-wickramasekera-gurus-hypnosis-toxic-devotion/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep79-dr-ian-wickramasekera-agony-into-bliss-facing-covid-with-dzogchen/ To find our more about Dr Ian Wickramasekera, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Har-Prakash Khalsa, artist, meditation teacher, and founder of the Expand Contract Youtube Channel, which hosts the video teachings of Shinzen Young. Har-Prakash discusses his early life, including ten years of heavy drug use, near death experiences in the Andes and India, and a life changing encounter with Yogi Bhajan’s Kundalini Yoga. We learn of Har-Prakash’s research into Yogi Bhajan’s questionable historical claims, and how Har-Prakash reconciled his own practice and teaching with the many allegations of abuse made against his once guru. Har-Prakash discusses his decades of study with Shinzen Young, and shares more thoughts on spiritual scandals when recounting his own time with Joshu Sasaki Roshi. Then, an accomplished interviewer himself, Har-Prakash gives me a set of 12 questions to ask him. Har-Prakash reveals that these are the questions he has often wished I would ask my guests, and gamely submits to answering them himself. They cover topics such as stream entry, enlightenment, suffering, the self, and more. … Video version available at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep88-har-prakash-khalsa-saints-and-psychopaths/ This podcast is also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:10 - Early interest in meditation 03:04 - Childhood altered experiences 05:10 - Near death experience in India 08:11 - Lost in the Andes jungle and coming to a realisation 13:20 - 10 years of heavy drug use and finding kundalini yoga 20:24 - Teaching kundalini yoga in jail after 3 months practice 26:50 - Meeting Yogi Bhajan 27:48 - Allegations against Yogi Bhajan 32:10 - Criticisms of kundalini yoga’s origin story 35:14 - Reconciling with the allegations against and criticisms of Yogi Bhajan 40:57 - Why did Yogi Bhajan fabricate so much of his history and system? 45:40 - Saints and Psychopaths 48:04 - Meeting Shinzen Young 52:03 - Studying with Shinzen for 20 years and founding a Youtube channel 59:29 - Personal experiences of Shinzen 1:04:50 - Powerful experiences with Joshu Sasaki Roshi 1:07:34 - The prevalence of spiritual scandals among masters 1:10:46 - Har-Prakash’s spiritual curriculum 1:13:57 - Har-Prakash gives Steve a set of questions to ask 1:17:23 - Har-Prakash’s dramatic awakening experience 1:26:20 - Surprises and disappointments after awakening 1:33:10 - Integration of awakening 1:36:09 - How much does Har-Prakash suffer post-awakening? 1:40:13 - Har-Prakash’s current sensory experience 1:42:49 - Current sense of ‘self’ 1:48:58 - Changes to craving and aversion 1:56:25 - Har-Prakash’s ‘Fabrication Cycle’ 2:02:10 - Qualities and behaviours to improve 2:05:04 - Common misunderstandings about enlightenment 2:06:36 - Har-Prakash’s art 2:09:10 - Har-Prakash on service and legacy … To find our more about Har-Prakash Khalsa, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC86n5crGjoZK_z0LBhCWUIQ - https://vimeo.com/hpkmindfulnesstraining - https://www.facebook.com/groups/shinzenyoungmindfulnesscommunity For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Drukmo Gyal Dakini, an International singer, recording artist, and practitioner of Tibetan mantra healing. Drukmo discusses her childhood in Amdo, Tibet, and the early musical and spiritual influences of her family and community. Drukmo reveals how a chance meeting with the man who would become her root guru, Dr Nida Chenagtsang, kindled a passion for Tibetan medicine and spiritual practice in the Yuthok Nyingthig tradition. Drukmo talks about her experiences of cultural differences between East and West, the history and power of mantra for healing, the importance of personal practice, and addresses common misconceptions about being the devotee of a guru. … Video version available at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep87-drukmo-gyal-dakini-tibetan-mantra-healing/ This podcast is also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:48 - Growing up in Amdo, Tibet 05:03 - The role of religion in Drukmo’s upbringing 07:08 - The spiritual guidance of the women in Drukmo’s family 11:43 - How contact with Western views have affected Drukmo’s view of her culture 15:12 - Globalisation and cultural exchange 16:58 - The role of music in Drukmo’s upbringing 18:04 - Taking spiritual chanting from private practice to public performance 21:51 - Dr Nida’s encouragement to perform mantra singing 23:27 - Why Vajrasattva mantra is an essential part of Drukmo’s performance 25:28 - Drukmo’s passion for languages 26:42 - How Dr Nida Chenagtsang became Drukmo’s root guru 28:07 - The results of Drukmo’s first meditation retreat 31:00 - Praise for Dr Nida 32:27 - Misunderstandings about having a guru 37:05 - Drukmo’s focus on compassion 41:45 - Imposing views on others 44:05 - The history and application of mantra healing 47:02 - What is the source of mantra power? 49:42 - The importance of the mantra practitioner’s own practice and attainment 51:45 - Drukmo’s mental state when singing mantra 53:29 - How to find Drukmo’s music and teaching … To find our more about Drukmo Gyal, visit: - https://www.drukmogyal.com/ - https://youtu.be/zl9zwCKyQQk For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host part 4 of an ongoing dialogue between Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student. But now the dialogue has become a trialogue as we have the great pleasure of being joined by Dr Jay Sanguinetti, Assistant Director for the Center for Consciousness Studies and Research Assistant Professor at the University of New Mexico where he directs the NICE Lab (Non-Invasive Cognitive Enhancement Lab) and SEMA, the Sonication Enhanced Mindful Awareness Lab in collaboration with Shinzen. In this episode we discuss topics such as what is pleasure?, enlightenment as Fristonian free-energy, the relationship between predictive coding and the nature of suffering, bliss and orgasm, Shinzen’s daily mystical experiences, and more. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep86-bliss-enlightenment-fristonian-physics-feat-chelsey-fasano-shinzen-young-dr-jay-sanguinetti/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:58 - Bliss and the symmetry valence hypothesis 4:18 - What is pleasure? 9:47 - What is the Quaila Research Institute? 11:41 - Symmetry and facial attractiveness 14:51 - Averaging, integration, and prediction 15:40 - Continuous orgasm, Sensory saturation, turning towards 20:33 - Harmonics, gamma, and global processing 31:07 - Trained improvement vs primordial completeness 34:56 - Shinzen’s experience when walking 39:29 - Jay’s experience after a 15 week meditation course 46:03 - Approach motivation without negative valence 47:37 - The birth of the pleasure god, Kama, and learned helplessness 50:38 - Shinzen’s Fristonian free-energy pleasure hypothesis 59:56 - Could predictive coding theory explain the nature of suffering? 1:03:42 - Jay analyses Shinzen’s experience 1:05:06 - Is enlightenment free-energy? 1:06:33 - What the brain expects influences what the eye sees 1:09:49 - Shinzen’s experience after meditation and ultrasound experiments 1:13:09 -Chelsey reflects on her enjoyment of Shinzen 1:14:44 - Enlightenment as stabilising dynamic states vs fixed states 1:18:02 - Spiritual integration as pleasure-mode transfer and reconfiguring of top-down processing 1:19:53 - Changing the geometry of conscious experience 1:21:55 - Jay’s intuition about the big questions in contemplative brain science 1:23:57 - Shinzen’s take on Fristonian physics 1:27:55 - Jay’s advice and comments on the philosophy of science 1:29:40 - What Chelsey loves about scientists 1:31:19 - More on Jay’s philosophy of science 1:32:45 - Shinzen on American math education 1:35:03 - Applying higher dimensional abstract algebra to Fristonian physics 1:36:52 - The cliffhanger of the Hegelian taco ... Previous episodes with Shinzen and Chelsey: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep76-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-2-the-science-of-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep81-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-3-orgasm-epilepsy-mystical-experience/ Previous Interview with Shinzen Young: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ ... To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com To find our more about Dr Sanguinetti, visit: - https://www.jaysanguinetti.com/ ... For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I am joined by Wendy and Ronnie Barry who discuss their quest to find the reincarnations of their two sons who, in 1997, died in a car crash. Upon learning of the deaths of their sons, Andy and Bobby, the Barrys immediately turned to the Tibetan Book of the Dead, and entered the world of the supernatural as they followed the instructions within to guide their sons through the after-death realms. The Barrys then vowed to find their sons next lives. Embarking on an international search and recruiting the aid and support of high Lamas, tulkus, seers, channellers and more. Wendy and Ronnie also reveal their plan for their next lives, and discuss their history as prominent members of the Brotherhood of the Eternal Love. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep85-wendy-and-ronnie-barry-finding-our-sons-reincarnations/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 0:00 - Intro 0:53 - Brotherhood of the Eternal Love 08:28 - LSD and the bardos 16:49 - The deaths of Bobby and Andy, Wendy and Ronnie’s sons 21:25 - Visiting the scene of the crash 26:15 - Using the Tibetan Book of the Dead to help their sons 30:06 - A special family connection and the boys’ personalities 35:10 - Resolving to find the reincarnations of Bobby and Andy 36:51 - Friends’ dreams of Bobby and Andy 39:06 - Was there criticism of Wendy and Ronnie’s search? 42:11 - Experiences reading the Bardo Thodol for the 49 days of the boys’ bardo 45:38 - Beginning the search and consulting psychics, seers, and channellers 48:57 - Encountering a corrupt Tibetan Lama 55:09 - Meeting Khamtrul Rinpoche and falling in love with Tibetan Buddhism 1:00:49 - Joining Rigpa and deepening study 1:05:14 - Receiving a divination from Tulku Sang-ngag Rinpoche 1:09:09 - Beginning a significant relationship with Lama Samten 1:10:33 - Receiving a divination from Lama Dawa 1:12:16 - Finding Bobby’s reincarnation, Kelsey 1:19:36 - Kelsey’s parents’ reaction 1:23:09 - Interest in Tibetan culture 1:24:54 - Support from and friendship with Lama Samten 1:27:13 - Meeting Drubwang Konchok Norbu Rinpoche 1:30:09 - Landing in India and meeting their guide, Jangchub 1:34:40 - The importance of discretion in the search 1:36:06 - Receiving Vajrasattva empowerment to clear obscurations 1:37:38 - Unsuccessful first trip and meeting Ringu Tulku 1:41:54 - Another divination from Lama Dawa and a second India trip 1:44:11 - Powerful Vajrasattva experience of spiders, scorpions, and wasps 1:51:26 - Ronnie’s dream of divination 1:54:27 - Finding Tenpa 02:04:57 - India and meeting karma 02:06:48 - How did Kelsey and Tenpa view things are they grew up? 02:16:15 - Wendy and Ronnie’s plan for their next lives 02:19:47 - How to get the book and European book distribution … To find out more about Wendy and Ronnie Barry, visit: - https://reincarnationstory.website/index.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I am joined by David Curtis, a Lama in the Shangpa-Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and founder of the Tibetan Language Institute. David reveals how a radically transformative experience of LSD led to his leaving a career in military intelligence to dedicate himself to spiritual exploration We discuss David’s love for classical languages, the Western canon, and why conversion to Buddhism often includes a rejection of Western civilisation. David tells of hitchhiking across Europe, entering a 3-year retreat under the direction of famous meditation master Kalu Rinpoche, and recounts his powerful experiences there practicing the 6 Yogas of Naropa. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep84-lama-david-curtis-hitchhiking-in-samsara/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - Studying philosophy and meeting the Dalai Lama 8:55 - Vietnam, military intelligence, and a transformative experience with LSD 14:44 - David’s extensive LSD explorations 20:09 - What would David’s life have been like without LSD? 21:47 - Falling in love with the Greek Classics 25:02 - Why many American Buddhist converts rejected Western civilisation 30:39 - Beat Zen, Square Zen and religious conversion 39:09 - David’s advice for reading the Western canon 42:00 - ‘Hitchhiking in Samsara’, David’s way of life 58:00 - Stories from David’s 3-year retreat 1:11:49 - Love, wisdom, and power 1:16:10 - Archetypes and reification 1:28:27 - David’s significant intuitive and dream experiences 1:38:51 - Powerful experiences with the 6 Yogas of Naropa 1:44:50 - Out of body experiences with illusory body yoga 1:47:46 - The value of experiences on the spiritual path 1:55:12 - Final anecdote about entering the 3-year retreat … To find out more about Lama David Curtis, visit: - http://www.bigskymindmontana.org/ - http://www.tibetanlanguage.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between Daniel Ingram and Dhammarato on the question ‘Is there magic in the Dharma?’. Daniel Ingram is a contemporary Buddhist author who controversially declared himself to be an Arhat, one of the highest spiritual attainments in Buddhism, challenging cultural taboos against disclosing one’s enlightenment. Dhammarato is a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition, a student of the famous meditation master Bikkhu Buddhadasa, and is known for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. In this episode Daniel and Dhammarato discuss the pros and cons of magical experiences, how to develop siddhis and their dangers, and whether these topics should even be discussed in public. They debate the differences between their own teaching approaches, as well as the approaches of the Burmese and Thai meditation methods, and the importance of a close relationship with a teacher. Daniel and Dhammarato also acknowledge each other, decrypt the ways in which they signal recognition of others’ spiritual attainments, and explain how to recognise enlightened teachers. … www.guruviking.com Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:44 - Structure of the episode 2:09 - Daniel’s opening address 12:34 - Dharmmarato’s opening address 26:56 - The pros and cons of magical experiences 35:15 - Anapanasati and developing sukkha 38:39 - Slow and hard path or fast and easy path? 43:30 - Different paths to enlightenment 48:41 - Does magic exist? 52:56 - Is there any value in cultivating siddhis? 58:26 - Should we talk about siddhis and magic? 1:12:43 - Moving from Right Dhamma to Supramundane Dhamma 1:18:50 - Misconceptions about the Mahasi method 1:23:30 - How to recognise Noble Ones and the dangers of siddhis 1:36:32 - The cat is out of the bag 1:39:50 - Mage vs sage 1:47:26 - Close relationship with a teacher 1:52:41 - Mass teaching vs 1-1 teaching 1:55:55 - A mature spiritual culture and the dynamics of Asian temples 2:19:24 - Daniel and Dhammarato recognise each other 2:22:04 - Ajahn Po the arhat 2:30:00 - Gender equality in the sangha and Thai culture 2:44:48 - Dhammarato’s closing address 2:47:06 - Daniel’s closing address … Daniel Ingram Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdkny_MJSecHyvKHPpvxTskBAC Dhammarato Episode Playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknyGISEfksirYaYpsrXdf8va … To find out more about Daniel, visit: - integrateddaniel.info - firekasina.org - https://theeprc.org/ To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In late 2019 I was interviewed by Anna Rova of www.girlskill.com about various topics to do with relationships and more. From Anna's episode description: Join us for a conversation about navigating modern gender roles, embracing who we truly are and exploring intimacy as the constantly changing and challenging realm of relationships. Here are the details of our conversation: - What does Steve find attractive in a woman? - Fear as the state of readiness in the face of the unknown - What is masculinity? - The changing terrain of modern gender roles - How mating strategies influence our behavior - Navigating modern relationship needs and intimacy - Feminine/masculine identities as roles we’re playing - What real intimacy is and why it’s a tremendous threat to our roles and strategies www.guruviking.com
In this episode, I am once again joined by Dhammarato – a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition who is known for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. This interview was recorded in the lead up to a dialogue I will be hosting between Dhammarato and Daniel Ingram on the question ‘Is there magic in the dharma?’. In this episode, Dhammarato explores the Mahātanhāsankhaya Sutta, and draws out themes of magical thinking, continuation of consciousness, and dependent origination. Later Dhammarato gives his take on the Buddhist doctrines of rebirth and making merit, the Mahasi meditation method, the tulku system, and the Dalai Lama’s claims of reincarnation. We also discuss if the 8-fold path inevitably leads to individual renunciation and societal collapse, and what it means to ‘leave the fight’. … Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep82-dhammarato-magical-thinking-in-buddhism/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... 0:00 - Intro 0:54 - Dhammarato gives a summary of magical thinking and the Mahātanhāsankhaya Sutta 20:08 - The two levels of Dhammarato’s analysis 21:16 - How is it possible to read magical thinking into a sutta that refutes magical thinking? 25:51 - Placebo, causation, and useful ignorance 29:39 - Relationship of understanding of cause and effect to suffering 33:42 - Craving, perception, and the 4 Modes of Clinging 50:10 - Repetition and understanding how the mind works 53:46 - How to see through the Self 57:08 - Critique of the Mahasi Method and Thai vs Burmese meditation 1:00:44 - Who or what realises the No-Self? 1:05:58 - Reincarnation is irrelevent 1:07:21 - The problem with the doctrine of reincarnation 1:10:30 - Is the doctrine of making merit magical thinking? 1:19:36 - Uppaya and useful ignorance 1:20:21 - Society is built on magical thinking 1:23:01 - Renunciation is the inevitable outcome of the 8-fold noble path 1:25:57 - Is the Hinayana self-terminating? 1:26:38 - A historical example of Buddhism destroying a society 1:28:22 - Is Buddhism inviable on a societal level? 1:35:32 - The tension between individual liberation and societal collapse 1:36:43 - Dhammarato reflects on the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation claims 1:38:23 - Is the tulku system a scam? 1:41:45 - Magical beliefs prevent progress 1:45:23 - Ideal society: Benign dictatorship vs democracy 1:47:41 - Leaving the fight 1:49:41 - Dhammarato’s radical position of renunciation in the face of death … Previous Episodes with Dhammarato: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep20-dhammarato/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep29-dhammarato-guru-viking-podcast-pandemic-edition/ To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I host part 3 of a dialogue between Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student. We discuss oneness vs emptiness experiences, gamma brain activity and binding, Posner’s model of attention networks, and more. Chelsey explores the surprising similarities between mystical experience, epilepsy, and orgasm; while Shinzen reveals the profound challenge of integrating esoteric states into practical life. … Video version at https://www.guruviking.com/ep81-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-3-orgasm-epilepsy-mystical-experience/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:28 - A model for the process of change that contemplative practice causes 3:07 - Chelsey’s epiphany about gamma and theta in advanced meditators 7:31 - Oneness vs emptiness as meditation experiences 10:36 - Reduction in suffering as increase in nervous system processing efficiency 23:01 - Integration and annihilation, and flow causing integration 28:06 - Gamma binding and the weakness of today’s meditation studies 35:54 - Hypothesising about gamma and binding 41:05 - Attention studies and gamma binding 52:03 - Posner’s model of attentional networks 1:00:26 - Limitations of current neuroimaging technologies 1:02:47 - Further hypothesising about gamma and binding 1:06:42 - Orgasm, epilepsy, and mystical experience 1:17:10 - The enormous challenge of integrating esoteric states into practical life 1:19:45 - When integration of the esoteric goes wrong 1:22:38 - Dr Jay Sanguinetti and part 4 cliffhanger … #ShinzenYoung #ChelseyFasano #ChelseyLeeFasano #GuruViking #neuroscience #jaySanguinetti Previous episodes with Shinzen and Chelsey: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep76-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-2-the-science-of-enlightenment/ Previous Interview with Shinzen Young: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Thomas Hübl, spiritual teacher, author, and international facilitator whose work integrates the core insights of mysticism with the discoveries of science. When Thomas’ team contacted me to interview Thomas about his new book, Healing Collective Trauma, I was very interested to read Thomas’ thoughts on this emerging area. In this interview Thomas shares his spiritual biography, including his time in Vienna training as a medical doctor, and his four-year meditation retreat in the Czech Republic. Thomas goes into detail about his intellectual influences, his spiritual insights, and his twenty years of group facilitation work. Thomas also discusses the challenges of combining evidence based scientific work in the field of trauma and psychology with the subjective authority of the mystic’s personal experience. … Video version: Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 0:00 - Intro 0:52 - Why did Thomas write this book? 3:11 - Early influence of the work of Ken Wilber and Wilhelm Reich, and which books and workshops influenced Thomas? 9:38 - Why did Wilhelm Reich so resonate with Thomas? 12:20 - Kriya yoga, Sri Aurobindo, and Thomas on time 15:30 - Rewriting history and integrated ancestry 21:45 - Thomas’ personal resonance with Jewish spirituality, Tibetan Buddhism, and Daoism 25:15 - What does Thomas specifically like about Tibetan Buddhism and has he met any masters of that tradition? 27:26 - How Thomas began to access higher dimensions of consciousness 36:00 - Mixing spiritual language with scientific and psychological language 40:31 - Spirituality or science as the over-arching narrative? 42:07 - Why doesn’t Thomas reference specific wisdom traditions in his book? 50:03 - What is the source of authority for Thomas’ spiritual claims? 51:18 - Thomas as his own authority 51:43 - Why does Thomas’ consider it necessary to include his spiritual material alongside his psychological group process work? 1:00:57 - Why no clinical or anecdotal outcomes included in the book? 1:06:42 - Thomas’ critique of encounter groups 1:11:50 - Work being done to verify the efficacy of the CTIP process 1:13:38 - The impact of trauma on the systemic and societal level 1:15:37 - Thomas’ positive vision for what society could be 1:20:19 - Thomas’ websites and NGO ... Buy Thomas’ book here: https://www.collectivetraumabook.com/ To learn more about Thomas’: www.thomashuebl.com www.pocketproject.org For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr. Ian Wickramasekera as he recounts his dramatic nervous system collapse and near-death experience as a consequence of COVID-19. Dr Wickramasekera is a Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counselling at Naropa University. On the 19th of March Ian woke up with a headache, dizziness, and fatigue - he had contracted COVID-19. While symptoms initially receded, and it seemed like this might be a light case, events soon took a devastating turn for the worse. What followed brought Ian to the very brink of death and forced him to draw on all his decades of advanced meditation and hypnosis training. Ian recounts how, his life hanging by a thread, he experienced the dissolution of his bodily elements, slipping into the between-lives realm of the Bardo, and the emergence of the clear light of the nature of mind. We learn how, while fighting for every breath and subject to painful experimental medicines, Ian’s practice of Tummo transformed his bodily agony into spiritual bliss. Ian also reveals the life changing consequences of this near-death experience, and the radical change it has effected in his being. