Author: morganosmith

Morgan O. Smith is a certified meditation instructor and spiritual teacher who has dedicated his life to guiding others in their quest for inner peace. He is the founder of "mind@ease" in the Toronto District School Board and has worked as a provincial youth outreach worker. In 2010, he launched Yinnergy Meditation, a project that fosters emotional, mental, and spiritual growth using audio-induced deep meditation techniques. In 2011, Morgan established the Yinnergy Appreciation Awards to honor young individuals who have made a positive impact on their communities. Yinnergy Meditation has been employed in various settings, such as non-profit events, schools, detention centers, healthcare facilities, and by clients worldwide. Morgan's unwavering commitment to his work and community has earned him numerous awards, including the 2023 R.I.S.E Community Initiatives Award. As a philanthropist, Morgan supports various projects by donating his time and resources to non-profit organizations, grassroots community initiatives, and radio and documentary projects. He has collaborated with institutions like the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS) and has presented his findings at the Institute for Consciousness Research (ICR) 37th Annual Conference. Morgan's insights have been featured in podcast interviews, including "Guru Viking" with Steve James and "Waking the Wild." Morgan's insights inspired Arian Herbert's thought-provoking book "The God Behind The God" and he is the author of the book "Bodhi in the Brain."

The Peak Experience

Mount Olympus and Mysticism

To ascend a mountain and stand at its zenith is a profound experience. But to stand atop Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the gods, is to touch a space where the divine meets the mortal. Unlike any other, this mountaintop symbolizes an intersection between the world as we know it and a realm beyond comprehension. What does it mean to attain such an experience? How does this metaphorical journey relate to the mystical peak experiences described by the world’s spiritual seekers?

**1. A Realm Beyond the Senses**

In many religious traditions, mysticism represents an encounter with the Divine, the Ultimate Reality, or the Absolute. These encounters are said to be ineffable, transcending words, and profoundly transformative. Similarly, the summit of Mount Olympus shrouded in myth and legend, exists as a space beyond the ordinary. Both represent realms beyond our senses, places where our ordinary conceptions of reality are challenged.

**2. The Ascent**

The path to mysticism, like the climb to a mountain’s summit, is not without challenges. Doubt, hardship, and uncertainty plague the seeker, testing their commitment and resolve. Yet, it’s through these adversities that transformation occurs. The ascent shapes the soul, refines the spirit, and prepares one for the profound revelations that await at the peak.

**3. Transient Yet Timeless**

Mystical experiences, though often fleeting, leave an indelible mark on the soul. The same can be said about reaching the summit of a great mountain. In that brief moment atop Mount Olympus, one is both part of ancient mythology and the present moment. Time seems to both stand still and move rapidly, offering a glimpse into eternity.

**4. The Return**

Mystical experiences often come with a mandate to return to the ordinary world, bearing the fruits of spiritual insight. Similarly, after reaching the peak, the climber must descend and integrate their experience into their everyday life. They bring back with them a new perspective, a deeper understanding, and a sense of connectedness that enriches their existence.

**5. The Universal Quest**

The legends of Mount Olympus and the experiences of mystics from diverse traditions remind us of a universal human quest: the pursuit of meaning, connection, and a deeper understanding of existence. Whether through meditation, ritual, or scaling a mythical mountain, the journey toward the peak is a timeless endeavour that inspires and challenges us.

In conclusion, with its rich tapestry of legends, Mount Olympus serves as a poignant metaphor for the peak experiences in mysticism. Both offer a transformative journey, a meeting with the transcendent, and a glimpse into realms beyond the ordinary. And in both, the seeker is reminded of the beauty, mystery, and depth of existence.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing the Void

My Journey from Interconnectedness to the Profound Depths of Nothingness

In the boundless expanse of spiritual exploration, some moments defy the constructs of language and thought, where the self is immersed into an abyss of nothingness, devoid of form, identity, and connection. During my conversation with Steve James on Guru Viking, I touched upon such a moment, sharing an experience where the vibrant tapestry of interconnectedness faded into a profound experience of nothingness.

The spiritual path is often synonymous with a sense of interconnectedness, a realization of the boundless thread that weaves through all of existence, connecting every being, every moment, and every particle in a dance of cosmic unity. However, my journey took an unexpected turn, leading me from the palpable sense of connection to everything into the enigmatic embrace of nothingness.

This shift was not a descent into nihilism, nor was it a negation of the interconnectedness experienced prior. It was an immersion into a state where all forms, connections, and identities dissolved into an infinite void, a space where nothingness was not an absence but a profound presence that enveloped my being.

Experiencing nothingness was not a cessation of existence but a plunge into the very essence of it, devoid of form, thought, and identity. It was a space where the dichotomies of existence and non-existence, self and other, and life and death collapsed into a singular point of indescribable nothingness.

