Guru Viking podcast

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المحتوى المقدم من GuruViking and Guru Viking. يتم تحميل جميع محتويات البودكاست بما في ذلك الحلقات والرسومات وأوصاف البودكاست وتقديمها مباشرة بواسطة GuruViking and Guru Viking أو شريك منصة البودكاست الخاص بهم. إذا كنت تعتقد أن شخصًا ما يستخدم عملك المحمي بحقوق الطبع والنشر دون إذنك، فيمكنك اتباع العملية الموضحة هنا https://ar.player.fm/legal.

Species Unite

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Trevor Ritland: The Golden Toad 34:01

منذ 25 يومًا34:01

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احب

34:01

I think you could probably go back and track the stages of grief, probably that is what I went through. But I think if you do it right, you end up at acceptance. And that's where I ended up. And that's not to say that I've fully accepted the idea that the golden toad is extinct. Personally, I do still hold out hope that it could still be out there in those forests." - Trevor Ritland This conversation is with Trevor Ritland, who—along with his twin brother Kyle—authored The Golden Toad . The book chronicles their remarkable journey into Costa Rica’s cloud forest, once home to hundreds of brilliant golden toads that would emerge for just a few weeks each year—until, one day, they vanished without a trace. What began as a search for a lost species soon became something much more profound: a confrontation with ecological grief, a meditation on hope, and a powerful call to protect the natural world while we still can. Links: SpeciesUnite.com Kyle and Trevor: https://kyleandtrevor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adventureterm/ Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222249677-the-golden-toad Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Toad-Ecological-Mystery-Species/dp/163576996…

Guru Viking Podcast

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The 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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Guru Viking Podcast

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340 حلقات

#Religion #GuruViking #Guru Viking

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Guru Viking Podcast

1
Ep316: Dharma & the Goddess - Alex W 2:31:27

منذ 1 day2:31:27

2:31:27

In this episode I am joined by Alex W, long term practitioner of Zen, Pragmatic Dharma, and Western Occultism. Alex describes his journey from elite upbringing in Geneva; through NeoPlatonism, Zen practice, and magick; to advanced states of spiritual attainment and insight. Alex tells stories of his discipleships under pragmatic dharma teacher Kenneth Folk and renowned occultist Alan Chapman and details the lead up to, and attainment and after effects of his own experience of enlightenment. Alex recounts his successful operation of the Abramelin Ritual, a powerful kundalini awakening, and his ongoing encounters with spiritual beings such as Kālī Mā and Hecate. … https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep316-dharma-the-goddess-alex-w Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Elite upbringing in Geneva 03:50 - Religious experiences in America 05:39 - Major surgery and turn towards spirituality 08:05 - Immersion in a Hindu religious group 10:25 - First spiritual experiences and power places 12:07 - Interest in philosophy and the Kyoto School 13:05 - Law school and studying mediaeval philosophy 15:52 - Entering Zen Buddhist practice with Deshimaru Taisen 18:14 - Finding a real Zen master & understanding Zen in Japan 21:55 - Observations about Japanese religiosity 24:09 - 1996 financial crisis and internship in law firm 24:58 - Connecting with advanced practitioners online 26:53 - Interest in Chan Buddhism 30:08 - Japan vs Chinese and Korean monasticism 32:15 - Plateau after 15 years of Zen 33:01 - Daniel Ingram & Kenneth Folk 39:09 - No-self experience 39:54 - Become a student of occultist Alan Chapman 45:25 - Scrying the Enochian Æthyrs 48:02 - Visions and esoteric Christianity 50:09 - Abramelin Ritual w/ Alan Chapman 53:50 - Meeting the Holy Guardian Angel 56:32 - Approaching enlightenment 01:02:38 - Achieving enlightenment 01:10:59 - Consequences of enlightenment 01:14:45 - Confirmation by Stuart Lachs 01:18:54 - Massive kundalini experience 01:22:21 - Loss of interest in spirituality 01:23:21 - Spirit encounters in Santeria 01:27:23 - Strategic presentations of Tibetan Buddhism 01:28:13 - Difficulties after awakening 01:29:52 - Post kundalini energetic development 01:31:56 - Loss of fear of death 01:33:15 - Breathwork 01:34:54 - Opening of psychic senses 01:37:40 - Powerful encounters with Kālī Mā 01:45:03 - Meeting other Dark Goddesses 01:48:27 - Synchronicities and initiations 01:49:20 - Alan Chapman’s Magia 01:53:26 - Adventures in Bali 02:03:14 - Chinese Internal Alchemy & Mattias Daly 02:05:25 - Nan Huai-Chin 02:07:31 - Energy rewires for 12 years after awakening 02:09:11 - Neoplatonist theurgy 02:12:31 - Reviving the Western spiritual tradition 02:12:53 - Instructed by Hecate to be interviewed 02:14:31 - Specialties of the Western tradition 02:17:00 - Sacred geography and local deities 02:20:27 - #1 problem in the West 02:23:11 - Karmic connections 02:24:34 - Fall from grace after awakening 02:26:16 - Divine beings care about authenticity 02:28:15 - Sequel plans 02:29:57 - Praise for the Guru Viking Podcast … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Steve James Interviewed on the Mystery College Podcast 1:21:05

منذ 3 أيام1:21:05

1:21:05

I was recently interviewed by Jake and Alex from the ⁨@mysterycollege⁩ about a wide range of topics. ... Mystery College Shownotes: Join Steve James—host of the acclaimed Guru Viking Podcast and founder of the Movement Koan Method—as he sits down with Jake and Alex Leonhart at the Mystery College Podcast to share his remarkable spiritual journey. Discover Steve’s unique insights gained from years of contemplative study, teaching internationally, and leading retreats at renowned centers, including the upcoming program at the Omega Institute. In this interview, Steve discusses: -His personal path through various spiritual and contemplative traditions -Lessons from years in practice, solitude, and also wilderness survival -The genesis and philosophy behind the Movement Koan Method—a fusion of mindful movement and deep embodiment -Practical advice on meditation and humility Whether you’re a meditation practitioner, a movement enthusiast, or someone seeking wisdom for spiritual growth, Steve’s grounded and experiential teachings offer a wealth of inspiration. Connect with Steve James: Website: https://www.guruviking.com Instagram: / guruviking Movement Koan Method: https://www.guruviking.com/shop Guru Viking Podcast: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep315: Religious Psychosis & Dark Retreat - Dr Caroline van Damme & Lama Justin von Bujdoss 1:45:20

منذ 8 أيام1:45:20

1:45:20

In this episode I host a dialogue between Dr Caroline van Damme and Lama Justin von Bujdoss. Dr Caroline Van Damme is 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. Lama Justin von Bujdoss is an American Buddhist teacher, dark retreat yogi, founder and spiritual director of Yangti Yoga Retreat Center in Buckland Massachusetts, and author of ‘Modern Tantric Buddhism’. Caroline and Justin discuss the risk of psychosis during extreme religious practices, consider the rewards and dangers of dark retreat, and describe the different forms of hallucination. Caroline and Justin warn about engaging in advanced practices too soon, consider the pros and cons of spiritual ambition, and offer a mental health checklist for those considering intensive practice. Caroline and Justin also reflect on their own biographies, share challenges they have faced, and recount anecdotes of religious psychosis. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Justin explains the practice of dark retreat 5:55 - What is the purpose of dark retreat? 06:50 - Obstacles during dark retreat 09:39 - Distracted and disturbed by experience 11:08 - Sensory deprivation induces psychosis and delusional ideation 12:41 - Auditory or visual? 13:16 - Hallucinations in dark retreat vs in schizophrenia 18:51 - Practice prerequisites to dark retreat 21:10 - The purpose of intensive practice contexts 22:42 - Trekchod is the best antidote 23:38 - Justin laments the rush to do advanced retreats and practices 24:35 - Lack of mental health crisis intervention skills in Buddhist sanghas 25:38 - The devastating consequences of psychosis 27:09 - Sensory deprivation as torture and the “White Room” 29:01 - Tantric context of dark retreat and other challenging experiences 31:34 - Gek sel literature and “set and setting” 34:24 - Disastrous outcomes of Vipassana and other group retreats 38:19 - Mystical delusions and the manic state 41:59 - Consent, context, and the need for a guide 46:17 - Practice slowly, arrive quickly 46:51 - Extreme sports practitioners and disregard for tradition 50:24 - - Social pressure to avoid boredom 54:48 - A menu of spiritual materialism 57:10 - Outer, inner, and secret yidam practice 59:50 - Tilopa’s Six Nails 01:00:47 - Śamatha and raw-dogging 01:02:33 - Lojong 01:03:21 - Dream yoga and illusory body practice 01:05:14 - Walking meditation 01:05:28 - Frequency, duration, and intensity 01:08:21 - Spiritual ambition and Justin’s own training 01:13:10 - Ngondro and building a good foundation 01:14:12 - Bodhicitta as context 01:15:44 - A story of temporary insanity 01:17:29 - Health checklist for extreme spiritual adventures 01:20:17 - Dr Caroline’s difficult intake experience 01:22:02 - Spiritual bypass and the role of the teacher 01:24:13 - Long term relationships with patients and students 01:25:40 - John Welwood’s advocacy for psychotherapy 01:29:40 - Today’s lack of a long term relationship with the guru 01:35:22 - The power of relationship 01:40:00 - Justin’s concluding remarks 01:41:56 - Dr Caroline’s concluding remarks … Previous episodes with Lama Justin von Bujdoss: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=bujdoss Previous episodes with Dr Caroline van Damme: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=caroline … Find out more about Lama Justin von Bujdoss: - https://justinvonbujdoss.com/ - https://www.yangtiyoga.com/ Find out more about Dr Caroline van Damme: - 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…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep314: Me & My Gurus - Ani Pema 1:09:02

منذ 15 يومًا1:09:02

1:09:02

In this episode I am joined by Ani Pema, an American nun in the Tibetan Buddhist religion and former swami in the Siddha Yoga organisation. Ani Pema recalls her childhood in Boise Idaho, her high flying career in fashion working for Vogue magazine, and how dissatisfaction with the American dream set her on a spiritual search. Ani Pema details her sixteen years of close discipleship and ordination under the renowned Siddha Yoga guru Swami Muktananda, her transformative encounters with the 16th Karmapa, and her subsequent discipleship under Tibetan Buddhist teachers such as Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and Namkhai Nyingpo. Ani Pema also explains the powerful phenomena of shaktipat including the severe karmic consequences for its use, reflects on Western shaktipat gurus such as Rudi and Adi Da Samraj, and gives her heart advice for those who wish to follow the spiritual path. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep314-me-my-gurus-ani-pema Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - High flying fashion career 02:41 - Questioning the American dream 03:24 - Taking up yoga 04:02 - Meeting Swami Muktananda 04:55 - A precognitive vision 05:40 - Close study with Swami Muktananda in India 07:29 - Rigorous practice regime at the ashram 08:38 - Obliterating the self 11:02 - Muktananda as a vortex of energy 12:09 - A past life connection 14:47 - Swami Muktananda’s 1974 USA tour 19:17 - The serious karmic burden of giving shaktipat 20:09 - Attending the 16th Karmapa 22:02 - Leaving Muktananda’s organisation 22:55 - Becoming a disciple of Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche 24:24 - Becoming a disciple of Namkhai Nyingpo in Bhutan 26:03 - Working for Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche after he became famous 27:19 - You hire the guru to assassinate your ego 28:44 - Lichivi House 30:02 - Reflections on past gurus 31:23 - Rudi and shaktipat 32:28 - Adi Da’s ego and meeting with Swami Muktananda 36:33 - 4 methods of shaktipat 38:31 - Health consequences of offering shaktipat 40:25 - Dangers of unauthorised shaktipat 41:48 - Mind to mind transmission in Tibetan Buddhism 42:32 - 4-6hrs of chanting per day 43:24 - Celibacy and guru controversies 47:27 - Comparing 16th Karmapa with Swami Muktananda 49:19 - Kashmir Shaivism vs Tibetan Buddhism 50:39 - Depression after Swami Muktananda’s death 52:47 - Profound periods of purification 54:48 - Consequences of the spiritual path 56:23 - Do Tibetan teachers recognise Muktananda’s dharma? 59:18 - Meditation is beyond tradition 01:00:46 - Ani Pema reflects on her experience as a practitioner 01:03:55 - Ani Pema’s advice for practitioners 01:06:19 - Difficulties in following famous gurus … To find out more about Ani Pema, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/karen.schaefer - https://dayananda-lifewithandafterbaba.blogspot.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep313: Modern Spirit Worker - Mary Shutan 3 1:41:03

