Vedic Worldview

Children often adapt surprisingly well to parental separation, reflecting their parents' emotional states. The importance of involving a neutral third party for open dialogue is emphasized. Staying together 'for the children' can be harmful, as children seek their parents' happiness. Framing change positively can alleviate stress, while honoring the other parent protects the child's sense of identity. Criticism of one parent should be avoided to nurture the child's self-image, promoting a healthier perspective on relationships as evolutionary rather than failures.

Delve into the nature of symbolism in life and dreams. Explore how coincidences weave a narrative in a vast universe. Understand the distinction between expressive and symbolic language, particularly through the lens of Sanskrit. Discover intriguing theories like assembly theory and the idea that humans are star stuff telling stories. Learn how dreams serve as disjointed narratives and the value of nighttime insights over mere recollection. Finally, see how Vedic meditation can expand consciousness and transform your relationship with dreaming.

One of the biggest causes of suffering in our lives is the fact that nothing lasts forever. It’s not only true that all good things must come to an end, but all things must come to an end. In this episode, Thom reminds us that Nature has the final say on what is, and what no longer is relevant in the natural process of evolution. Rather than resisting Nature’s timing, our suffering is reduced or eliminated if we embrace Nature’s timing.Once again, Vedic meditators have a natural edge in putting this into practice. Listen to the full episode to explore the complete teaching, or watch it on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/99fcBENajAsEpisode Highlights00:45 Evolve03:58 You Are a Production06:03 A Universe That Wants a Story07:48 Constant Atomic Exchange11:26 Identifying Irrelevancy Through Vedic Meditation14:14 Constant Relevance Refreshment17:15 The Dangers of the Ever-Repeating Known20:19 Disruption and Relevance23:13 Letting Go of Rigid Attachment25:45 Contextualizing Pain30:34 Welcome to the Solution to All ProblemsUseful 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/

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.