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep79-dr-ian-wickramasekera-agony-into-bliss-facing-covid-with-dzogchen/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 1:08 - Exposure 3:50 - Beginning of symptoms 6:35 - Symptoms worsen and Ian has a stroke 11:30 - Was Ian afraid? 13:02 - Fever induced hallucinations 15:33 - Neurological breakdown, accusations of opioid overdose, and rushed to hospital 24:42 - Arrival at hospital and diagnoses of Epstein-Barr and Guillain-Barre 28:16 - Ian draws on his hypnosis and meditation training as his breathing begins to fail 30:55 - Psychic experiences entering the Bardo 33:33 - ‘Prepare for death’ - advice from Ian’s teachers 37:45 - A dire prognosis 39:51 - Dissolving of bodily energies and emergence of the nature of mind 45:43 - Time travel in the Bardo and practicing Tonglen for the dying 50:42 - Experimental medicine and using Tummo to transfer the agony into bliss 56:57 - Surviving and the helpful insights from psychedelics 1:04:10 - Lasting insights from Ian’s near-death experience 1:08:31 - Ian enters intensive rehab to recover the use of his body 1:19:39 - Impact on the subtle body and wisdom energies as the body’s energies dissolved 1:29:45 - What was Ian’s death plan? 1:35:16 - Tummo and connecting with bliss 1:42:09 - The responsibility to share the teachings that comes with spiritual insight 1:47:08 - Learning through loving 1:50:09 - Ian’s teachers and how others can learn these practices … Previous episodes with Ian: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep67-dr-ian-wickramasekera-tummo-hypnosis-realising-rigpa/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep74-dr-ian-wickramasekera-gurus-hypnosis-toxic-devotion/ To find our more about Ian, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by John Yates, PhD, aka Culadasa. On the 19th of August 2019, the board of Culadasa’s organisation Dharma Treasure released a public letter which denounced Culadasa for the Buddhist moral failings of sexual misconduct, wrong speech, and taking what is not freely given. Culadasa issued two short statements at that time and then recently, on January 13th of 2021, released a 33-page account of the years leading up to the board’s letter. In this interview Culadasa discusses his account, which disputes the board’s accusations, and reveals the circumstances that led to his public denouncement. Culadasa also discusses the professional and personal consequences of the letter, and reflects on the psychological and spiritual lessons he has learned. Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:54 - The accusations 10:11 - Summarising Culadasa’s 33 page account 12:29 - Why did Culadasa keep his and Nancy’s separation private and delay divorce proceedings? 18:45 - Why didn’t Culadasa tell the board about the separation during the initial meetings? 21:28 - What did Culadasa think the board was doing when they questioned him? 24:54 - Why did Culadasa admit to adultery in his initial response if he was in fact separated? 29:30 - Why did Culadasa recently release a 33-page account? 32:09 - Why did Nancy go to the board with accusations of adultery? 53:23 - What did the board stand to gain from Culadasa’s demise? 1:03:03 - What is Culadasa’s current financial situation? 1:10:06 - Psychological blindspots and spiritual plateaus 1:11:34 - Culadasa’s personal reaction to the destruction of his reputation 1:16:21 - Lessons learned from this situation and Culadasa’s current practice 1:26:40 - What’s next for Culadasa? 1:29:32 - Further comments about the structure of the board’s letter … Resources: - Dharma Treasure Board letter, 19/08/2019: https://mailchi.mp/dharmatreasure/new-teacher-training-course-other-happenings-at-dharma-treasure-3007417?e=693097afaa - Culadasa’s initial response, 23/08/2019: https://www.reddit.com/r/TheMindIlluminated/comments/cu5lz0/this_is_not_an_appropriate_time_for_me_to_respond/ - Culadasa’s 33-page account 13/01/2021: https://www.guruviking.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/A-Message-from-Culadasa-01-12-21.pdf To find out more about Culadasa, visit: - http://culadasa.com/about/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode am joined by Dolama Mantas, a hermit, yogi, and shaman with a remarkable story. Mantas reveals how he was recruited into an occult sect led by a charismatic leader, subjected to brainwashing and psychic domination, and kept as a slave to commit violent crimes on behalf of the Master. Mantas tells of his eventual escape, and the subsequent 4 years living as a hermit in the Lithuanian forests where he learned to meditate and underwent extreme austerities to recover his broken mind. We follow Mantas to the Himalayas, where he met Tibetan hermits and powerful spiritual masters, and then to South America in search of true shamanism. After much searching he finally met his Abuelo, and began a spiritual and shamanic apprenticeship under the tutelage of an extraordinary 94 year old Peruvian shaman. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep77-dolama-mantis-the-shaman-hermit/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:57 - Meeting a charismatic spiritual teacher 7:54 - Becoming brainwashed into a life of crime and servitude to the Master 13:31 - Dark paranormal powers of the Master 20:16 - The source of the Master’s occult power and energy harvesting methods 24:25 - Mantas’ father’s rescue attempt 27:30 - Escape 3 4:06 - Deadly consequences for those who left the sect 36:41 - Ongoing psychic attacks 42:04 - Becoming a forest hermit and learning to meditate 46:41 - Healing journey, remembering past lives, and astral experiences 47:29 - Extreme practices of meditation and pranayama 49:36 - Mantas’ research methods 51:52 - Journey to the Himalayas 1:01:25 - A profound meeting with Namkha Rinpoche 1:04:00 - Living with a Tibetan hermit 1:05:28 - Travelling to South America in search of shamanism 1:06:23 - Encountering ayahuasca and spirituality through nature connection 1:07:51 - Mantas’ apprenticeship under Abuelo, a 94 year old master shaman 1:12:23 - How Abuelo become an enlightened shaman 1:14:20 - Mantas’ opinion on modern ayahuasca shamans 1:16:30 - Mantas’ current activities and retreats 1:19:10 - 10 hours of daily practice minimum 1:22:47- Contacting Mantas … To find out more about Dolama Mantas, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/user/Hermit1yoga - https://www.facebook.com/DolamaMantasJacikas/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Some weeks ago I was interviewed by Ashley from Inspire Initiative for his podcast. Ashley has diverse interests and so he asked me about a wide range of topics including relationships, meditation practice, the pros and cons of polyamory, business strategy for meditation teachers, and more. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/steve-interviewed-by-ashley-of-inspire-initiative/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... 0:00 Why does Steve live on a boat? 1:13 - What does Steve do for work? 4:36 - What is the most important thing in a relationship? 7:56 - Ashley’s unusual upbringing around romantic relationships 9:47 - Steve’s take on polyamory 14:31 - Religious conversion and relationship patterns 17:31 - Pros and cons of polyamory and seeking relational fulfilment 24:02 - Why have a relationship? 29:27 - Discovering your why 31:13 - Steve’s background in meditation 37:22 - Ashley asks Steve about his business and travel 43:44 - Steve’s advice for aspiring meditation teachers 49:42 - Enquiry over imposition 51:38 - Difficulties in assessing a teacher’s competence 54:18 - Routes to becoming a full time meditation teacher 58:56 - Ashley’s coaching strategy 59:45 - How to get started in meditation 1:05:49 - Which meditation techniques does Steve use? 1:12:42 - Ashley asks about Transcendental Meditation 1:16:16 - Does meditation unlock different states of consciousness? 1:21:24 - What is the best meditation to start with? 1:25:55 - Closing remarks To find out more about Ashley, visit: Inspire-initiative.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com
In this episode I host part 2 of a dialogue between Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student. We get a front row seat for what Shinzen calls ‘early science’ as Chelsey consults Shinzen on her current research project, a review of the neuroscience literature that examine states of self-identification and non-dual awareness. In the course of the discussion, we discuss different paradigms of enlightenment, including gating of attentional abilities, reducing self-referential activity, the neuroscience of clinging, top-down processing and more. Chelsey shares her own meditation experiences and Shinzen reveals a detailed account of how he experiences the world after a lifetime of extreme meditation and hard-nosed science. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep76-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-2-the-science-of-enlightenment/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:51 - The three stories of self and reality 6:23 - Gating attentional abilities vs reducing self-referential activity 7:59 - How the modern influences traditional teachers 8:27 - Integrating hard data and subjective experience 9:11 - Chelsey’s meditation experiences 11:23 - Antonio Damasio’s theoretical framework and other theories 14:14 - Decrease in identification with the body in advanced practitioners 16:50 - Is it possible to grade levels of enlightenment? 19:34 - How Shinzen proves someone is not an arhat 22:32 - Enlightenment in the body 26:28 - Clinging and the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) 35:27 - Reconfiguring top-down processing via meditation 40:12 - What is early science? 43:22 - Integration of liberation 49:40 - Shinzen’s experience after a lifetime of meditation and science 1:05:22 - Does theism have a place in science? 1:08:54 - Is enlightenment really about raw data? … Previous episode with Shinzen and Chelsey: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ Previous Interview with Shinzen Young: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Daizan Skinner, a British Zen Roshi trained in both the Soto and Rinzai schools. Daizan reveals the iconic Zen training technique of the Koan, and explains its manifold uses within the tradition. Dazian explains how waking up works, how he diagnoses his students’ enlightenments, and why he is very demanding on his trainee teachers’ psychological maturity. Daizan also discusses how awakening relates to moral purification, why so many famous Zen teachers have engaged in abusive behaviour, and reveals the esoteric energy and health practices of the Rinzai Zen lineage. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep75-daizan-skinner-esoteric-energy-practices-of-zen/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:42 - The Koan system of Zen 11:03 - How waking up works 18:36 - How Daizan diagnoses his students’ stream entry and spiritual attainments 22:19 - What to watch for during the waking up process 23:15 - Does enlightenment produce moral perfection? 24:16 - Recognising enlightened people 30:27 - How Daizan relates to morally flawed students 34:48 - How Daizan trains his trainee teachers in morality 36:42 - How Zen teachers can damage their students 37:53 - The significance of Inka transmission in Zen 43:17- Why Daizan has never given Inka transmission to a student or named a successor 44:48 - Does Daizan miss monastery life? 49:15 - The story of Hakuin and the energy practices of Zen 58:52 - Rikan and Naikan, the two wings of practice 1:00:53 - Daizan’s experience of the Zen energy practices … Previous Daizan episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep56-daizan-skinner-zen-and-the-unknowing - https://www.guruviking.com/ep63-daizan-skinner-chaos-temple/ ... To find out more about Daizan, visit: - www.zenways.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr. Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counselling at Naropa University. We learn how a mirror divination from a mysterious Lama, and a powerful lucid dream, saw Ian travel to Sikkim in search of the monastery of his previous incarnation. Ian discusses the similarities between the Western tradition of hypnosis and the system of Dzogchen, and why he considers hypnosis to be the best means to approach and apprehend Buddhist thought. Ian reveals why gurus are so often surrounded by high-hypnotisable people, to what extent hypnotic language can be used by spiritual teachers to induce religious conversion and enhance their followers’ devotion, and what the Dharma has to learn from Western hypnosis. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep74-dr-ian-wickramasekera-gurus-hypnosis-toxic-devotion/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Meeting a Dharma Guardian in a lucid dream 0:51 - Dream yoga and Ian’s past life as a monk in Sikkim 11:11 - Tenzin Wangyal’s lucid dreaming advice 13:38 - Visiting Sikkim to find his past life monastery 24:34 - Reflecting on Lama Dawa’s divination for Ian’s life 27:22 - Meeting hypnotists and Bon Buddhism teacher Daniel P Brown 28:29 - Hypnotism is the best means to integrate Western thought with Buddhism 37:30 - The Default Mode Network and the sense of self 41:24 - The similarities between the views of hypnosis and Dzogchen 49:52 - The possibilities of combining a realised Dzogchen master and a master hypnotist 54:18 - Common misunderstandings about Vajrayana 57:33 - What is a high-hypnotisable person? 1:01:16 - Hypnotism in marketing and propaganda 1:07:49 - Toxic guru devotion and spiritual materialism in Dzogchen 1:12:40 - Religious conversion phenomena and powerful state experiences 1:19:48 - Is high hypnotic ability required to experience the deepest meditation teachings? 1:25:02 - Do spiritual teachers deliberately use hypnosis to induce conversion and devotion? 1:36:40 - Teaching hypnosis to a Vietnam veteran with a catastrophic spine injury 1:38:54 - The tradition of open skepticism 1:43:43 - Different teachings suit different personality types 1:48:46 - How gurus use the hypnotic voice in meditation instruction 1:52:56 - Can you be hypnotised against your will? 1:56:44 - Ian’s powerful near-death experience … Previous episodes with Ian: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep67-dr-ian-wickramasekera-tummo-hypnosis-realising-rigpa/ To find our more about Ian, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Susan Guner recently interviewed me again for her 'Fireside Chats', a series of conversations for her 21 Day Meditation Challenge Community. https://www.guruviking.com/steve-interviewed-by-susan-guner-of-fireside-chats/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Why livestream meditation? 5:30 - Steve's meditation biography 11:55 - What kind of meditation does Steve practice? 14:47 - Susan's meditation journey 17:37 - How plant medicine transformed Susan's meditation practice 20:10 - 3am meditation, night sitting, and lucid dreaming 26:35 - Gradual vs sudden awakening 27:31 - Why does Steve meditate? 31:23 - How to get more people to meditate? 35:16 - How our culture validates meditation 37:03 - Trauma and the limits of meditation 39:46 - Different reasons people meditate 42:37 - Teaching at Esalen 44:36 - Did Esalen run secret plant medicine ceremonies? 46:30 - Meditation myths and 'Stealth Buddhism' 50:31 - Bias and unaware meditation teachers 54:38 - The courtship phase and advice for beginning meditators 1:00:14 - What has Steve noticed about meditation in the pandemic? 1:04:08 - Closing comments ... To find out more about Susan, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/groups/susanguner/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com ... Resources: - Non Linear Movement Method: https://www.michaelaboehm.com/the-non-linear-movement-method-2/ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeysiegel
In this interview I am once again joined by Daniel Ingram, meditation teacher and author of ‘Mastering The Core Teachings Of The Buddha’. In this episode Daniel responds to Bikkhu Analayo’s article in the May 2020 edition of the academic journal Mindfulness, in which Analayo argues that Daniel is delusional about his meditation experiences and accomplishments, and that his conclusions, to quote, ‘pertain entirely to the realm of his own imagination; they have no value outside of it.’ Daniel recounts that Analayo revealed to him that the article was requested by a senior mindfulness teacher to specifically damage Daniel’s credibility, to quote Daniel quoting Analayo ‘we are going to make sure that nobody ever believes you again.’ Daniel responds to the article’s historical, doctrinal, clinical, and personal challenges, as well as addressing the issues of definition and delusion regarding his claim to arhatship. Daniel also reflects on the consequences of this article for his work at Cambridge and with the EPRC on the application of Buddhist meditation maps of insight in clinical contexts. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep73-daniel-ingram-dangerous-and-delusional/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:11 - Daniel explains Analayo’s article’s background and purpose 17:37 - Who is Bikkhu Analayo? 24:21 - Many Buddhisms 26:51 - Article abstract and Steve’s summary 32:19 - The historical critique 41:30 - Is Daniel claiming both the orthodox and the science perspectives? 49:11 - Is Daniel’s enlightenment the same as the historical arhats? 58:30 - Is Mahasi noting vulnerable to construction of experience? 1:03:46 - Has Daniel trained his brain to construct false meditation experiences? 1:10:39 - Does Daniel accept the possibility of dissociation and delusion in Mahasi-style noting? 1:18:38 - Did Daniel’s teachers consider him to be delusional? 1:23:51 - Have any of Daniel's teachers ratified any of his claimed enlightenment attainments? 1:34:03 - Cancel culture in orthodox religion 1:38:40 - Different definitions of arhatship 1:43:08 - Is the term ‘Dark Night of The Soul’ appropriate for the dukkha nanas? 1:47:29 - Purification and insight stages 1:54:00 - Does Daniel conflate deep states of meditation with everyday life experiences? 1:59:00 - Is the stage of the knowledge of fear taught in early Buddhism? 2:09:37 - Why does Daniel claim high equanimity can occur while watching TV? 2:12:55 - Does Daniel underestimate the standards of the first three stages of insight? 2:16:01 - Do Christian mystics and Theravada practitioners traverse the same experiential territory? 2:21:47 - Are the maps of insight really secret? 2:28:54 - Why are the insight stages absent from mainstream psychological literature? 2:33:36 - Does Daniel’s work over-emphasise the possibility of negative meditation experiences? 2:37:45 - What have been the personal and professional consequences of Analayo’s article to Daniel? … Check out my previous interviews with Daniel: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep14-daniel-ingram-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep40-daniel-ingram-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep68-daniel-ingram-magick-the-occult-summoning-demons/ To find out more about Daniel, visit: - integrateddaniel.info - firekasina.org - https://theeprc.org/ Articles Referenced: - Anālayo, B. Meditation Maps, Attainment Claims, and the Adversities of Mindfulness. Mindfulness 11, 2102–2112 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-020-01389-4 - Anālayo, B. The Insight Knowledge of Fear and Adverse Effects of Mindfulness Practices. Mindfulness 10, 2172–2185 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-019-01198-4 … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I recently appeared on the ‘I Am Paulius’ podcast. Paul is an incisive interviewer and we talked in some detail about my early life, including martial arts, my apprenticeship to a Christian mystic, money & business, and more… Check out 'I Am Paulius' channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTxywX9Qn0gzu9kbjhmezhA ... From the 'I Am Paulius' shownotes: We talk to with Steve James known as Guru Viking, who teaches self-development, has vast experience in contemplative disciplines, outdoor survival and what it's like living on a boat. He is also currently collaborating with Shinzen Young on 11-Day Virtual Retreat. 🌐 Find Steve/GuruViking: https://www.guruviking.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuVI... https://www.instagram.com/guruviking/ FOLLOW IMPAULIUS: https://www.instagram.com/impaulius/ (coming soon) impaulius.com 🎵Music: https://soundcloud.com/saintebarbemusic Song: H2O
In this episode I host a conversation between Shinzen Young, a meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student. We take an inside look as Chelsey consults Shinzen on her current research project, a review of the neuroscience literature that examine states of self-identification and non-dual awareness. In the course of the discussion, Shinzen details the many meanings and connotations of the word ‘tantra’ (including its connection to karmamudra) and discusses the importance of definitions. Chelsey asks if all traditions lead to the same end, or if different techniques lead to different types of enlightenment, and Shinzen reveals what the gurus of the world must learn from the culture of science. ... https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... Topics Include: 0:00 – Intro 0:52 – Chelsey introduces her research project 2:20 – Shinzen asks Chelsey about herself 4:14 – Chelsey’s background in meditation and academia 8:20 – Chelsey’s ultimate dream 10:26 – Shinzen discusses the importance of words 13:40 – Shinzen on the adjective ‘tantric’ 17:39 – What does Chelsey mean by the word ‘tantra’? 19:38 – Shinzen describes Buddhist tantra’s central innovation 28:31 – The s*xual practices of Buddhist tantra 29:55 – What isn’t tantra, and tantra’s cultural context 36:41 – Do all traditions lead to the same end point or not? 40:03 – How Shinzen clarifies his thinking and teaching 43:12 – What the gurus have to learn from science 44:56 – Liberation and service, the two sides of practice 50:16 – Studying states of nondual awareness in advanced practitioners 51:51 – Is it possible to resolve the terminology issue? 54:09 – Chelsey’s five theories ... Previous Interview with Shinzen Young: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James Books mentioned: - ‘Good Sex: Getting Off Without Checking Out’ - Jessica Graham
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Nida Chenagtsang, master of Tibetan Medicine and spiritual teacher of the Yuthok Nyingthig, to discuss karmamudra: Buddhist spiritual s3x. Dr Nida reveals his own training in karmamudra, under the Aku Lhamo, the so called ‘h0rny professor’, and the Longchen Nyingthig nun Ani Ngawang Gyaltsen. We learn about the difference between karmamudra and kamasutra, the role of tummo and tsa lung trulkor training, and the purpose of tantric feats such as vajroli mudra, sucking milk and bodily fluids through one’s genita1s. Dr Nida talks about s3xual abuse by Tibetan Lamas, the prevalence of spiritual gold diggers, and shares his advice for young tulkus facing the temptations of fame. Dr Nida also discusses pollution of the energy channels through p0rnography and promiscuity, how to heal s3xual trauma, and why he chose to make these once secret teachings available to the public. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep71-dr-nida-chenagtsang-karmamudra/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:01 - Dr Nida’s Karmamdura teacher, the h0rny professor 8:14 - Tibetan er0tic poetry 11:46 - Specifics of Nidra’s private Karmashastra and Karmamudra education 16:51 - Kamasutra vs Karmamudra 23:24 - 6 Yogas of Naropa and Tummo as a preparation for Karmamudra 27:22 - Karmamdura and Jnanamudra 28:35 - Why Karmamudra is not taught publicly today 35:27 - Tsa Lung Trulkor Karmamudra vs Ati Yoga Karmamudra 43:36 - Purpose of Vajroli Mudra and p3nis suction techniques 50:33 - Similarities between Tummo and Indian Hatha Yoga 56:44 - Has Dr Nida seen a yogi draw back their urine mid-flow and other miracles? 1:01:35 - The role of teacher-student sex in karamamudra 1:06:25 - Spiritual gold diggers and s3xual abuse 1:20:02 - Dr Nida’s advice for famous young tulkus with little social and relational experience 1:25:29 - Porn addiction and s3x education 1:30:28 - Criticisms of Dr Nida’s book 1:31:44 - Pollution of the energy channels from p0rnography and multiple partners 1:38:01 - Healing s3xual trauma with Karmamudra 1:44:13 - Dr Nida asks for Steve’s view on the book 1:46:54 - Bridging the traditional and modern views 1:49:36 - Dr Nida’s views on s3men retention … Previous Interviews with Dr Nida: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep49-dr-nida-chenagtsang-heart-of-a-nomad/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep41-dr-nida-chenagtsang-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Dr Nida, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James Studies mentioned: - Chan WFN, Gurnot C, Montine TJ, Sonnen JA, Guthrie KA, Nelson JL (2012) Male Microchimerism in the Human Female Brain. PLoS ONE 7(9): e45592. - Ronald S. Immerman & Wade C. Mackey PhD (1999) The Societal Dilemma of Multiple Sexual Partners, Marriage & Family Review, 29:1, 3-19, DOI: 10.1300/J002v29n01_02
