The Complexity of Desire: Buddhist Insights and Western Misinterpretations

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, host Stewart Alsop is joined by Reya Manna, founder of the Song Keepers School, for an inspiring conversation that traverses spirituality, the power of the human voice, psychedelics, ancient creation myths, and the cultural significance of storytelling and singing. Reya shares her journey from being discouraged from pursuing a life centered around singing to discovering its deeper healing potential during South American plant medicine ceremonies. The discussion touches on the sacred role of sound in protection and healing, the pitfalls of artificial intelligence's detachment from soul and embodiment, and the importance of nurturing authentic self-expression amidst modern distractions like social media. This rich dialogue emphasizes the profound wisdom carried through connection to nature, the divine feminine, and practices of deep listening, which Reya also integrates into her Song Keepers School. If you're seeking to reconnect with your voice and align with ancient healing traditions, you can learn more about Reya’s work and upcoming programs at www.reyamanna.com. The training program this year starts Feb 1st.

Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to the Crazy Wisdom Podcast

00:32 Rhea Mana's Journey with Singing

02:01 The Healing Power of Singing and Shamanic Ceremonies

03:43 Exploring Psychedelics and Their Cultural Impact

05:56 The Role of Social Media in Modern Spirituality

09:02 Desire, Sorcery, and Gnostic Myths

18:50 Artificial Intelligence and Its Philosophical Implications

23:13 The Influence of Technology on Human Connection

35:05 God as Motion and Creative Spark

35:39 Shifting Ages and Prophecies

37:14 Embodied Knowledge and AI

38:17 Rebuilding Traditions and Health

41:50 The Spirit of Singing

50:14 The Divine Feminine and Spiritual Discernment

57:38 Predictive Programming and Creative Principle

59:17 Connecting with Voice and Nature

01:04:04 Song Keeper School and Spiritual Practices

Key Insights

1. The Power of the Voice as a Tool for Healing and Connection: Reya Manna emphasizes that singing is more than a performance—it's a sacred act of self-expression that connects us to our essence and to the unseen world. The vibration of our own voice can ground us, heal emotional wounds, and serve as a tool for blessing and transformation when used with intentionality and love. This deeper understanding of the voice’s role in healing can reframe how we view self-expression and creativity.
2. Rediscovering Ancestral Wisdom and Connection to Nature: The conversation highlights how many of us have become disconnected from ancestral practices and the natural world. Reya explains how nature holds wisdom in its patterns and sounds, serving as a "library" of memory and guidance. Through offerings, prayers, and song, individuals can rekindle a relationship with the earth that restores a sense of belonging and purpose.
3. Singing as a Transmission of Love and Sacred Intentions: In contrast to the commodification of music in modern society, Reya describes how the act of singing has traditionally been used by shamans and healers to convey love, protection, and blessings. By building a practice of singing from the heart, individuals can access their authentic voice and align with their higher purpose, amplifying their energy field and positively impacting others.
4. Navigating the Modern Landscape of Technology and AI with Discernment: Stewart and Reya discuss the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on creativity and self-awareness. They reflect on how AI can replicate but cannot embody the soulful essence of human expression. This prompts a reminder to foster resilience against digital distractions by grounding ourselves in embodied experiences and genuine human connection.
5. The Interplay Between Spirituality, Desire, and Social Conditioning: The discussion delves into the Gnostic myths and the idea that true desires originate from the "high heart" and guide us toward our soul's blueprint. However, lower desires—amplified by social media and consumerism—can entrap us in illusions. Recognizing this distinction can help individuals reclaim their agency and align with their authentic spiritual path.
6. The Divine Feminine and Sacred Balance in Creation: Reya brings attention to the erasure of the divine feminine in many spiritual narratives and emphasizes the importance of restoring balance by honoring both masculine and feminine energies. She shares stories of ancient priestesses and the sacred role of women as conduits of creation and wisdom, suggesting that reclaiming this knowledge is essential for collective healing and spiritual evolution.
7. A Call to Collective Kindness and Creative Agency: The conversation ends with a reflection on the power of individual actions in creating ripples of collective change. Whether through a simple song, a kind gesture, or a moment of deep listening, every act of love and care contributes to a more harmonious world. Reya underscores the importance of remembering that we are creators of our reality, capable of shaping a future imbued with compassion, connection, and truth.