Spirit Gym with Paul Chek
EP 151 — Paul Chek: The People Who Changed My Life
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Influence of family on spirituality and creativity from Paul's mother
- Teaching resilience through hard work by stepfather
- Impact of mentors in holistic health career
- Profound experiences with spiritual figures like shamans and philosophers
- Exploration of consciousness and interconnectedness through influential thinkers
- Integration of diverse philosophies in spiritual and intellectual journey
Deep dives
Influential People Who Changed His Life
Paul Chek reflects on the influential people who have changed his life. Starting with his mother, who taught him about spirituality and creativity, he shares how her resilience and devotion shaped his worldview. Moving on to his stepfather, who instilled toughness and responsibility in him through hard work and discipline. He also acknowledges his grandparents, who imparted wisdom and nurturance, helping him overcome challenges of his childhood.
Encounters with Mentors and Teachers
Paul discusses encounters with mentors like the self-realization fellowship friends who introduced him to spiritual teachings, and his experience with a boxing coach who paved the way for his career in holistic health. He also mentions the impact of individuals like Paul Saint John, a pioneer in neuromuscular therapy, and Vladimir Janda, whose advanced workshops enhanced his understanding of the body.
Journey of Spiritual Awakening and Self-Discovery
Paul Chek delves into his spiritual journey, highlighting encounters with influential figures like Eugene Sandow, who inspired his approach to movement and health. He also shares profound experiences with teachers like Master Fong Ha, who introduced him to Tai Chi and Qi Gong principles, and Rowena Crider, a powerful shaman who opened his eyes to spiritual dimensions. These encounters shaped his holistic approach to health and well-being.
Rowena Crider's Profound Influence
Rowena Crider, a remarkable individual with a diverse skill set spanning math, science, music, and shamanism, left a lasting impact on the speaker. Her deep abilities included playing personalized music for individuals that resonated with their souls. Through her teachings and consultations, she guided the speaker through challenging periods, demonstrating her powerful connection to the soul.
Exploration of Plant Medicines with Danny Way
Danny Way, a world-famous skateboarder, introduced the speaker to plant medicines like DMT through a doctor well-versed in their healing properties. This initiation led the speaker to have a transformative enlightenment experience and delve into years of research and study. The encounter with Danny Way paved the way for the speaker's in-depth understanding and mastery of plant medicine for healing purposes.
Encounter with the Teachings of Rudolf Steiner
The speaker delved into the profound teachings of Rudolf Steiner, a mystic and philosopher known for his deep insights into various subjects. Steiner's contributions to biodynamic farming, Waldorf education, anthroposophic medicine, and alchemy left a lasting imprint on the speaker, influencing the development of the speaker's own alchemical system. By integrating Steiner's concepts with those of Carl Jung, the speaker was able to synthesize a cohesive and impactful system.
The Wisdom of Lao Tzu and the Tao
Lao Tzu, the Chinese sage and philosopher, introduced the speaker to the concept of the Tao, emphasizing the unity and interconnectedness of the universe. Lao Tzu's teachings on the Tao and the duality of yin and yang as complementary forces resonated deeply with the speaker, providing profound insights into the nature of existence and the importance of harmony. Through Lao Tzu's philosophy, the speaker gained a deeper understanding of the fundamental forces that shape life and consciousness.
Influence of Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Abraham Maslow's theory on the hierarchy of needs, stating that human motivation is driven by various levels of needs ranging from basic survival to self-actualization, had a significant impact on the speaker. Maslow's emphasis on the importance of fulfilling higher-level needs for personal growth and self-fulfillment resonated with the speaker, guiding their understanding of human behavior and motivation.
Integration of Spirituality and Science Through Itzhak Bentov
Itzhak Bentov, a multidisciplinary scientist and mystic, deeply influenced the speaker through his innovative research on meditation and consciousness. Bentov's exploration of higher consciousness and spiritual dimensions, combined with his scientific approach to investigating the mind-body connection, inspired the speaker's own inquiry into the intersection of spirituality and science. By studying Bentov's works, the speaker gained valuable insights into the nature of consciousness and the interconnectedness of all aspects of existence.
Realization of Unconditional Love Through Aldous Huxley
Aldous Huxley, renowned for his seminal work 'The Perennial Philosophy,' profoundly impacted the speaker by exploring the universal truths and commonalities among world religions and philosophies. Huxley's ability to bridge spiritual wisdom and scientific principles in his writings resonated deeply with the speaker, fostering a deeper understanding of unconditional love and the interconnectedness of spiritual beliefs across cultures. Through Huxley's teachings, the speaker discovered insights into the essence of humanity and the essential unity underlying diverse spiritual traditions.
Self-Discovery and Soul Connection
The speaker embarked on a personal journey of self-discovery and soul connection, seeking answers on how to engage with their soul directly. Through meditation and introspection, the speaker established a profound relationship with their soul, learning to interpret its subtle signals and guidance in decision-making. This deep connection allowed the speaker to tap into their soul's wisdom for creative expression, decision-making, and spiritual growth, fundamentally shaping their personal and professional development.