This experience of nothingness, while seemingly paradoxical in the context of interconnectedness, illuminated the evolving and multifaceted nature of the spiritual journey. It showcased that the path is not linear nor bound by the constructs of our understanding and experiences. The spiritual journey is an ever-unfolding mystery, where experiences of interconnectedness and nothingness are different facets of the same indescribable reality.

As I continue to navigate through the infinite landscapes of spirituality, the experience of nothingness serves as a humble reminder of the mystery and unpredictability that defines the spiritual path. It is a reminder that the journey does not adhere to our expectations or understandings but unfolds in its own enigmatic and mystical way.

Morgan O. Smith

Watch The Awakening of Mista Mo:

Ep 176: The Awakening of Mista Mo

Embark on a captivating expedition in Episode 176, “The Awakening of Mista Mo.” Today, we unravel the transformative journey of Mista Mo, a soul who found enlightenment in the most unexpected corners of life. His tale is one of resilience, discovery, and awakening to a higher calling amidst the cacophony of worldly chaos. As we traverse through his life’s chapters, we uncover pearls of wisdom that beckon a deeper understanding of self and the universe. Join us in this stirring narrative that echoes the eternal quest for inner peace and enlightenment.

A friendly reminder for seekers everywhere: Guru Viking continues to unfurl wisdom every Friday on YouTube. Enrich your spiritual palette on Apple, SoundCloud, and Spotify as well. https://www.guruviking.com/

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Walking in Their Shoes with Our Heads in the Clouds

The human experience is a delicate dance between the tangible and the ethereal, between the ground we walk upon and the vast expanse of the skies. Each of us carves our path based on experiences, dreams, and our unique worldview. The quest to understand others while seeking enlightenment is our shared journey’s essence.

To walk in another’s shoes is not merely an act of empathy; it is an act of profound courage. This simple metaphor, often used to encourage understanding and compassion, requires us to momentarily abandon our deeply entrenched perspectives to wholly embrace another’s. Such a leap challenges the core of our identity and nudges us closer to universal truths.

On the other hand, having our heads in the clouds doesn’t just allude to daydreaming or being out of touch with reality. Instead, it signifies our innate yearning for transcendence and enlightenment. In the clouds, we find inspiration, creativity, and even the answers to life’s most perplexing questions.

Merging these two ideas, we are asked to ground ourselves in the realities of others while also seeking a higher truth. This beautiful interplay ensures that while we strive for ideals and wisdom, we never lose touch with the human stories unfolding around us.

In our endeavour to walk in another’s shoes, we may realize that the ground beneath our feet, though different in texture and terrain, feels strikingly similar in emotion and experience. And as we reach skyward, we understand that the same clouds of aspiration, doubt, joy, and sorrow float above us all.

So, the next time you find yourself firmly rooted in your beliefs and perspectives, remember to look up and dream but also to look across and truly see the person next to you. For in the balance between grounded reality and lofty dreams lies the essence of a life richly lived.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Navigating the Spiritual Path

A Beacon of Caution and Encouragement from My Journey

Embarking on a spiritual journey is akin to sailing into an ocean of unknown depths, where the calm of the serene waters and the tumult of the stormy seas are both integral parts of the voyage. My spiritual journey, as shared in my interview with Steve James on Guru Viking, has been a testament to the myriad of experiences that one can encounter on such a path.

My journey towards enlightenment, while being the greatest adventure of my life, has not been without its challenges and dark periods. It has been a path that has led me through moments of profound awakening and phases of deep introspection and struggle. It is essential to acknowledge that while the path to spiritual awakening can lead to profound joy and understanding, it can also take you through valleys of shadow and doubt.

For those who find themselves drawn towards a similar path, my advice is woven with threads of caution and encouragement. The spiritual path is not a linear one and is often fraught with challenges that test our resolve, our beliefs, and our understanding of the very nature of existence.

Embarking on a spiritual journey, especially one that involves deep meditation, exploration of consciousness, and perhaps even psychedelic experimentation, requires a sturdy anchor in the form of a support system. Having guides, mentors, or a like-minded community can provide invaluable support during times when the path becomes arduous.

It’s crucial to approach the journey with an open heart but also with a discerning mind. While the path can lead to profound insights and transformative experiences, it is also essential to navigate it with a sense of groundedness and critical inquiry. It’s vital to approach experiences, teachings, and practices with a balanced perspective, embracing what resonates while also being willing to question and explore.

My journey has taught me that while the spiritual path can lead to the dissolution of the ego, the emergence of oneness, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings, it is also a path that requires continuous learning, growth, and evolution. Enlightenment is not a fixed state but a continuous unfolding, where learning and exploration never cease.

Morgan O. Smith

Watch The Awakening of Mista Mo:

Ep 176: The Awakening of Mista Mo

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Being Lost in the Mind vs. Transcending the Mind

In the labyrinth of our thoughts, there lies a delicate balance between being entrapped and transcending the confines of the mind. The two might seem dichotomous, but they are simply two extremes of the spectrum of human consciousness.