In this episode I am once again joined by Stephen Snyder, a meditation teacher, author, and the first non-monastic Western man to master the virtuoso-level shamata meditation system of Pa Auk Sayadaw. In this interview we discuss Stephen’s new book ‘Buddha’s Heart’ a modern presentation of the Brahma Viharas, Buddhist heart meditations, from the perspective of Absolute Reality/ Awake Awareness. Stephen reveals how deficiencies in his early practice and the inaccessibility of his heart saw him engage these powerful heart practices derived from early Buddhism. Stephen discusses the damage done in the Americn Zen community by deeply enlightened masters with undeveloped hearts who abused students, embezzled money, and more. Stephen lays out the two routes to awakening, and how combining the brahma viharas with deep jhanic absorption can lead to profound spiritual insight. Stephen also talks about the counter-intuitive power of forgiveness, and his own journey in awakening the heart. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep70-stephen-snyder-buddhas-heart/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:05 - Writing two books at once and other writing projects 2:49 - What are the brahma viharas? 4:20 - How to do brahma vihara meditation 6:28 - Head, heart, and belly centres of spiritual practice 8:02 - The deficiencies of Stephen’s early practice 9:42 - Do heart practices translate to improved relationship skill? 10:55 - How the heart practices transformed Stephen’s behaviour 12:40 - The disaster of deeply enlightened masters with no heart 14:36 - Witnessing cruelty in the Zen world 15:42 - Stephen’s mastery of deep jhanic practice 17:16 - Combining super-concentration with brahma vihara practice 20:20 - The two routes to First Awakening 24:37 - Kensho vs Satori in the Zen tradition 25:57 - Common resistances to the brahma viharas 28:56 - How to work with resistances in heart meditation 32:41 - The power of heart practice to reveal and release negative emotion 35:02 - Stephen’s journey with forgiveness 39:23 - The counter-intuitive power of forgiveness 41:37 - Are heart practices relevant to awakening? 45:02 - Stephen’s 12 month mentorship program 47:01 - Stephen’s legacy Check out my previous interviews with Stephen: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep24-stephen-snyder-a-stroke-of-realisation-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep33-stephen-snyder-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Purchase 'Buddha's Heart’: - https://www.amazon.com/Buddhas-Heart-Meditation-Developing-Well-being/dp/1734781025/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=buddha%27s+heart+snyder&qid=1606403777&sr=8-2 To contact Stephen Snyder, please email: - stephendharma108@yahoo.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I’m joined by Dr Miles Neale Buddhist psychotherapist and author of Gradual Awakening. When Dr Neale contacted me to offering appear on the podcast, I was intrigued by his impressive list of mentors - including Columbia University’s Professor Robert Thurman and Geshe Tenzin Zopa. Miles recounts how an affluent but disturbed childhood with alcoholic parents and a narcissistic father drove him to self harm and dissatisfaction, and how he found solace and healing in religious practice and a series of influential mentors. Miles tells a remarkable story of a supernatural experience with a reincarnated child master, a ‘tulku’. Miles goes on to addresses the conflicts between the view of his Western therapeutic training, which prizes healthy parental attachment, and his religious affiliation with Tibetan Buddhism, in which specially chosen boys as young as three years old are removed from their homes to undergo rigorous training to become avatars of their lineage tradition. Miles discusses the cultural and religious context of this practice, and the possible developmental impacts on the young boys. Miles reveals the secrets to being a good mentee, discusses the ups and downs of his relationships with his own mentors, and candidly discusses his own path as a practicing Buddhist and professional therapist. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep69-dr-miles-neale-buddhas-tulkus-narcissists/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:24 - Miles’ childhood with alcoholic parents and a narcissistic father 7:32 - Consequences of being raised by addicts and a narcissist 22:51 - How Miles was able to received healthy reparenting from his mentors 29:01 - Miles discusses the developmental consequences of the tulku system in young boys 31:58 - Miles’ supernatural experience with a young tulku 35:16 - The cultural and religious context of removing young tulkus from the family home 44:59 - Does the cultural and religious context shield the child from developmental damage? 51:08 - Miles asks Steve why he asked about tulkus 54:17 - The role of mentorship and apprenticeship in human flourishing 59:00 - What makes Miles such a good mentee? 1:03:28 - Miles’ 20 year mentorship under Dr Joe Loizzo 1:11:33 - Miles’ schism with Joe Loizzo 1:15:21 - Why Miles’ and Joe’s relationship ruptured 1:18:36 - Miles’ peer relationship with Geshe Tenzin Zopa 1:21:57 - A sense of coronation at Miles’ book launch 1:26:20 - Miles’ relationship with Professor Robert Thurman 1:34:22 - Negative experiences with Geshe Michael Roach community … To find out more about Miles, visit: - https://www.milesneale.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Daniel Ingram, meditation teacher and author of ‘Mastering The Core Teachings Of The Buddha’. Daniel is best known for his controversial claim to arhatship, one of the highest levels of enlightenment in Buddhism. Less well known is Daniel’s lifetime of practice in magick and the occult. In this interview Daniel reveals his magical biography, and comments on various systems including Goetia, Enochian, Kabbalah, Castaneda, Buddhist Magick, and more. Daniel shares his encounters with demons, astral entities, mythical beings, and entering into magickal combat with angry magicians who had cursed him. Daniel also critiques the modern mindfulness movement for its suppression of information about the magickal aspects of its own tradition, and gives advice on ethics and the accumulation of psychic power. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep68-daniel-ingram-magick-the-occult-summoning-demons/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:59 - Daniel’s view of conscious vs unconscious magick 8:43 - Confessional and purification practices 10:38 - The role of penance in confessional practices 13:35 - Insight value of confession and purification practices 16:40 - Daniel’s magical biography 20:18 - Encountering Buddhist magic 22:42 - Introduction to Western Occultism 24:59 - Unlocking the powers in retreat 31:46 - Magick vs Insight practice 38:42 - Black magick in the Dark Night of the Soul 42:20 - Seeing demons and ghosts 44:16 - What does Daniel mean by ‘seeing’? 46:30 - Encounters with ‘lower astral nasties’ 50:19 - Seeing a Garuda in Daniel’s bedroom 51:38 - Has knowledge of the powers been suppressed in Western Buddhism? 58:58 - ‘Waking up light’ and the advertising strategies of modern mindfulness teachers 1:01:18 - Sinister skilful means 1:02:02 - Remarkable stories of the magick of Dipa Ma 1:04:49 - Daniel’s take on Goetia Magic and conjuring demons 1:07:57 - Daniel asks for Steve’s take on Goetia Magic 1:08:54 - Daniel on the ethics of Goetia and his own conjurations 1:11:32 - Steve clarifies his position on Goetia Magic 1:13:07 - Daniel’s take on Enochian Magic 1:14:14 - John Dee and the origin of Enochian Magic 1:19:01 - Daniel on Kabbalah 1:21:40 - How useable are the widely available magickal texts? 1:26:29 - Daniel’s take on Carlos Castaneda’s system 1:30:20 - The key to Buddhist Magick 1:35:26 - The downsides of Buddhist Magick 1:36:26 - Dungeons and Dragons list of the powers 1:41:05- What are Daniel’s natural psychic gifts and siddhis? 1:45:56 - Daniel’s dream template 1:50:02 - Magickal combat, curses, and Daniel under attack 1:54:13 - Why did people try to curse Daniel? 1:55:56 - What is Daniel’s library of archetypal symbols? 1:57:51 - Are powerful people of today magickal practitioners? 2:03:17 - Is magick consciously used in the corridors of power? 2:06:42 - Power accumulation and semen retention … Check out my previous interviews with Daniel: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep14-daniel-ingram-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep40-daniel-ingram-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Daniel, visit: - integrateddaniel.info - firekasina.org … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr. Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University. We learn how a divination from a Tibetan master radically changed the direction of Ian’s life, and how he encountered the man who would later become his teacher, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche. Ian recounts how, on an intense tummo meditation retreat, he attained to the Dzogchen spiritual realisation known as rigpa, and its profound consequences in his life. Ian also discusses how he uses energy practices such as tsa lung and Tibetan yoga in his clinical practice to treat personality problems, substance abuse, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep67-dr-ian-wickramasekera-tummo-hypnosis-realising-rigpa/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - Receiving a personal mirror divination from Lama Dawa 9:30 - Ian’s previous life as a monk at Tashiding Monastery in Sikkim 10:50 - Trying to meet Namkhai Norbu 13:09 - Encountering the Bon master Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 15:02 - Meeting Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche and learning lucid dreaming 19:41 - Personal interactions with Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 26:40 - Choosing to follow the Bon path 30:30 - Taking refuge with Ato Rinpoche 36:42 - Advice for studying in dharma and hypnosis 40:20 - Learning Tummo from Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche in retreat 45:38 - Realising Rigpa 50:11 - Was this a glimpse or an abiding shift? 55:02 - Did tummo practice directly cause Ian’s realisation? 56:40 - The mind-body effect of tummo and chakra practice 1:05:57 - About Daniel P Brown 1:08:48 - Directly experiencing the subtle body anatomy 1:10:04 - The experience of rigpa and devotion 1:14:37 - Empowered to teach tsa lung and shiné 1:15:51 - The effect of rigpa on cognitive work 1:20:22 - Criteria for combining dharma and hypnosis 1:24:25 - Rigpa, tsa lung, the personality structure, and substance abuse 1:32:12 - How Ian uses Tibetan yoga and tsa lung in his therapy practice 1:36:55 - Confirming Ian’s realisation with Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 1:44:01 - Receiving pointing out instructions from Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 1:46:26 - Similarities between Dzogchen and hypnosis 1:48:28 - Ian’s opinion about NLP 1:51:37 - Humility on the spiritual path 1:53:52 - Ian’s prophecy cliffhanger … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Previous episodes with Ian: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ To find out more about Ian, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhist Lama Glenn Mullin. We learn how a mystical vision at Tibet’s oracle lake Lhamo Latso directed Glenn to move to Mongolia for 10 years, where he would eventually receive the nation’s highest honour, the Mongolian Star. We discuss Glenn’s encounters and friendships with the great Shamans of the Steppes, Himalayan Oracles, and the last Princess of Mongolia. Glenn reveals the inner workings of Mongolian Shamanism including the training of apprentices, 99 Spirit channeling, ritual and trance practices, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep66-glenn-mullin-the-great-shamans-of-mongolia/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:47 - How Glenn came to live in Mongolia 4:28 - Troubles in Nepal 6:18 - Mystical visions at Tibet’s oracle lake 11:58 - Traveling through China and Mongolia to seek the mountains seen in Glenn’s vision 16:51 - Meeting a Mongolian princess and securing a long-term visa 24:19 - Communist oppression of Buddhism and Shamanism in Mongolia 25:46 - The special training of a Mongolian Shaman and channeling the 99 Spirits 30:04 - Meeting Byampadorj, the state Shaman 36:19 - Glenn’s friendship with Dorje Yudronma, a Tibetan Oracle 39:55 - Meeting more Shamans and presenting papers at the International Shamanism Conference (check name) 42:02 - The similarities between Tibetan Buddhist Tantra and Mongolian Shamanism 45:52 - Did Glenn either engage in channelling? 47:30 - Glenn’s remarkable experiences consulting Tibetan Oracles 57:24 - Attending Mongolian seances and receiving the Mongolian Star Of Honour 1:03:53 - Byampadorj’s rituals for a broken foot 1:09:03 - The influence of negative spirits as a cause of health problems 1:13:25 - How to relate to the ghosts, gods, and the spirit world 1:16:03 - The use of wrathful mantras and light vs dark magic 1:22:14 - ‘Reflections of a Mongolian Shaman’ book 1:25:58 - Byampadorj’s mother’s death 1:29:39 - What makes a good Shaman and right use of power … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep51-glenn-mulin-ufos-lineage-holders-tantric-secrecy/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep58-glenn-mullin-mystics-psychosis-madame-blavatsky/ ... To find out more about Glenn, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn Glenn’s video on the Mongolian Shaman Festival:- https://youtu.be/33bBm4frSbA ... For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Khandro Déchen, Lineage Lama, alongside her husband and teaching partner Ngak’chang Rinpoche, of the Aro gTér tantric house holder tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. We learn about Khandro Déchen’s upbringing and career in nursing, and how working with the sick and dying prepared her for her role as a spiritual teacher. Khandro Déchen recounts her first meeting and subsequent courtship with the man who would later become both her teacher and husband, Ngak’chang Rinpoche. We learn about Khandro Déchen’s practice in the hidden places of the Himalayas and her contact with great Lamas such as Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche . Khandro Déchen also discusses power differentials between teacher and student, females teachers and the patriarchy, her love of Kum-Nye physical practices, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep65-khandro-dechen-english-ngakma/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:59 - Khandro Déchen’s upbringing and meeting Ngak’chang Rinpoche 7:04 - Why Buddhism was so appealing to Khandro Déchen 8:40 - Khandro Déchen’s nursing career 11:53 - Principles for working with the sick and dying 15:15 - How Khandro Déchen works with spiritual students 17:28 - Khandro Déchen’s sisters conversion to Buddhism 19:57 - Early days of the Aro gTer 20:55 - Beginning a romantic relationship with Ngak’chang Rinpoche 27:14 - The power differential between teacher and student and its implications 34:04 - Chimé Rigdzin Rinpoche making the relationship public 36:40 - Meeting Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 41:12 - Stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche and Jomo Samphel Dechen 44:54 - How Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche viewed Ngak’chang Rinpoche 47:05 - Why Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche didn’t have many students 48:52 - ‘King of the Universe’ 50:22 - Where did Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche’s charisma come from? 51:01 - Khandro Déchen’s practice in the hidden places of the Himalayas 58:18 - Meeting the current incarnations of Dudjom Rinpoche 1:00:39 - Navigating being both the wife and student of Ngak’chang Rinpoche 1:02:47 - Considerations as Lamas raising children 1:09:58 - Khandro Déchen’s work in yidam drawing 1:14:12 - The physical practices of Kum-Nye 1:18:34 - Do female teachers bring a unique perspective? 1:23:24 - Gender politics over Khandro Déchen’s lifetime 1:27:44 - The end result of practice 1:28:33 - Patriarchy as male power ... Check out my previous interviews with Khandro Déchen: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep16-ngapka-chogyam-and-khandro-dechen-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep39-ngakchang-rinpoche-and-khandro-dechen-pandemic-edition/ To find out more about Khandro Déchen, visit: - -http://arobuddhism.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Nathaniel Menninger, creator of the documentary film ‘The Porter’ which follows him on an 11-day trek to Everest base camp, living and working alongside the Tamang porters. When tourists climb Everest, they don’t carry their own equipment. That job is done by local porters who, in difficult conditions for minimal pay and out of the site of the clients, carry loads of up to 100kg each. We learn about Nathaniel’s experiences immersing himself in this world, carrying the same loads and living in the same conditions as the Tamang porters. We discover how Nathaniel, who speaks 6 languages, initially taught himself Nepali to study meditation in the Himalayas, and why his life of blending adventure and art made this project so personally significant. We learn about the physical and psychological challenges of the shooting process, as well as the profound identity crisis that Nathaniel suffered in its aftermath. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep64-nathaniel-menninger-the-porter/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 2:15 - Nate’s previous adventures and how ‘The Porter’ began 6:51 - Nate’s 6 languages 7:42 - Nate’s language learning approach 10:52 - Language improvement after meditation retreat 13:49 -Studying meditation in Nepal 18:44 - Where does Nate’s drive come from? 21:40 - Who’s achievements does Nate admire? 22:52 - Living exactly as the Tamang porters lived 28:56 - Nate’s awakening and the effect of the project on his psyche 34:47 - Nate’s crisis of identity 40:00 - Tensions on how best to represent the porters in the film 46:32 - The gruelling physical demands of carrying loads with the namlo headband 51:53 - How Nate endured the pain to complete the project 58:32 - The positive reception to the film and the effect of becoming well known 1:04:16 - Nate’s next adventures ... To watch The Porter, visit: - www.theporterfilm.com … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Daizan Skinner, a British Zen Roshi trained in both the Soto and Rinzai schools. We learn why seeing so many senior monks become exhausted and ill sent Daizan on a search to Japan for the secret energy practices of Zen Master Hakuin. Daizan reveals why he left the Soto school to join controversial Rinzai Roshi Shinzan Miyamae, who’s motto was ‘First priority is kensho, second priority is kensho, third priority is kensho’. Daizan recounts stories of studying with Shinzan Roshi in Japan, practicing Koan on a mountain, and the chaotic lifestyle at Gyokuryuji temple. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep63-daizan-skinner-chaos-temple/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:18 - Why Daizan left the Soto school of Zen 1:47 - Energy practices to mitigate health problems of long-term Zen practice 19:11 - Meeting Shinzan Miyamae Roshi and joining Gyokuryuji temple 28:16 - The life story of Shinzan Miyamae Roshi 53:42 - Major fire at Gyokuryuji temple 1:04:09 - The effect of the chaos at Gyokuryuji on Daizan … Previous Daizan episode: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep56-daizan-skinner-zen-and-the-unknowing/ ... To find out more about Daizan, visit: - www.zenways.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Cinthia Font Zorilla - polyglot, translator, and chief Spanish interpreter for Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche. We learn about Cinthia’s remarkable upbringing as the daughter of a diplomat, raised a citizen of the world and becoming fluent in 7 languages. We discover how, when her father was stationed in India, an introduction to Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche by the King of Nepal would change Cinthia’s life forever. Cinthia recounts her close personal relationship with Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche, as well as the transformative effects of interpreting for her current guru, Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep62-cinthia-font-dharma-polyglot/ Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes, Spotify, and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:44 - Cinthia’s upbringing as the daughter of a diplomat 3:41 - Meeting her guru, Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche 5:09 - How many languages does Cinthia speak? 5:42 - How Cinthia became a polyglot 8:30 - Different personalities in different languages 9:31 - Other shaping effects of an international upbringing 12:21 - How to maintain a high level in 7 languages 13:52 - Cinthia’s conversion to Buddhism after meeting Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche 17:31 - Taking refuge 21:20 - Becoming a personal student of Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche 24:55 - Taking Bodhisattva vows and practice during Cinthia’s parents’ divorce 29:22 - Practice in difficult life circumstances 32:01 - The death of the Guru and finding Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche 37:11 - Who is Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche? 42:15 - What is it like to be a personal student of Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche? 44:24 - The evolution of Cinthia’s spiritual practice 47:15 - Cinthia’s demanding daily practice regime 48:43 - Different sitting postures for meditation 51:25 - Training to be a become a Lama under Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche 55:04 - Learning the Tibetan language 1:06:38 - The surprising key to being an excellent interpreter 1:09:48 - Language interpreting as devotion to the guru 1:13:57 - The transformative experience of interpreting for one’s personal guru 1:18:09 - What unlocks for practitioners of Buddhism when learning Tibetan? 1:22:32 - The importance of the oral lineage of a native speaker … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes, Spotify, and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … To find our more about Cinthia, visit: - skycinthia @ gmail . com - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cinthia-font-ba363111 … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr. Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University. We discuss how a violent, childhood near-death experience propelled Ian onto the path of meditative exploration, and how psychedelics played a part in unraveling deep seated racial conditioning. We learn how early encounters with Glenn Mullin and Robin Kornman profoundly shaped Ian’s contemplative and academic trajectories. Ian recounts his first meditation retreats with the Shambala organisation, his opinion of the Sakyong, and why he left that lineage. Ian also explores dualistic and non dualistic epistemologies, the intersection of psychology and religion, and his academic work in the field of hypnosis. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:53 - Childhood mystical experiences 4:18 - Violent near-death experience as a child 10:08 - Ian’s love for Catholic ritual and prayer 16:30 - Ian’s relationship with his Sri Lankan father 19:17 - Early racial conditioning and experiments with LSD 27:00 - First encounter with Tibetan Buddhism 31:27 - Ian discusses Glenn Mullin’s 37:34 - Meditation misconceptions 40:58 - First retreat at the Shambala Centre 48:32 - Meeting Robin Kornman 59:52 - The secret of space 1:03:13 - Devolving not evolving the self 1:09:31 - Space or spiritual materialism? 