Tantra Illuminated with Dr. Christopher Wallis

This week, we continue our journey through Abhinavagupta's "Tantrasāra," focusing on Chapter Three, entitled "Illumination of The Divine Method," or śāmbhava-upāya. This chapter wonderfully explains how spiritual realization—whether referred to as enlightenment, awakening, or liberation—can unfold through intuitive, non-conceptual insights, without reliance on conceptual understanding. Presented here is an abridged version of the scripture that excludes Abhinavagupta’s detailed exploration of the fundamental structure and nature of reality through the phonemes of Sanskrit alphabet. Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Holecek, an acclaimed author and spiritual teacher, dives deep into the intersection of Tantrik Shaivism and Buddhism. He explores the transformative potential of hyperlucid dreams and discusses the intricacies of spiritual awakening. The conversation highlights the balance between contraction and relaxation on the spiritual path, the significance of cultural translation, and the nature of consciousness. Holecek also critiques the oversimplification of spiritual concepts and emphasizes the importance of authentic experiences for true awakening.

Exploring the essence of achieving spiritual goals through Nondual Shaiva Tantra, discussing the diversity of tantric teachings, clear seeing and direct pointing in spiritual practices, refining understanding on the spiritual path, cultivating discernment in yoga practices, exploring non-conceptual depths of human relationships, engaging the mind in spiritual practice.

In this episode, Hareesh welcomes Dr. Kavithā Chinnaiyan, a practicing cardiologist, Professor of Medicine, and an international educator in cardiac imaging, preventive cardiology, and women's heart disease. She is the acclaimed author of several books, including The Heart of Wellness, Shakti Rising, and Fractals of Reality: Living the Śrīcakra, a Tantric initiate and adept. As the founder of Svatantra Institute and The Renegade Method™, Kavithā integrates spirituality with science, offering guidance in self-development, wellness, and burnout by blending modern medicine with Yoga, Tantra, Ayurveda, and Vedanta. An accomplished retreat leader, artist, and musician, she invites others into the transformative journey toward holistic well-being.Kavithā shares her journey from a question-filled childhood within a Shaivaite family to transformative encounters with Vedantic teachings and Advanced Yoga Practices, culminating in her profound engagement with non-dual Shaiva Tantra. The conversation explores her immersion into the teachings of Śrī Vidyā, guided by revered teachers, and how these experiences harmonize with her medical expertise and personal life. Kavithā’s story is a testament to the integration of spiritual practice with the rhythms of daily life, reflecting on the roles of mantra, ritual, and The Direct Path in the journey for self-realization. This episode brings light to the complementary nature of the progressive and Direct Paths in the revealing of one's true nature and the unique ways they can enrich a dedicated spiritual practice.Some of the references mentioned: Greg Goode ‘Standing as Awareness’Michael M. Bowden, Sri Chaitanyananda, The Goddess and The GuruCorinne G. Dempsey, The Goddess Lives in Upstate New YorkAYP InternationalŚrīVidyā.orgPaul Muller-OrtegaChinmaya MissionMahāvatāra BābājīAtmananda Krishna MenonMore references and a complete glossary of the Sanskrit terms and definitions can be found on the episode at Tantra Illuminated Online. Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we delve into Chapter Two of 'Tantrasāra' by Abhinavagupta, titled 'Illumination of Spontaneous Realization.' The chapter explores the concept of spontaneous modes of realization without methods or practices, a rare but profound occurrence. Such immediate insight into the nature of reality can lead to permanent immersion in divinity, independent of formal spiritual practices.Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, recorded in late 2023, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Ashtanga yoga teacher Adam Keen from the Keen on Yoga podcast. Adam and I delve into my latest book, 'Near Enemies of the Truth,' examining spiritual clichés such as 'You create your own reality,' 'Be your best self,' and 'Follow your bliss,' and unpack their deceptive nature. The conversation offers insights into navigating truths and spiritual narratives, emphasizing the role of critical thinking and effective communication in fostering genuine connections and making sense of our daily lives and relationships. Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore a foundational meditation technique that promotes relaxation and mindful awareness. Discover how to relax into a posture of wakeful serenity while focusing on deeper breaths. This practice encourages the center of consciousness to align with the heart's base, enhancing one's connection to their innermost being. Dive into the tranquility of self-discovery and experience the calming effects of meditative stillness.

This episode is a conversation with Eshwar Segobind. Eshwar shares his unexpected and rapid spiritual awakening journey, which unfolded over less than a year without him being steeped in any religious or spiritual background. He relates pivotal moments during his stay at a recovery house that led to a shift in perspective and deep personal insights. Eshwar's story is one of the spontaneous emergence of profound spiritual understanding and an intuitive grasp of nondual awareness. Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Delve into the profound teachings of Tantra-sara by Abhinavagupta, exploring the essence of Tantra philosophy and the relationship between insight and ignorance in spiritual liberation. Learn about cultivating insight and liberation through Shiva scriptures, and explore the nature of consciousness as the singular light of creation.

This episode is an interview recorded in late 2023 for the Deconstructing Yourself podcast, founded and hosted by Michael Taft. Michael, a seasoned meditator, meditation teacher, and author of the bestseller "The Mindful Geek," as well as co-founder of The Alembic in Berkeley, engages in an in-depth conversation about my latest book, "Near Enemies of the Truth," which addresses the complexities and misconceptions around spiritual clichés and platitudes. Together, we explore the nuances of the term 'enlightenment,' its meanings in both English and Sanskrit, the differences between awakening and liberation, and what embodied liberation truly entails, alongside the implications of karma and samskara.Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.