منذ 22 يومًا1:41:03

1:41:03

In this episode I am once again joined by Mary Shutan: author, occultist, and spiritual teacher. Mary explains her activities as a modern spirit worker, reveals how to form and maintain working relationships with spirits, details the difference between spirit pacts and contracts, and warns about the unintended consequences of making deals with unknown beings. Mary explores the problems associated with using the word “shaman”, offers a critique of modern shamanism training courses, and explains why many people who pursue shamanism would be better suited to a religious orientation to animism. Mary also reveals her own aborted attempt at the infamous Abramelin ritual, details the resultant fallout and years of recovery, and reflects on the impact of magickal practice on mental and physical health. … Full episode link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 01:00 - What is a modern spiritual worker? 02:20 - Why Mary doesn’t like to use the word “shaman” 02:44 - Mary’s problems with Core Shamanism 04:31 - Shamanism and patriarchy 05:34 - Why Mary doesn’t call herself a shaman 07:54 - Core Shamanism, Christian conditioning, and legacies of colonisation 10:58 - Anthropologists as shamanic teachers 13:21 - Training in Core Shamanism 15:41 - Critique of Core Shamanism and wounded healers 18:43 - Post-colonial critiques of modern shamanism 20:00 - Some people really want animism 21:42 - When shamanism goes wrong 22:33 - Cherry-picking shamanism and reconstruction 23:47 - Discernment and tainted gnosis 24:22 - Words have energy and the need for respect 26:36 - Mary uses the word “shaman” in her business and books 27:33 - Pervasive Christian conditioning 28:30 - Patriarchy in shamanism 29:38 - Pop-shamanism vs direct experience 30:55 - 20 years of teaching shamanism 32:16 - People don’t believe in spirits any more 34:04 - Modernity and scientism 37:06 - Modernity and shamanism 40:40 - Martin Prechtel engaging with indigenous shamanism 43:06 - Indigeneity and the routes to become a shaman 46:52 - What Mary tells people who feel called to shamanism? 49:05 - Conflating personal religious practice with professionalising 49:53 - How to get started in animism 52:55 - Which spirits and entities does Mary work with? 55:27 - Spirit relations 57:42 - Mary’s way of relating to spirits 59:33 - Spirit communication in dreams and through rituals 01:00:27 - Spirits who come to Mary 01:01:23 - Spirit contracts 01:03:56 - Spirit ID and the danger of spirit contracts 01:04:53 - The Buddha in Sri Lanka 01:06:35 - Be careful what you wish for 01:07:31 - Spirit Lawyering 01:07:52 - Healthy skepticism when dealing with spirits 01:10:00 - Cultural misunderstandings about spirits 01:11:21 - Don’t make a pact with a spirit 01:12:29 - Warning about spirit contracts 01:13:18 - Pact vs contract 01:16:41 - Mary’s training in Western Occultism and time in the Void 01:20:14 - Mary’s spiritual crisis 01:24:17 - Orienting to the Dark Feminine 01:27:09 - Two attempts at the Abramelin ritual 01:29:16 - Abandoning the 18-month Abramelin ritual 01:29:50 - How did Mary exit the ritual? 01:30:48 - Magick and mental health 01:32:36 - Psychotherapists for magicians 01:33:32 - Struggles with the Golden Dawn and pivoting to shamanism 01:38:24 - Christian monks did magick 01:38:55 - Giving up seeking … Previous episode with Mary Shutan: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shutan 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…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep312: Disciple of Wu Dang - Johan Hausen 1:38:45

منذ 29 يومًا1:38:45

1:38:45

In this episode I am joined by Johan Hausen, Taoist teacher, translator, Chinese medicine practitioner, and founder of Purple Cloud Press. Johan shares his life story from years of competitive Tae Kwon Do, through his travels and travails in China in search of a master, and to his eventual training and discipleship in the Wu Dang mountains. Johan reflects on his years learning Classical and spoken Chinese, considers the challenges of translating ancient literature for modern readers, and reveals the unique metaphors and analogies used in textual descriptions of Internal Alchemy. Johan also describes the Taoist quest for immortality, explains his research into the dantien and the mineralogy of cinnabar, and recounts stories of his own encounters with spiritually advanced beings. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Admiration for Mattias Daly 02:56 - Learning Chinese to better learn Taoism 04:53 - How Johan learned Classical vs Spoken Chinese 08:11 - Language is about communication 08:47 - Should we consult living masters about textual translation problems? 10:24 - Metaphors and analogies used in Internal Alchemy 12:53 - Why are there different ideas about the dantian? 14:12 - Is the dantian constructed or inherent? 16:12 - Elixir fields? 17:37 - Johan’s research on the mineralogy of cinnabar using Chinese texts 18:04 - The old alchemists’ surprisingly good understanding of organic chemistry 20:56 - Johan’s childhood and training in Tae Kwon Do 22:47 - Johan’s competitive Tae Kwon Do career of over 100 fights 25:18 - Injury and travel to China for healing 26:24 - Travelling to China at 20 years old to train Shaolin kung fu 28:48 0 Training methods of Shaolin kung fu 30:35 - Demystifying the myths of Shaolin training 33:08 - Recovery routine 34:26 - Illness and leaving China 36:15 - Returning to Germany and feelings of failure 37:47 - Leaving a film course in London to train in the Wu Dang mountains 40:32 - Meeting Li Shifu at the Five Immortals Temple 41:54 - Curriculum at the Five Immortals Temple 43:08 - Studying acupuncture and dedication to learning 44:19 - Years of study under Li Shifu and joining the lineage 47:26 - Struggles with being treated as a foreigner in China 50:50 - Growing resentment and leaving China 55:26 - Johan’s Dragon Gate Lineage 56:28 - The quest for immortality 58:53 - Details about Taoist Immortals 01:00:34 - Difficulty of becoming an Immortal 01:02:10 - Consolation prize if you fail to achieve immortality 01:03:38 - Ethical rules of the Dragon Gate Lineage 01:04:59 - A typical daily practice routine 01:06:47 - Singing the scriptures to communicate to spirits 01:09:26 - Taoist patron spirit of Wudang 01:14:45 - The remarkable qualities of Li Shifu 01:15:52 - Praise is bad in traditional Chinese teaching 01:17:05 - Is Li Shifu an Immortal? 01:18:02 - Johan’s reverence for his teacher 01:19:29 - Explaining culture clashes to Lif Shifu 01:20:33 - Is charisma and spiritual power inherent or cultivated? 01:24:45 - Li Shifu does not have attained disciples 01:26:05 - Is it really possible to achieve success in Taoism, or is it mostly just natural talent? 01:33:11 - Using gifted practitioners as inspiration 01:34:18 - Purple Cloud Press 01:35:56 - Johan’s goal to create community and preserve texts 01:37:09 - Search for location and funds To find out more about Johan Hausen, visit: - https://purplecloudinstitute.com/about-us/who-we-are-2/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit. - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep311: Neuroscience of Yogic Death Practice - Dr Tawni Tidwell, Dr Michael Sheehy, Julian Schott 1:52:15

منذ 5 weeks1:52:15

1:52:15

This trialogue continues a series of discussion exploring the latest interdisciplinary research into tantric completion stage practices such as yogas of dream, sleep, and death. Dr Tawni Tidwell is a biocultural anthropologist and doctor of traditional Tibetan medicine. Dr Michael Sheehy is the Director of Research at the Contemplative Sciences Center at the University of Virginia. Dr Julian Schott is an Indologist, Tibetologist, and assistant professor at the University of Vienna. Dr Tidwell leads a deep-dive into the mysterious death practices of tantric yoga, the post-mortem state of suspended animation called tukdam, and the history of scientific investigation into these phenomena. Dr Sheehy explores the implications of tantric death practices on current scientific models of the body, Dr Schott reflects on Buddhist vs Cartesian notions of consciousness, and Dr Tidwell explains the cultural sensitivities of working with Himalayan gurus. The panel also discuss the importance of osel - clear light awareness - in completion stage practices, the relationship between nonduality and transformation, and consider new research directions on the cutting edge of contemplative neuroscience. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 01:37 - Recap previously discussed themes 02:30 - Research in tukdam and yogic dying 05:17 - Researching dying spiritual masters 09:27 - Recruiting Tibetan monastics 10:33 - Cultural dynamics around studying tukdam 12:32 - Early phases & baseline measures 13:23 - Collaboration with the Russian Academy of Science 14:39 - What could tukdam contribute to science? 15:52 - American mortician shocked 18:40 - Biological aspects of tukdam 20:53 - Funding and reliance on Russian equipment 22:14 - What happens to the body after death 23:25 - Tukdam documentary 25:39 - Future direction for the project 27:15 - Skepticism about the project and growing body of evidence 30:45 - Siloed scientific disciples 31:22 - Catholic saints and attained mystics from other traditions 32:16 - Fundraising 33:05 - New learnings about the body and reflections on the Self 34:17 - The death process as a series of dissolutions 37:22 - Tracking heat, oxygenation, fluid movement, and visual imagery 44:27 - Buddhist vs Cartesian notions of consciousness 46:56 - Different tukdam methods across lineages 49:18 - Evan Thompson's theories of consciousness 51:24 - We can die in different ways 54:56 - Methodologically rich ways to attain wisdom 57:41 - The soteriological essence of Buddhism 01:01:35 - Human transformation and experiences of the edge 01:04:02 - Exaltation 01:05:03 - How do tantric techniques lead to tukdam? 01:09:04 - Tummo & vajra recitation to control subtle energies 01:10:41 - Dream, orgasm, and death 01:13:26 - Tukdam is counter-rational and challenges scientific reductionism 01:17:28 - The personal impact of witnessing tukdam 01:19:38 - Tantra is radical 01:20:38 - Julian quotes the Hevajra Tantra 01:22:40 - Can tukdam candidates be studied before death? 01:25:40 - Aggregate or sudden? 01:27:25 - Understanding osel, nondual awareness, and NDE 01:30:08 - Clear light sleep 01:33:04 - Challenging reductionistic paradigms 01:35:11 - The importance of nondual awareness 01:37:53 - Sentience and yeshe 01:41:44 - Exalted form in co-creation with consciousness 01:43:31 - Steve comments on scientific reductionist materialism 01:44:19 - What measurements has the project recorded? 01:47:04 - Julian’s closing remarks 01:47:31 - Tawni’s closing remarks 01:48:57 - Michael’s closing remarks Previous panel discussion: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep305-neuroscience-of-dream-yoga-dr-michael-sheehy-dr-tawni-tidwell-dr-julian-schott For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Steve James Interviewed on the Gabi Koyenov Podcast 1:24:19

