Adventures in Awareness

Dr. Shamil Chandaria, a seasoned researcher at Oxford specializing in consciousness and meditation, shares his insights on utilizing the energy body for awakening. He discusses joyful practices that blend shamatha and vipassana for deeper awareness and emotional self-liberation. Shamil emphasizes the importance of bodily awareness, using techniques like auto-vipassana to effortlessly digest emotions. He advocates for daily practice and the role of contraction as an opportunity for mindfulness. His approach merges ancient contemplative traditions with modern neuroscience, making the journey both enlightening and accessible.

Michael Levin, a pioneer in developmental bioelectricity and xenobot research, dives into the intersection of biology and mathematics. He proposes that mathematical structures shape biological realities, hinting at a dualism where minds are patterns. Levin discusses unconventional intelligences and the moral complexities of expanding compassion. He reveals how voltage patterns can prompt organ growth and shares insights on using bioelectricity for regeneration. He also highlights the role of science fiction in shaping public understanding of these emerging concepts.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Holecek, an expert in lucid dreaming and Tibetan Buddhism, dives deep into the nuances of consciousness. He challenges listeners to explore the blindspots of higher states and the distinction between cessation and enlightenment. Andrew explains how to navigate pain by embracing it as a catalyst for growth and equanimity. The conversation also touches on the interplay between waking and dreaming states, encouraging a shift in perspectives on suffering. Finally, he highlights the importance of recognizing one's inherent state of luminosity.

Workshop with Andrew Holecek 4th Sep: https://dandelion.events/e/w0dr9To join future events, newsletter and access ad-free event recordings go to:https://adventuresinawareness.comYour contributions support future content, and are greatly appreciated:- https://adventuresinawareness.com/membership- One-off PayPal donations: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/adventuresin Follow the Adventure:- Subscribe to us on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@adventuresinawareness- Twitter: https://x.com/AdvInAwareness- iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adventures-in-awareness/id1535917754 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2jiebSpdVu9YbpLOtWlKYU - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adventuresinawarenessBanner art by https://www.instagram.com/jadewade/00:00 Intro6:40 Schools of Tibetan Buddhism10:00 Buddhism as a description of reality10:40 3 Turnings of the wheels in Buddhism14:00 Pixilated nature of reality = reduce suffering17:40 Andrew’s path into Tibetan Buddhism23:20 The value of understanding before realisation31:00 Three Year Retreat35:00 Lucid dreaming and sleeping38:40 Are the best teachers in the east? 46:00 Blindspots in the east48:00 What is the goal of life? Waking / Play55:00 Path of freedom vs Path of fullness56:00 Limitation of radical nonduality 58:00 Transcend and include59:00 You both need therapy1:01:00 Scandals and abuse in spirituality

Ruben Laukkonen, a cognitive scientist and neuroscientist specializing in meditation and consciousness, dives deep into the intriguing concept of cessation in meditation. He discusses its unique impact on consciousness, contrasting it with states like deep sleep. Ruben also explores the relationship between neuroplasticity, learning, and meditation, revealing how these practices can reshape our understanding of reality. With a blend of scientific inquiry and personal experience, he encourages listeners to embrace the evolving nature of awareness and the quest for deeper insights.

Bernardo Kastrup, a philosopher with extensive backgrounds in ontology and artificial intelligence, teams up with Christof Koch, chief scientist at the Allen Institute for Brain Science, renowned for his insights into consciousness. They dive into Integrated Information Theory (IIT) and its intriguing implications for understanding consciousness and free will. Their discussion challenges perceptions of reality, touching on topics like the nature of self, the interplay between consciousness and memory, and the philosophical dimensions of AI consciousness.

James Cooke, a neuroscientist with three degrees from Oxford, dives into the fascinating intersection of science and spirituality. He shares insights on transforming personal identity from an ego-based view to embracing non-duality. The discussion highlights trauma's role in self-discovery and the importance of compassion in healing. Cooke bridges philosophy and neuroscience, advocating for a holistic understanding of human experience. He encourages practical non-dual inquiry while navigating the complexities of productivity and the quest for a life free from suffering.

In this engaging discussion, Jay Garfield, a Harvard philosopher specializing in Buddhist thought, and Bernardo Kastrup, a leader in modern metaphysical idealism, explore the intricate dance between emptiness and idealism. They delve into the complexities of consciousness, emphasizing the interconnectivity of reality. The duo examines how personal experiences shape philosophical perspectives, debates the nature of perception, and highlights the significance of respecting differing opinions in academia. This vibrant exchange unpacks the rich interplay between Eastern and Western philosophies.

Matthew Immergut, an Associate Professor of Sociology and co-author of 'The Mind Illuminated,' shares insights on the intricate landscape of meditation. He discusses his transformative journey, including struggles with addiction and the contrast between medication and mindfulness. Dive into the complexities of mentor-student relationships and the essential balance of accountability in spiritual teachings. Immergut also explores the nuanced interplay of love, morality, and consciousness in meditation, highlighting the importance of authentic engagement and community support.

Dr. Shamil Chandaria, a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford, intertwines the worlds of neuroscience and spirituality through his extensive research on consciousness and meditation. He shares insights on how ancient practices, like breathing techniques, can modernize our understanding of emotional well-being. The discussion highlights meditation's role in reshaping our perception of reality and reducing suffering. Dr. Chandaria emphasizes the delicate balance between scientific advancement and spiritual wisdom, demonstrating how both can enhance personal transformation.