Introduction

Raphael Cushnir is a leading voice in the world of emotional connection and present moment awareness. He has shared his unique approach to personal and professional development with millions of readers in O, The Oprah Magazine, Beliefnet, Spirituality and Health, Psychology Today, and The Huffington Post. He is the author of six books, lectures worldwide, and is a faculty member of the Esalen Institute and the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health. In addition, he coaches individuals and couples, as well as organizations and their teams. Raphael’s own heart was opened by an experience of profound grief. Website: cushnir.com Books: The One Thing Holding You Back: Unleashing the Power of Emotional Connection Surfing Your Inner Sea: Essential Lessons for Lasting Serenity Setting Your Heart on Fire: Seven Invitations to Liberate Your Life How Now: 100 Ways to Celebrate the Present Moment Unconditional Bliss: Finding Happiness in the Face of Hardship Interview recorded September 3, 2017 Discussion of this interview in the Batgap Community Facebook Group. Transcript of this interview YouTube Video Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Buddha at the Gas Pump 00:04:58 - The Emotional Realm and Awakening 00:09:43 - The Skepticism of Spiritual Teachers and Authenticity 00:14:42 - Genuine Humility and Blind Spots in Spiritual Teachers 00:19:36 - The Intersection of Psychology and Spirituality 00:24:25 - Honoring the depth of a container 00:29:37 - "Choosing Connection and Presence" 00:34:56 - The Need for Spiritual Crisis Support 00:39:41 - The Transition to Surrendering Control 00:44:27 - The Unpredictability of Kundalini Awakening 00:48:59 - Living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 00:53:40 - Integration of Different Aspects of Being 00:57:40 - The Power of Integration 01:01:55 - The Heart Opening and Expansion of Consciousness 01:06:03 - Trusting Intuition and Being Open 01:09:59 - The Authentic Expression of Teachers 01:16:06 - The Container of the Self 01:18:03 - Strengthening the Ego and the Dance of Shiva and Shakti 01:22:11 - Techniques for Processing Trauma 01:26:12 - Emotions as Inner Touch 01:30:12 - Surfing Your Emotions 01:34:06 - Healing Through Practice 01:37:49 - Ramana Maharshi and the Radically Different Consciousness 01:41:48 - Embracing Resistance and Finding Freedom 01:45:49 - Neediness and Self-Identification 01:49:51 - The Value of Ongoing Support 01:53:40 - Growing in Ease and Acceptance 01:57:22 - The Sacred Journey of Seeking 02:01:10 - Following Your Curiosity and Trusting Your Heart 02:05:29 - Wrapping Up with Raphael Cushnir 02:09:10 - Sign up for the newsletter Save