Guru Viking Podcast

Ngakma Yumma Mudra, a dancer, producer, model, and teacher of Tibetan Buddhism, discusses the transformative power of dance in accessing the blissful nature of the mind. She emphasizes the importance of movement as a practice of mindfulness, connecting it to the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta. The conversation dives into the balance between technique and spontaneity, how to read others through dance, and the challenges of habitual tendencies. She shares insights on infusing artistic technique with goodness, ultimately guiding students in their journey toward authentic expression.

John Myrdhin Reynolds, also known as Lama Vajranatha, is a renowned scholar and practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism with deep ties to the Bon religion. In this discussion, he explores the distinct teachings of Bon compared to Buddhism, revealing its rich history and practices. John dives into the evolution of Bon traditions and their transmission in the West, addressing misconceptions about their authenticity. He shares insights on the significance of Dzogchen, the resilience of the Bonpo community, and the role of ritual and meditation in attaining spiritual powers.

Ben Joffe, an anthropologist and scholar of Tibetan Buddhism, dives into the fascinating world of divination and tarot. He explores the cultural significance of divination and its relationship with intuition and randomness. Joffe shares his personal journey with tarot, offers practical advice for readers, and addresses the ethical complexities surrounding these practices. He reflects on how tarot can empower clients, the dangers of dependency, and the transformative potential of storytelling in both divination and personal growth.

Ray Russell, founder of Tartarus Press and author of 'T. Lobsang Rampa And Other Characters of Questionable Faith,' delves into the enigmatic life of T. Lobsang Rampa. Once Cyril Henry Hoskin, Rampa claimed to channel a Tibetan Lama, stirring debates on authenticity and cultural impact. Russell explores the psychological allure of faith and the motivations behind fictional narratives. They discuss Rampa’s legacy in popularizing Tibetan Buddhism and the ongoing fascination with myth and belief, questioning how hoaxes shape our understanding of spirituality.

Victor Shiryaev, a teacher of Buddhist and modern meditation, shares his fascinating journey from a Soviet childhood to spiritual awakening. He reflects on the influence of New Age concepts and his studies in Advaita Vedanta. Highlighting a meeting with mindfulness teacher Shinzen Young, Victor discusses their contrasting views on the path to awakening. He also critiques the Pragmatic Dharma's mapping of spiritual experiences, emphasizing personal insights and the significance of mindfulness in navigating life's challenges.

Lama Glenn Mullin, a Tibetan Buddhism scholar, joins Oded Rahav, CEO of Dead Sea Guardians, to discuss the enchanting allure of the Dead Sea. Oded shares his passion for this mystical body of water and its sacred nature, while Glenn delves into the powerful energies of sacred places and their historical significance. Together, they explore the Dead Sea's environmental decline, its potential to foster peace in the region, and the impact of storytelling in raising awareness about its preservation. Their dialogue weaves together spirituality, conservation, and advocacy.

Alex W is a long-term practitioner of Zen, Pragmatic Dharma, and Western Occultism, sharing his fascinating journey from an elite upbringing to spiritual insights. He discusses his mentorship under renowned figures and the powerful Abramelin Ritual for kundalini awakening. Alex recounts his profound encounters with spiritual beings like Kālī Mā and Hecate, delving into the intricate balance between Zen practices and Western occultism. He reflects on the transformative blend of chaos and divine connection in his spiritual exploration.

Delve into an inspiring spiritual journey where personal experiences shape understanding. Discover the fusion of mindfulness and movement through the Movement Koan Method. Explore how solitude and wilderness survival enrich personal insights. Engage with the transformative power of challenging experiences on everyday life. Learn practical advice on integrating movement into meditation, and hear reflections on questioning beliefs from diverse backgrounds. This conversation blends humor with deep philosophical insights, offering a unique take on personal growth.

Lama Justin von Bujdoss, an American Buddhist teacher and dark retreat yogi, joins Dr. Caroline van Damme, a psychiatrist specializing in chronic psychotic disorders. They delve into the risks of psychosis linked to extreme spiritual practices like dark retreats. The duo shares personal anecdotes, stressing the importance of readiness and a strong mental foundation before undertaking intense spiritual journeys. Additionally, they discuss the delicate balance between spiritual ambition and mental health, advocating for better psychological support in spiritual communities.

Ani Pema, an American nun in Tibetan Buddhism and former Siddha Yoga swami, shares her captivating spiritual journey. From her fashion career at Vogue to seeking deeper meaning, she discusses transformative experiences with renowned gurus like Swami Muktananda and the 16th Karmapa. Pema explores the powerful phenomenon of shaktipat, sharing insights on its implications and the challenges of spirituality. She offers heartfelt advice for seekers on navigating their paths and finding the right guru for their spiritual growth.