منذ 6 weeks1:24:19

1:24:19

I was recently interviewed by ⁨@gabikoyenov⁩ about a wide range of topics for his podcast. ... Gabi's shownotes: In this enlightening episode, I'm joined by Steve James, known as Guru Viking, who delves into his unique life experiences and the genesis of his intriguing persona. Steve shares insights from living on a boat, his personal religious exploration, and the profound impact of martial arts on his approach to discipline and personal growth. He highlights key influences in his life, including the significant impact of Bruce Lee. Additionally he explains his movement the Movement Koan Method, which helps in navigating emotional and physical tensions through joint nourishing movements. Throughout our discussion, Steve explores the deeper layers of emotional pain, the risks of forced emotional exploration, and the benefits of an inquiry-based approach to meditation. He offers a critical look at the limits of meditation, the potential dangers of psychedelics, and the current state of spirituality in the Western world, providing historical perspectives and personal reflections on navigating modern challenges with ancient wisdom. The episode concludes with Steve's thoughts on the concept of self and enlightenment, describing spiritual experiences as moments of 'sacred ordinariness.' This conversation is packed with insights for anyone interested in the intersections of spirituality, personal development, and modern life challenges. Tune in for a thought-provoking journey with Guru Viking on The Gabi Koyenov Podcast. 00:00 Introduction to Steve James 00:24 Podcast Purpose and Audience Engagement 00:51 The Origin of Guru Viking 03:19 Living on a Boat 04:51 Insights from Memorable Guests 06:32 Steve's Personal Religious Journey 11:35 Influence of Martial Arts 17:14 Impactful Books and Wisdom Literature 24:13 Developing Discipline and Motivation 29:02 Bruce Lee's Influence 33:55 Movement Koan Method 44:09 Understanding Habitual Tension and Stress 44:21 The Deeper Layers of Emotional Pain 44:47 The Risks of Forced Emotional Exploration 45:29 Inquiry-Based Approach to Meditation 47:08 The Limits of Meditation and Need for Professional Help 47:29 Modern Spirituality and Healing 48:02 The Dangers of Psychedelics 48:42 Exploring the State of Spirituality in the Western World 49:04 Historical Perspectives and Personal Reflections 59:18 The Concept of Self and Enlightenment 01:15:21 Spiritual Experiences and Sacred Ordinariness 01:24:31 Podcast Reflections and Future Plans…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep310: 10 Unanswered Questions - Dhammarato 1:28:41

منذ 6 weeks1:28:41

1:28:41

In this episode, I am once again joined by Dhammarato: a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition. Dhammarato critiques Western and Asian Buddhist forms, including the Mahasi method, and addresses misconceptions about stream entry. Dhammarato comments on The Shorter Discourse to Mālunkyāputta, explains why the Buddha refused to teach on certain metaphysical subjects, challenges reincarnation, and questions mettā bhāvanā. Dhammarato also presents his understanding of the Buddha’s true teachings, how to find a guru, and reflects on his own training under Ajahn Po. … Also available on Youtube - search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... 01:52 - Reflecting on 80 years of life 02:36 - Western Buddhism 03:02 - Buddhism with a lot of baggage 04:42 - Buddhism’s inferior spread in the West 05:25 - Alan Watts was more Christian than Zen 06:33 - Steve reads a sutta 09:12 - The imponderables and what the Buddha left undeclared 10:06 - Reincarnation is not part of the teachings 12:29 - Dhammarato on the 4 noble truths 13:23- Enlightenment is immediately available 14:08 - Right samadhi 15:18 - How to be free of suffering 15:33 - Buddha only taught one practice: ānāpānasati 17:28 - The noble mind 19:50 - The four noble truths are the only teaching 20:35 - Life is not suffering 21:48 - The Mahasi method is wrong 22:13 - The 16 stages of insight is a misguided model 23:18 - Western Buddhism is a ripoff 26:37 - Magical teachings and the folly of attainments 28:21 - Mahasi attainments vs what the Buddha taught 29:09 - Avoid these aspects of Western Buddhist meditation 30:16 - Mettā bhāvanā is not a teachings 32:44 - How to become a meditation teacher 34:02 - 5 ways to gain the Dhamma 35:15 - Critique of meditation retreats 37:28 - Buddha’s path is easy 40:44 - Attainments and mutual validation 42:03 - Peoples don’t see their greed 44:03 - Don’t brag about attainments 44:30 - How to know is someone is enlightened 49:32 - Huge understandings about stream entry 57:48 - Why do people claim stream entry? 01:00:37 - Christian Buddhism 01:02:33- How to demonstrate attainments 01:05:45 - How to expose fake stream enterers 01:08:52 - Meditation teacher trainings 01:10:37 - Certificates and the Wizard of Oz 01:18:11 - What are teacher trainings good for? 01:22:24 - How to become a good teacher 01:23:57 - Don’t train under a lay man for money - Discord: https://discord.gg/epphTGY - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ For more visit. - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep309: My Radical Life - Lopon Yudron Wangmo 2 1:20:20

منذ 7 weeks1:20:20

1:20:20

In this episode, I am once again joined by Lopon Yudron Wangmo, American teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and author of several books including her recent “Clearing the Way to Awakening”. Lopon Yudron Wangmo shares the story of her life, her childhood with a spiritualist mother, anecdotes of childhood psychic explorations in automatic writing and other techniques, and reflects on whether psychic abilities are inherent or cultivated. Lopon Yudron Wangmo recounts how she became a radical lesbian feminist at university, details the social and theoretical aspects of that movement and time, and reveals the surprising choices she made when relating to male Tibetan teachers as a feminist. Lopon Yudron Wangmo also discusses the pitfalls of performing death rites such as phowa for others, explains why she does not emphasise her feminism and politics in her dharma teaching, and considers the healing power of reparenting by taking the guru as a father figure. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep309-my-radical-life-lopon-yudron-wangmo-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 01:08 - Yudron’s unusual spiritualist, new age mother 03:50 - Lawyer father 04:57 - Early attraction to Tibetan Buddhism 06:19 - Likelihood of past life connections 07:11 - Early interests in environmentalism and solar energy 08:51 - Psychic readings, automatic writing, and hands-on healing 10:06 - Are psychic powers gifts or can they be cultivated? 12:09 - More stories of Yudron’s psychic mother 14:28 - Yudron reflects on her mother’s final years and death 17:06 - Performing phowa and other death practices for others 18:21 - Remarkable death of Yudron’s father 19:28 - Affluent background affords opportunities for spiritual seeking 21:27 - Going to university and becoming a radical lesbian feminist 22:54 - Impressed by Yeshe Tsogyal’s life story and other female practitioners 25:34 - Letting go of radical feminism to pursue the dharma 26:21 - Relating to male Tibetan teachers as a feminist 27:26 - What attracted Yudron to radical lesbian feminism 30:40 - Today’s backlash against feminism 33:00 - Conflicting theoretical and philosophical approaches to radical feminism 35:11 - United in building woman power 37:12 - Working on anger and Vajrakīlāya practice 41:27 - Giving up female chauvinism and relating to male Tibetan lamas 43:49 - Stories of great female practitioners 44:24 - Being typecast as an angry feminist 45:24 - Why Yudron doesn’t criticise Tibetan culture 46:02 - Rage about abuse of women by Lamas 46:33 - Yudron’s desire to teach pure dharma and not mix in her politics 49:43 - Why Yudron didn’t challenge her lamas with feminist ideas 5149 - The lama as a father figure, reparenting, and the influence of Yudron’s lamas 54:10 - Dropping one’s storyline and going beyond trivialities 55:48 - Motivated to counteract abusive lamas 58:05 - Americans are discouraged from teaching Tibetan Buddhism 58:51 - What to look for in a dharma teacher 01:00:55 - Sycophants vs finding the inner lama 01:02:27 - Fading interest in Tibetan Buddhism 01:03:26 - Dharma teachers should be full time 01:04:16 - The ideal amount of money and pastoralist rhythms 01:05:34 - Two extremes of converts 01:07:22 - Becoming soft 01:08:26 - Dharma teachers vs mindfulness teachers 01:09:53 - Yudron reflects on Theravada meditation and the appeal of Sharon Salzberg 01:11:35 - Prophecies of an impending dark age 01:12:38 - Simplifying dharma teaching 01:15:36 - Yudron asks for Steve’s opinion 01:16:43 - Ben Joffe and relating with spirits 01:17:36 - Steve reflects on the five perfections 01:18:38 - Yudron on the pros and cons of ritual … Previous episode with Lopon Yudron Wangmo: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=yudron To find our more about Lopon Yudron Wangmo, visit: - https://www.yudronwangmo.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep308: Anatomy of Awakening - Stephen Snyder & Mark Mininberg (Bonus Episode) 1:01:57

منذ 7 weeks1:01:57

1:01:57

In this episode I host a dialogue between Stephen Snyder, meditation teacher and author, and Mark Mininberg, Zen master and dharma heir to Bernie Glassman. Stephen and Mark discuss their new podcast interview series, “Anatomy of Awakening”, in which they engage in peer-to-peer trialogue with other teachers of enlightenment. Stephen and Mark reveal why they chose the teachers they have featured, the degree to which various claims to spiritual attainment played a part in their selection, and how they navigated conversations with teachers from other Buddhist sects. Stephen and Mark reflect on the increase in meditation teachers who claim spiritual awakening, recall their own trainings in Zen communities in which discussion of enlightenment was taboo, and emphasise the need for rigorous training under an experienced guide. Stephen and Mark also warn about teachers who overestimate their abilities, offer suggestions to aspiring gurus, and emphasis the whole body commitment required to truly attain Buddhist awakening. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep308-anatomy-of-awakening-stephen-snyder-mark-mininberg Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - Anatomy of Awakening 03:12 - How did Stephen and Mark decide which teachers to interview? 05:43 - Are these teachers enlightened? 06:13 - Enlightenment doesn’t belong to anybody 07:36 - A synergy of awakening 08:21 - How can you even tell if someone is enlightened? 09:46 - Teachers who promote themselves as teaching awakening 10:16 - No teacher is flawless 10:56 - The danger of speaking openly about awakening 12:14 - Buddhism and awakening traditions are evolving in the West 14:54 - Why are more teachers claiming enlightenment? 16:29 - Changes in American Buddhism and the New Age since the 70s 18:15 - The lost virtue of humility 19:50 The Absolute awakens to Itself 20:49 - Going public with ones’s awakening 22:59 - Holding this life in reverence 24:05 - Signs of a mature practice 26:02 - Becoming a meditation teacher 28:11 - The true job of a teacher 30:47 - Teachers should not overestimate their level 34:35 - Ways to know you are in too deep as a teacher 35:45 - Teachers need teachers 37:50 - Is there any substitute for a 1-1 relationship with a teacher 39:54 - Humility and the truth a spouse sees 41:04 - People assume their teacher is perfect 41:47 - Mark’s conservative Zen training 43:00 - Customer services spirituality 45:08 - Holding a teacher in reverence 47:13 - The pitfalls of leadership by committee 49:51 - Awakening is a whole body commitment 54:29 - Surprises when meeting enlightenment teachers 57:20 - Peer to peer trialogues 58:12 - How to find the interview series 59:24 - Host and guest 01:00:14 - Praise for the Guru Viking Podcast … Previous episodes with Stephen Snyder: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=snyder To purchase Anatomy of Awakening visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/anatomy-of-awakening/ GV Podcast receives no affiliate commission from your purchase. … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep307: Modern Vajrayana Buddhism - Lama Justin von Bujdoss & Charlie Morley 1:56:42