1:12:08 - Spacious equanimity vs setting personal boundaries 1:18:19 - Trends in psychology 1:22:52 - Non-dual perspectives in counselling and psychology 1:25:40 - Meeting Albert Ellis 1:31:41 - Dualism in science, personality disorders, and meditation studies 1:45:49 - Criticism from Buddhists about Ian’s work 1:48:39 - Comparing Dzogchen to hypnosis 1:54:40 - Counsellors and scientists who practice non-dual traditions 1:56:53 - Ian’s experiences on his first month-long retreat 2:06:45 - Meeting the Sakyong and leaving the Shambala organisation 2:14:04 - In search of a teacher … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … To find our more about Ian, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Taiwanese Youtube Fitness star Frank Yang who on May 25th 2020, declared himself to be an arhat - the highest level of enlightenment in Theravada Buddhism. Frank discusses his intense spiritual quest, from his early days as a bodybuilder struggling with sex addiction, to a multi-year deep dive into Buddhist meditation practice. We learn about Frank’s initial awakenings, kundalini phenomena, encounters with entities, and journeys to astral dimensions. Frank lifts the lid on his successful Youtube channel of over 160k subscribers, and shares his personal advice for all those who seek enlightenment. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep60-frank-yang-full-natty-arhat/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - The collective dark night of the pandemic 1:46 - Bodybuilding, sex addiction, and beginning meditation 8:33 - Plato and the link between physical training and meditation 10:48 - Frank’s relationship to his body 12:25 - Sex and philosophy 14:33 - Discovering Daniel Ingram and experiencing the Arising and Passing 16:54 - Frank’s first dark night 19:40 - Psychedelic explorations 23:54 - Stream entry on second Goenka retreat 31:18 - Frank’s meditation influences 32:07 - Kundalini awakening 37:16 - The affects of Frank’s Kundalini awakening 38:17 - Attaining 3rd path 41:16 - Attaining 4th path 51:14 - Controversy around attainments 52:38 - The effects of enlightenment on Frank’s sex addiction 57:34 - Stream entry to arhat in 1 year 58:42 - Out of body experiences and astral realms 1:01:06 - Frank’s encounters with negative entities 1:04:01 - Sensing energies in people and places 1:05:38 - Changes to personal relationships after awakening 1:08:10 - Why Frank is sometimes lonely 1:08:36 - Frank’s bi-polar diagnosis and his meditation path 1:11:15 - Frank’s Youtube channel and his creative vision 1:19:06 - Advice to those seeking enlightenment … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … To find our more about Frank, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/frankyang/featured … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Sang-gyé A-tsal, an ex-dancer, jazz club owner, and Brevet Lama in the Aro gTer lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. We discuss Sang-gyé’s personal journey through Santeria, Sufism, and Vedanta before meeting her future teacher, Ngak’chang Rinpoche. Sang-gyé discusses her transformative time spent in Nepal with Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, and recounts her completion of the esoteric practice of phowa under the guidance of Jomo Sampel. We learn about how to practice Vajra Romance outside of a partnership, and explore Sang-gyé’s passion for the physical practices of Kum Nye. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep59-sang-gye-a-tsal-santeria-to-sang-gye/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:42 - Sang-gyé’s childhood meditation parties and explorations of spiritual traditions 3:47 - ‘Sleepy Shiné’ and learning to meditate 7:29 - Vedanta, Sufism, and Santeria 10:45 - Unusual experiences in Santeria 12:20 - Moving to New York to open a jazz club 13:20 - Meeting Ngak’chang Rinpoche and becoming an Aro gTer apprentice 23:15 - Stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 29:09 - Sang-gyé on ‘emptiness’ and relating to a great Lama 34:45 - Working with neurosis as an artist and practitioner 40:15 - Vajra Romance as a single person 44:52 - Sang-gyé’s phowa retreat under the guidance of Jomo Samphel 49:52 - Sang-gyé’s retreat schedule and achieving the sign of completion 55:19 - Practice sequencing on retreat 59:08 - Plans for the continuation of the Aro gTer lineage 1:04:31 - Sang-gyé’s passion for the physical practices of Kum Nye 1:08:47 - How to learn Kum Nye Sang-gyé online 1:09:53 - Modern relevance of the Gö Kar Chang Lo'i Dé … To find our more about Sang-gyé A-tsal, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/movingbeing.naturalbeing - https://www.instagram.com/movingbeing/ - movingbeing111@gmail.com Previous Aro gTer episodes: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxvlIXraR8zs4j4vNebA8os For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhist lama Glenn Mullin. We discuss a fascinating range of topics, including Theosophists Madame Blavatsky, Colonel Olcott, and Alice Bailey; and controversial American spiritual teacher Adi Da. We explore the line between mystical experience and psychotic delusion, and how mystics from various traditions have related to hearing voices and seeing visions. Glenn comments on the role of teachers and lineage in keeping mystics on track, reveals the 5 different ways to achieve clairvoyance, and discusses why the West produces so many self-initiated adepts. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep58-glenn-mullin-mystics-psychosis-madame-blavatsky/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:41 - Helena Blavatsky’s influence and Glenn’s history with the Theosophical Society 14:31 - Mysticism or psychosis? The paranormal powers of the Theosophical Society 31:07 - Nicholas Roerich and Glenn’s up-coming book 32:50 - Adi Da, 5 means of achieving clairvoyance, and the pitfalls of self-made mystics 38:14 - The benefit of a strong living tradition 45:47 - How do Tibetan cave yogis stay sane? Advice for long retreat. … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep51-glenn-mulin-ufos-lineage-holders-tantric-secrecy/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: - https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
To support people in this pandemic, I decided to release the full workshop recording of 'Dimensions of the Heart - Exploring Meditation Practices Of Loving Kindness And Compassion'. The video version includes important slides and visual aids, and can be viewed here: https://www.guruviking.com/dimensions-of-the-heart-meditation-practices-of-compassion-full-workshop/ … 'Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.’ - Abraham Lincoln … Everyone likes to feel good. Much of the time how we feel is determined by our environment and circumstances. This can leave our emotions at the mercy of external conditions beyond our control. Many people don’t know that it is possible to deliberately choose to feel good, even in difficult circumstances. … In this 3hr online workshop we explore meditation approaches that cultivate positive states such as compassion and loving kindness. With practice, these natural states can be more readily felt and with greater richness, profundity, and consistency. … Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 1:08 - Lecture about Compassion Meditation practices 32:26 - 3D Loving Kindness - Guided Meditation 54:28 - Question: What if negative emotions arise during compassion practice? 56:19 - Question: Explaining the use of smiling in meditation 58:35 - Brahma Vihara Practice - Guided Meditation 1:49:35 - Steve summarises the techniques covered so far + tips for ongoing practice 1:54:00 - Question: What is the point of mindfulness meditation vs mantra meditation? 2:00:02 - Question: Steve demonstrates and explains the use of mudra in meditation (hand and body positions) 2:06:26 - Question: How to work with suffering when the conditions can’t be improved? 2:11:09 - Question: Tips for compassion practice with strangers 2:13:34 - Question: The ‘M. Night Shyamalan plot twist’ of the Brahma Viharas 2:16:31 - Question: Discussion about equanimity, helping the world, and the word ‘karma’ 2:25:40 - Question: Is it okay to wish your enemies happy for your own benefit? 2:29:02 - Question: Process vs outcome in meditation practice 2:31:34 - Question: The pain of feeling compassion 2:37:09 - Question: An ‘aha’ about equanimity 2:40:44 - Question: Equanimity with others’ suffering and spiritual bypassing 2:49:48 - Question: Comments on equanimity as empowerment, and the humanising influence of the heart 2:55:02 - A story about relating to one’s enemies 3:02:59 - Congratulations and closing remarks .... The Guru Viking Meditation Club started as a free Zoom class to support people in the pandemic - each Wednesday we meet to explore meditation and practice together on Zoom. Once a month we take a 3hr deep dive into themes like this one, chosen by members. To join the club, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-meditation-club/
In this interview I am joined by Ron Serrano who, after securing financial freedom, turned away from the business world and declared the rest of his life a retreat, turning his full attention to spiritual awakening. Ron is a long time meditation practitioner and co-founder of the online meditation group Dharma Mechanics. We discuss Ron’s rigorous practice schedule, including his advanced lucid dreaming approach, and discover the one technique that increases lucid dreams by 20x. Ron also discusses his close association with Yale neuroscientist Judd Brewer, who scanned the brains of many meditation masters, and reveals the surprising results of those many years of research. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep57-ron-serrano-the-dharma-mechanic/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:49 - The kundalini yoga of Swami Kripalu 10:10 - Achieving financial freedom and discovering meditation 13:07 - Meeting Leigh Brasington and learning the jhanas 14:50 - Ron’s rigorous practice schedule and declaring permanent retreat 20:35 - The practice of recalling mystical experiences 23:53 - Meeting Judd Brewer and encountering meditation masters 30:03 - Buddhist Geeks, Dharma Mechanics, and discovering Dzogchen 33:41 - Meeting Tsoknyi Rinpoche 36:33 - Ron’s take as a businessman on sustainable Dharma 40:51 - Inside stories on Judd Brewer’s brain research on meditation masters 43:50 - What is meditation really about 47:09 - Ron’s 20+ year lucid dreaming practice 54:17- Prophetic and diagnostic dreams, and clear light sleep yoga 1:06:24 - Ron’s family’s surprising reaction to his rigorous practice schedule 1:08:26 - Sleep science and lifestyle effects on lucid dreaming success 1:13:09 - Ron’s love of maps of awakening and his current practice orientation … To find out more about Ron and Dharma Mechanics, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Dharmachanics/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Daizan Skinner, a British Zen Roshi holding lineages in both the Soto and Rinzai schools. We learn about Daizan’s Catholic upbringing, his fascination with the 14th century Christian contemplative text the Cloud of Unknowing, and how a search throughout Asia eventually led him to become a Zen monk for over twenty years. We lift the lid on his traditional training, including intensely painful meditation practice, severe sleep deprivation, and deep emotional catharsis. Daizan also reveals why he emphasises enlightenment in his teaching, lays out a traditional four stage model of awakening, and details his own awakening experiences in accordance with that model. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep56-daizan-skinner-zen-and-the-unknowing/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:49 - Daizan’s biography 5:37 - Why Zen over Catholicism? 7:10 - Learning meditation from a Catholic priest 9:44 - Dialogue between Catholicism and Zen 10:22 - The Cloud Of Unknowing 12:24 - Daizan’s research into the Cloud of Unknowing 18:41 - The spiritual heritage of the British Isles 26:36 - Asian spiritual quest and choosing Zen 32:51 - Suicide at the monastery 34:37 - Soto monastic training 36:11 The secret to succeeding in a monastic environment 39:51 - Daizan’s emotional catharsis 45:58 - The Way of Pain 52:42 - The Enlightenment Intensive 56:24 - Daizan’s intense yaza (night sitting) training and dream yoga 1:09:49 - The Rule of St Benedict 1:10:20 - Celibacy as a monk 1:14:48 - Enlightenment or passivity? 1:18:12 - Applying monastic training to lay life 1:20:38 - Daizan’s enlightenment experiences 1:28:36 - Attaining stream entry 1:34:11 - Attaining second path 1:37:22 - Awakening in Tibet 1:46:30 - Working with Daizan … To find out more about Daizan, visit: - www.zenways.org For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am again joined by Lorin Roche PhD, meditation teacher and author of ‘The Radiance Sutras’. We begin by discussing Lorin’s career as a writer, and learn why one of his early works triggered a visit from the CIA. We go on to discuss accidental mystical experiences, their positive and negative effects, and the role of practice in integrating such experiences. We learn why so many meditators are stuck and don’t know it, why meditation teachers are often the worst off of all, and what motivates people to become teachers. Lorin also shares his surprising top tips for a thriving personal practice, no matter the discipline. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep55-lorin-roche-instinctive-meditation/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:31 - Lorin’s life as a writer 7:11 - Visited by the CIA because of Lorin’s writing 8:18 - On creativity 9:43 - Lorin’s process and learning to write 16:08 - Accidental meditation experiences 22:51 - When meditation goes wrong 26:50 - Why reading meditation books is a bad idea 30:00 - Repression and meditation teachers 37:01 - Safeguards for meditators 38:58 - When gurus go bad 42:59 - Why do people become meditation teachers? 47:25 - When should a teacher quit? 54:41 - Lorin’s tips for a thriving personal practice, no matter the discipline … Check out my other interviews with Lorin here: - https://www.guruviking.com/the-guru-viking-interviews-ep1-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep6-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep30-lorin-roche-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Lorin visit: - www.lorinroche.com - www.radiancesutras.com - www.meditationtt.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Nyei Murez, personal student and writing collaborator of best-selling author and nagual sorcerer Carlos Castaneda. In this discussion, we learn about the art of dreaming in the tradition of the nagual. Nyei talks about the various different stages and training approaches to the art of dreaming, including how to become lucid - waking up in the dream and even to changing the dream environment. We discuss how to identify beings from other realms, so called ‘dream scouts’, and how to meet and communicate with other people, living or dead, while asleep. Nyei also discusses how to use the dream state to manifest favourable circumstances in the waking world, and how to defend against psychic or energetic attack from other skilled dreamers. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep54-nyei-murez-the-art-of-dreaming/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:56 - About the Art of Dreaming 8:36 - Training approaches for dreaming 20:02 - Interpreting the dream vs gaining stability 28:19 - Nyei’s training and differences between men and women 35:23 - Strategies to stabilise the dream 41:21 - Different strokes for different folks 44:48 - How to change the dream 49:16 - Differences between men and women in the dream world 52:29 - Identifying beings from other realms 55:46 - What is the purpose of dream scouts? 58:43 - Dream rendezvous between practitioners 1:01:46 - Contacting the dead through dreams 1:07:55 - Dreaming to manifest favourable circumstances in the waking world 1:12:20 - Influencing others and spying through dreams 1:14:11 - Defending attack from other dreamers 1:17:35 - Nyei’s personal to dream practice … Previous Nyei Murez episode: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep50-nyei-murez-scribe-of-carlos-castaneda/ To find out more about Nyei Murez, visit: - www.creationinflow.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Paul Linden PhD, who has practiced and taught Aikido for 50 years and out of that has developed body-based ways of teaching power and compassion. He has applied this in peace-making, conflicts between ethnic groups, and with victims of severe trauma. He summarises his work: Power without love is brutality. Love without power is ineffective. We learn about Paul’s early days in the martial arts, and how a lack of coordination forced him to completely re-engineer his physical learning process. We discuss Paul’s precise use of language, his love of operational definitions, and the remarkable insights he has gained living with Parkinson’s for 17 years. Paul discusses his work in Germany and comments on multi generational trauma in both descendants of holocaust survivors and of German war criminals, and leads a series of live exercises to unlock personal power. Paul also gives his advice on the protests and riots occurring the America, including how to act effectively and what he would do if he was in President Trump’s shoes. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep53-paul-linden-phd-aikido-power-and-generational-trauma/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:58 - Paul’s unusual childhood 2:15 - First encounter with Aikido and insights about physical education 5:21 - Paul’s childhood reading and 60s counter culture 10:10 - What is Aikido? Paul demonstrates. 16:05 - Paul’s journey from angry young man to a kinder person 20:56 - Paul demonstrates moving with Parkinson’s Disease 23:04 - Early symptoms and initial Parkinson’s diagnosis 24:45 - Secrets to working with negative emotions 27:34 - Paul teaches Steve power, compassion, and stability 31:31 - Enforcing a personal boundary with love 33:37 - Paul’s unique work with victims of severe abuse 42:22 - Dealing with complex and early trauma such as childhood abuse 46:53 - The ‘Noun-ish Fallacy’ 49:26 - Multi-generational trauma in descendants of holocaust victims and prison guards 51:29 - Paul comments on the American protests and riots of June 2020 52:09 - How to act effectively and what Paul would do if he was in President Trump’s shoe 1:00:18 - ‘Love without power is ineffective, power without love is brutality’ - unlocking personal power 1:04:16 - Power, love, and operational definitions … To find out more about Paul, visit: - https://www.being-in-movement.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. This episode is the third part of a series in which we explore Ben’s PhD dissertation about the ngakpa of the Himalayas, or as Ben calls them ‘wizards and socially engaged yogis’. In this episode we explore the realms of gender and sexual orientation, in both textual and social contexts. Ben discusses the complex situation of female spiritual practitioners in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, looking at terms such as ‘khandroma’, ‘dakini’, and more. We learn about the role of the sangyum, or sexual consort, and find out why Ben’s teacher and co-author Dr Nida Chenagtsang dedicated their book on sexual yoga to abuse victims, particularly those who have been abused in religious contexts. And finally we discuss the heteronormative / heterosexual perspective of traditional tantric texts, and hear Ben’s thoughts on how to practice sexual yoga in other orientations. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep52-dr-ben-joffe-3-dakinis-consorts-beyond-heteronormativity/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:08 - Ngakma, dakinis, and female practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism 15:55 - The dakini in traditional and new-age contexts 25:52 - Thoughts on the tantric prohibition against disparaging women 34:31 - The role of the sangyum (tantric consort) 51:52 - Sex with the tantric guru vs Western ethical trends 1:20:30 - Thoughts on practice of sexual yoga in contexts other than the heteronormative … Ngakpa series with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep52-dr-ben-joffe-3-dakinis-consorts-beyond-heteronormativity/ Ben’s dissertation - https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2335180529.html?FMT=ABS&fbclid=IwAR3bXYiUmC6YcOgR09-GuSiC_UwwXYuTcLJ-kce_tI3-8e-smZS99wy1HMY To find out more about Ben, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhism teacher Glenn Mullin. We discuss references to the extra-terrestrial origin of humanity in Mongolian shamanism and Buddhist Abhidharma. We explore the differences between a lineage and a sect, and the impact of the Tibetan diaspora on sectarian attitudes. Glenn reveals how it was he first began to teach, what makes a lineage holder, and how to relate to a tantric guru. We learn about why Glenn’s approach to samaya is very different to some other teachers, and examine the real world application of the 14 danshig or root vows. And finally we explore the tradition of secrecy in tantra - why it is prescribed and what is its purpose? … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep51-glenn-mulin-ufos-lineage-holders-tantric-secrecy/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:50 - The extra-terrestrial origin of humanity in Mongolian shamanism and Buddhist Abhidharma 4:34 - Lineages vs sects, and the impact of the Tibetan diaspora on sectarian attitudes 10:36 - How Glenn began to teach 12:00 - Discipleship in the Buddhist tradition 14:02 - Enlightened teachers and lineage function 17:50 - Tibetan vs Western guru devotion 31:12 - The origin of samaya vows and choosing a teacher 49:08 - What to do when someone ‘does you wrong’? 57:42 - Parallels between Buddhism and modern psychology 1:05:04 - The purpose of secrecy in tantra 1:13:59 - Discretion and the non-obvious … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: - https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Nyei Murez, personal student and writing collaborator of best-selling author and nagual sorcerer Carlos Castaneda. We discuss who Castaneda was, and Nyei gives a detailed history of his lineage up to the present day. We find out how Nyei first met Castaneda, and explore her intensive course of study and training under his personal guidance. We learn about Castaneda’s writing process, including stories of Nyei’s close collaboration with him on several best selling books. Nyei also talks on the nature of power, and shares insights into the current geo-political situation. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep50-nyei-murez-scribe-of-carlos-castaneda/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:45 - Meeting Carlos Castaneda and Florinda Donner 20:21 - The history of the lineage 49:38 - Nyei’s training with Carlos Castaneda and Florinda Donner 57:46 - Why did Nyei call Nyei a ‘genius’ + change in teaching style 1:01:54 - Time as a chacmool or ‘fierce guardian’ 1:05:30 - The purpose behind Nyei’s training 1:13:52 - Castaneda’s writing process and Nyei’s time as his scribe 1:24:15 - Scanning people energetically 1:33:31 - More on writing with Castaneda 1:48:08 - The death of Carlos Castaneda 1:59:25 - Castaneda’s widespread influence in today’s culture 2:1428 - Insights on the nature of power 2:22:38 - Nyei on the pandemic and immunity 2:30:31 - Nyei’s current work ... To find out more about Nyei Murez, visit: - www.creationinflow.