Impact of Confucian Philosophy on Education
Confucius, a revered Chinese teacher and philosopher, influenced the speaker's perspective on education through his emphasis on holistic learning and character development. Confucius's teachings on moral values, social harmony, and the importance of classical education resonated with the speaker, inspiring a broader view of education as a means to cultivate virtuous individuals and contribute to a harmonious society. The principles of the golden rule and Confucian ethics guided the speaker's approach to personal growth and ethical behavior.
Gandhi's Legacy of Nonviolence and Social Change
Mahatma Gandhi, a pioneering advocate of nonviolence and social justice, left a lasting impact on the speaker through his revolutionary approach to activism and peaceful resistance. Gandhi's effective use of nonviolent strategies to instigate social change and oppose colonial oppression inspired the speaker's commitment to compassionate action and ethical leadership. Despite controversies surrounding Gandhi, his legacy of nonviolence and moral courage continues to shape the speaker's values and principles.
Personal Quest for Wisdom and Fulfillment
The speaker's journey of exploration and self-discovery led them to engage with a wide range of influential figures, philosophies, and teachings, ultimately shaping their perspective on life, spirituality, and personal growth. Through encounters with diverse thinkers and profound concepts, the speaker cultivated a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of knowledge and wisdom, integrating diverse perspectives into their own spiritual and intellectual journey.
David Bohm: A Revolutionary Quantum Physicist and Philosopher
David Bohm, a quantum physicist and philosopher, revolutionized quantum physics with his concepts of the implicate and explicate orders. He developed a profound system and philosophy for quantum physics, emphasizing the hidden potentials and possibilities below the microscopic level. Bohm's work highlighted the transition from the unmanifested implicate order to the manifested explicate order, illustrating the interconnectedness of all potentials and manifestations.
Kabir: The Unifying Mystic Poet
Kabir, a Hindu-Muslim mystic poet, navigated the challenges of his mixed ancestry to become a unifying force through his teachings. He promoted inclusivity by allowing all individuals, regardless of social status, to gather and learn together. Kabir emphasized practical spirituality, rejecting rigid spiritual practices, and focusing on inner growth within life's diverse experiences. His profound poetry and teachings continue to inspire spiritual seekers.
Ken Wilber: Bridging Philosophy and Spirituality
Ken Wilber, a renowned philosopher, delved into the intricate connections between spirituality, consciousness, and human development. Through his integral approach, Wilber explored the levels and lines of development, emphasizing the multidimensional nature of human growth. His works, including the Four Quadrant Model, shed light on the interconnectedness of individual and collective experiences, guiding individuals towards a holistic understanding of existence.
Sri Aurobindo: The Visionary Philosopher and Sage
Sri Aurobindo, a visionary philosopher and sage, delved deep into the realms of consciousness, evolution, and spirituality. Educated at Cambridge University, Aurobindo merged Eastern and Western philosophies, offering profound insights on the nature of the self and the universe. His deep teachings on unconditional love, spiritual mastery, and harmony resonate with seekers worldwide, highlighting the interconnectedness between individual growth and universal evolution.
Richard Feynman: The Brilliant Physicist and Mathematician
Richard Feynman, an eminent physicist and mathematician, revolutionized quantum electrodynamics with his groundbreaking concepts. Known for his out-of-the-box thinking and playful approach to science, Feynman provided profound insights into the behavior of particles and the nature of reality. His ability to simplify complex ideas through diagrams and practical examples made him a beloved figure in the scientific community, inspiring many with his genius and creativity.
John Wheeler: The Visionary Physicist and Philosopher
John Wheeler, a visionary physicist and teacher, delved into the profound connections between consciousness, the universe, and quantum mechanics. Through his teachings, Wheeler illuminated the sentient nature of the cosmos, suggesting that all living beings are intricately linked in a feedback loop with the universe. His innovative ideas, such as the concept of one universal electron, challenged traditional scientific perspectives, revealing the deep interconnectedness of all phenomena.
Arnold Mindell: The Holistic Psychologist and Philosopher
Arnold Mindell, a holistic psychologist and philosopher, integrated mathematics, gestalt concepts, and psychology to create a transformative approach to healing and self-discovery. His pioneering work in process psychology emphasized the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, offering a new perspective on illness and disease as opportunities for spiritual growth. Mindell's teachings guide individuals towards a more compassionate and empathetic understanding of health and healing.
Fred Alan Wolf: The Mystical Physicist and Shaman
Fred Alan Wolf, a mystical physicist and shaman, bridged the gap between science and spirituality through his groundbreaking insights into consciousness and reality. Known for his visionary approach to quantum physics and spiritual matters, Wolf explored the mysteries of the universe and the human mind. His profound book 'The Spiritual Universe' provides a comprehensive vision of the interconnectedness of spirit, matter, and consciousness, inspiring seekers to delve deeper into the nature of existence.
