Escaping Samsara

This is the start of a three-episode exploration into one of yoga’s least understood, but possibly most important topics: Brahmacharya or as we might term it, semen retention.  Through loss of semen (bindu), [his] lifespan is diminished and he becomes weak. .... Through constant retention of semen, a fine odour arises in the body of the yogin, (-) so the yogin should make every effort to preserve his semen. (Dattātreya’s Discourse on Yoga, trans. James Mallinson) This is just one of many similar instructions in yoga texts. So what are we to make of this practice?  And what other issues are at play? Pornography and sex addiction are getting worse in our society. How can men handle some of their pressures and find more fulfilling relationships with themselves, their partners, and their practice? Tyson Adams is a trauma-informed IFS men's coach, somatic bodyworker and psychedelic facilitator. After spending 20 years addicted to pornography, he outgrew it seven years ago and has found his passion and purpose in helping other men master their lifeforce energy. He also co-facilitates men's work leadership intensives and works with couples experiencing intimacy challenges. When he's not working you'll catch him on a rock wall or riding a slackline in sunny, San Diego. https://thriive.kartra.com/page/lifeforcedojo https://www.instagram.com/tysonadams__

In this episode, we explore the intersection of yoga and Ayurveda with Amy Landry. Amy, a global yoga teacher, mentor, and Ayurvedic practitioner, has shared her wisdom through renowned publications and sold-out retreats. She has focused on integrating Indian wisdom traditions into her daily life and we find out how she manages this balancing act. Join us as we dive into her journey, her approach to living yoga, and the blend of yoga and Ayurveda that shapes her practice. https://amyelandry.com/

Renowned yoga teacher Eddie Stern discusses his transformative journey, moving away from Ashtanga practice to explore new asanas and sequences. He shares his realization of no longer desiring his old practice, emphasizing the importance of being present amidst change. The discussion touches on fluidity in practice, personal growth, and finding what truly serves us.

The latest bookclub episode from Escaping Samsara podcast. This time Nathan is joined by Oliver Crossley A.K.A the Yogic Physio (@yogicphysio on Instagram) to discuss Christopher Wallis' book "Near Enemies of the Truth." Join us as we dissect key themes, share reflections, and discuss Wallis' take on watered down spirituality and lame platitudes. Whether you're reading along for the first time or revisiting the book with fresh eyes, this episode is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to truly seek a the Truth. From the book's description: Have you ever been told, “You create your own reality”? Have you been encouraged to “be your best self” or “follow your bliss”? Nowadays these slogans are everywhere, but what if they’re doing more harm than good? After over thirty years as a scholar-practitioner of meditation and Tantric philosophy, acclaimed author Christopher Wallis (also known as Hareesh) explores the most widespread distortions of spiritual teachings present in our world today. Rooted in the Asian wisdom traditions, Wallis’s book uncovers why these oft-heard platitudes are “near enemies” to the truth, often detour us off the spiritual path, and can even cause unnecessary suffering.

One of my favorite episodes so far! In which we discussed many of my favorite subjects: perennialism and blending traditions, issues with exporting Asian traditions to the west, diet, esoteric yoga, and how magick forms an enriching part of both our practices.   Our guest is Yogacharya Craig Williams, practitioner of Ayurvedic Medicine, Vedic Sciences, Gnostic Spirituality, and Martial Arts. He is also the author of Entering the Desert, Cult of Golgotha, and Tantric Physics Vol. I & 2, as well as numerous articles on health, martial arts, and authentic initiation in the Kali Yuga. Craig Williams is an ordained Bishop (Tau Lazarus) with Apostolic Succession. He has a private medical practice in Austin specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Yoga, and Jyotish. He is the recipient of the prestigious Vedakovid and Yogacharya titles awarded by Vamadeva Shastri and the American Institut of Vedic Studies. More information about Craig can be found at: www.ayurvedaaustin.com and his blog: https://arisearjuna.wordpress.com 

In this enlightening new episode, we delve deep into Buddhism. Join us as we welcome Ven. Sampanno, a long-term Buddhist monk, for an insightful discussion on the differences between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. In this episode, Ven. Sampanno will shed light on the unique philosophies, practices, and historical contexts of these two major Buddhist traditions. Understand the nuanced perspectives each brings to the spiritual path and how they shape the practice and beliefs of their followers. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of Buddhism with Ven. Sampanno on Escaping Samsara Podcast. Tune in to explore the rich tapestry of Buddhist thought and practice.

Nathan is joined by Marc Kate and Chad Lott from "Scary Thoughts Podcast" to discuss Eckhart Tolle's "The Power of Now." Unless you've been stuck in a Twitter flame war for the last 20 years, you will know about Tolle's bestselling spiritual treatise. But is it a classic or a self-help rip off?  We discuss the book, it's flaws and strengths and come to some new conclusions. We also discover Marc and Chad's meditation practices, the effect of nihilism and find out what Eckhart Tolle and Charles Manson have in common http://scarythoughts.org/ https://failingforms.bandcamp.com/album/00  

Welcome to the realm of real Hatha Yoga, where yogis use the body as a tool to transcend the body. For this episode, we're honored to introduce Shandor Remete, also known as Sundernath, a master practitioner whose life has been steeped in yoga from his earliest days in Hungary. An initiate of the revered Kanpatha Hatha Yogins, Shandor embodies the legacy of yoga luminaries Sri Gorakhnath and Sri Matsyendranath. Today, he stands as a custodian of Tantrik Hatha Yoga, imparting the wisdom that traces back to the earliest forms of yoga. Join us as we unravel the layers of this transformative practice with a yogi who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of this knowledge. We discuss: The proper use of asana Mudras and bandhas Samadhi Pranayama https://shadowyoga.com/

Welcome to a special bookclub episode of Escaping Samsara, where we delve into the profound teachings of Chogyam Trungpa's classic, "Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism." In this episode, we're thrilled to host Ty Landrum, an esteemed yoga teacher known for his insightful and deeply rooted understanding of Eastern and Western philosophy. We discuss the concept of spiritual materialism, the tendency to see spirituality as a means to enhance our ego rather than to dissolve it. And Ty discusses how to apply these teachings on the mat and in daily life, helping us to navigate our spiritual journey with more awareness and authenticity. This episode isn't just for avid readers or seasoned practitioners. It's for anyone curious about the intersection of yoga, Buddhism, and the journey towards true self-awareness. Whether you're new to these concepts or a long-time follower of Trungpa's work, you'll find fresh perspectives and thoughtful discussions to inspire your practice. https://www.tylandrum.com/  

Lovers of technical yoga talk rejoice! In this extraordinarily geeky interview Gregor sheds light on nuances of pranayama and meditation practices described in great detail in his books. We also talk about his most recent book about the Map of Transformative States and get a glimpse into the upcoming work with a fascinating discussion on mudras. This is a great interview for everyone going deeper into the higher limbs of Ashtanga Yoga. Show notes On Stanislav Grof and Aldous Huxley Chakras and brain circuits On Nadi Shodhana and types of visualisations Ista Devata visualisation in Kumbhaka Surya vs Chandra Bhedana On relationship with the spirit world On Basti kriya Kundalini rising techniques and Ego Mudras! Things to consider when sequencing different practices To find out more about Gregor's teaching, learning materials, courses and in-depth blog article visit https://8limbs.com/ Check out new books by Gregor Maehle: CHAKRAS, DRUGS AND EVOLUTION: A Map of Transformative States "How To Find Your Life's Divine Purpose: Brain software for a new civilization"