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode we explore the life story of Dr Nida Chenagtsang, master of Tibetan Medicine and lineage holder of the spiritual teachings of the Yuthok Nyingthig. We learn about Dr Nida’s childhood as a nomad on the high grasslands of Tibet and the lessons he learned immersed in nature. We follow him to Lhasa, where he trained as a doctor of Tibetan medicine, and engaged in private spiritual training in lineages such as the Longchen Nyingthig, Dudjom Tersar, Yuthok Nyingthig and more. We hear Dr Nida’s critique of the tulku system of locating and enthroning the reincarnations of spiritual masters as children, and discuss why it is that Dr Nida offers previously secret teachings so openly to the public. This is the first in a series with Dr Nida, and future episodes will examine topics such as dream yoga, Tibetan medicine, karmamudra, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep49-dr-nida-chenagtsang-heart-of-a-nomad/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:14 - Nomad childhood in Amdo, Tibet 7:19 - Learning from nature 9:38 - A special encounter and becoming a doctor 20:28 - Training in Lhasa 22:52 - Studying Longchen Nyingthig with Ani Ngawang Gyaltsen 25:04 - The importance of female gurus 27:14 - Yearning for retreat and medical practice hopes 29:57 - Studying Dudjom Tersar with Chonyi Rinpoche and Semo Dechen 30:39 - Dr Nida’s other gurus and further studies 33:46 - Learning mantra healing privately 38:34 - Dr Nida’s critique of the tulku system 44:30 - How to choose an authentic teacher 53:24 - About the Yuthok Nyingthig and spiritual experiences on retreat 1:08:36 - Samaya, preliminaries, and secret teachings 1:10:19 - The importance of karmic connections 1:15:55 - Teaching ‘Flight of the Garuda’ 1:16:32 - The importance of guru yoga 1:19:12 - Dr Nida’s wild nomadic karmamudra teacher 1:22:40 - Learning and teaching many things 1:24:08 - Tibetan geomancy 1:25:21 - Future interview topics … Previous Interview with Dr Nida: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep41-dr-nida-chenagtsang-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Dr Nida, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. This episode is the second part of a series in which we explore Ben’s PhD dissertation on the ngakpa of the Himalayas, or as Ben calls them ‘wizards and socially engaged yogis’. In the previous episode, we met the scholar, exploring Ben’s life as well as looking at his research methodology. In this episode we begin by defining the ngakpa, both in terms of traditional definitions as well as how the ngakpa exist and function today. We explore the various tantric vows associated with the highest yoga tantra yidam empowerments, including common misinterpretations about samaya, and how hair and clothing styles are often used as on outer expression of inner or secret principles. We look at how ngakpa develop their magical powers (siddhi), why they have often been viewed with suspicion by the religious and state authorities, and finally Ben recounts a story of a magical duel between sorcerers over local occult jurisdiction. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:07 - Who are the ngakpa? 23:58 - Tantric vows and the complex issue of samaya 54:22 - How ngakpa develop and use magical powers (siddhi) 1:09:18 - Ngakpa Yeshe Dorje’s magical duel with local sorcerers … Ngakpa series with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ Ben’s dissertation - https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2335180529.html?FMT=ABS&fbclid=IwAR3bXYiUmC6YcOgR09-GuSiC_UwwXYuTcLJ-kce_tI3-8e-smZS99wy1HMY To find out more about Ben, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhism teacher Glenn Mullin. In this fascinating, story-filled episode we focus on Glenn’s career as an author and translator. Glenn has authored over 30 books on Tibetan Buddhism, which themselves have been translated into many languages. He has translated an extremely wide range of classical Tibetan literature from some of the greatest minds of that tradition, including many Dalai Lamas, Tsongkhapa, and more. We discuss Glenn’s personal journey with the Tibetan language, from gaining fluency in the bars and tea houses of 1970s Dharmsala to studying classic texts with Geshes and Tulkus in exile. We explore the fascinating history of the art of translation in Tibet, and the evolution of the Tibetan writing system. Glenn also reveals his stylistic influences as an English language writer, and lays out his process when approaching a new work of translation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Glenn’s beginnings as translator in Dharamsala 18:03 - Glenn’s work translating the Dalai Lamas 23:59 - Influences as an English-language writer 28:35 - History of Tibetan language and translation 47:12 - Difficulties learning colloquial Tibetan 49:15 - Unusual advice and gaining fluency 54:10 - Tibetan humour 58:49 - Glenn’s process for approaching a new translation 1:16:13 - Working closely with lineage holders 1:21:11 - The intellectual greatness of Ling Rinpoche, Trijang Rinpoche, and Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche 1:23:52 - The effect of intense meditation on memory power 1:25:15 - How great masters retain multiple lineages 1:35:22 - Glenn’s favourite of his translations 1:41:55 - Glenn’s opinion of translators today … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: - https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Nicki Wells, internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter and composer. We learn about Nicki’s Himalayan upbringing in Dharmsala, India as part of the Sahaja Yoga group, a tradition of awakening that exposed Nicki to profound states of meditation as well as Indian classical music. We go into depth about the Sahaja Yoga system, including its approach to kundalini energy, darshan, and spiritual evolution, as well as Nicki’s own spiritual epiphanies. We explore Nicki’s career as a singer and composer, from collaborating with composer Nitin Sawhney and scoring for film and television, including Khyentse Norbu’s, also known as Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, 2013 film Vara - A Blessing. We also discuss Nicki’s solo work, including her 2018 debut album Ocean, her 2019 album of spiritual songs entitled ‘Shloka’, and learn about the deep spirituality the permeates her performances and creative process. … Video version:https://www.guruviking.com/ep-46-nicki-wells-spirit-and-song/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Nicki’s childhood in the Himalayas 4:32 - Childhood meditation in the Sahaja Yoga System 8:36 - Kundalini energy and transmission in Sahaja Yoga 15:27 - Moving to Australia and Nicki’s spiritual epiphany 21:15 - Facing hardship and challenge as a practice 23:59 - Nicki’s passion for evolution and growth 24:42 - Motivation for the business side of music 28:30 - Childhood exposure to Indian Classical Music 31:24 - Returning to the UK and launching her career 34:10 - Touring and collaborations with Nitin Sawhney 36:52 - Working on Khyentse Norbu’s 2013 film ‘Vara - A Blessing’ 40:33 - The story behind the name ‘Turya’ 43:51 - Creative process for the next album 45:14 - Nicki’s 2019 album of spiritual songs called ‘Shloka’ 48:20 - Nicki sings and explains ‘Vishuddhi’ 52:08 - We play and discuss ‘Rivers to Sea’ 59:19 - We play and discuss ‘When It Goes Quiet’ 1:03:57 - More about Nicki’s spiritual path and Sahaja yoga 1:07:50 - Stories of introducing others to Sahaja Yoga 1:10:17 - Subtle body awareness 1:11:07 - More about Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi 1:12:26 - Nicki’s personal time with Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi ... To find out more about Nicki Wells, visit: - https://www.turyamusic.com For Nicki’s Covid Calm series, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHaSV06sze6EpZlsl_QEfAg The meditation site Nicki mentioned is: - www.wemeditate.co For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Intro and Outro Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Jayür Dorje, a lama in the non-monastic Aro gTér lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and the partner of previous interview guest Métsal Wangmo. We learn about Jayür’s early explorations in Zen and the Karma Kagyu traditions, before an ususual meeting in France changed his course to become a Nyingmapa. We discuss Jayür’s early apprenticeship in the Aro gTer and explore his special interest in that lineage’s magical movements of trulkhor. Jayür Dorje recounts his time in Nepal with Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, and talks about the unique practice possibilities afforded by his relationship with Métsal’s Wangmo. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep45-jayur-dorje-aro-gter-trulkhor-and-drala-jong/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 0:00 - Early explorations in Zen and the Karma Kagyu and joining the Aro gTer 25:48 - Starting a relationship with Métsal Wangmo 28:54 - Jayür’s early practices 30:34 - Choosing Nyingma over Karma Kagyu 33:47 - Jayür’s interest in trulkhor 38:40 - Stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 43:39 - The beginning of his relationship with Métsal Wangmo 46:05 - A sticky previous relationship 48:55 - Working with strong emotions 51:55 - Differences in trulkor lineages 54:14 - Jayür’s interest in hidden yoginis 55:45 - More stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 1:00:04 - Wim How and the tsa lung/chöd combination 1:02:19 - A day in the life at Drala Jong ... To find out more about Jayür Dorje, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/Takrig/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. We discuss Ben’s early interest in Western Occultism saw him become a professional tarot reader at age 11 and engage in rigorous self study of magical disciplines. We learn about how Ben taught himself the Tibetan language, and follow him to Indian and Nepal where he carried out his doctoral field work among the Ngakpa community in exile. Ben reveals the methodological and ethical challenges of being both a scholar and practitioner, and recalls the significance of meeting the man who would later become his teacher and mentor, Dr Nida Chenagtsang. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:43 - Early interest in Western Occultism 13:56 - Franz Bardon and occult mind training 15:34 - Childhood vision of Jesus 25:55 - Western vs Buddhist mind training 28:35 - Ben’s personal development in the occult 38:33 - Tibetan studies as Ben’s ‘nerd rebellion’ 52:45 - Teaching himself the Tibetan language 1:04:32 - Ben’s other languages 1:08:00 - The importance of language in tantric traditions 1:11:42 - An overview of Ben’s dissertation 1:15:14 - The research process 1:39:37 - Wang and the methodological and ethical challenges of being a scholar practitioner 1:51:37 - Where to find Ben’s work … Ngakpa series with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ Ben’s dissertation - https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2335180529.html?FMT=ABS&fbclid=IwAR3bXYiUmC6YcOgR09-GuSiC_UwwXYuTcLJ-kce_tI3-8e-smZS99wy1HMY To find out more about Ben, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Métsal Wangmo, a lama in the non-monastic Aro gTér lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. We learn about Métsal’s explorations in meditation and shamanism, that led her to commit to life-long study with Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen. We discuss how Métsal’s background in Steiner education influences her teaching style, and hear the story of the death of her first apprentice. Métsal recounts meeting and falling in love with her now teaching-partner Jayür Dorje, after many years of singleness - and the adjustments that relationship demanded. We also discuss portions of Métsal’s paper on vajra romance, including the importance of reconciling the inner male and female aspects. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep43-metsal-wangmo-varja-romance/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Métsal’s early interest in Gurdjieff, meditation, and shamanism 08:50 - Meeting Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen 11:18 - Childhood meditation experiences 12:04 - Pragmatism vs magical thinking 18:28 - Drala teachings of Vajrayana 19:44 - The Apprenticeship Model of the Aro gTér 27:24 - General Aro gTér curriculum and Métsal’s special interests 36:34 - The teaching style and example of Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen 40:02 - The death of Métsal’s first apprentice 48:59 - Meeting and falling in love with her now teaching-partner Jayür Dorje 51:31 - Choosing to be single for many years 58:43 - Adjusting from single life to being in a relationship 1:04:01 - Reconciling the inner male and female aspects 1:11:56 - ‘Unrequiteable gender needs’ 1:15:17 - Relationship as practice 1:19:25 - Resolving emotional neediness and finding exponential appreciation To find out more about Métsal Wangmo, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/Takrig/ - http://arobuddhism.org/lamas/lama-metsal-wangmo.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Susan Guner recently interviewed me about meditation as part of her free 21 Day Meditation Challenge. 0:00 - How Susan met Steve 02:30 - About Steve 04:12 - Susan on meditation and self-agency 06:20 - Different types of meditation, guided meditation vs silent sitting 10:33 - Is guided meditation useful? 16:57 - Building a daily meditation practice 25:32 - Common meditation misconceptions 30:35 - Susan on different states of consciousness and meditating in life 35:35 - Aspiration vs practice 39:38 - Susan on natural meditation 44:40 - Is spiritual experience only for elite practitioners? 46:31 - How to tell if someone is as spiritual as they appear to be 50:14 - Advice for the participants in Susan’s 21 Day Meditation Challenge 53:30 - The Guru Viking Podcast 55:48 - How is Steve spending time in lockdown 57:30 - Susan on investing in education 59:35 - Meditating in any moment 1:01:09 - Short vs long meditation sessions 1:03:16 - Should one feel one’s emotions or let them go? 1:05:42 - What is the depth of meditation? 1:07:37 - Susan’s meme about the meaning of life 1:08:36 - Zen Master communication Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/susan-guner-interviews-steve-james-about-meditation/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... To find out more about Susan, visit: - https://www.warrioroflove.co.uk/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com My Meditation Livestreams: - https://www.facebook.com/guruviking/
In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhism teacher Glenn Mullin. We discuss tukdam and rainbow body, the mysterious after-death phenomena in which accomplished yogis can remain in suspended animation for days or weeks after death or dissolve their bodies into their elemental constituents. We hear about the remarkable death of one of Glenn’s own gurus, which he witnessed first hand, as well as discuss the means of communicating with deceased masters through relics and dreams. We also discuss the practices of phowa, consciousness projection at the time of death, and drong juk, the forceful projection of one’s consciousness into a fresh corpse. And finally we discuss the Tibetan tradition of reading omens about the time of one’s own death, and how to listen for signs and guidance from the natural world. Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. Topics Include: 0:00 - Introduction 0:55 - Tukdam, suspended animation of the body after death 11:54 - The death of Glenn’s guru, Namgyel Khensur Rinpoche 18:53 - Being a role model to others 20:57 - Cultural attitudes towards death 27:25 - Chakrasamvara Tantra teachings on death 31:12 - Rainbow body, another way to die 35:09 - Tukdam vs rainbow body, and relics (ringsel) of a deceased master 39:38 - Communicating with deceased masters through their relics 47:32 - The relics of the Buddha 50:54 - Phowa, consciousness projection at the time of death 55:39 - Drong juk, the forceful projection of consciousness into a corpse 1:01:00 - Ancient civilisations and pan-Asian energy techniques 1:02:27 - Death rituals of the Lamas 1:04:30 - Tantric methods of foretelling one’s own death 1:10:08 - Glenn’s personal approach to divination 1:12:08 - Listening to messages from birds, clouds, and nature …. Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: * https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: * https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ * http://www.glennmullin.com/ * https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: * http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
I was recently interviewed by Bill and Jasmine of Awake-In Podcast about meditation, podcasting, and my thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic. Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/steve-interviewed-on-awake-in-podcast/ 0:00 - Introductions 02:40 - What has Steve learned from his guests on the Guru Viking Podcast 08:54 - The pros and cons of combative interview styles 11:08 - Steve’s personal meditation practice 14:16 - Explaining Steve’s practice to a child, a lay person, and an experienced meditator 22:54 - Steve’s solo meditation retreats 25:54 - Experiences and learnings from solo retreat 36:36 - Bill’s jhana practice 44:30 - Steve on jhana practice 52:14 - Steve’s advice for meditators during the coronavirus pandemic 1:01:04 - Steve on the coronavirus pandemic 1:10:33 - Jasmine’s year long practice intensive 1:16:06 - Meditation and personal alignment 1:21:04 - Meditating with emotional pain and trauma 1:22:38 - Sickness and compassion 1:27:06 - Steve reads Antonio Machado’s ‘Last Night As I Lay Sleeping’ From Bill and Jasmine’s show notes: Hope you enjoy! Find more or get in touch at: https://awake-in.com We cover all sorts with Steve, but here are some highlights: Learnings from the amazing guests he’s interviewed Steve’s meditation practice explained 3 ways – To a child To an adult To an experienced meditator His summer ‘part-time retreat’ – 4 hours of meditation a day Bill’s experience of Jhānic meditation Jasmine’s experience doing 3 hours a day of meditation for an entire year Thoughts on how to deal with the current COVID-19 crisis Books referenced: Daniel Ingram’s Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha and Fire Kasina Leigh Brasington’s Right Concentration Antonio Machado’s Last Night As I Was Sleeping Check out the amazing Guru Viking podcast and follow Steve’s other work at: https://www.guruviking.com/
Dr Nida Chenagtsang, master of Tibetan Meditation and lineage holder of the Yuthok Nyingthig, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep41-dr-nida-chenagtsang-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 00:55 - Guidance for those who are anxious, afraid, or panicked. 14:21 - Guidance for those who are sick. 18:28 - Guidance for those who are dying. 22:40 - Guidance for supporting those who are sick or suffering. 27:18 - Guidance for those in isolation. … To find our more about Dr Nida, visit: https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Daniel Ingram, meditation teacher and author of ‘Mastering The Core Teachings Of The Buddha’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep40-daniel-ingram-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 00:55 - Warning: listen before continuing. 01:43 - Daniel’s background in medicine and epidemiology. 03:44 - Daniel’s ‘Need to Know’ on the pandemic. 11:19 - Further guidance for the lay person. 12:49 - Daniel’s prognosis for the epidemic. 18:17 - Self care during the pandemic. 23:53 - Guidance for those who are anxious, afraid, or panicked. 39:46 - Guidance for supporting those who are sick or suffering. 46:06 - Meditation guidance for those who are sick. 55:24 - Guidance for those who are dying. 57:59 - Daniel’s personal meditation plan for his own death. 1:02:43 - Further comments on supporting the sick and dying. 1:07:15 - Processing emotional storms. 1:14:15 - Guidance for those in isolation. 1:17:16 - How does an arahant experience the pandemic? 1:25:40 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Daniel Ingram: https://www.guruviking.com/ep14-daniel-ingram-guru-viking-interviews/ To find our more about Daniel, visit: integrateddaniel.info For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ngak'Chang Rinpoche And Khandro Déchen, the Lineage Lamas and principal teachers of the a tantric Buddhist Aro tradition house holder tradition, are my featured guests in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. There is some audio interference in this episode, but the content is well worth the effort to listen. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep39-ngakchang-rinpoche-and-khandro-dechen-pandemic-edition/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 00:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 05:48 - Investing in the sense fields 09:18 - Guidance for those who are sick. 13:43 - Remembering the death of Robert, their son. 17:13 - Guidance for those who are dying. 19:15 - Guidance to supporting those who are sick or suffering 22:44 - Guidance for those in isolation. 27:26 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interviews with Ngak'Chang Rinpoche And Khandro Déchen: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep8-ngakpa-chogyam/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep16-ngapka-chogyam-and-khandro-dechen-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Ngak'Chang Rinpoche And Khandro Déchen, visit: - -http://arobuddhism.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Godfrey offers a breathing class and Q&A for the listeners of the Guru Viking Podcast focused on his ‘Free Breathing’ approach to pranayama. This practice is referenced and further explained in Episode 38 of the Guru Viking Podcast, and is part of a special series of the podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. … https://www.guruviking.com/free-breathing-class-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-podcast/ ... Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:00 - Class Intro 01:00 - Guided Class 30:31 - Comments 31:18 - Explaining ’svaramukta’ 35:29 - To control or not in breath practice 43:52 - Final comments … Check out my previous interviews with Godfrey Devereux: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep38-godfrey-devereux-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep15-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Godfrey Devereux and his online courses, visit: - www.radicalecology.net For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Godfrey Devereux, yoga and meditation teacher of over 45 years experience, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... https://www.guruviking.com/ep38-godfrey-devereux-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 04:20 - The role of movement in working with strong emotion. 05:46 - Guidance for those who are sick. 10:15 - Why the mind engages in loops and stories. 15:22 - Guidance for those who are dying. 19:15- How to face the reality of death. 23:18 - Guidance to supporting those who are sick or suffering 24:12 - Guidance for those in isolation. 28:48 - Radical embodied intelligence 29:36 - The consequences of embodied intelligence 30:56 - Concluding comments. … Free Breathing Class with Godfrey: - https://www.guruviking.com/free-breathing-class-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-podcast/ Check out my previous interview with Godfrey Devereux: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep15-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Godfrey Devereux and his online courses, visit: - www.radicalecology.net For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Shinzen Young - meditation teacher, neuroscience researcher, and author of ‘The Science of Enlightenment’ - is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … This is a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I ask my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Shinzen’s personal practice response to the pandemic 10:49 - 3 practice opportunities afforded by Covid-19. 17:56 - Guidance for those who are afraid, sick, or dying. 22:56 - Shinzen on death and T.S. Elliot … To find out more about Shinzen Young, visit: - https://www.shinzen.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James Video Resources: - How Intense Emotions Can Be No Problem: https://youtu.be/lD1ny_Q8sKo - Mindfulness With Sickness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vhrTErrZD8 - How To Guide Someone Through The Death Process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDeMbojj8-E