منذ 8 weeks1:56:42

1:56:42

In this episode I host a dialogue between Lama Justin von Bujdoss and Charlie Morley. Justin and Charlie share their extensive experience as modern teachers of Vajrayana, compare notes on the state of Tantra in the West, and reflect on the responsibility of openly teaching previously restricted, esoteric practices. Justin and Charlie wrestle with the tension between conserving traditional religious forms and innovating to meet today’s moral sensibilities and technological currents. They suggest changes they would like to see in both Asian Buddhist cultures and Western society, consider the pros and cons of long meditation retreats in today’s world, and call for hierarchical equality for women practitioners and teachers. I invite Justin and Charlie to reveal the underlying principles that guide their desired reforms and consider the pitfalls of advocating change without awareness of one’s guiding rationale. Justin and Charlie also discuss the role of neuroscience in the furthering of Buddhist understanding, reveal the potential trauma-healing power of dream yoga and dark retreat, and share their thoughts on the impact of fatherhood on one’s religious life. … www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. 01:52 - State of the Dharma in 2025 06:12 - Secret practices now widely available 09:37 - Whiteness and misogyny 10:02 - Why are secret practices openly taught? 11:49 - Conservatism is the achilles heel of the Karma Kagyu sect 12:23 - Controversy about online empowerments 14:32 - Understanding emptiness 16:00 - Dream empowerments 17:48 - Technology and survival of Buddhism 19:22 - Amulets of protection 21:16 - 4th turning of the wheel of Dharma 23:58 - Trauma, racism, and classism, refugees 25:54 - Working for the NYC Department of Corrections 28:41 - Potential of dream yoga and dark retreat for healing trauma 29:19 - Why don’t Tibetan lamas talk about trauma? 29:55 - Cultural overlay, Tibetan identity, and religion 32:44 - Western calls for reform vs traditional Tibetan values 48:53 - Conservatism vs reform 51:43 - Real religion vs mere cultural overlay 52:31 - N vs 3-year retreat 58:14 - Different versions of ngondro 01:02:12 - Classical Indian approaches to tantra 01:03:12 - How to reform without losing the spirit of the religion 01:04:28 - The energy of the tradition 01:06:28 - Justin’s desire for social change in Vajrayana 01:08:41 - Wisdom keeper vs lineage holder 01:12:51 - 2-way revolution 01:14:20 - How to decide what should be changed vs what should be preserved 01:18:32 - Charlie’s collaboration with Choje Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche 01:22:05 - Charlie criticises misogyny in Tibetan Buddhism 01:23:50 - Transgender and non-binary people in Himalayan Buddhist contexts 01:27:49 - Religious traditions are diverse and evolving 01:30:11 - Yogis and practice results 01:33:41 - Fatherhood and Dharma 01:36:37 - Long retreats are not important if you can rest in rigpa 01:39:29 - Dharma Dads workshop 01:42:09 - How important is ordination? 01:43:31 - Why is ordination so emphasised? 01:46:04 - Justin almost became a monk 01:48:22 - Advice for parents 01:49:14 - Charlie reflects on impending fatherhood and not being a monk 01:50:38 - Steve’s concluding remarks 01:51:11 - Steve urges a deeper investigation into motives behind advocacy for change 01:52:01 - Culture and Dharma essence 01:53:01 - Charlie’s concluding remarks and encouragement for practitioners 01:54:04 - Justin’s concluding remarks 01:54:15 - Praise for Guru Viking Podcast, and encouragement to practitioners … Previous episodes with Justin: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=bujdoss Previous episode with Charlie: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=morley … Find out more about Justin: - https://justinvonbujdoss.com/ Find out more about Charlie: - http://www.charliemorley.com/ … For more interviews: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep306: Marketing Tactics of Religions & Cults - Prof. Mara Einstein 1:18:38

منذ 9 weeks1:18:38

1:18:38

In this episode I am joined by Professor Mara Einstein, digital marketing critic; author and public speaker on cult brands and influencer scams; and tenured professor of media studies at Queens College (CUNY). Mara discusses her latest book “Hoodwinked: How Marketers Use the Same Tactics as Cults”, warns about manipulative marketing techniques used in media and religions, details the 9 steps of cult recruitment, and shares case studies of religious marketing models. Mara recalls her own life journey from an early interest in religions and cults, her path through academia studying religion and marketing, and her own discipleship under and subsequent disillusionment with spiritual teacher and political activist Marianne Williamson. Mara also considers religion as a product, analyses stealth Buddhism and prosperity gospel preachers, and offers her own thoughts on how religious groups can market themselves more ethically. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep306-marketing-tactics-of-religions-cults-prof-mara-einstein Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Hoodwinked, 01:21 - Religion as a product 02:17 - Early interest in religion and cults 03:36 - PhD about religion and policy 05:35 - Televangelists and the Passion of the Christ 06:52 - The Purpose Driven Church marketing 07:34 - The secularisation theory and why the US bucks the trend 08:13 - Joel Osteen vs Oprah Winfrey 09:34 - Why do secular organisations use religious themes? 11:41 - Cults and Multi-level marketing 13:14 - Brand cults such as Apple 14:46 - Marketing Hoodwinked 1536 - Social media vs television advertising 16:37 - Rage farming, increased anxiety, and becoming susceptible to messaging 20:20 - Brand purchases as expressions of individual identity 21:42 - Selling the sacred, how religion and marketing intersects 25:03 - Mara’s own religious journey through Judaism and the New Age 26:31 - Becoming a follower of Marianne Williamson 27:01 - Disillusioned by religion 27:13 - Studying evangelicals 27:58 - Interviewing Ralph White 28:29 - Mara analyses her own journey to becoming a follower of Marianne Williamson 32:00 - World Nutella Day 34:18 - Going deeper with Marianne Williamson 36:10 - 9 steps of cult recruitment 36:47 - Targeting the vulnerable 40:26 - Upselling and the Kabbalah Centre 42:02 - Love-bombing 43:14 - Tough love 44:34 - Creation of in and out groups 46:30 - Severe repercussions for leaving 47:22 - American Evangelism 49:33 - How should religions market themselves with integrity? 49:52 - “He Gets Us” and the Alpha Course 52:07 -2 year mission trips don’t work 52:41 - The best marketing is to live the message 54:49 - Shady marketing tactics to avoid 56:22 - Beware of panacea answers 57:02 - Beware the charismatic leader 57:56 - How would Mara advice a religious group to use marketing ethically? 59:33 - Know your target audience 01:01:13 - The brilliance of Rick Warren’s consumer research driven marketing 01:02:47 - Is stealth Buddhism shady marketing? 01:04:44 - Bait and switch of secular mindfulness 01:06:34 - Capitalist meditation 01:07:42 - Is MBSR a bait and switch? 01:09:09 - Mara’s advice for those selling corporate mindfulness 01:10:15 - Transparency vs deception 01:12:23 - Make it ok to question and ok to leave 01:13:31 - Hoodwinked 01:14:15 - Pervasiveness of cults 01:15:13 - Influencers and a spectrum of cults 01:16:29 - Teal Swan and lifestyle marketing 01:17:21 - Anyone can be pulled into a cult … To find our more about Professor Mara Einstein, visit: - https://www.drmaraeinstein.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep305: Neuroscience of Dream Yoga - Dr Michael Sheehy, Dr Tawni Tidwell, Dr Julian Schott 1:31:32

منذ 10 weeks1:31:32

1:31:32

This trialogue is the first in a series exploring the latest interdisciplinary research into tantric completion stage practices such as yogas of dream, sleep, and death. Dr Michael Sheehy is the Director of Research at the Contemplative Sciences Center in the Department of Religious Studies in the University of Virginia. Dr Tawni Tidwell is a biocultural anthropologist and doctor of traditional Tibetan medicine. Dr Julian Schott is an Indologist, Tibetologist, and assistant professor at the University of Vienna. Dr Sheehy shares his cutting edge research into the tantric completion stage yogas of dream and sleep, reveals the implication of new directions in neuroscience and micro-phenomenology, and warns of the danger of esoteric practices becoming extinct. Dr Sheehy proposes a two-way split in the future of religious practice, Dr Tidwell reflects on the decline in the number of spiritual masters, and Dr Schott considers the real meaning of secrecy in Tibetan tantra. Video version: www.guruviking.com Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:22 - Current research about yogic practices of dream and sleep 02:46 - Overview of Tibet and Indian dream and sleep practices 04:15 - Michael’s scientific studies of yogic lucid dreaming practice 07:53 - Opening a 2-way channel of communication between dreamer and scientist 08:46 - Rigorous micro-phenomenology 10:04 - Comparisons with classic descriptions and prescriptions found in Tibetan dream manuals 11:34 - Dreams are unpredictable spaces 13:53 - Understanding lucidity 16:27 - Psychological flexibility, imaginal simulation, and somatic awareness 22:28 - The impact of dream yoga on daily life 23:59 - 6 similes of reality and dream yoga 26:26 - Lucid waking practices & the illusory body 29:45 - 2-fold practice curriculum of day and night 31:16 - A devastating pitfall 32:07 - New ways to amplify practice 35:38 - Designing virtual reality simulations for dream yoga exercises 39:49 - Intersections with psychedelic research 42:16 - 2 ways to approach contemplative practice 47:05 - Generating interdisciplinary hypotheses 48:14 - Utilising VR meditations as practice supports 52:37 - Drawing on traditional expertise 53:27 - Bringing traditional practice categories into neuroscience research 55:27 - Neuroscience as the next level of translation 59:40 - Michael challenges ahistorical perspectives; Tibetan tradition has been highly experimental 01:02:32 - Community-based partnerships 01:05:02 - What does it mean that a practice is “secret”? 01:07:01 - The body in tantric traditions and secularising tantra 01:09:33 - A 2-way split in the global culture of religious practice 01:12:10 - Esoteric traditions are in danger 01:16:56 - Bold experimentation is historically consonant with the tradition 01:18:23 - Great masters are decreasing in number 01:23:17 - Esoteric practices have a coherent logic 01:26:22 - Traditional practices have undergone evolution and change 01:28:36 - Ethics of scholar-practitioners To find our more about the panel, visit: - https://michaelrsheehy.com/ - https://centerhealthyminds.org/about/people/tawni-tidwell - https://stb.univie.ac.at/en/about-us/team/julian-schott/user/schottj85/inum/1083/backpid/198178/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep304: Crumbs from the Parrot’s Beak - Tulku Sherdor 1:17:41