Coleman Barks: The Poetic Interpreter of Rumi's Wisdom
Coleman Barks, a poetic translator and interpreter of Rumi's wisdom, captivated readers with his soulful renditions of the mystic poet's verses. Through his translations of Rumi's timeless poetry, Barks offered a profound glimpse into the depths of spirituality and love. His intimate understanding of Sufism and Rumi's teachings illuminated the beauty and universality of mystical experiences, touching the hearts and souls of countless seekers.
Margaret A. Newman: The Visionary Nurse and Healer
Margaret A. Newman, a visionary nurse and healer, transformed the healthcare landscape with her holistic approach to illness and disease. Her groundbreaking work in expanding consciousness and spiritual growth reshaped the understanding of health and healing. Newman's insights into the spiritual dimensions of illness and the healing potential of disease paved the way for a more compassionate and empathetic view of healthcare, emphasizing the profound opportunities for growth and transformation in the face of challenges.
Houston Smith: The World's Leading Expert on Spiritual Traditions
Houston Smith, a revered scholar and authority on world religions, illuminated the depths of spiritual traditions and teachings for seekers around the globe. His extensive exploration of various faiths and mystical paths offered invaluable insights into the universal truths found in diverse religious practices. Smith's profound understanding of spirituality and his commitment to bridging cultural divides inspired a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of human beliefs and experiences.
The Transformative Power of Working with Stones
Working with stones, inspired by interactions with Coleman Barks, transformed Paul's perspective on exercise and spirituality. After recalling childhood experiences with rocks on a farm, he began incorporating stone lifting and stacking into his spiritual practice, leading to deep growth and athletic experiences.
Deep Spiritual Teachings and Healing Practices of Joseph Rael
Joseph Rael's profound spiritual journey and mastery of sound and vibration principles significantly impacted Paul. Rael's experiences with his father, participation in the grueling sun dance ceremony, and teachings on breath energy demonstrated advanced spiritual development. His expertise in sound healing, cosmic origin insights, and alignment with quantum physics resonated with Paul's spiritual exploration.
We are reminded all the time how much of a guiding force Paul has been for so many people throughout his life as a teacher, mentor and skilled health practitioner. But who has influenced the mentor of so many people all over the world?
Paul celebrates his 60th birthday with an intimate Living 4D podcast devoted to the many people who have changed his life.
Show Notes
- Paul’s mother, Meera Censor, taught him the importance of spirituality. (3:57)
- “I was raised by a grizzly bear.” (10:15)
- The first book Paul read at age 22. (33:17)
- The father Paul never had. (54:11)
- Paul’s first experience with a Shaman set the bar high. (1:11:39)
- Did you know Rudolf Steiner developed a form of movement called Eurythmy? (1:22:36)
- What do Paul, Carl Jung and Madonna have in common? (1:41:54)
- Is Plotinus a philosopher or a mystic? (1:59:38)
- Three qualities of the soul. (2:02:17)
- “Upgrade your software no matter what religion you're in by studying the mystics of that religion.” (2:13:32)
- How often do you talk to your soul? (2:20:03)
- The four qualities of a spiritual master. (2:50:36)
- Is the universe sentient and conscious? (3:00:19)
- Do you feel vibrations when you touch a book? (3:23:50)
- Could disease be a spiritual growth opportunity? (3:30:52)
- Who inspires Paul to stick to the truth and God? (3:56:58)
- This amazing man taught Paul how to receive gifts. (4:01:38)
- Paul’s grandfather resembles this famous philosopher. (4:15:12)
Resources
- The Secret of the Golden Flower: A Chinese Book of Life by Richard Wilhelm and Carl Jung
- The Six Enneads of Plotinus by Stephen McKenna
- Return to the One: Plotinus’ Guide to God Realization by Brian Hines
- The Perennial Philosophy by Aldous Huxley
- Quantum Mind: The Edge Between Physics and Psychology, ProcessMind: A User’s Guide to Connecting With The Mind of God and The Shaman’s Body by Arnold Mindell
- Jeffery Mishlove interviews Arthur M. Young on YouTube
More resources for this episode are available on our website.
Thanks to our awesome sponsors: The CHEK Academy, Organifi (save 20 percent on your purchase by using the code CHEK20 at checkout), Paleovalley (save 15 percent on your purchase by using the code chek15 at checkout), BiOptimizers (save 10 percent on your purchase by using the code Paul10 at checkout),
Thanks to our awesome sponsors:
Paleovalley
BIOptimizers US and BIOptimizers UK PAUL10
Organifi CHEK20
Wild Pastures
CHEK Institute Spring ATP Sale
Herbal Alchemy Workshop
We may earn commissions from qualifying purchases using affiliate links.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