Bar-ché Dorje, a Dutch Lama in the Aro gTer tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep36-bar-che-dorje-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 01:57 - Methods to relax 04:32 - Mantra and accumulating mantra power 09:48 - Guidance for those who are sick. 12:39 - Guidance for those who are dying. 18:50 - About the Yeshe Tsogyal Mantra 20:47 - Bar-ché Dorje sings the Yeshe Tsogyal Mantra 22:05 - Guidance for those in isolation. 25:06 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Bar-ché Dorje: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep21-bar-che-dorje-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Bar-ché Dorje, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/barche.dorje - http://arobuddhism.org/lamas/lamas-bar-che-dorje-and-me-sel.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Culadasa, meditation teacher and author of ‘The Mind Illuminated’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... https://www.guruviking.com/ep35-culadasa-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 04:37 - Meditation strategies for working with fear 09:24 - Guidance for those who are sick. 20:39 - Guidance for those who are dying. 28:04 - Guidance for those in isolation. 30:24 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Culadasa: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep13-culadasa-guru-viking-interviews/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Paul Cavel, author and Taoist teacher, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep34-paul-cavel-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 10:14 - Practices for grounding. 21:06 - Guidance for those who are sick. 33:04 - Guidance for those who are dying. 38:25 - Spiritual path 47:22 - Guidance for helping those who are sick or dying. 54:24 - Guidance for those in isolation. 1:02:26 - Information about sex and ejaculation. 1:05:58 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Paul Cavel: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep25-paul-cavel-taoist-energy-arts-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Paul, visit: – https://www.paulcavel.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Stephen Snyder, meditation teacher and co-author of ‘Practicing the Jhanas’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 03:49 - Guided mindfulness of breathing exercise. 10:11 - Guidance for those who are sick. 12:34 - Guidance for those who are dying. 17:56 - Guidance for helping those who are sick or dying. 20:05 - Guidance for those in isolation. 22:53 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Stephen Snyder: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep24-stephen-snyder-a-stroke-of-realisation-guru-viking-interviews/ To contact Stephen Snyder, please email: - stephendharma108@yahoo.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Michaela Boehm, world-renowned counsellor, workshop teacher, and author of ‘The Wild Woman’s Way’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please feel free to share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep32-michaela-boehm-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 04:42 - Strategies to get out of fight or flight mode 10:40 - The Non-Linear Movement Method® for unfreezing the body 14:00 - Guidance for those who want to help the sick and dying 18:09 - Facing death and sickness 22:00 - Guidance for those in isolation 28:30 - Concluding comments. … Free Non-Linear Movement Method® class: - https://bit.ly/nlmm_class Check out my previous interview with Michaela about surviving the Thomas Fire: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep7-michaela-boehm-thomas-fire-special/ To find out more about Michaela visit: – https://www.michaelaboehm.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Tina Rasmussen Ph.D, meditation teacher and co-author of ‘Practicing the Jhanas’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please feel free to share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep31-tina-rasmussen-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ *Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.* … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 05:59 - Guidance for those who are sick or dying. 26:02 - Guidance for helping those who are sick or dying. 53:07 - Guidance for those in isolation. 1:12:37 - Concluding comments. … Check out my other interviews with Tina here: -https://www.guruviking.com/ep22-tina-rasmussen-ph-d-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Tina Rasmussen Ph.D, visit: – http://www.awakeningdharma.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Lorin Roche PhD, meditation teacher and author of ‘The Radiance Sutras’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. I'd love to know what you think about the episodes, and please feel free to share them among those who might find them helpful. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep30-lorin-roche-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 14:18 - Guidance for those who are sick. 19:48 - Guidance for helping those who are sick or dying. 21:21 - Guidance for those who are dying. 27:43 - Guidance for those in isolation. 33:13 - Concluding comments. … Check out my other interviews with Lorin here: - https://www.guruviking.com/the-guru-viking-interviews-ep1-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep6-lorin-roche-phd/ To find out more about Lorin visit: - www.lorinroche.com - www.radiancesutras.com - www.meditationtt.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode, I talk with Dhammarato – a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition who has gained an enthusiastic internet following for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. Video version here: https://www.guruviking.com/ep29-dhammarato-guru-viking-podcast-pandemic-edition/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … At the time of writing, the world is in the midst of a viral pandemic. Many people are afraid and many people are in isolation. Some people are sick or will become sick, and some people are dying. In this special series of the Guru Viking Podcast, I ask my guests the questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Neither I nor my guests are medical professionals, and this podcast is not medical advice. Fear, sickness, and death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:58 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 12:04 - Guidance for those who are sick. 24:28 - Guidance for those who are dying. 35:31 - Guidance for helping those who are sick or dying. 38:35 - Guidance for those in isolation. 39:40 - Concluding comments. To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I talk with Tibetologist, translator, and Tantric Buddhist meditation teacher Glenn Mullin about the fascinating subject of dream yoga. We begin by discussing Glenn’s own training in the 6 Yogas of Naropa, with specific detail about his own solo retreats -including a special dream yoga retreat in which Glenn remained upright for weeks - never lying down - to deeply penetrate the world of dreams. We also talk about how to unlock the historically suppressed human inheritance of deep states of consciousnes and extra-ordinary abilities such as dream travel and ancestral communication. Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ Topics Include: 00:46 - Differences between Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelugpa training methods 04:00 - Glenn's training in the 6 Yogas of Naropa and solo retreat history 10:01- A typical retreat day schedule 11:45 - Individual variations on a daily schedule 15:10 - The best ages to do retreat practice 17:04 - Group retreat vs solo retreat 20:48 - Integration difficulties after extended retreat 24:00 - Choosing what to practice on retreat 25:04 - Why Glenn never became a hermit or monk 28:23 - Relating to a Lama 32:07 - The 4 practices of Chöd 34:00 - Yogic lucid dream practice 37:50 - Special dream yoga retreat format 41:19 - Attainment in dream yoga 42:20- First stage of dream yoga 46:50 - Illusory body yoga 49:00 - Further stages of dream yoga 51:27 - Stories of dream travel 56:58 - Dreaming of ancestors 58:56 - Unlocking the human inheritance of the deep mind 1:02:10 - Witch hunts and the plastic society Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: * https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: * https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ * http://www.glennmullin.com/ * https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: * http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I talk with Lama Palden, author and Lama in both the Shangpa and Karma Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism. We learn about Lama Palden’s childhood memories of past reincarnations, and how a spontaneous experience of Jesus healed her of early trauma. We hear stories of powerful personal encounters with some of 20th century’s most renowned lamas, including Kalu Rinpoche, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, and the 16th Karmapa. We also explore details of Lama Palden’s 3 year retreat under the guidance of her guru Kalu Rinpoche, and explore dire warnings from Tibetan masters about the future of humanity and what we can do to help. *Video version at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep27-lama-palden-mystic-of-sukkhasiddhi-guru-viking-interviews/ *Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.* Topics include: 0:00 - About Lama Palden 0:44 - Childhood mystical experiences 05:36 - Past life memories 09:23 - Why did Lama Palden incarnate in this life? 11:24 - How a spontaneous experience of Jesus healed childhood trauma 19:17 - Healing trauma through meditation 22:40 - Dealing with peoples’ negative energy 25:58 - Was Jesus a mahasiddha? 31:01 - Collective karma and the Buddha Maitreya 33:49 - Meeting Kalu Rinpoche 41:12 - Is 3 year retreat enough to be called a ‘Lama’? 44:18 - Personal memories of Kalu Rinpoche 51:04 - Common misconceptions about spirituality 57:04 - Kalu Rinpoche’s yogic mastery and vitality 59:00 - The effects of the 6 Yogas on the physical body 1:01:28 - Meeting Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche 1:02:14 - The powerful presence of the 16th Karmapa 1:12:43 - How Lama Palden works with students 1:15::14 - Seeing the shadow side of students and personality disorders 1:20:32 - Subtle body transmission of the 16th Karmapa 1:25:37 - The curriculum of Lama Palden’s 3 year retreat 1:33:12 - Leaving her 10 year old son to go on retreat 1:37:20 - Daily retreat schedule and the details of the yidam practice 1:46:30 - Dire predictions from Tibetan masters about the future of humanity 1:49:07 - How to help humanity 1:54:29 - Studying with Lama Palden To find our more about Lama Palden, visit: - www.lamapalden.org For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I talk to Glenn Mullin, returning for a third appearance and let me tell you this one is a goldmine. Glenn is a Tibetologist, translator, and Tantric Buddhist meditation teacher, who studied for many years in Dharmsala with the Dalai Lama’s own gurus. Continuing on from our previous discussions on the 6 Yogas of Naropa, we move beyond tummo into the illusory body yogas - including the illusory nature of appearances, the yogas of dream and sleep sleep, and bardo yoga. Glenn lays out how to practice tantra in all aspects of life, explores the differences between the tantra and sutra application of emptiness, addressees imbalances between the male and female energies and how to remedy them, and reveals the difference between tantric dream yoga vs modern lucid dreaming techniques. Topics Include: 00:58 - The death process and the five signs of tummo accomplishment 21:07 - Practicing tantra in all aspects of ordinary life 29:46 - Glenn’s sleep yoga practice 30:46 - Illusory nature of reality 42:08 - Emptiness in tantra vs sutra 52:34 - Illusory body yogas of sleep and bardo 54:13- Tantric visualisation in daily life 1:00:56 - Imbalances in the male and female energies 1:06:32 - Modern lucid dreaming vs Tantric Dream Yoga Audio version of this podcast also on iTunes, Stitcher, and Soundcloud at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: - https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I talk with Paul Cavel, author and Taoist teacher in the Water Tradition of Lao Tse. For video version, visit: https://www.guruviking.com/ep25-paul-cavel-taoist-energy-arts-guru-viking-interviews/ We discuss how a serious motor cycle accident left Paul in chronic pain. Searching for a solution, Paul met the man who would go on to become his teacher in the energy arts, Bruce Frantzis, lineage holder of the Taoist Water Tradition. Living full time in Bruce’s home, in a year they successfully healed Paul’s body and so began a lifetime of study. We go on to discuss the power of Taoist energy arts in terms of martial arts, healing, and spirituality - as well as the extraordinary effects of studying closely with a true master of that tradition. We explore the function of lineage, mind-to-mind transmission, the 8 energy bodies, and how to release physical trauma, emotional blockages, and even knots in the karmic body itself. Topics include: 0:00 - About Paul 0:56 - Early interest in martial arts 03:53 - Paul’s major motorcycle accident and discovering Tai Chi 08:17 - Healing physical trauma and rejuvenating the body 14:15 - Releasing nervous system shock 18:34 - Meeting Taoist Master Bruce Frantzis 27:05 - The art of relating to a master 29:52 - Paul’s practice schedule 33:24 - Working with the 8 energy bodies 37:29 - Releasing karmic knots 47:25 - What is a psychic knot? 50:27 - The importance of lineage in Taoism 1:00:21 - The dangers of mixing different systems 1:11:51 - Embodying the teachings 1:20:33 - Mind-to-mind transmission vs energetic manipulation 1:33:24 - Moral repercussions of energy manipulation 1:42:07 - Where to start with Taoist practice? 1:48:18 - Studying with Paul 1:49:42 - Drawn to lineage To find out more about Paul, visit: - https://www.paulcavel.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
I was recently interviewed by Wim Hof instructor, men's group leader (and much more) Asher Packman for his 'Warrior Within Podcast' about all kinds of topics including embodiment, extreme outdoor survival, leadership, the Me Too movement, meditation, the practice of practice, and my near death experience (NDE). Topics Include: 0:00 - About Steve 03:38 - Steve on Embodiment 11:12 - Pleasure / pain calculation 13:30 - Extreme outdoor survival 18:50 - Men’s work and leadership 21:15 - ‘What does being a man in 2020 look like to you?’ 25:35 - The Me Too Movement and Toxic Masculinity 37:52 - Relationship and the burden of being 42:28 - Death and death practices 58:58 - Meditation and the ‘practice of practice’ 1:00:00 - Steve’s near death experience (NDE) 1:13:54 - Sudden vs gradual awakening 1:21:52 - Divorce and system errors To find out more about Asher Packman, visit: - https://www.t5d.com.au/asher For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/
In this episode I talk with Stephen Snyder, meditation teacher and author who is perhaps best known as being the first non-monastic Western man to master the virtuoso-level shamata meditation system of Pa Auk Sayadaw. Video version here: https://www.guruviking.com/ep24-stephen-snyder-a-stroke-of-realisation-guru-viking-interviews/ In this interview we learn about Stephen’s early fascination with meditation, teaching himself Zen practice from books for years before attending his first traditional sesshin. We also explore Stephen’s vivid past life memories in detail. At 28 Stephen had a radical spiritual awakening, went on to develop unique processes to integrate that awakening and improve his behaviours. We also discuss how Stephen’s professional role as a lawyer to various Zen masters revealed to him the importance of combining psychological work with spiritual practice. In 2018 Stephen had a serious stroke, during which he was thrust into a profound experience of what he calls the Vajra Body. In the last part of the interview Stephen recounts this incident and details the realisations that followed. Topics include: 01:00 - Childhood meditation experiences 03:30 - Learning Zen practice from books 05:04 - Encountering Zen monks at 3 years old 06:55 - Stephen’s past life experiences 12:56 - Siddhis and special powers that can arise from concentration practice 16:26 - Choosing the right practice 19:10 - Stephen’s first Zen retreat 21:18 - Learning to sit through pain 23:14 - Radical awakening at age 28 28:00 - Stephen’s strategies for working with the personality material after awakening 39:30 - Recognising awakened people 41:09 - Integrating spiritual experience in work and daily life 46:33 - Working with recurring interpersonal conflict 48:00 - When to stay in conflict and when to walk away 51:44 - Lessons learned lawyering for Zen Masters 56:20 - Meeting Tina Rasmussen and a mutual recognition 1:00:53- Mastering the jhanas with Pa Auk Sayadaw 1:08:03 - Meditations to train disgust towards the body 1:13:04 - Current book projects 1:14:58 - Stephen’s stroke in 2018 and experience of the Vajra Body 1:23:54 - Cultivating the Vajra Body 1:28:40 - How to contact Stephen To contact Stephen Snyder, please email: - stephendharma108@yahoo.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I talk with Ian A. Baker, author of 7 books and an initiate of Buddhist, Taoist, and Hindu Tantric lineages. Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep23-ian-a-baker-the-secret-yogas-of-tibet-guru-viking-interviews/ Ian is an international fellow of the Explorers Club and the Royal Geographic Society and was joint curator of the 2016 exhibition “Tibet’s Secret Temple” at the Wellcome Collection, London. In this interview we discuss Ian’s 25 years living in India and Nepal, seeking out the ‘beyul’, the mystical hidden lands of the Himalayas whilst simultaneously pursuing academic studies at Oxford and Columbia Universities. We discuss the history of the illustrious 6 Yogas of Naropa, and hear about Ian’s research into the monastic re-interpretation (and perhaps even distortion) of these Tantric techniques of India. We also examine the remarkable overlap between Tibetan completion stage practices, the practices of Shakta Shaivism, and Taoism - including stories about Ian’s own training in these esoteric disciplines. Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Initial fasciation with the art and landscape of the Himalayas 04:36 - Ian’s quest for the ‘beyul’, the mystical hidden lands of the Himalayas 07:54 - Remote retreats under the guidance of Chatral Rinpoche 10:12 - Leaving Columbia University to pursue fieldwork in Nepal 14:00 - The integration of academic and spiritual training 19:56 - How to integrate ancient wisdom traditions into modern day life 21:17 - The Dalai Lama’s Secret Temple 23:27 - The unusual story of the 6th Dalai Lama 30:06 - The esoteric murals of the Secret Temple 34:10 - Why were the 6 Yogas of Naropa kept secret? 36:58 - The sanitisation of the Vajrayana by the monastic institutions 40:49 - Commonalities with the Shaiva tantric traditions 42:55 - Heresy or innovation? And the history of the 6 Yogas 1:01:46 - Ian’s extraordinary training in the esoteric Kaula sect 1:09:54 - Falling in love with his consort, Uma Devi 1:13:10 - Is tantric practice dangerous? 1:23:35 - Reactions to Ian’s views in the academic and religious establishments 1:32:29 - Taoist influence on Indian Tantra 1:35:52 - Ian’s training with the Magos of Java, Taoist Master John Chang 1:44:38 - Stories of Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, Dzogchen and Tsa Lung Master 1:50:51 - Ian’s upcoming projects To find out more about Ian A Baker, visit: - http://ianbaker.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I talk with Tina Rasmussen Ph.D, a meditation teacher and author who is best known as being the first Western woman to master the virtuoso-level shamata meditation system of Pa Auk Sayadaw. In this interview we learn about Tina’s life-defining quest for enlightenment which inspired her 1-year solo retreat in which her practice of Dzogchen triggered not only massive energetic phenomena but also a profound spiritual awakening. We hear all about Tina’s training and authorisation under the notoriously rigorous Pa Auk Sayadaw, culminating in mastery of all 8 jhanas, with all ten kasinas, and much more. We also discuss issues such as integration of awakening in professional life, romantic relationship after enlightenment, and s3xual scandal among meditation teachers. Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 00:53 - Learning meditation at 13 years old 03:19 - Rediscovering the spiritual path after divorce 07:10 - Discovering a natural faculty for deep meditation experiences 10:31 - Straddling deep practice and high end business consulting 14:11 - Why Tina outed herself as a meditator in her professional life 18:36 - Effects of Tina’s spiritual practice on her romantic relationships, and meeting Stephen Snyder 24:10 - Rewired romantic life after enlightenment and Tibetan Tantra 29:20 - Tina’s 1 year solo retreat 40:55 - Extreme energetic experiences and DIY Tummo 44:21 - Tsoknyi Rinpoche and subtle body trauma 50:38 - The challenges of working with very popular teachers 55:33 - Finding mentors as an advanced practitioner 58:52 - Tina’s dream yoga practice and 24hr meditation 1:02:31 - Tsoknyi Rinpoche and Mingyur Rinpoche 1:03:24 - Tina’s Dzogchen practice 1:06:53 - Mastering shamata meditation under Pa Auk Sayadaw’s instruction 1:20:14 - Which is more difficult, shamata or awakening? 1:22:06 - The consequences of jhana mastery 1:27:14 - Scandals among spiritual teachers, levels of awakening, and personality material 1:33:21 - Defining ‘Do No Harm’ and the need for psychological understanding 1:43:20 - Working with Tina To find out more about Tina Rasmussen Ph.D, visit: - http://www.awakeningdharma.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I talk with Bar-ché Dorje, a Dutch Lama in the Aro gTer tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. We discuss Bar-ché Dorje’s early interest in kebatinan, an Javanese esoteric tradition, that saw him plunge his hands into boiling oil and deflect strikes from poisonous machetes. We find out how Bar-ché Dorje first made contact with Ngakchang Rinpoche, who was to become his tantric guru for over 25 years. We hear stories of the infamous wrahthful teaching style of the wandering ngakpa Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, with whom Bar-ché Dorje spend a great deal of time in Nepal. Video version available at: https://www.guruviking.com/ep21-bar-che-dorje-guru-viking-interviews/ Topics Include: - 00:00 - Intro - 00:38 - Cast of characters - 01:40 - Early experiences in Catholicism and martial arts - 04:00 - Exploring the esoteric Javanese tradition of Kebatinan - 08:33 - the dark side of Kebatinan - 10:00 - Encountering Tibetan Buddhism and Ngak’chang Rinpoche - 15:22 - About Ngak’chang Rinpoche - 18:16 - How Ngak’chang Rinpoche worked with Bar-ché Dorje - 21:15 - Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche’s opinion of Ngak’chang Rinpoche - 22:50 - The point of the teacher-student relationship - 27:45 - Bar-ché Dorje’s personal practice - 28:30 - The Ling Gesar Terma of warriorship - 39:29 - Stories about the wrathful teaching style of Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche - 56:48 - Western Buddhists in the East who miss the point - 1:02:30 - Becoming ordained as a Lama and receiving a Terma - 1:11:13 - Bar-ché Dorje’s opinion on himself as a Lama - 1:16:21 - How to contact Bar-ché Dorje ... To find out more about Bar-ché Dorje, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/barche.dorje - http://arobuddhism.org/lamas/lamas-bar-che-dorje-and-me-sel.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode, I talk with Dhammarato - a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition who has gained an enthusiastic internet following for his unique, 1-1 teaching style conducted over Skype. We discuss Dhammarato’s adventures throughout India studying in search of magic and meditation; his encounters with gurus such as Muktananda, Sai Baba, and Osho; why meeting famed meditation master Buddhadasa turned his search for magic upside down and saw him ordain as a Buddhist monk in the Thai Tradition. We discuss what Dhammarato calls the ‘supra-mundane Dhamma’; hear his take on the failings of Western Buddhism; learn why he believes Visuddhimagga author Buddhaghosa was either a charlatan or a fool; and discover Dhammarato’s surprisingly simple advice on correct practice. For the video version of this interview, visit: https://www.guruviking.com/ep20-dhammarato/ Topics include: 00:50 - Dhammarato’s professional background and search for magic in India 04:42 - A challenging 10-day retreat with U Upandita 05:47 - Time with Muktananda and the practices of Siddha Yoga 07:55 - Buddha magical vs Buddha reality 09:50 - The Magicians of India 12:48 - Meeting the meditation master Buddhadasa 17:32 - The story of Bikkhu Buddhadasa 19:24 - The real teachings of the Buddha 24:06 - The trial of Bikkhu Buddhadasa 29:09 - Life at the monastery 31:14 - What is correct practice? 33:12 - How to be free of the five hindrances 36:25 - Gathering the jhana factors 37:59 - The flaws of the Visuddhimagga and critique of Buddhaghosa 52:48 - What is an arhat? 57:52 - The Pragmatic Dharma movement, the 4 Path Model, and Stream Entry 1:02:22 - Why students need teachers and not just books 1:03:41 - Teaching on Skype and Dhammarato’s internet popularity 1:06:35 - The results of Dhammarato’s personal practice 1:10:07 - The problem with words like ‘arhat’ and ‘enlightenment’ 1:15:10 - How to find Dhammarato To find out more about Dhammarato, visit: - https://dhammaratoblog.wordpress.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