منذ 11 weeks1:17:41

1:17:41

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 reflects on the changes in the spiritual journey over a lifetime, whether or not the world is becoming more turbulent, and the effects of ageing on yogic practice and view. Tulku Sherdor explains why mind training is superior to mystical experiences, emphasises the reality of impermanence, and shares the best tests of successful retreat and spiritual growth. Tulku Sherdor also warns about the prognosis of tulkus who do not conduct extensive retreat; critiques the shortcomings of the 3-year retreat model as conducted in the West; and details the temptations for dharma teachers in pleasure, profit, praise, and popularity. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep304-crumbs-from-the-parrots-beak-tulku-sherdor Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Crumbs from the Parrot’s Beak 02:43 - The spiritual journey and the phases of life 04:24 - Is the world becoming more turbulent? 05:56 - The effects of ageing on spiritual practice 07:53 - How to relate to physical limitations 09:56 - Ambition for enlightenment 12:26 - This is more fundamental than Bodhicitta 13:23 - Reality of impermanence 15:20 - The unique challenges of intensive practice and retreat 18:39 - Distinguishing appearance from substance 19:41 - The title “lama” is not a guarantee of quality 21:12 - The best proof of progress 23:17 - The role of a demanding retreat schedule 26:24 - Mature practice 28:03 - Tulkus must conduct extensive retreat but sometimes don’t 30:28 - Prognosis for high lamas who don’t do extensive retreat 32:30 - Hopes for corrections in the tulku system 34:58 - The Tibetan Buddhist tradition is unique and precious 35:41 - Signs of a successful retreat 38:01 - Completing a 3 year retreat is not a guarantee of quality 38:56 - Substandard Western 3 year retreats 40:49 - Pre-1950s Tibet and the renunciate yogi system 46:11 - Today’s economic challenges when practicing the dharma 49:47 - Mind training is superior to glimpses of the nature of mind 55:45 - The best test of success in practice 57:00 - Does practice ever get easier? 01:01:28 - The 4 payoffs: pleasure, profit, praise, popularity 01:06:49 - Guru devotion and the guru relationship 01:12:31 - A story about Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche 01:14:41- Peace Prayer Gathering in June 2025 … Previous episode with Tulku Sherdor: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep276-canadian-tulku-translator-tulku-sherab-dorje To find our more about Tulku Sherdor, visit: - https://blazingwisdom.org/tulku-sherab-dorje/ - https://dharmakayacenter.org/all-programs/2637/sadhana-practice-expanding-our-compassion-for-all-beings/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKAGaRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXZEJ2cmRmb0U3VTExUWpmAR729nsWXoI6VZEb9GkrzCeajdhS6ze_zGrQZUTvLpsphQJQHPSdJABxQ0brag_aem_dWMYHIGmMRk_dxeWxEuL7A For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep303: Clearing the Way to Awakening - Lopon Yudron Wangmo 1:28:11

منذ 12 weeks1:28:11

1:28:11

In this episode, I am joined by Lopon Yudron Wangmo, American teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and author of several books including her recent “Clearing the Way to Awakening”. Lopon Yudron Wangmo offers an analysis of the shortcomings of today’s Buddhist literature, details the writing process for “Clearing the Way to Awakening”, and reveals the stylistic and language choices she made to better reach the average reader. Lopon Yudron Wangmo describes the power of the ngondro preliminary practices of Tibetan Buddhism and explains the techniques of mantra recitation, prostrations, mandala offerings, bodhicitta generation, tummo, śamata, and more. Lopon Yudron Wangmo extols the benefits of turning away from worldly life and towards religion, reports the fruits of her own practice such as profound peace and joy, warns about the danger of following a guru without first testing him, and advises on how to work with the supernatural dimension of Buddhism. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep303-clearing-the-way-to-awakening-lopon-yudron-wangmo Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Clearing the Way to Awakening 01:52 - The problem with today’s Buddhist literature 03:20 - Sublime topics 04:22 - Style considerations for today’s reading level 06:03 - Learning to write more simply for the average reader 07:18 - Patrul Rinpoche and avoiding imitation 08:30 - What is awakening? 09:09 - Local context in Buddhist cultures 10:34 - Buddha’s description of his awakening 12:37 - Working with the supernatural dimension of Buddhism 14:25 - The ālaya vijñāna and the unconscious mind 17:34 - Buddha nature vs being driven and unconscious 18:57 - Gradualist vs subitist awakening 20:22 - The role of ngondro and the power of visualisation 22:51 - The power of recitation 24:05 - The power of prostrations 26:17 - The power of maṇḍala offerings 28:13 - Why esoteric practices are not appropriate for most people 30:00 - The secrets to completing your ngondro 32:27 - The importance of motivation 33:15 - The anti-climax of realising the nature of mind 35:33 - Tummo and śamata 36:50 - Origin of the ngondro system + Theravada critique 39:17 - Taking refuge 40:30 - Generating bodhicitta and practicing the four immeasurables 41:12 - Vajrasattva and purification practice 42:21 - Merit making and guru yoga 44:06 - If you don’t like it, don’t practice it 45:04 - Yudron asks for Steve’s opinion 46:58 - Choose your Buddhism 48:23 - Disillusionment with saṃsāra and choosing Buddhism later in life 50:03 - The power of choice and acquired ADHD 51:43 - Get on it 52:38 - The power of disillusionment and renunciation 55:07 - The peace and joy of turning away from the world 57:41 - The suffering of loneliness and the fruits of practice 01:00:09 - The mechanism of spiritual contentment 01:02:04 - Yudron on the importance of disclosing attainments 01:03:28 - Spiritual saints 01:04:13 - Political lamas and checking out gurus 01:05:32 - Personal relationship with the guru 01:07:13 - We’re all devoted to something 01:09:09 - Pitfalls of ngondro: anxiety, OCD, depression, and PTSD 01:14:06 - Yudron’s struggles with depression and anxiety 01:19:34 - Boomer Buddhists 01:20:04 - Preliminary or foundational? 01:22:06 - Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo’s advice about retreat 01:23:38 - Congratulated by Vajrasattva and the ontology of deities 01:26:45 - Spontaneous feelings of love To find out more about Lopon Yudron Wangmo, visit: - https://www.yudronwangmo.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep302: My Conversion to Orthodox Christianity - Rebekah Sturgill 1:18:34

منذ 13 weeks1:18:34

1:18:34

In this episode I am joined by Rebekah Sturgill, mother, school teacher, and convert to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah details her upbringing in a Texan evangelical church and how encounters with authoritarianism and questions about her sexuality saw her leave the religion. Rebekah describes a period of passionate teenage atheism before becoming deeply involved in feminist activism beginning in university. Rebekah explains why she remains a feminist but left activism and how, through a powerful visionary experience, she converted to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah also explores the mechanisms of conversion, considers the line between faith and extremism, and comments on the pros and cons of a new trend of conversions to Orthodox Christianity driven by internet influencers and discussion communities. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep302-my-conversion-to-orthodox-christianity-rebekah-sturghill Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Evangelical Christian upbringing in Texas 04:17 - Studying theology and philosophy at St Johns College 04:38 - Encountering Jesus through reading the Gospels 05:39 - Feminist activism 06:09 - Joining the Orthodox Church 08:18 - Anger at religion and questioning sexuality 11:22 - Authoritarianism in the church 12:26 - Why Rebekah’s family left the church 14:05 - Religious community vs contemplative practice 16:19 - Contemplative emphasis in the Orthodox Church 17:10 - Youth groups and community emphasis 18:16 - Radical atheism phase and the impact on family 23:18 - Becoming a feminist activist 25:50 - Questioning feminist theory, struggles with relativism and essentialism 26:52 - Becoming a 2nd wave feminist 28:34 - Influence of the internet on Rebekah’s various conversions 31:35 - Conversion or coming home? 33:42 - What feminism really is 35:18 - Frustrations with 3rd wave feminism 40:08 - Why feminist activism? 44:34 - Still a feminist? Which views Rebekah still holds 48:00 - Orthodox Christian view of the individual and equality 49:47 - Are Rebekah’s views controversial? 51:43 - In-fighting and leaving activism 54:17 - Religious extremists and extreme activism 55:53 - Losing oneself in extremism 57:50 - Critical mass of buy-in needed for conversion 58:13 - Embracing the dharma or losing oneself? 01:01:46 - CS Lewis’ “The Great Divorce” 01:03:36 - Dying to oneself 01:04:54 - Theosis and losing oneself 01:05:42 - Popularity of Orthodox Christianity online, a new wave of converts 01:07:26 - The practice of Orthodoxy Christianity and the supernatural 01:09:05 - Lent 01:09:55 - High profile conversions to Orthodoxy and an internet pipeline 01:11:22 - Rebekah’s conversion through relationships and community 01:13:15 - The moment of conversion 01:14:41 - Powerful first conversation with an Orthodox priest … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep301: Angels in my Hair - Lorna Byrne 58:42

منذ 14 weeks58:42

58:42

In this episode I am joined by Lorna Byrne, spiritual teacher and best selling author of “Angels in my Hair”. Lorna describes her childhood in Ireland when she first began to see and interact with angels and souls of the dead, and recalls how she navigated these visionary experiences. Lorna discusses the different types of angels that she sees, as well as other beings such as souls of the deceased, land spirits, elementals and more, and how others might learn to see as she does. Lorna also reflects on feeling the energy of a place; her lifelong experience of being different to others; unusual reactions people have towards her; and the importance of love, hope, and compassion. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep301-angels-in-my-hair-lorna-byrne | Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Growing up different 04:17 - Learning from angels 05:27 - Be your unique self 06:36 - Seeing angels physically 07:50 - Holding things back and confusion about mankind 09:07 - Consulted by clerics, theologians, and academics 10:04 - Is God real? 11:32 - Responses from people all over the world 13:02 - Deep interactions with strangers 15:20 - Lorna’s view of human beings 16:39 - Can anyone see angels and spirits? 19:10 - Being open to new knowledge 21:39 - Intertwining of the human body and soul 23:43 - Everything is possible 25:57 - Has Lorna met others who can see angels? 28:32 - People who pretend to see spirits for money 39:37 - Feeling the energy of a place 30:35 - Local traditions, land spirits, and the range of beings Lorna encounters 35:59 - How to see spirits 37:53 - The Spirit of the Water 39:52 - Everything has energy 41:51 - Angel at the Centre of the Earth 43:25 - Detecting the influence of Satan 45:59 - A story of boy soldiers 49:06 - Cycles of abuse 50:12 - Thoughts about the future of mankind 52:50 - Love, hope, and compassion 54:43 - Lorna’s retreat centre, Sanctuary … Find our more about Lorna Byrne: - https://lornabyrne.com/ - … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep300: The Spiritual Practice of Alchemy - Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund 1:39:36

