Born and raised in San Diego, CA, and currently residing in Carlsbad, CA, Eli Recht is a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT), EMDR clinician, spiritual counselor, editor, and teacher of Self-realization.
In 2020, Eli experienced a falling away of ego identity and an awakening to the true nature of Reality. As a result, Eli has dedicated his life to service – to help alleviate suffering, cultivate connection, guide people through the often-confusing journey of Life, and invite others to recognize our shared unconditioned essence.
Eli’s specialty is blending contemporary psychological knowledge with timeless spiritual wisdom and advocating for the integration of these two disciplines.
Website: elirecht.com
Books (Editor and Foreword):
Grace Happens: An Awakening of Consciousness
Reflections of Consciousness: Essays on the Journey of Awakening and the Nature of Reality
Summary and transcript of this interview
Interview recorded January 11, 2025
YouTube Video Chapters:
00:00:00 Introduction to Buddha at the Gas Pump Series
00:03:56 Discovering Spiritual Insights through "Buddha at the Gas Pump"
00:09:14 Discovering Eastern Thought at Deer Park Monastery
00:15:21 Exploring Higher States of Consciousness Through Music
00:19:32 The Challenges of Kriya Yoga Practice
00:24:04 Struggles with Kriya Yoga and Finding Purpose
00:28:25 Journey to Emotional and Psychological Healing
00:33:16 Understanding Kundalini Activation and Its Effects
00:38:00 Discovering My Higher Self
00:41:31 Differentiating Awakening from Psychosis
00:45:44 The Path of Perseverance and Enlightenment
00:49:48 Realization of Oneness and Unity
00:54:33 The Importance of Service Post-Awakening
01:00:47 Understanding the Transition from Ego-Identification to Ego-Transcendence
01:04:41 The Influence of Meher Baba and the Journey to Self-Realization
01:09:36 Embracing a Different Memory Post-Awakening
01:13:03 Navigating Non-Doership and Embodiment
01:18:00 Understanding the Ego and Brahman
01:21:01 Rocket Ship as a Metaphor for Awakening
01:25:44 Understanding Psychosis and Spiritual Awakening
01:30:48 Illuminating the Ego: Pre and Post Awakening
01:35:40 Challenges of Kundalini Awakening
01:39:29 The Relationship Between Ego and Self-Realization
01:44:19 Navigating the Role of a Spiritual Teacher
01:49:30 The Role of Spirituality in Addressing Mental Illness
01:53:13 Humanity's Journey Through Suffering to Awakening
01:58:20 The Role of Donations in Spiritual Endeavors
02:02:07 Vision for a Peaceful Humanity
02:06:18 Exploring Life's Big Questions: Meaning, Reality, and Participation
02:10:52 Embracing the Present Moment: The Power of What over Why
02:16:25 Upcoming Interview with Lisa Carrillo