Sounds of SAND

In a captivating discussion with John Tarrant, a Zen teacher and poet, the rich tapestry of the Buddha's awakening unfolds. Tarrant explores the mythic nature of Buddhist storytelling, emphasizing its connection to grief and personal experiences. He contrasts Buddhist and Catholic perspectives on death and spirituality. Delving into the significance of dreams, he shares how embracing darkness can lead to enlightenment. Tarrant highlights the power of noble conversations and the importance of interconnectedness in our journey toward spiritual growth.

Naomi Klein, an award-winning journalist and professor, joins trauma expert Dr. Gabor Maté and moderator Cecilie Surasky for a deep dive into the intersection of trauma and political power. They discuss how collective trauma shapes identities and the dangers of weaponizing fear through media narratives. The conversation tackles the speed of converting recent Jewish trauma into spectacles and explores alternative narratives for healing. They emphasize the importance of compassionate dialogue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict while advocating for transformative storytelling.

Rawan Roshni, a Palestinian/Balkan musician and artivist based in Jordan, shares her emotional reflections on the recent ceasefire in Palestine. She discusses the profound generational trauma faced by her family and emphasizes the healing power of music and voice. Rawan highlights the mixed emotions surrounding the ceasefire announcement, capturing the collective resilience of the Palestinian people. Her unique artistry fuses sound, movement, and ritual, as she promotes unity and healing through her work, including her latest pieces inspired by nature and remembrance.

Darcia Narvaez, Professor Emerita at the University of Notre Dame, dives into the importance of 'The Evolved Nest' for child development. She discusses how communal child-rearing methods and nature immersion positively impact emotional and neurological growth. Modern medical practices during childbirth are critiqued for disrupting essential bonding experiences. Narvaez also sheds light on the effects of trauma on both human and animal societies, particularly young male elephants, advocating for holistic approaches to nurturing based on ancestral wisdom.

Join poet and philosopher David Whyte, whose work beautifully intertwines poetry with profound human experiences, and cultural architect Gayle Karen Young, a leader in fostering thriving relationships. They delve into the complex realms of grief and intimacy, revealing how loss can deepen our connections. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability and collective rituals, alongside insightful reflections on balancing urgency with depth in our fast-paced lives. Together, they inspire listeners to embrace the beauty of existence and the power of presence.

Join Pat McCabe, a Diné activist and ceremonial leader, alongside Francis Weller, a psychotherapist and soul activist, as they explore the transformative power of winter’s darkness. They discuss the significance of grief and renewal, weaving Indigenous wisdom with psychological insights. Their reflections on ancestral ties and communal healing highlight the importance of embracing life's cyclical nature. From personal rituals to collective transitions, this conversation offers profound wisdom on navigating loss and finding hope in the fertile darkness.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Avanti Kumar-Singh, an internationally recognized Ayurveda and integrative medicine practitioner and former ER doctor, explores the synergy between ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and modern health challenges. She dives into the essential distinction between lifespan and healthspan, emphasizing that longevity should be about quality of life as much as duration. Topics such as seasonal eating, the significance of synchronizing with nature, and the intricate role of inflammation in wellness reveal how simple Ayurvedic practices can empower our health.

Cynthia Bourgeault, an Episcopal priest and retreat leader, and A.H. Almaas, founder of the Diamond Approach, dive into the complexities of love as a transformative force. They explore the essence of conscious love and its interconnectedness with reality, emphasizing non-dual love's unique role in spiritual growth. The duo discusses healing through love and pain, urging listeners to embrace wounds for transformation. They also highlight gratitude's power as a catalyst for trust and joy, advocating for love's necessity in enriching relationships and the human experience.

Mariam Barghouti, a Palestinian-American journalist, Ashira Darwish, founder of a trauma therapy project, and Rawand Arqawi, a cultural manager from Jenin, discuss pressing topics surrounding conflict and resilience. They share harrowing experiences of journalists under attack and the trauma endured by families in Jenin. The conversation highlights the therapeutic role of the arts in healing and empowering communities amidst violence. They emphasize the significance of documenting truth and the urgent need for safe spaces to nurture childhood amid conflict.

Neil Theise, a professor of pathology at NYU Grossman, dives into the rich overlap of science and spirituality. He shares insights from his work on adult stem cell plasticity and complexity theory, emphasizing our interconnectedness with the world. Theise discusses the differences between complex and complicated systems, highlighting how chaos and order coexist in nature. He also explores the role of consciousness, challenging materialist views, and revealing the profound impact of quantum physics on our understanding of reality. Resilience in the face of global challenges is another key theme.