منذ 15 weeks1:39:36

1:39:36

In this episode I am once again joined by Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, alchemists, practitioners of Western Esotericism, and authors of ‘Alchemy, The Divine Work’. Katarina and Tommy detail the stages and methods of the spiritual path of Western alchemy. They explain the movement through four phases, describe the operations employed during each, and reveal the signs of progress that indicate success. Katarina and Tommy reveal how to pray to the Madonna, how to purify karma, how to work with fire and emotions such as anger and sadness, the role of tinctures and elixirs, and methods of astral travel and archetypal work. Katarina and Tommy also consider the power of the imagination, the interaction with external alchemical operations and inner personal refinement, and recount stories of entity encounters and reality creation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep300-the-spiritual-practice-of-alchemy-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - “Alchemy, The Divine Work” 02:30 - Practices of the alchemical path 03:38 - Prima materia and meditation 05:42 - Meditating on alchemical emblems 06:43 - The metaphysics of prima materia consciousness 07:30 - Praying to Black Madonna 08:38 - How to pray 10:07 - Use of the imagination 11:42 - Signs of contact with the Black Madonna 13:44 - Purifying karma and releasing traumas 15:08 - Inhaling suffering and exhaling love 16:50 - Purification and divine providence 19:09 - The Nigredo phase 20:50 - The seven planets and chakras 21:49 - Theosophical ideas about seven governing forces 26:15 - Moving into the Albedo phase 27:11 - Mercurial consciousness 28:22 - Nigredo vs Albedo phases 29:43 - Working with the astral body 30:17 - Work with herbs and creating tinctures 34:18 - An alchemical elixir toast 36:39 - The Citrinitas phase 38:27 - Working with fire 40:16 - Using anger and sadness 41:48 - Death is not the end 43:33 - Reintegrating the Dark Angel 44:04 - The magic of imagination 48:14 - Fourfold processes and the quintessence 49:37 - Making the soul bigger 51:22 - Working with the Egyptian and Gnostic traditions 52:24 - Projecting the four elements 53:53 - Pilgrimages to magical locations 55:19 - Visitations from giants and other beings 57:42 - Meeting inner archetypes in the outer world 59:37 - The Rubedo phase 01:01:41 - Microcosm and macrocosm 1:04:109 - Fasting and insight into the shadow 01:07:51 - Signs of process on the path 01:10:14 - Working at a deeper level 01:11:31 - Katarina’s novel manifesting into real life 01:13:41 - Creating your own universe 01:15:25 - Life as a creative project 01:17:23 - Working with the ego 01:19:40 - Death and resurrection 01:20:27 - Bad gurus with siddhi powers 01:22:11 - The power of partnership 01:23:34 - Humility and the flaming heart 01:24:40 - Practice advice for the eager student 01:30:36 - Balance vs obsession 01:33:50 - 10-15 years to a successful white wedding 01:36:32 - Working for the next life … Previous episode with Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep238-alchemy-the-divine-work-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund 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…

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Ep299: Karma - Mordy Levine 2 1:09:40

منذ 17 weeks1:09:40

1:09:40

In this interview I am once again joined by Mordy Levine, serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author of ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Karma’ with Lama Lhanang. Mordy discusses the Buddhist doctrine of karma, explores its history in Indian thought, and differentiates the various types of karmic actions and their consequences. Mordy reveals special, esoteric methods to purify bad karma, compares the Tibetan tradition to Zen, and grapples with the importance of motive in karmic justice. Mordy also discusses the six realms, whether Buddhist hell should be understood as a place or a psychological state, and why he believes an understanding of karma is a pathway to true freedom. NB: Lama Lhanang was originally scheduled to appear in this interview alongside Mordy, but was unable to attend due to a last minute scheduling conflict. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep299-karma-mordy-levine-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Why Mordy wrote “The Beginner’s Guide to Karma” 02:17 - Understanding of karma regulates human behaviour 03:38 - Creative collaboration with Lama Lhanang 04:48 - A powerful insight about karma and consciousness 06:53 - The history of the doctrine of karma in India 09:50 - Mordy’s research into karma, using primary sources 11:50 - Different types of karmic actions and their consequences 13:29 - Selfishness vs selflessness as motive 15:08 - Is intention all? 16:19 - How great masters read karmic history 19:34 - Does Buddhism disincentivise effective action? 21:19 Does self-interest negate efforts to generate good karma? 23:24 - The desire to help others is an exception 26:00 - Motivations are complicated 28:57 - How karma helps us face negative situations 31:25 - The story of the Zen farmer 33:48 - Does the doctrine of karma blame the unfortunate? 36:02 - Explanation without accusation 37:09 - Mordy’s message about karma 38:38 - Working the karmic system to reduce negative karmic consequences and accrue merit 41:06 - Esoteric methods to purify negative karma 44:24 - The special power of meditation 45:44 - Does motivation affect the karmic consequence of meditation? 44:34 - Can meditation create negative karma? 48:28 - Generating and dedicating merit 50:45 - Is enlightenment the result of good karma? 52:42 - How to work the karma system to become enlightened 53:43 - What is collective karma? 56:24 - Can we hold groups accountable for their karma? 58:18 - Mordy on Donald Trump 59:41 - Can bad karma send you to hell? 01:02:07 - Are the 6 realms real locations or psychological states? 01:03:29 - Does Mordy believe in the 6 realms? 01:04:13 - Is belief in the 6 realms necessary? 01:05:21 - Is karma believable? 01:06:26 - Is there a place for chance in the Buddhist view? 01:07:00 - Mordy’s hopes for the book 01:07:58 - Does karma give freedom or a burden? 01:08:38 - American karma, “Have it your way”. … Previous episode with Mordy Levine: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=mordy Previous episodes with Lama Lhanang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=lhanang 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…

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Ep298: Liberating the Self - Stephen Snyder 1:02:08

منذ 18 weeks1:02:08

1:02:08

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 latest release ‘Liberating the Self’. Stephen emphasises the importance of working with personality structures even after Buddhist awakening, and offers methods to resolve trauma and destructive patterns to unlock hidden spiritual strength. Stephen warns about the dangers of achieving enlightenment without dealing with one’s personality patterns and trauma, reflects on the inner experience of enlightened Zen masters who behaved badly, and gives his advice for teachers and practitioners who think they no longer need to practice. Stephen also reports a high success rate of awakening and other mystical experiences among his students, shares his approach to retreats and 1-1 teaching, and describes advanced Theravada meditation techniques such as kasina and skeleton meditation. … Video versions: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep298-liberating-the-self-stephen-snyder Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - High rate of awakening at Stephen’s retreat 03:05 - What is the secret sauce? 04:40 - Limitations of the Zen retreat style 06:17 - Stephen’s experimental approach and heart emphasis 07:14 - Minimum requirement to qualify for Stephen’s retreats 08:58 - Why the Theravadans struggle the most 10:00 - Stephen’s online trainings 12:09 - The art of 1-1 meditation teaching 13:08 - Seeking confirmation for spiritual experiences 13:53 - Stream of consciousness sharing 14:58 - Stephen’s new podcast 16:44 - Liberating the Self and Stephen’s writing output 18:20 - Zen ignores personal and psychological work 19:52 - Theravadan shamata and no-self practices 20:42 - Reifying awakening and reassertion of the sense of self 23:22- Bad behaviour by enlightened people 25:35 - Work on your incongruent behaviour before or after awakening? 27:34 - Post-awakening work vs therapy 29:08 - We all have a full range of negative emotions and personality patterns 31:10 - Stephen’s childhood hatred 31:46 - Transforming negative emotions 32:07 - Misbehaving Zen masters 33:21 - What is the inner experience of a misbehaving Zen master? 34:5 0 - The benefit of Western depth psychology 36:04 - Is Stephen done? 37:51 - Advice for advanced meditators and teachers who think they’re done 41:07 - Stuck in a good place and shifting to concepts 41:08 - Recognising when you have gone off track 42:55 - Contentment vs complacency 43:36 - Challenging emotions and outdated personality patterns 44:12 - Resistance to peace 47:44 - Destabilising effect of spiritual practice 49:41 - Why bother with the deep path? 52:05 - Unlocking profound spiritual qualities 54:34 - Awakening stories 55:04 - The traditional kasina meditation path 58:42 - Skeleton practice and skeleton visions … 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…

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Ep297: Boarding on Insanity - Piers Cross 1:54:06

منذ 19 weeks1:54:06

1:54:06

In this episode I am once again joined by Piers Cross, ex-Buddhist monk, coach, and creator of the documentary “Boarding on Insanity”. Piers explains the British boarding school system, examines its history and social context, and reveals how and why boarding school attendance is seen by many as a pathway to power. Piers recalls his own boarding school experience, the trauma and subsequent breakdown it caused, and describes the dynamic of the “privilege double-bind”. Piers recounts his years as a Buddhist monk, how he navigated suicide attempts and self harm with meditation and community support, and the powerful mystical experiences he encountered during his religious practice. Piers lists over two dozen leading figures in the arts, business, and politics who attended boarding school and reflects on the possibility of a leadership class affected by abandonment and dissociation by elite educational institutions. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep297-boarding-on-insanity-piers-cross Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Military family upbringing and alcoholic father 03:42 - Going to boarding school at 11 years old 05:36 - History of British boarding schools 08:23 - Pathway to power 10:19 - Oxbridge emphasis 11:37 - The old boys network and breaking parental attachment 14:42 - Is the education better? 17:48 - IQ vs emotional intelligence 20:31 - A typical day at boarding school 23:30 - Piers’ boarding school trauma and learning to dissociate 27:07 - Suicide of Piers’ best friend 29:37 - Resilience vs dissociation and avoidant attachment 32:48 - Resurfacing trauma in the 30s and 40s 33:28 - Richard Branson, David Cameron, Bear Grylls, and John Peel 34:36 - Trauma of neglect 36:53 - Idealisation, cover up, and not listening to children 41:45 - The privilege double-bind 47:32 - After boarding school & city career 51:03 - Depression and breakdown 53:07 - Laughed at by the doctor 54:31 - Death of Piers’ father and work in Africa 56:41 - 3.5 years in a Buddhist monastery 59:37 - A sense of coming home 01:02:22 - Taking the 8 precepts 01:03:30 - Ordination, self harm, and suicidal ideation 01:06:31 - The support and kindness of the other monks 01:09:26 - Struggles with meditation 01:12:03 - Reading scriptures and other Buddhist books 01:14:00 - Tastes of transcendence 01:14:55 - Profound experience of childlike mind 01:16:35 - Healing avoidant attachment 01:20:10 - Working with dreams 01:21:10 - Tears and connecting to emotion 01:22:41 - Buddhist doctrine about suicide and hell 01:25:14 - The power of initiation 01:27:13 - Leaving the monastery 01:28:08 - Piers shows his journal 01:29:33 - After the monastery and work with board school survivors 01:33:15 - “Boarding on Insanity” documentary 01:33:28 - Tony Blair, Boris Johnson, Justin Welby 01:37:05 - Cover ups and a societal flip 01:39:30 - Prince Charles, Stephen Fry, Ranulph Fiennes, Gabriel Byrne, Roald Dahl, Harry Windsor, 01:41:00 - JFK, Princess Diana, Charles Spencer, Aldous Huxley, Richard Beard, Jeremy Paxman, 01:41:26 - Elon Musk, Mini Driver, Eddie Izzard, Princess Catherine, Rupert Murdoch, 01:44:46 - Piers’ 3hr daily practice 01:46:44 - Taoist Tantric Arts 01:47:59 - Piers’ advice for taking on new practices 01:49:37 - Piers’ meditation practice 01:51:02 - Closing remarks and advice for ex-boarders … To find our more about Piers Cross, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/@pierscross - https://www.piers-cross.com/ - https://www.boardingoninsanity.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep296: Sufi Music Master - Gerald Ilyas Klawatsch 1:15:00

