Vedic Worldview

In this episode, Thom shares the inspiration and urgency behind the creation of the recently launched Vyasanand Foundation. He explains why preserving the purity of Vedic Meditation, while making it accessible at scale, is essential for meeting the demands of our time. Thom outlines the foundation’s twin priorities of teacher scholarships and scientific research, and reflects on Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s vision of multiplying enlightened leadership for future generations.If you’d like to contribute to the Vyasanand Foundation, please visit the website for details on how you can do so: https://www.vyasanandfoundation.org/ Episode Highlights[01:28] The Inspiration Behind the Vyasanand Foundation[03:22] Why Now?[06:47] Meeting the Demands of the Time[14:51] What Would the World Look Like if More People Practiced Vedic Meditation?[19:57] What Will Vyasanand Foundation Funds Be Used For?[23:47] Multiplying Maharishi[28:13] Big, Important, Urgent[30:57] GratitudeUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com  https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Is it possible to escape the cycle of desire that keeps us bound? In this episode, Thom explores the subtle mechanics of kaṛma and the paradox of fulfillment, blending ancient wisdom with contemporary dilemmas. Move beyond the myth of desire-free enlightenment and discover the true role desires play in moving us, often mysteriously, right where we need to be. Prepare to step into a new understanding of fulfillment, agency, and the playful nature of wants.Episode Highlights[00:45] Kaṛma: Action that Binds[03:30] The Danger Zone[06:44] Kṛiya: Action that Doesn’t Bind[09:33] The Power of a Pink Shirt[13:13] A Literal Bucket List[15:48] The Desirability of a Desire-free State[18:42] Q - Does attachment to the desire for enlightenment keep you bound?[18:50] A - The Hypnosis of Social Conditioning[21:37] Enlightenment’s an Acquisition[24:38] Desires Just Move Me AroundUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Explore the intriguing question of whether negative thoughts are truly harmful. Thom shares personal insights from his unusual childhood, illustrating how context shapes our experiences. Discover the evolutionary perspective that suggests negativity can drive growth and adaptation. Learn how expansive consciousness helps us contextualize fleeting negative content, enabling us to break free from repetitious stress patterns. Thom emphasizes the power of meditation in dissolving stress and letting go of irrelevant negativity, promoting a healthier mindset.

Explore the concept of surrender as a natural movement rather than a forced effort. Discover how Vedic Meditation helps release unnecessary tenacity, allowing for a state of freedom. Thom illustrates this through charming metaphors like monkeys and jelly beans, emphasizing the importance of letting go. The conversation includes the relationship between retrospective surrender and active letting go, highlighting foresight as a powerful human tool. Don't cling to inferior comforts; embrace meditation to unlock your potential for charm and evolution.

Explore the intriguing concept of saṃskara, those defining moments that shape our identity, often leading us astray. Discover the transformative power of smriti, which offers context and growth instead of bondage. Thom shares Siddhartha's journey from suffering to enlightenment, illustrating the path toward self-liberation. Learn how Vedic Meditation can purify the ego, transitioning past experiences into tools for understanding rather than constraints. Finally, grasp the notion of 'aham brahmasmi,' reminding us of our universal consciousness.

When a young Thom Knoles found himself among world leaders, philosophers, and celebrities at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s table, he felt wildly out of his depth. A well-meaning barrister’s critique led to embarrassment, reflection, and an unforgettable lesson from Maharishi himself.In this intimate and humorous story, Thom shares how a moment of mortification turned into a profound teaching on arrogance, humility, and taking action, and the one simple word that can shift you out of self-doubt instantly.You can also watch the podcast here https://youtu.be/IDKEn6UhCVM.Episode Highlights[00:45] Advice From a Barrister[04:37] Malapropisms[07:11] I’m Not Like Them[11:48] How Can We Get Out of This Arrogance?[13:25] Engage in ActionUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Curious about Vedic Meditation's real impact? Discover how it enhances talk therapy and promotes faster therapeutic progress. Ever wondered why some meditators still act unkindly? Tune in as Thom suggests that criticism often says more about the critic than the meditator. He also dives into what makes Vedic Meditation spiritually unique, highlighting its transcendent goals. The discussion offers insightful perspectives for both meditators and non-meditators, making it a thought-provoking experience for all.

Ever felt like a fraud? The conversation explores the roots of imposter syndrome and how it masks a subtle arrogance. Thom shares insights on how Vedic meditation expands our sense of self and alleviates these feelings. With anecdotes and wisdom, he emphasizes that recognizing our true worth can transform our lives. Learn how to challenge self-doubt and embrace your potential, asserting that you deserve the best as your birthright. Ultimately, it's a journey of rediscovery and self-acceptance.

What if everything you see, touch, and experience is actually made of the same thing? In this episode, Thom explores the startling relationship between matter and consciousness, challenging our most fundamental assumptions about reality and about who and what we are. Prepare to view the world and yourself in an entirely new light.Episode Highlights[00:45] We Seem to Live in a Material Universe[02:55] Good Vibrations[05:01] A Responsive Universe[07:31] The Hard Question of Consciousness[10:29] The State of Unity Consciousness[13:15] Sharpening Our Sensory Acuity with Vedic Meditation[16:37] The Ultimate in Sensory Perception, Seeing Yourself in EverythingUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Can we plan our next life, or are we unknowingly shaping it already? Discover the Vedic and Buddhist insights on rebirth and the impact of unfulfilled desires. Thom shares a captivating story of enlightenment and a cautionary tale from the Mahabharata, illustrating how revenge can lead to endless conflict. Learn how Vedic meditation can help break free from the cycle of desire, revealing deep inner fulfillment. This deep exploration encourages living fully in the present, embracing the universe within.