This episode of the Guru Viking Podcast sees the return of one of my absolute favourite guests, Glenn Mullin. Glenn is a Tibetologist, translator, and Tantric Buddhist meditation teacher, who studied for many years in Dharmsala with the Dalai Lama’s own gurus. In our last conversation, way back in Episode 9, we talked all about this fascinating period of Glenn’s life. We ended that podcast just beginning to touch on the inner yogas of Tantric Buddhism. In this episode we dive deeper into the completion stage practices as we discuss tummo (tsa lung tigle), the balancing of the male and female energies, clear light yoga, and we enter the realms of karmamudra, or ‘Tantric sex’, as it is presented in the Six Yogas of Naropa. Video version of this podcast: https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ …. Topics include: - Producing heat with tummo practices - Tests of tummo practice in old Tibet - Demonstrations of energy control - The three qualities of inner bliss - The real purpose of tummo practice - Samayamudra, karmamudra, mahamudra, and dharmamudra - Esoteric nutrition practices of chu len - Magic pill, stone, and starlight - the 3 types of chu len practice - Solo vs group retreat in Tibetan Buddhism - Glenn’s training in chu len - 21 Day Flower Essence Fast - Magic pill recipe of the 2nd Dalai Lama - The effect of past life karma on practice - Are retreats necessary? - The teacher-student relationship in Tantra - The role of Guru Yoga in the 6 Yogas - Glenn’s spiritual friendship with Ling Rinpoche - Balancing the male and female energies in the body - Glenn’s Korean Zen student - The eternal radiance of the soul - Natural encounters with the mother clear light mind - The death process - Death yoga and assisting the dying - Tummo as a death simulation process - The 4 mudras - Karmamudra controversies - Problematic attitudes towards sex in the West - Comments on Dzogchen and Mahamudra - Consequences of balancing the male and female energies - Tantra and the office supplies salesman - Expressing Buddha nature in daily life - The Yoga of the Playful Deity - Dangers in tummo practice - Tantric love-making in the Tibetan tradition - Secrecy in tantric practice - How widespread is genuine karmamudra today? - The meaning of monastic vows of celibacy - The forbidden nature of eroticism - Glenn’s training in karmamudra - The superiority of the female body in tantra - Is monogamy preferable? - Male dominated cultural trends - Semen retention techniques in the 6 Yogas of Naropa - Do both partners need to be trained? - 3 different types of karmamudra partner - Problems with bringing Tibetan Buddhism to the West - ‘One lama, one student’ - Manifesting from the natural radiance of your stream of being … Previous Glenn Mullin episode: https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: http://www.glennmullin.com/ https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Ep18: Leigh Brasington - Guru Viking Interviews In this episode I am joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of ‘Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas’. Leigh talked about how he transformed from a self described pot-head to a serious meditation practitioner in his very first retreat. We learn how learning the jhanas - 8 altered states of consciousness, brought on by deep meditative concentration - from meditation master Ayya Khema radically changed his life’s direction. We discuss stream entry for non-monastics, why most people underestimate their meditation potential, Leigh’s controversial take on Western Dharma teachers who claim full awakening, and why the Siddhis, or supernormal powers, are so associated with the practice of jhanas. Let me know what you think in the comments section below! 00:21 - How Leigh first became interested in meditation 00:57 - Chögyam Trungpa, Ayya Khema, and Leigh’s first meditation retreat 02:20 - Pot head to yogi - giving up heavy pot use after the retreat 03:01 - Buddhist practice vs Buddhist religion 04:25 - How Leigh quit pot 05:05 - Ayya Khema, Leigh’s first teacher 06:48 - The importance of following instructions closely 09:03 - Discovering the first jhana in Thailand with Ajahn Buddhadasa 11:16 - Further studies and learning all 8 jhanas from Ayya Khema 12:46 - Insight training with Ayya Khema 15:25 - Did Ayya Khema use the 4 Path Model? 20:00 - Leigh on Stream Entry and gradual vs sudden awakening 23:46 - Is awakening achievable by non-monastics? 25:38 - Leigh’s controversial take on Western Dharma teachers who claim full awakening 27:52 - Sutta criteria for an arhat 30:45 - Did Ayya Khema become an arhat before her death? 32:45 - Learning Rigpa practice from Tsoknyi Rinpoche 37:19 - How Leigh uses the rigpa state in his own practice 40:51 - Comparisons between Tummo and the Jhana practices 44:14 - What are the jhanas and how are they practiced? 51:23 - Are the jhanas necessary for insight practice? 54:33 - Surprising obstacles to learning the jhanas and the role of talent. 1:01:16 - Why most people underestimate their concentration potential. 1:03:01 - The role of lifestyle and sexuality in meditation success 1:08:10 - Leigh’s take on the Siddhis, supernormal powers, achieved through concentration practice 1:16:16 - Considering anecdotes about the siddhis of teachers like Guru Ma and 16th Karmapa 1:18:45 - The current frontiers of Leigh’s personal practice 1:25:41 - The Buddha’s most important teaching 1:27:51 - Nagajuna and the Suttas Video version of this interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9xP28pzQAA To find out more about Leigh, visit: http://leighb.com For Leigh’s book, ‘Right Concentration’, visit: http://rc.leighb.com/index.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music: ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
In this episode I talk with Stephen K Hayes, martial arts master and ex security advisor to the Dalai Lama. We discuss Stephen’s early interest in the martial arts and his journey to Japan in search of the Ninja. We learn about his training and relationship with the iconoclastic sensei Masaaki Hatsui, and how it was the Stephen first met the Dalai Lama. Stephen then gives a detailed analysis of the Dalai Lama’s skill in social engagements, as well as the lessons learned serving in the close protection field. Topics Include: 0:00 - Steve’s Intro 0:30 - A childhood interest in martial arts 03:42 - Stephen’s early spiritual leanings 06:03 - Disillusionment with Episcopal Christianity 07:44 - Stephen’s take on reincarnation 11:34 - University experiences studying theatre and speech at Miami University 14:24 - Learning Tang Su Do and opening his first school 16:30 - Stephen’s incongruence with the 70s American martial arts scene 18:06 - Why Stephen describes himself as an oddball guy 20:46 - Travelling to Japan and searching for the Ninja 27:50 - Meeting Masaaki Hatsumi 34:18 - Fame and fortune as a martial arts author 37:43 - Hatsumi’s dojo schedule and curriculum 39:28 - The essence of what Stephen learned from Hatsumi 43:16 - Travelling to Tibet in search of the dob-dob fighting monks 47:28 - Meeting the Dalai Lama in New Dehli 50:01 - Intelligence and spiritual transmission 53:43 - The Dalai Lama’s emotional impact on Stephen 57:29 - Stephen’s role as a security advisor to the Dalai Lama 59:56 - The Dalai Lama’s skill in social engagements 1:06:32 - Western attitudes vs pre-invasion Tibet 1:09:23 - What Stephen learned from the Dalai Lama 1:13:58 - Final words of advice To find more about Stephen, visit: http://www.stephenkhayes.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I travel to the deepest Wales to meet Ngakpa Chögyam and Khandro Déchen, English Lamas and lineage holders in a non-celibate Tantric Buddhist order. For the video version of this Episode, click here: https://www.guruviking.com/ep16-ngapka-chogyam-and-khandro-dechen-guru-viking-interviews/ I interviewed Ngakpa Chögyam about his early life and training with Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche way back in Episode 8, which was one of the most discussed and downloaded of the series so far. Here, we gain an intimate glimpse into their lives as they open their home, shrine room, and writing space. Ngakpa Chögyam reveals the art and practice of clothing and we learn why the Fender Telecaster is a doorway to compassion. The Lamas talk candidly about the skepticism of their authenticity, we hear stories about Mahasiddhas and Crazy Wisdom masters, and we discover Ngakpa Chögyam’s second religion in a live blues jam! Topics: 0:00 - Steve’s intro 0:01:20 - The house tour 0:01:43 - Tour of the shrine room and sacred objects 0:06:43 - Tsa lung energy practices, Tummo, and Phowa 0:11:12 - Retreat practice for non-monastics 0:14:13 - The art and practice of clothing 0:22:07 - Becoming an individual 0:26:42 - Ngakpa Chögyam’s 1850s revolvers 0:32:33 - Thinking for yourself 0:37:27 - Appreciation and the Fender Telecaster 0:38:38 - The coach house 0:39:26 - ‘The 84 Mahasiddhas’ and the Mahasiddha principle 0:51:41 - Working 1-1 with students 0:54:10 - Appreciation, compassion, and Vajra Romance 1:10:22 - ‘Come back ego, all is forgiven’ 1:13:36 - Romance and selflessness 1:22:25 - Bringing a student to a realisation of emptiness 1:23:23 - The practice of silent sitting 1:27:23 - Stories about studying with Chi’imed Rinpoche 1:39:54 - Crazy wisdom and abuse 1:44:52 - Stories about Chi’imed Rinpoche’s crazy wisdom behaviour 1:51:51 - The effect of being around a crazy wisdom master / becoming a professional human being 1:58:26 - Stories about Drukpa Kunley 2:03:59 - Sogyal Lakar vs Drukpa Kunley 2:07:34 - The previous incarnations of Ngakpa Chögyam and Khandro Déchen 2:11:42 - Receiving the Aro gTér lineage in a mystical experience 2:15:52 - Childhood visions and dreams of Aro Lingma 2:22:03 - Skepticism about Ngakpa Chögyam’s authenticity 2:30:54 - Dudjom Rinpoche’s request 2:33:21 - The future of Buddhism 2:35:26 - Singing the blues for Dudjom Rinpoche 2:38:44 - An education in blues music from Mr Love 2:41:12 - Ngakpa Chögyam and Steve play the blues Click here to listen to my first interview with Ngakpa Chögyam: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep8-ngakpa-chogyam/ To find out more about Ngakpa Chögyam:- arobuddhism.org/- www.instagram.com/doctor_togden/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit:- www.guruviking.com
In this episode I interview Godfrey Devereux, yoga and meditation teacher of over 45 years experience, and author of several books - including ‘Dynamic Yoga’ and ‘Yoga Unveiled’, a translation and commentary of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. In this fascinating conversation we discuss how watching his uncle, an Anglican minster, pray in tree-pose sparked an overwhelming sense of reverence, how Godfrey’s teenage attempts at learning from books produced surprising results, why meeting his Indian yoga guru heroes left him unimpressed, and how the rigorous discipline of Zen - and the insight of a particular Zen Roshi - changed Godfrey’s life forever. This interview was particularly enjoyable for me because Godfrey is the man who trained me in the practice and teaching of yoga in my mid-twenties. Topics include: - Godfrey’s first encounter with yoga - The power of reverence - Early days learning from books - Meeting an Iyengar yoga teacher - Yoga in England in the 70s - Travelling to Italy and training as a Montessori teacher - Clashes with the school management - Experimentation with vast amounts of LSD - Insights gained from psychedelics - Moving to America and working in the natural food movement - Encountering Ashtanga vinyasa yoga in Hawaii - Contacting a deep internal awareness - Testing what you’re taught; does it work, is it valid? - Are some people more suited to self enquiry? - Realising yoga wasn’t really working - Travelling to India - Disappointment when meeting the great yoga gurus - Activation of anandamayakosha, the bliss body - India’s special geology and culture - Was BKS Iyengar a sadomasochist? - Meeting the advaita teacher Ramesh Balsekar - Turning to Zen - Godfrey’s first sesshin - Sitting in full lotus - Why does it have to hurt so much?! - Becoming one with pain - Studying with Genpo Roshi - Koan study - Commenting on Genpo Roshi’s sexual scandal - A guru-chela relationship with Kali - Godfrey’s tantric encounters - Self improvement vs self enquiry - 4 most common mistakes in yoga - Effortless yoga posture practice - The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali - Godfrey’s take on the 5 Yamas - Godfrey’s experiments with pranayama - Medieval pranayama vs Patanjali’s approach - What is spiritual practice? - The issue of authority - Knowledge vs experience - Steve’s training with Godfrey - Why Godfrey has decided to stop training yoga teachers - Advice for those facing catastrophe To find our more about Godfrey, visit: www.dynamicyoga.com Godfrey on Yogavinyasakrama: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkU5k03runI For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
New episode! In this interview I am joined by meditation teacher and author Daniel Ingram. Daniel sparked great controversy when in 2008 he published his first book ‘Mastering The Core Teachings Of The Buddha: An Unusual Hardcore Dharma Book’, signing it as the Arahant Daniel Ingram. Naming himself an arahant, which is one of the highest attainments in Buddhism, flew in the face of cultural taboos against disclosing one’s enlightenment. In this fascinating conversation we delve into Daniel’s childhood mystical experiences and how he overcame a lack of meditational talent to embark upon a life of intense retreat and practice. We discuss his meditation challenges and accomplishments, and lay out the stages of awakening and how to traverse them. At the end, Daniel turns the tables on *me* and questions my own experience and motivations! I hope you enjoy this one! - Daniel’s childhood mystical experiences - Crossing the arising and passing away in a dream - Daniel’s first retreat and overcoming a lack of meditation talent - ‘Learning to feel my feet’ - Travelling to India - Coming face to face with sickness and poverty in the slums of Calcutta - Learning a powerful meditation technique in Malaysia that changed everything - How an old Burmese monk introduced Daniel to a map of insight - How to find the right meditation path for you - Lead through strength but don’t get stuck - How Daniel used personal pride as an aid on the path - Dark Night of the Soul and the Dhukka Nanas - A summary of the cycle of insight - Daniel’s dark night - Achieving stream entry - The God-Gerbil - Aftershocks of awakening - Why Daniel believes in disclosing attainments - Rapid fire practice guide - I want to attain stream entry, what do I do? - I have attained stream entry and I want to attain 2nd, what do I do? - I have attained 2nd path and I want to attain 3rd, what do I do? - I have attained 3rd path and I want to attain 4th, what do I do? - I am an arrant - now what? - Daniel turns the tables on Steve - Where do Steve’s questions come from? - What is his experience of map theory? - How does Steve use maps when teaching meditation? For the video version of this interview visit: https://www.facebook.com/guruviking/videos/386877215223610/ To find our more about Daniel, visit: http://integrateddaniel.info For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by John Yates, PhD, aka Culadasa. Culadasa is a meditation master with more than four decades of experience in the Tibetan and Theravadin Buddhist traditions. A former professor, he taught physiology and neuroscience for many years, and later worked in the field of complementary and alternative medicine. His book ‘The Mind Illuminated’ has been described as ‘a rare and valuable treasure’ and has been enormously popular among dedicated meditators for it’s incredible clarity and usability even to very advanced stages of practice. In this interview we talk about how Culdasa’s traumatic upbringing led to him to being homeless on the streets at 15 years old and why even years in Catholic seminary didn’t provide the answers he was looking for. We discuss his initially frustrated attempts at meditation practice, the colourful cast of characters of his teachers, and the one key discovery changed everything. - Culadasa’s traumatic upbringing - Running away from home at 15 and the search for truth - Entering Catholic seminary in search of the truth - Experiments with psychedelics in the 60s - Early attempts at meditation and learning Transcendental Meditation - Discovering Buddhism - What was lacking in the seminary - Doctrinal disagreements with Catholicism - Virtuoso Buddhism vs village Buddhism - Living on the streets and recovering from a traumatic childhood - Achieving a PhD with no high school education - Glimpses of emptiness - Meeting Upasaka Kema Ananda in Winnipeg, Manitoba - Encountering Namgyal Rinpoche (aka George Dawson) - Blending Kagyu and Theravadan practice - Struggles with the Mahasi meditation technique - Introduction to shamata (calm-abiding) practice - Common misunderstandings about shamata - Key distinctions about attention and awareness - Revisiting Mahasi-style meditation - Stages of samadhi - Culadasa’s personal journey of insight - How Culadasa attained stream entry - Falling away from meditation and taking up shamanism - Further path attainments - Second path practice and meditation on mind states - Craving and dissatisfaction - Mara I have seen you! - The mechanics of path attainments - The two edged sword of the human mind - Developing compassion - Waking up, cleaning up, and growing up - Implications of facing death For the video version of this interview visit: https://youtu.be/roTWZ9GcBMY To find our more about Culadasa, visit: https://dharmatreasure.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
37-year old Bhante Jason is an Australian monk who left a career in law to wander the countryside as an aescetic Buddhist monk. Ordained in the Theravanda tradition in Sri Lanka over eight years ago, he lives outdoors without possessions except for his robes and begging bowl. Seeing hypocrisy in much of modern Buddhism's approach, Bhante Jason describes his approach to Buddhist practice as 'Classic' and chooses to live as closely as he can to the strict monastic rules of the historical Buddha. For the video version of this interview, including footage of Bhante's retreat caves, please click here: https://youtu.be/B9W4SUepWOQ I travel out to his rain season retreat cave in the Blue Mountains to meet this unusual and charismatic wanderer. - A tour of Bhante Jason's meditation caves - The 8 Precepts that allow lay people to temporarily practice as a monk - Bhante Jason's early interest in Buddhism and his teenage preoccupation with the problem of suffering - Disillusionment with Zen practice in New York - The influence Bikkhu Bodhi's translations of the early Suttas - How reconnecting with the historical Buddha ignited Bhante's inspiration to become a homeless monk - Travelling to Sri Lanka for ordination and training - The hypocrisy of later Buddhist doctrinal developments - Abuse of authority by Buddhist leaders - The safety mechanism of asceticism - The moral authority of purity - Bhante's first experiences in Sri Lanka and his love for the culture - Novice initiation, monastic camaraderie, and getting painted in tumeric - Bhante's monastic vows - Going beyond the monastic training to become a wandering monk - Early lessons in surviving outdoors, finding water, and avoiding mosquitos - Bhante's training in meditation and his unique personal approach - Meditation vs walking your dog - Bhante's 2-step meditation instruction - Training your body to become stronger in the face of negative emotion - Using posture, breath, and thoughts to train the body - The dangers of Darth Vader meditation - Living as a homeless monk in Australia - Surviving long journeys through the bush - Choosing his meditation cave - Bhante's daily practice routine - Sexuality and celibacy on the monastic path - Bhante's poem about sexual energy For more interviews, videos, and visit www.guruviking.com. For the video version of this interview, including footage of Bhante's retreat caves, please click here: https://youtu.be/B9W4SUepWOQ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I talk with Robert Beer, an internationally renowned artist who has dedicated his life to both the study of Indo-Tibetan sacred art and to experiential contact with the afterlife. Robert is the author and illustrator of the The Encyclopedia of Tibetan Symbols and Motif, and The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbol, as well as having his work featured in countless publications and websites. In our discussion we delve into Robert's childhood mystical experiences, his psychedelically induced psychosis and kundalini crisis, the runaway Carmelite nun, years spent in India studying with Tibet’s greatest living master artist, astral encounters with long-dead Indian gurus, and Robert’s extensive research into parapsychology and the spirit world. - The afterlife experience at 14 years old that catalysed Robert’s spiritual search - The death of Robert’s sister and an afterlife dream - How Robert became homeless at 16, sleeping rough in the blood bank where he worked - Being rejected from art school and meeting the eccentric artist John F.B. Miles - The story of John’s mother the runaway Carmelite nun - John’s prodigious ability to reproduce any script instantly - Robert’s psychedelic explorations in his early twenties - How an attempt to practice Tibetan phowa on LSD triggered a devastating psychosis and kundalini crisis - The severe and debilitating effects of Robert’s kundalini crisis - Travelling to India and Robert’s 7 year journey to reintegrate his nervous system - Sacred art and music as therapy and medicine - The practice of stillness and concentration in art - Learning Tibetan thangka painting with Tibet’s master artist Jampa Tseten - Understanding mystic traditions through sacred art - Robert’s aboriginal encounter with Buddhist Dharma - Robert’s unpublished manual of the deities of the Karma Kagyu tradition - The challenges of obtaining funding and support in Robert’s career - The physical and psychological demands of creating extremely intricately detailed images - Robert’s incompatibility with traditional Buddhist practice - Encountering the physical emanation of the long deceased Shirdi Sai Baba - Ongoing psychic contact and teaching from Shirdi Sai Baba - How the tragic death of Robert’s daughter radically changed his life trajectory - Encounters with channellers and mediums - Robert’s profound experience with Dr. Michael Newton’s ‘Life Between Life’ hypnosis method - Research into Near Death Experiences and deathbed visions - The limitations of the Tibetan bardo and after-death teachings - The ineffectiveness of religious practice compared to near death experiences - Ani Tenzin Palmo’s near death experience - The karmic implications of past life regression - Robert’s opinion on the tulku system - Dudjom Lingpa’s anomalous reincarnation process - The blindly dogmatic approach to reincarnation of most Western Buddhist teachers - Robert’s approach to counselling the bereaved To find our more about Robert, visit: http://www.tibetanart.