منذ 20 weeks1:15:00

1:15:00

In this episode, I am joined by Gerald Ilyas Klawatsch, Sufi musician, music therapist, and founder of the international Ensemble Ak Pirim. Ilyas recalls stories of his Sufi path, his meeting and discipleship under his Sufi sheik, and stories of profound spiritual connection and transcendence through devotional music and religious practice. Ilyas describes Sufism as a love relationship, reveals his own difficult childhood, and explains how to stabilise divine ecstasy in the human body. Ilyas also tells the remarkable life story of his spiritual teacher, emphasises the importance of testing a guru, and reflects on the healing potential of religious practice. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - Names and titles in Sufism 02:46 - The death of Gerald’s master, Dr Rahmi Oruc Guvenc 03:51 - - Death of the lineage 05:54 - Why didn’t Dr Rahmi Oruc Guvenc pass on his lineage? 07:18 - The intended heir 07:40 - Gerald’s guitar studies and finding Sufism 11:40 - Meeting the master 15:00 - Early Sufi training with the master 17:22 - Sufism is a love relationship 21:47 - Dynamics in the early relationship with the master 23:43 - The remarkable life of Dr Rahmi Oruc Guvenc 36:21 - Islamic Sufism vs Universalist Sufism 38:41 - The love relationship and awakening the heart 44:29 - Stabilising the ecstasy 48:03 - Effects of being in relationship with a master 51:25 - How Gerald dealt with the pain of a difficult upbringing 55:15 - Healing the pain 57:49 - Gerald falls to his knees in front of the master 01:07:58 - Testing the teacher 01:10:33 - Sufi music therapy … To find out more about Gerald Ilyas Klawatsch, visit: - https://bengusu.com/g-ilyas-klatsch/ - https://www.youtube.com/@akpirimensemble For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

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Ep295: Life Cycle Ritual- Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya 3 1:14:19

منذ 20 weeks1:14:19

1:14:19

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 reveals the rich world of Newari life rituals, in which major life events such as birth, coming of age, marriage, and death are celebrated by religious and community rites. Prajwal Vajracharya explains the initiation rituals for boys and girls, including a 12-day dark retreat in which girls are taught essential knowledge by community members, and reveals how divination and astrology are used to determine a child’s name and life path. Prajwal Vajracharya also discusses the importance of purity and discipline, bespoke rituals to clear obstacles, find a partner, and heal illness, and reflects on the challenges in bringing his ritual tradition to the USA. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep295-life-cycle-rituals-prajwal-ratna-vajracharya-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Life cycle rituals of the Newari tradition 02:17 - Pregnancy and birth rituals 04:40 - Is Western culture traumatising? 05:21 - Creating a happy pregnancy 06:28 - Rituals for infancy 08:28 - The baby knows what it needs 09:31 - Naming and earring rituals 11:39 - Divination and adornment rituals 12:50 - The 1 year ritual 13:41 - Egg, fish, and wine 14:26 - 2nd year ritual 16:!6 - 7th year initiation ritual for boys 17:54 - 12-day dark retreat initiation ritual for girls 20:28 - Variations among castes in Nepal 21:23 - Special, old age ritual for the 77th year 23:02 - 88th year and a rebirth ritual 25:42 - Grieving customs for parent’s death 27:36 - Science of rituals and living a happy life 28:29 - In Nepal, everyone takes care of their parents 29:07 - Lack of dementia in Nepal 29:44 - Ritual as a family and community activity 31:20 - Obstacle removal, house blessing, and healing rituals 32:44 - Clay-pot rebirth ritual at 99 years old 35:53 - Respecting the elderly 36:48 - How to choose a child’s name 38:25 - Spiritual names 38:58 - Divination to determine the child’s career and life path 40:39 - What did Prajwal’s son choose? 42:02 - Astrology chart for a new baby 42:53 - The Chudakarma ritual and monastic training 43:49 - Ritual obligations as a Vajrācārya 48:40 - When rituals go wrong! 50:28 - Origin of and textual sources for Newari rituals 52:37 - Purity and preparing for ritual 54:47 - Discipline and respecting others 55:52 - Rituals to get a girlfriend and other life situations 58:08 - The many benefits of rituals 01:01:35 - The complexities of married life 01:03:06 - Bringing Newari ritual traditions to the West 01:05:34 - Innovation and training Westerners in Vajrācārya rituals 01:08:10 - Self-initiation and awakening the channel and nerves 01:09:13 - An American Vajrācārya? 01:10:00 - Challenging reactions in Nepal 01:11:52 - Gurū maṇḍala, the heart of Newari ritual 01:13:40 - Mudrā healing … Previous episodes with Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=prajwal 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…

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Ep294: Shadow Work for the Soul - Mary Shutan 1:18:31

منذ 21 weeks1:18:31

1:18:31

In this episode I am once again joined by Mary Shutan: author, occultist, and spiritual teacher. Mary discusses her new book “Shadow Work for the Soul”, shares her lifelong fascination with the psychological power of dark fairytales, and explains the function of social masks and personae. Mary remarks on a notable increase in spiritual emergencies, a rise in nihilism and the “dark feminine”, and offers advice for those facing spiritual crisis. Mary then takes a deep dive into shadow work, challenges common misconceptions, and offers surprising reflections on both new age masculine-feminine trends and “The Work” of Byron Katie. Mary also reveals how to perceive the shadow in popular culture, warns about the danger of spiritual bypass, and explains how to identify and disarm the ego defences to go beyond one’s limitations. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep294-shadow-work-for-the-soul-mary-shutan Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - An notable increase in spiritual emergencies 03:51 - Nihilism and other trends on the increase 05:30 - Collective shadows and the dark feminine 07:25 - How to work with nihilism 08:27 - Mary’s advice for those in spiritual crisis 09:39 - The psychological power of myths and fairy tales 11:26 - What can myths and fairy tales teach us? 12:19 - Archetypes and mythic figures 13:18 - Princess and the Pea and Sisyphus 15:21 - Seeing oneself reflected in myths and fairy tales 16:50 - Trauma isolates 18:00 - What is the shadow? 19:43 - What is shadow work? 20:08 - How concepts change when they become mainstream 21:36 - The evolution of acupuncture 23:51 - Limitations of the pop-culture version of shadow work 26:58 - Comments on Byron Katie and “The Work” 31:27 - The healthy ego and ego defences 33:33 - How to identify the ego’s defence mechanisms 34:33 - Intellectualisation vs embodiment 35:32 - Superiority/inferiority loop 37:09 - The world as a mirror 40:02 - Pop culture and politics 41:29 - Dangers of spiritual bypass 45:50 - Masks, personae, and perfectionism 47:36 - The importance of mentors 48:47 - Self enquiry traps and the dangers of labels 50:47 - Identifying with spiritual attainments 53:30 - When did Mary call off the search? 55:35 - Letting go of the high-achiever identity 58:03 - Anima, animus, and the masculine-feminine continuum 59:34 - Masculine and feminine dynamics in the occult 01:02:13 - Identifying collective shadows through pop culture figures 01:04:12- Today’s cultural focus on narcissism 01:05:41 - Noting your personal reactions to celebrity 01:06:02 - The cultural phenomenon of Taylor Swift 01:08:36 - Shadows of light 01:10:02 - Dark feminine rising 01:10:56 - Why “dark feminine?” 01:12:48 - How do we emerge from times of change? 01:14:48 - Mary’s view of the future … Previous episode with Mary Shutan: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shutan 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…

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Ep293: Secrets of Consort Practice - Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron 1:26:03

منذ 22 weeks1:26:03

1:26:03

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 reveals her experience as a spiritual consort to a Tibetan lama, and shares her understanding of this controversial practice. Khandro Kunzang recalls how she became a consort, details her extensive preparations, and explains the coarse and subtle body yogas involved. Khandro Kunzang also discusses the use of consort practice for life extension, how to respond if a guru suggests you become his consort, and why it is that she is now talking publicly about this hitherto secret practice. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep293-secrets-of-consort-practice-khandro-kunzang-dechen-chodron-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:48 - The graduated path 04:28 - The fruition of Dzogchen and Ati Yoga 05:41 - The effortless path 06:34 - Dzogchen mistakes 07:40 - Is a 3 year retreat necessary? 08:42 - Personalised retreat with guru 09:32 - Signs of accomplishment on retreat 14:31 - Secret training with Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 16:03 - Jealousy of Tibetan students 17:33 - Pure Dzogchen vs gradual path 21:04 - How do I know my practice is working? 23:50 - The ultimate test of practice 25:30 - Lama Dawa’s terminal cancer and yogic death 31:17 - The practice of yogic dying 33:11 - Physiological signs of tukdam 34:07 - Death of Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 35:42 - Miraculous behaviour of Lama Dawa’s relics 37:42 - Difficulties and challenges during Lama Dawa’s end of life 42:08 - Personal restoration during the pandemic 42:48 - The ultimate teaching 43:25 - Displacing grief to keep the show on the road 46:48 - When to begin consort practice? 50:37 - Authentic consort practice is very rare 52:01 - Classic consort stories 53:41 - Abusive lamas and gurus who claim expertise in consort practice 55:10 - The support role of a guru’s consort 56:50 - An “activity consort” 58:19 - Preparing to be Lama Dawa’s consort 59:13 - Using a consort to extend your life 01:00:59 - Using pipes to open the urethra 01:04:49 - Training to purify the lower chakras and draw in the essence fluid 01:06:49 - Working with the thigle drops 01:07:17 - Using eros to experience emptiness 01:08:20 - Consort practice is not romantic 01:08:49 - Extreme consort practice 01:10:06 - Unresolved traumas in consort practice 01:11:05 - Is vajrolī mudrā really possible? 01:13:22 - Jñānamudrā and self practice 1:17:06 - Test your lama if he suggests consort practice 01:20:48 - Why talk openly about secret consort practice? 01:21:24 - Disrobing as a nun to engage in tantric practice 01:23:17 - Seeing your teacher as a living Buddha 01:24:16 - Motives for marrying Lama Dawa … Previous episodes with Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=khandro%20kunzang To find our more about Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron, visit: - https://www.phurbathinleyling.org/khandro-kunzang/…

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Ep292: Dharma Reunited - Daniel Ingram and Delson Armstrong 2 1:44:01

