Tantra Illuminated with Dr. Christopher Wallis
Christopher Hareesh Wallis
Tantra Illuminated with Dr. Christopher Wallis is a journey through the depths of the human experience, as viewed through the lens of the tradition called nondual Shaiva Tantra. This multi-format podcast, hosted by professional Sanskritist and scholar-practitioner Dr. Christopher Wallis, delves into the fascinating world of Classical Tantra and its intersections with philosophy, neuroscience, psychology, healing arts, and the broader world of spirituality. Discover how the ancient wisdom of Classical Tantra offers profound insights for today's world, and prepare to challenge conventional narratives about self, reality, and consciousness. The aim is to inspire, educate, and ignite transformative conversations. The podcast includes four types of episodes: conversations with prominent spiritual teachers and philosophers, readings of translations from luminous Sanskrit scriptures, guided meditations, and contemplative reflections. Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings and courses at tantrailluminated.org. Podcast Art by Jesse Molina camatkaracreative.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
30 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 2h 14min
Rewiring your Reality with Shamil Chandaria
In a fascinating dialogue, Shamil Chandaria, a neuroscientist and meditation teacher, delves into the convergence of neuroscience and nondual philosophy. He discusses his course, Rewiring Your Reality, unpacking how our brains construct experience through predictive processing. Topics also include AI’s potential for consciousness, the nature of awakening, and whether the universe is evolving toward greater self-awareness. Shamil emphasizes the importance of embracing all experiences and maintaining ethical considerations in the age of AI.
Oct 10, 2025 • 57min
The Mystical Positivist With Stuart Goodnick and Dr. Robert Schmidt 1
In this archival conversation originally recorded in 2016 for The Mystical Positivist radio show, Hareesh joins hosts Stuart Goodnick and Dr. Robert Schmidt to reflect on the meeting point between spiritual experience and critical inquiry. The dialogue traces Hareesh’s early encounters with meditation and grace, the unfolding of his path through the Shaiva Tantra tradition, and the pitfalls of constructing a “spiritual ego.” Together, they explore how genuine awakening requires both love and discernment—the courage to look beyond comforting beliefs into the deeper reality that transcends them.Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.Find out more about the upcoming retreats and pilgrimages at https://www.tantrailluminated.org/calendar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sep 26, 2025 • 28min
The Pulsing Heart of Infinite Stillness
Dive into a transformative guided meditation that invites you to embrace the profound stillness underlying all experience. Discover the gentle pulsation at the heart of this silence, a rhythm that breathes life into existence. Feel the awe and presence of an untouched serenity, undisturbed by thoughts or sounds. Experience the paradox of unity between stillness and dynamic life. This practice encourages effortless attunement, guiding you to a deeper understanding of your own being.
26 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 39min
The Mandala of Relationality with Josh Schrei from The Emerald
In this enlightening discussion, Josh Schrei, a visionary creator of The Emerald podcast, shares insights from his rich background in spirituality and philosophy. He explores the idea that awakening is woven through our relationships with others and the world. The conversation highlights how intimacy, conflict, and community serve as gateways to deeper awareness. Schrei emphasizes the importance of animism, interconnectedness, and integrating sacred experiences into modern life, advocating for a more relational understanding of ourselves and the universe.
10 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 20min
Scriptural Reading: The Vijñāna-bhairava-tantra
Dive into the heart of the Vijñāna-bhairava-tantra, a sacred text revealing 112 transformative meditation practices. Uncover the deep connection between Śiva and Śakti, and explore how these ancient teachings guide us towards the essence of awareness. The fresh translations illuminate profound insights on the nature of reality, inviting contemplation beyond rituals. Engage with the potent poetry of scripture and discover practical tools for achieving wisdom and liberation through meditation.
10 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 1h 28min
Discovering the Authentic Self with Kiran Trace
Kiran Trace, a teacher of awakening who helps individuals uncover their authentic selves, dives deep into the journey of authenticity. She discusses releasing societal conditioning to reveal our true nature. Kiran explores the significance of recognizing individual value and the roles of diverse voices in spirituality. She encourages embracing discontent as a catalyst for growth and offers insights on navigating media mindfully. With an emphasis on joy and connection, she invites listeners to celebrate their unique paths and transform their lives.
Jul 25, 2025 • 16min
Heart - Lotus Meditation
This episode offers a gentle, evocative meditation that invites you to attune to the lotus of light at the center of the chest—a sacred center of feeling and awareness. Guided through breath, imagery, and felt sense, you’ll be led to experience the heart not just as a metaphor, but as a living site of inner unfolding. Whether you're lying down or sitting upright, this short meditation is an accessible and profound way to return to the ground of being.Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.Find out more about the upcoming retreats and pilgrimages at https://www.tantrailluminated.org/calendar . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 31min
“Tantric Sex vs. Tantrik Yoga” with Ashton Szabo
Dive into the fascinating world of Tantra as the discussion unravels the intricate differences between classical Tantra and modern neo-Tantra. Explore how misconceptions have shaped Western views on sexuality within this spiritual tradition. Learn about the true essence of sexual practice in Tantra, aimed at spiritual enlightenment rather than mere pleasure. The conversation also touches on unity consciousness, revealing how intimate experiences can transcend individuality and showcase the undivided nature of reality.
6 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 57min
The Three Effective Methods
Explore the Three Effective Methods of non-dual Śaiva Tantra, highlighting how they integrate body, mind, and spirit for holistic awakening. Discover the Divine Method's nonconceptual awareness, the Empowered Method's contemplative practices, and the Embodied Method's yogic techniques. The discussion delves into spontaneity in consciousness and the essence of experiential reality. Gain insights into how these methods relate to various spiritual traditions, emphasizing a well-rounded approach to spiritual growth.
Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 7min
Attuning to Fundamental Consciousness with Judith Blackstone
Judith Blackstone, a seasoned teacher of the Realization Process, delves into the subtleties of nondual awareness and its transformative effects. She shares her journey from professional dancer to healer, revealing how an injury prompted a deep exploration of consciousness. The discussion uncovers the intricate relationship between individuality and universal connection, emphasizing the importance of embodying awareness in the body. Judith also highlights love as a foundational emotion and addresses how spiritual bypassing can hinder growth, offering a nuanced view of self and existence.