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Glenn H. Mullin is a Tibetologist, Buddhist writer, translator of classical Tibetan literature, and teacher of Tantric Buddhist meditation. He divides his time between writing, teaching, meditating, and leading tour groups to the power places of Nepal and Tibet. In this interview we discuss Glenn’s early fascination with Tibet, his decades of rigorous study in India with the Dalai Lama’s two personal gurus, Glenn’s life-changing meditation experiences, enlightenment and orgasm, and we delve into the 6 Yogas of Naropa - a tantric system full of fascinating techniques such as Deity Yoga, Tummo, dream work, and more… Topics include: - The British fascination with Tibet - Glenn’s early family influences - Spending 12 years in India at the Dalai Lama’s school for Westerners - Glenn’s personal experiences with the Dalai Lama - What Tibetans and the Irish have in common - Popular vs unpopular enlightenment - Qualities of a spiritual master - The process of lineage authorisation in Tibetan Buddhism - The varying standards of Lama qualification across the various Tibetan sects - How to assess a teacher - Glenn’s early training regime in Dharmsala - The main challenge in the early stages of meditation - The difference between compassion and wisdom meditations - Was Jesus a Buddhist monk? - The ‘earthquake experience’ of insight into the nature of the self - Glenn’s ‘earthquake experience’ on retreat - The challenges of integrating profound spiritual experience into everyday life - Direct, non-processed experience and the metaphor of orgasm - The 6 Yogas of Naropa and the lazy man’s way to enlightenment - Glenn’s background in the 6 Yogas of Naropa - Differences in the ways the tantras were practiced over the centuries - The linguistic code of the hidden tantras - The 5 stages of tantra - The practice of seeing the world as a tantric theatre - The essential prerequisites of practicing tantra - True practice vs fantasy and delusion - Applications of tantric practice in relationship and business - The expression of the personality - The 4 faces of compassionate engagement To find our more about Glenn, visit: http://www.glennmullin.com/ https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I am joined by Ngakpa Chögyam a blues loving, horse riding Ngakpa, who with his wife Khandro Déchen, is the Lineage Lama (principal teacher) of the Aro tradition, a tantric Buddhist house holder tradition. Ngakpa Chögyam is the author of many books and today we discuss Wisdom Eccentrics. It is ‘a rare account of remarkable lamas in the final years of a lost era’ …which chronicles his education with Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, ‘a highly reclusive master known for mercurial wrath and facility with Dzogchen’. In the book we follow this 19-year old Englishman in 1971 into the heart of the Himalayas to seek the highest teachings from a notoriously wrathful and elusive Lama. In this fascinating and candid conversation we delve into the themes of the book, including the culture clash of Dharmsala in the 70s, the true face of Crazy Wisdom and it’s abuses, how to access the realised state through the emotions themselves, and why Ngakpa Chögyam sees the crossover between the arts and Vajrayana as vitally important. Topics include: - Ngakpa Chögyam’s childhood fascination with Buddhism and Tibet - Parallels between the Viking religions and Tibetan Buddhism - Travelling to India at 19 in 1971 - An instant rapport with the Tibetan people - Fundamental clashes with the other Western students - Meeting the nomadic yogi Kunzang Dorje - How Dudjom Rinpoche trapped Kunzang Dorje - Tackling Ngakap Chögyam’s chronic politeness - Stories and interrogation as teaching tools - Tibetan culture vs Western culture - The sophistication and limitation of the Western mind - Principle and Form as the key to understanding Buddhism - Emptiness and Form applied to shiné and lhaktong meditation - The evening when Chögyam received the transmission of the nature of mind - How the nature of mind transmission works - The difference between a realised master and a well-educated scholar - Art an the Varjayana - How Chögam uses the Doc Togden instagram account - Wrathful lamas and Crazy Wisdom - Wrathful Compassion and Crazy Wisdom as an excuse for abuse - The genuine use of Wrath and Crazy Wisdom - The prerequisites to using Wrathful Compassion - Kunzang Dorje’s wrath in action - Why Ngakpa Chögyam is not a wrathful teacher - Chogyam’s occasional use of wrathful means - Psychopathic spiritual teachers and sexual exploitation - Crazy Wisdom as disintegration of religious pattern - Stories of Crazy Wisdom in action - Chi’imed Rinpoche’s expression of yeshe chölwa - The use of the full spectrum of emotions in Tantra - Accessing the realised state through the emotions - How to use powerful negative emotions in spiritual practice - The role of the personality display in teaching Tantra - The teacher student relationship in the Vajrayana - Is the teacher student relationship a professional or personal one? - The importance of two-way respect between teacher and student - Blind devotion vs informed devotion - Informed devotion vs romantic infatuation - Ngakpa Chögyam’s parting words and why everyone is an artist To find out more about Ngakpa Chögyam: -http://arobuddhism.org/ -https://www.instagram.com/doctor_togden/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Today I’m joined by my co-teacher Michaela Boehm for a special interview about facing adversity. Michaela's house was destroyed in the Thomas fire, the largest wild fire in California state history. We discuss the story of what happened, how Michaela used her extensive training and lifetime of practice to face this crisis, and the surprisingly inspiring themes of determination and community. Disasters of any kind are something we all hope to avoid but that can happen to any of us at any time. There are many useful lessons and takeaways in Michaela's story for facing adversity and for supporting others who are in times of crisis. Topics include: - Michaela’s house destroyed by Thomas Fire, the largest wildfire in California State history - 50ft fire walls sweeping across the landscape at the speed of an acre a minute - The race from Europe to California and entering a disaster zone - How different people coped with the shock and trauma - Fight, flight, and freeze responses - Michaela’s game plan and personal shock-prevention strategies - How to use the fight or flight response without being overwhelmed by it - Working with trauma after the initial event - Working productively in a stressful situation - Body movement as the key to unlocking freeze and trauma - Why Michaela prioritises beautifying her environment and the positive effects of ordering your environment - The practice of Vastu and the practical tips on organising your surroundings - Stepping down from daily activity to nighttime rest - Using water to de-stress and cleanse - Michaela’s favourite meditation approach to relax and open the body - Journalling and Jungian dream work as tools of psychological integration - Self-care in times of adversity - Epigenetics and archetypal work around loss and fire - Unusual conversations with the insurance adjuster - The inspiring resilience of human beings in the face of adversity - How to effectively support others in a crisis (and not make things worse) - Unexpected acts of kindness - The strength of community in a crisis - Final thoughts For more interviews, audio, and articles check out: www.guruviking.com Find out more about Michaela and the workshops we teach at: www.michaelaboehm.com https://soundcloud.com/michaela-boehm Find out more about The Non-Linear Movement Method at: www.thenonlinearmovementmethod.com
In this episode I'm joined once again by meditation teacher and Sanskrit translator Lorin Roche PhD. Our last interview was so popular, with so many requests for more, that Lorin agreed to another one! In this conversation we dive into Lorin's unique approach to meditation, look at why the way meditation is usually taught is actually damaging for most people, why monasteries psychologically castrate monks and what that means for their non-monastic students, and how to meditate in a way that embraces all of your life energies. Topics include: -Lorin’s unusual definition of meditation -The origins of meditation -What we can learn from the lives of the saints -The spiritual geniuses and daredevil monastics of the past -The male pioneers of meditation and their legacy -Enlightenment or bust -Adapting meditation to your needs and lifestyle -The sexual side of monasticism -Celibacy for the 1% -Living the life of all of your chakras -The high art of living all of your life energies -Sexuality as part of spirituality -Lorin’s radical meditation pursuits -Lorin’s early training and first spiritual breakthroughs -Lorin’s mission to serve meditators -What happens when a person starts to meditate? -Why meditation gets credit for something people should get credit for -Why most meditation techniques are a bad fit -Why the deep effect of certain techniques don’t show themselves for a couple of years -Why many people’s meditation starts beneficially but becomes more harmful as time goes on -Meditation with a monastic-oriented control structure -Why long term meditation can de-vitalise people -Ayahuasca as the party drug of pious Californian yoga teachers -What interviewing thousands of successful meditators taught Lorin about what works -What’s unique about Lorin’s approach to meditation -Common misunderstandings about meditation -Why a lot of people approach meditation like they’re sitting in church -The human mind’s activity as an expression of the universal life force -The genius of the human body -Psychologically castrating monks for administrative reasons in the monastery -Meditation should be a place people should go to be free, not disciplined -Actively encouraging wildness and cherishing of life in meditation -The parallels between meditation and eating disorders in teenage girls -The shadowy allure of discipline -Lorin’s best advice to a new meditator -Meditation as a way of being in love with life Check out Lorin's first interview here: https://soundcloud.com/guruviking/guru-viking-interviews-ep1-lorin-roche-phd To find out more about Lorin visit: lorinroche.com radiancesutras.com meditationtt.com Visit www.guruviking.com for more interviews, audios, and articles. Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Today I’m talking with Traver Boehm. I first met Traver on his fortieth birthday in the aftermath of having lost his marriage and business in a single day. Devastated by these events he had embarked on a Year to Live, inspired by the Stephen Levine book of the same title, whereby he lived an entire year as if it was his last. This conversation is very touching and insightful - we discuss the realities of divorce, find out how Traver found meaning and put his life back together through service, what it means to return to dating and relationships and to be guided by the gut instinct - something Traver calls his 'God of the Gut' - and how he advises the divorced men he works with today. We also learn about Traver’s Year to Live where he worked with the elderly dying in the public hospice system, spent a month in a pitch black meditation cell in Guatemala, and more. He’s a very inspiring and heartfelt man and I think you’ll really enjoy this one. Topics include: - The single day in which Traver lost his marriage and business in the aftermath of a miscarriage - Some of the bad advice Traver received - How profound loss led to his Year To Live experiment - The reality of divorce for men - Traver’s hellish divorce experience - Why divorce robs people of meaning and direction - How men avoid feeling the pain of divorce and what it costs them - Traver’s work with divorced men - Straight talk about divorce - The surprising ways in which divorce has radically changed the way - - Traver dates and does relationship - Traver’s ‘God of the Gut’ and being guided by gut instinct and bodily wisdom - How Traver drowned out his painful feelings during his marriage with substances and overwork - Traver’s daily practice that accesses his gut instinct - Planning his Year To Live and the meaning of the experiment - Asking ’What would I really do if this was the last year of my life?’ - Traver’s time volunteering in hospices in New Mexico - Lessons learned from the dying - The little things that afford a dying person dignity and comfort - Why every person should volunteer to care for the elderly - How to volunteer for hospice work in the USA - Traver’s month meditation retreat in a pitch black cell in Guatemala - Gambling with his sanity in the pitch blackness - Where to find Traver’s blog and writings Find out more about Traver here: - http://www.traverboehm.com - http://www.traverboehm.com/year-live-project-blindfolds-maserati/ Visit www.guruviking.com for more interviews, audios, and articles. Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I’m joined by musicians and artists Michael Cuming and Silvana van Dijk from the Australian musical duo Visions of a Nomad. I’ve known them for a couple of years now and they’re really fascinating. In the interview we dive into the ancient wisdom of Australia including dreamtime stories, how to read nature signs, and dream interpretation. We discuss how Michael and Silvana met, why Silvana left an international modelling career and Michael his own touring musical project to disappear for months into the Australian bush with a spear and a 4x4. We discuss Michael’s death experience in a hang gliding accident that radically changed his life, his time living as the personal secretary to an Indian guru with supernatural powers, and their deep connection to the indigenous people of Australia. Topics include: -The beginnings of Visions of A Nomad -Why Michael left his nationally touring band to live in the desert with just a spear and his instincts -The story of love at first sight between Michael and Silvana -Why Silvana gave up an international modelling career to go with Michael to live with the indigenous people of Australia -Living together with Aboriginals -How the indigenous spiritual blueprint pervades the land of Australia -The unique spiritual energy and traditions of Australia -The old Dreaming Paths of Australia How to tune into nature and read natural signs -The specific meanings of certain animal signs -Personal experiences with warnings from the kuru bird -The ancient knowledge in the Aboriginal dreamtime stories The differences between the energetic information of Europe and Australia -Learning to read the language of nature -Why Michael’s left school to become a stockman in the outback -How Michael’s connection with the indigenous people of Australia began -What Michael learned working with mentally challenged children at a Rudolf -Steiner School -How dying in a hang gliding accident radically changed the direction of Michael’s life -What Michael learned from his spiritual experience when he was dead -The extreme spiritual seeking of Michael’s early twenties that brought him to a crisis point -How a dream brought Michael to meet his Indian guru Swami Krishna -Living and studying Hatha yoga and Tantric meditation with the guru -Swami Krishna’s history learning Tibetan tantra and travelling through India as a colleague of Osho -Michael’s final profound spiritual experience with Swami Krishna -How attachment to concepts and paradigms can block spiritual experiences -When Michael realised he was getting hooked on blissing out -Why Michael stopped meditation and applied his spiritual lessons towards living life of creativity and excellence -Why living a full life is important and how the body can teach us to work with strong energies -Where Michael’s drive for artistic excellence comes from -How Swami Krishna taught his students and worked with his solo -High level practice as a spiritual commando -Why Michael would never be a spiritual teacher -Dream interpretation -The links between the Vedas and the Aboriginals -Why the Aboriginals represent an unbroken line of ancient understanding stretching back through time -The intersection of culture, art, and spirituality -How Michael builds bridges between communities with his music and ceremony work -Why everyone is indigenous -What does the term Aboriginal mean -Michael’s work with the Aboriginal people -Music, art, and traditional ceremony -Are Michael and Silvana shamans? -Michael’s morning ritual Find out more about Michael and Silvana here: - https://www.visionsofanomad.com/ - http://www.arcdreamingaboriginaldancetheatre.com/ - https://visionsofanomad1.bandcamp.com/ Visit www.guruviking.com for more interviews, audios, and articles. Music 'Grassy Spirit' performed live by Visions of a Nomad
I was recently interviewed by Dan Doty on the Evryman Podcast and we had a really great conversation. We talked about my childhood on a remote Scottish Island, extreme outdoor survival, mystical experiences, and a bunch of other interesting things. Enjoy! More about me: www.guruviking.com More about Dan: https://www.evryman.co/dan/
In this interview I talk with Keith McKenzie. Keith is a meditation teacher and Buddhist chaplain for the British Armed Forces and works extensively with veterans in retreats and ongoing community projects. We discuss Keith’s career as an elite soldier in the Parachute Regiment of the British army, and how severe PTSD ended Keith’s 22 years in the fire service and led to heavy substance abuse and years of suffering. We learn how a profound spiritual experience altered the direction of Keith’s life and saw him immerse in meditation and Buddhism, discovering tools to stabilise his mind and heal his trauma - tools that he now shares in his work with veterans through his charity Sadaya. ... Keith passed away peacefully on November 11th 2021 surrounded by friends and family. ... Topics include: - The importance of credibility and life experience - Keith’s time as a hippy in Holland in the 70s before joining the army - The urge to search and Keith’s childhood experiences of religion - How early childhood challenges influenced Keith’s desire to be the best and prove he wasn’t weak - Keith’s career in the elite Parachute Regiment Pathfinders of the British Army - SAS selection and being shot - How 22 years in the fire service was vastly more traumatic than his time in the army and led to severe PTSD - Complex PTSD and how initial trauma can set a pattern of recurring retraumatisation - Karma and character formation - How the negative consequences of one’s mistakes are actually an opportunity to repair karma - Nightmares are dreams trying to tell us something - Why it’s useful to see challenges in life as an opportunity to pay off negative karma - How Keith’s view of karma sets him free from blaming others and blaming himself - Meditation as a tool for use in daily life - Why meditation is like going to the gym, but application in real life is the main event - How Keith uses mindful awareness to deal with difficult experiences - Mistaken ideas about karma and why it isn’t about self blame - How Keith teaches forgiveness through debate and not meditation techniques - Why being a human being is a great opportunity but can lead to difficulties - How severe PTSD ended Keith’s time in the fire service and saw him spend time in a psychiatric ward - The limits of therapy as a cure and why Keith turned to heavy drinking and drugs - How a powerful spiritual experience radically changed the course of Keith’s life - Quitting drinking, drugs, and smoking all in one day - Keith’s jumps into meditation with 8+ hours of intensive practice a day in a Buddhist monastery - The importance of personal practice and why Keith still meditates for 3 hours every day - Meeting Lama Yeshe, the abbot of Samye Ling Monastery, and experiencing his presence and intuitive power - Lama Yeshe’s surprising advice to Keith - Meditation retreats vs real life service - Why Keith longs to go on extended retreat but chooses to serve veterans instead - Does mediation lead to a muted, dull emotional life? - Keith’s personal meditation practice - Practical techniques to relieve pain and suffering - Keith’s work with veterans and those suffering with PTSD - What happens on Keith’s retreats and the unique needs of veterans - Keith’s passion to give veterans tools to stabilise their minds so they can reclaim their lives - Why Keith isn’t interested in converting people and instead supports people to find their own sense of meaning - Working with Keith The Veterans Community Cafe in Edinburgh: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1184591528228376/ Keith is happy to receive emails at: cianroanfk8@hotmail.co.uk Visit www.guruviking.com for more interviews, audios, and articles. Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this candid interview I talk with lucid dreaming teacher and Hay House author Charlie Morley. We delve into the mysteries of lucid dreaming and and how we can use the practices of dream yoga to harness the third of our lives we spend sleeping as an inner laboratory of exploration, adventure, and even healing. We also discover how a book by the Dalai Lama radically changed Charlie's path from a life of gang violence and drugs to a passion for Buddhism, Charlie’s devotional relationship with his guru Lama Yeshe, and why the guru-disciple model is so often fraught with controversy. Topic include: - Lucid dreaming defined - How lucid dreaming can be used for fun, spiritual practice, and psychological healing - Why Charlie adds modern scientific and psychological applications to traditional dream yoga techniques - The real heart of dream yoga - Shadow work in the dream state - Charlie’s early childhood lucid dreaming experiences - Surprising signs that a child is a lucid dreamer - How Charlie can have 3-4 lucid dreams a night despite not being a natural - Dream work in other traditions and why Tibetan Buddhism doesn’t have a monopoly on dream yoga - How reading a book by the Dalai Lama radically changed Charlie’s life path from drugs and gang violence to Buddhism - Why a lust for partying and excess can actually be a strong indicator of spiritual potential - Was Charlie a dream yogi in a past life? - Charlie’s motto for the spiritual path and living a meaningful life - The guru disciple relationship and Charlie’s devotion to his guru Lama Yeshe - Disempowering the ego to empower the Buddha Nature - The golden shadow and how we often deny our divine nature - The guru disciple relationship as a skilful means of working with psychological projection - Why Charlie was initially unimpressed with Lama Yeshe - Lama Yeshe’s spiritual attainments - Charlie’s advice for how to wisely choose a teacher - Charlie on the controversy at Rigpa and the dangers of the corrupting influence of power - Crazy wisdom and learning from scandal - Charlie’s motivation to help connect people to their spiritual path - Why Lama Yeshe calls Charlie his joyful ambassador - How Charlie became officially authorised to teach by the Karma Kagyu lineage - The safety net of lineage - Why dream yoga gives you keys to the labratory of your mind every night - Charlie’s top tips for maximising lucid dreaming Find out more about Charlie at www.charliemorley.com. Visit www.guruviking.com for more interviews, audios, and articles. Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I had the pleasure of talking with my good friend Lorin Roche. Lorin is an author, a translator, and has been teaching meditation since 1968. In our discussion we cover the multi-dimensional meanings of Sanskrit, Lorin’s early years as a renegade meditation teacher in the 60s, the possibilities and dangers of meditation, the oppressed spiritual genius of women, and why each individual has a unique, personal doorway to the meditative state. Topics Include: - Lorin’s philosophy of translation - The many dimensions of meaning and the music of the Sanskrit language - The range of possible meanings of the word ‘Yoga’ - The 112 doorways to meditation offered by the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra - Meditation as a natural state - How to find your personal doorway to meditation - Why so much meditation practice is an unknowing echo of childhood relationship patterns - How the inner critic disguises itself as spiritual teaching - The dangers of meditation - Lorin’s early years as a renegade meditation teacher in the 60s and 70s - Why very few meditation teachers actually listen to their students - How Lorin learned to meditate - Why a lot of people are doing the wrong kind of meditation for them - Teaching meditation vs practicing meditation - The pros and cons of the ancient lineage model - Structures of authority and the open space of live teaching - Lorin’s filters for evaluating the ancient traditions and their techniques - The renunciate’s contempt of householders - The problems of householders adopting monk and nun teachings - Living out the path of desire as a spiritual path - Why monastic teachings harm young people - Meditation as a celebration of a life of fullness - The spiritual genius of women - Traditional doctrines of the inferiority of women - How to filter out the oppressive elements of the ancient traditions - The many natural gateways to meditation - How to build your own approach to meditation - Working with Lorin To find out more about Lorin visit: lorinroche.com radiancesutras.com meditationtt.com Visit www.guruviking.com for more interviews, audios, and articles. Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
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