منذ 23 weeks1:44:01

1:44:01

In this episode I once again 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 founder of the Freedom of Mind foundation. Daniel offers his response to Delson’s recent renunciations, warns about the power of self hypnosis, and explains why it is so common for people to revise their enlightenment claims. Delson considers how it was that he mistook the nature of his spiritual achievements, considers the impact of his renunciation on his practice community and students, and looks ahead to his own future as a teacher and guide. Daniel and Delson address criticisms they have both received for their revisions of important Buddhist doctrines such as the 4 path model of awakening, comment on gatekeeping and fundamentalism in Buddhism, and consider whether advances in contemplative neuroscience may pose a serious threat to traditional religions and their institutions. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify. … 01:51 - The situation 04:36 - Daniel’s response to Delson’s renunciation 07:14 - Early schism in Buddhism 08:20 - Does Daniel feel vindicated? 09:42 - Delson reflects on what he has learned from Daniel 12:34 - The snake has shed its skin 13:29 - Profound not simple 14:26 - Neurodiversity and the spiritual path 16:54 - Hypnotising yourself into believing you’re enlightened 19:17 - How did Delson get his enlightenment wrong? 22:22 - Social factors 24:13 - A gradual process 25:06 - Gatekeepin in Buddhism 27:35 - Jack Kornfield and Christopher Titmuss 30:51 - Social influence on perceptions of spiritual progress 33:35 - Relationships 35:21 - The World Without Sin 38:43 - Can you ever go back? Spoiling the party 40:38 - Delson on negative reactions from his community 43:57 - Attached to models, experiences, and perfection? 46:17 - Stages of development 47:17 - Leading with vulnerability 48:45 - A different type of practitioner 49:55 - The appeal of Vajrayāna 52:21 - Specific criticisms of Daniel and Delson 54:19 - Why do Daniel & Delson revise Buddhism? 56:43 - Delson's critics 59:51 - Transference and counter-transference 01:01:18 - Tantric guru yoga 01:01:47 - When your guru disappoints 01:02:05 - Bhikkhu Anālayo and Daniel's other critics 01:02:27 - Neuroscience and religious orthodoxy 01:06:34 - Will neuroscience destroy Buddhism? 01:10:24 - Praise for the Theravāda 01:11:45 - Theravādan exceptionalism 01:12:37 - Validating or defeating religion? 01:15:43 - Finders’ Course and retrenchment to orthodoxy 01:17:57 - Delson on contemplative neuroscience 01:20:39 - What does Daniel think will next happen to Delson? 01:23:23 - Maturing as a spiritual explorer 01:26:33 - Attachment styles & kalyāṇa-mittatā 01:28:40 - Loss of enthusiasm for practice in advanced practitioners 01:31:18 - Micro-renunciations and disgust for the quest 01:33:42 - When spiritual teachers lose their faith 0135:28 - How Delson keeps his interest in teaching 01:38:20 - Why Daniel decided not to become a teacher 01:40:32 - Delson’s closing remarks 01:40:45 - Daniel’s closing remarks 01:41:04 - Praise for the religious orthodoxy 01:42:21 - Acknowledging critics 01:43:17 - Disagreeing with grace and respect … Previous dialogue between Daniel and Delson: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znX6w6shQ7c Previous episodes with Daniel: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=daniel Previous episodes with Delson: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson To find out more about Daniel, visit: - https://theeprc.org/ - integrateddaniel.info To find out more about Delson, visit: - https://www.delsonarmstrong.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/@delson999 - https://www.freedom-of-mind.org/ www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep291: Neuroscience of Enlightenment - Ron Serrano 1:06:07

منذ 24 weeks1:06:07

1:06:07

In this interview I am once again joined by Ron Serrano long time meditation practitioner, contemplative neuroscience subject, and co-founder of the online meditation group Dharmachanics. Ron gives a summary of the major studies in contemplative neuroscience in the last several years, in many of which he was a key subject. Ron explains several historical and ongoing studies including Dr Jud Brewer’s landmark Yale University study into the default mode network, hypotheses about the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and the sense of self, and the promise of brain scan technology and real-time neurofeedback devices to fast-track enlightenment. Ron also draws from his experience leading the online meditation group Dharmachanics to offer insight into the typical trajectory towards transformative spiritual experiences, patterns of development in meditators, and how he responds when somebody claims they are enlightened. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep291-neuroscience-of-enlightenment-ron-serrano-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Reflections on life and practice 2020 02:37 - Growth of the Dharmachanics online sangha 03:19 - Dharmachanics discussion group about Guru Viking Podcast 03:50 - Sangha is the toughest of the three jewels 04:51 - Patterns of development for meditators 05:59 - The typical trajectory towards awakening 08:48 - How to relate to special meditation experiences 12:34 - Testing enlightenment 13:37 - Ron’s history of participation in contemplative neuroscience 14:09 - Primary subject for Dr Jud Brewer’s landmark study at Yale University 16:26 - The PCC and the no-self 18:24 - Developing the brain scan technology and equipment 19:31 - The accelerating power of real-time meditation feedback 22:18 - How 2020 derailed contemplative neuroscience 23:38 - Ron on commercially available brainwave-feedback products 26:59 - How neuroscience studies really work 28:01 - Debate with Daniel Ingram 28:44 - Daniel’s contributions to contemplative neuroscience 29:41 - A gold standard phenomenology and technological Harvard study 32:43 - A comprehensive blueprint of the enlightened mind 34:54 - 2 major brain networks 26:56 - Secrecy and hidden players 39:15 - A treasure trove of data 40:32 - The holy grail of contemplative neuroscience 41:38 - Why Ron is pessimistic about finding neuro-correlates of awakening 43:14 - The blessing and curse of the Dalai Lama brand 46:08 - Politics and why neuroscientists need the Dalai Lama’s 47:47 - Will neuroscience render religious teachers obsolete? 49:38 - Will AI replace meditation teachers? 50:35 - What will happen to religion if neuroscience cracks the enlightenment code? 52:32 - A history of disruption 54:05 - Does astronomy offer a historical parallel to contemplative neuroscience? 55:46 - The costly problem of data analysis 58:14 - Can this technology be weaponised? 01:00:48 - Technology dependency 01:01:25 - Addictive meditation technology 01:04:39 - Ron reflects on Steve and the podcast … Previous episode with Ron Serrano: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=prajwal To find out more about Ron Serrano, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Dharmachanics/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep290: Answering Critics & Kriya Yoga - Delson Armstrong 1:23:14

منذ 25 weeks1:23:14

1:23:14

In this episode I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ‘A Mind Without Craving’. In this interview, Delson responds to criticism and answers questions about his recent renunciation of attainments and revision of the Buddhist 4 path enlightenment model. Delson reflects on the pros and cons of questioning established religious doctrines and on the role of direct experience in challenging fixed views. Delson comments on a recently leaked interview, shares his current position on Bhante Vimalaramsi and his TWIM meditation method, and compares Buddhism to traditional yoga. Delson also recalls his own training in Kriya yoga, details the features of the particular lineage which he has begun to teach, and reveals methods of working with karma, chakras, and forgiveness. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep290-answering-critics-kriya-yoga-delson-armstrong Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Responses to Delson renouncing his spiritual attainments 02:56 - Criticism of Delson 04:08 - Has Delson abandoned the 10 fetter model and the 4 attainments? 05:18 - Delson’s leaked interview 07:58 - Breach of trust and betrayal of friendship 09:32 - Why redefine the Buddhist doctrines rather than reassess oneself? 12:46 - Delson’s experience vs cultural consensus 13:50 - Is Buddhist doctrine beyond cultural? 16:25 - Going beyond maps and Integral Theory 17:35 - Challenging fundamentalism and fixed views 18:43 - The jīvanmukta and other mystical traditions 20:22 - Transcending doctrinal chains of imprisonment 21:37 - Daniel Ingram’s revisions 23:07 - Delsonism vs Buddhism 24:44 - Should Delson leave the traditions alone? 26:09 - The role of tradition and Delson’s contribution 27:31 - Comments on TWIM 28:32 - Drawing on different traditions 30:03 - Current view 32:05 - Delson’s current opinion on TWIM and Bhante Vimalaramsi 36:26 - Delson’s training in Kriya yoga 40:16 - Which Kriya yoga lineage does Delson teach? 42:17 - Anyone can do Kriya yoga 44:09 - Short learning curve to samadhi 45:03 - Relaxing into awakening 46:39 - What is the point of the jhanas? 48:13 - Chakras and siddhi powers 51:37 - Deities and chakras 53:26 - The Yoga Sutras on siddhi power 55:07 - Karmic acceleration and misconceptions about chakra work 58:00 - How to release karma 01:00:03 - Kriya yoga approach to work with chakras 01:00:34 - The power of forgiveness 01:01:51 - TWIM vs Kriya, Yoga vs Buddhism 01:07:37 - Delson’s recent experience teaching Kriya yoga 01:11:35 - Initiation in Kriya yoga and tantra 01:15:51 - Secrecy as a marketing tool 01:17:17 - Delson reflects on his teaching career 01:19:23 - Scientific tests on Delson, can he still meditate? `… Watch previous episodes with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson Find out more about Delson Armstrong: - Personal Site: https://www.delsonarmstrong.com/ - YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@delson999 - Delson's Foundation: https://www.freedom-of-mind.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James…

Guru Viking Podcast

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Ep289: Mystic Poetry of Rumi - Professor William Rory Dickson 1:19:22

منذ 26 weeks1:19:22

1:19:22

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 takes a deep dive into the life and works of Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī (1207-1273 AD), a 13th century Sufi poet whose works have become famous all around the world. Professor Dickson recounts the fascinating life of Rūmī, including his flight from Mongol invasion, his education in Islamic law, his life-changing encounter with the wild, mystical dervish Shams-i Tabrīzī, and his far-reaching legacy in Asia and beyond. Professor Dickson also explains the anti-Rūmī movements within modern Islam, challenges criticism of Coleman Barks’ popular renderings of Rūmī’s verse, and explores the controversial Sufi metaphors of intoxication by wine and passionate desire to describe the practitioner’s relationship with God. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep289-mystic-poetry-of-rumi-professor-william-rory-dickson-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:25 - The life of Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī 03:39 - Neither universalist nor orthodox 05:09 - Rūmī, sharī’ah law, and radical Islam 07:08 - The range of Sufi expression over history 07:56 - The wandering dervishes 08:42 - Rūmī’s life-changing encounter with the radical dervish Shams-i Tabrīzī 09:56 - 3 stages of self-annihilation through love 11:14 - Shams-i Tabrīzī’s illicit alcohol use 13:36 - Rūmī’s spiritual poetry 16:13 - Rūmī’s explicit invectives 17:07 - Rūmī’s mystic father 19:08 - Mongol domination of Central Asia and Rūmī’s flight 21:29 - Rūmī’s colourful insults 22:52 - Challenging empty, orthodox religious forms 26:51 - Lack of nuance in the Rūmī wars 29:22 - Rūmī’s two major legacies 31:37 - The role of Sufi orders in different cultural contexts 33:48 - The anti-Sufis and a radical forgetting of Rūmī within Islam 35:37 - Coleman Barks and the Rūmī wars 37:23 - Criticism of Coleman Barks 39:06 - Coleman Barks was a Sufi 39:50 - Coleman Barks as an entry point 41:21 - The conundrum of translated literature 43:46 - How to communicate across cultures without losing the essence 45:12 - Rory’s enjoyment of Chogyam Trungpa 46:27 - Passionate desire and intoxication on wine 48:30 - Pre-Islamic Arab poetry, “gangster rap” 49:33 - Passionate love poetry 50:55 - Romantic streak in Arab culture 51:53 - Influence of Persian culture on Muslim mystic metaphors 52:46 - Sufism’s Neo-Platonism 55:50 - Remembering the One and Tantric practice 56:59 - Integrating the sensual and the spiritual 59:18 - Appreciation of pleasure as a vehicle to God 01:00:07 - Sufi sexuality and the paths of Jesus vs Mohammad 01:05:28 - Scandalous to orthodox Islam 01:07:48 - Knowing God directly 01:09:53 - Categorising God vs Sufi gnosis 01:11:18 - Executed Sufi master 01:11:54 - Is Sufism inappropriate? 01:13:26 - Wine in Sufism and Islam 01:17:39 - Love is brutal … Previous episodes with Professor William Rory Dickson: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=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…

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