Ep413 - Sri M | Apprenticed to a Himalayan Master - A Yogi's Autobiography
Jan 19, 2024
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Sri M, a spiritual guide and social reformer, shares his transformational journey from a young boy to a living yogi. He discusses his remarkable 'Walk of Hope' for peace, practical techniques for mindfulness, and the importance of recognizing every living being's place in the world. The podcast also explores different paths to spiritual evolution, the power of chanting mantras, expanded consciousness, and the concepts of Advaita and non-duality.
Achieving a quiet mind through mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga is essential for inner peace and connection with consciousness.
Embarking on a spiritual journey can lead to a transformative shift in perception, where the realization of interconnectedness and unity replaces the notion of a separate self.
Deep dives
The Importance of Quiet Mind and Mindfulness
One of the key points discussed in the podcast is the importance of achieving a quiet mind and practicing mindfulness. The speaker emphasizes that starting with the right mindset and being open to exploring alternative approaches is crucial. Various techniques, such as meditation, yoga, breath work, or even listening to calming music, can be used to calm the mind and cultivate a positive, non-agitated state. The aim is to reach a state of calmness where distractions are minimized and one can connect with their inner consciousness.
The Shift in Perception and Understanding
Another main idea from the podcast is the profound shift in perception and understanding that can occur on a spiritual journey. The speaker shares their personal experience of realizing that consciousness is not confined to an individual, separate self, but is an all-pervading force that connects everyone and everything. This realization fundamentally changes how one sees themselves and the world. They mention that after this experience, life cannot be the same, as the separation between self and others dissolves, and a deep sense of interconnectedness and unity emerges.
Exploring Different Paths and Approaches
The podcast emphasizes the importance of finding one's own path and approach to spiritual growth. The speaker encourages listeners to explore different practices, such as chanting mantras, engaging in meditation, or studying ancient texts like the Vedas, to find what resonates best with them. They highlight that there isn't one correct path or technique, and that individuals should follow what feels right for their own spiritual journey.
The Illusory Nature of Reincarnation and Karma
The concept of reincarnation and karma is briefly addressed in the podcast. The speaker suggests that from the ultimate perspective of non-duality, where there is a realization of the interconnectedness of all things, the notions of separate entities and the cycle of rebirth lose their significance. They explain that until this understanding is reached, the experience of reincarnation and the effects of karma may appear real. However, once the truth of non-duality is realized, these concepts no longer hold importance.
Sri M is a spiritual guide, social reformer and educationist. His transformational journey – from a young boy to a living yogi – is a fascinating story. He recently completed a Walk of Hope – a 15 month long padayatra, or “walking on foot”, in 2016, from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, spanning 7500 kilometers across 11 states of India for peace, harmony and tolerance.
In his Talk, he describes his journey, learnings and gives practical techniques for Mindfulness.