**Being Lost in the Mind**

To be lost in the mind is to be ensnared by our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions. It’s like being caught in a storm where the waves of our anxieties, fears, and desires toss us to and fro. This state of being is often a result of overthinking, ruminating on the past, or excessively fearing the future. In essence, it’s when we become prisoners to our cognitive processes.

The pitfalls of such a state are evident. It can lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Yet, this state also harbours potential. Within the chaos of the mind, there is often a profound depth of creativity and introspection. It’s from the storm of thoughts that some of the world’s greatest art, literature, and inventions have emerged.

**Transcending the Mind**

On the other end lies the transcendence of the mind. This is a state of heightened awareness, where one is neither dominated by nor resistant to thoughts and emotions. It’s akin to finding a serene spot amid the storm where everything is calm and clear. In this state, one isn’t devoid of thoughts but is not chained by them either.

Transcending the mind is often associated with meditative and spiritual practices. It’s in this state that one finds peace, clarity, and a profound connection with the universe. Here, the trivialities of daily life fade, and one is left with a profound sense of being and purpose.

**The Balance**

The journey between these two states is not linear. We oscillate between feeling lost and moments of transcendence. Both states hold their unique value. While being lost offers depth and creativity, transcendence offers peace and clarity. The art of living lies in navigating between these two, understanding that neither is permanent, but both are essential facets of the human experience.

In conclusion, our mind is a vast expanse, capable of entrapping us and setting us free. It’s up to us to find our balance, to dance between the raindrops, and to find our moments of sunshine.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Unveiling My True Self

A Journey Through Enlightenment and Personality

Embarking on a spiritual journey often entails traversing through uncharted territories, and my journey, as shared in my interview with Steve James on Guru Viking, has been a testament to this exploration. My insights into the intertwining realms of enlightenment and personality have not only shaped my spiritual path but also opened a dialogue that is both philosophical and introspective: How does enlightenment manifest through the myriad of personalities?

My experiences, from navigating through the tumultuous waves of childhood trauma to experiencing peaks of spiritual awakenings, have been far from linear. The experiences of nonduality and oneness have been transformative, providing me with insights that challenge the conventional narratives surrounding enlightenment.

One pivotal realization that has emerged through my journey is that enlightenment does not obliterate personality. Rather, it illuminates it, allowing an individual to express their intrinsic personality traits without the constraints of ego or societal expectations. This realization prompts a cascade of questions: How does enlightenment, while navigating through the complexities of individual personalities, express itself authentically through inherent personality traits?

The concept that enlightenment can express itself through various personality types is not only intriguing but also dismantles the monolithic image of enlightened beings. It suggests that enlightenment does not coerce individuals into a singular archetype of serenity and equanimity. Instead, it allows one’s true nature to shine through, free from societal conditioning and self-limitation.

This perspective also fosters a compassionate viewpoint towards understanding and recognizing enlightenment in others. It suggests that enlightened beings may walk amongst us, expressing their spiritual realization through their unique personalities, which may not always conform to the stereotypical image of a serene, detached individual. It implies that an enlightened individual may laugh boisterously, engage passionately with the world, and express a spectrum of emotions, all while residing in a state of nondual awareness.

My insights invite contemplation: Have we encountered enlightened beings in our journey, unrecognized due to our preconceived notions of how they should express their realization? And how does this perspective influence our spiritual journey, knowing that enlightenment does not seek to change who we are, but rather to unveil our true nature in its purest form?

In the realm of spiritual exploration, where experiences often transcend language and conceptual understanding, my insights provide a fresh, inclusive, and deeply humane perspective on enlightenment. It invites us all to explore our spiritual path with authenticity, embracing our unique personalities as vehicles through which the enlightened state can express itself in the world.

Morgan O. Smith

Watch The Awakening of Mista Mo:

Ep 176: The Awakening of Mista Mo

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

You Are the Universe

The Singularity of Existence

When we look into a mirror, we see a reflection of our physical form. This body, which seems so familiar, is the embodiment of a vast cosmic journey that spans billions of years. The carbon in our cells, the iron in our blood, every particle has been forged in the crucible of stars. We are, quite literally, stardust.

However, the story does not end with mere physicality. Our consciousness, the unique essence that allows us to perceive, reason, and feel, is an integral part of this cosmic tapestry. It’s not a stretch to say that we are the universe experiencing itself.

But why does it seem like we are separate entities? When we look around, we see myriad forms of life, each one seemingly unique. This individuality is a beautiful illusion crafted by the universe. We are like waves in an ocean – while each wave appears distinct, they are all made of the same water, and ultimately, they are the ocean itself.

This realization brings with it profound implications. Every choice we make, and every action we undertake, is not just a result of individual will but the will of the universe. This is not to say that personal agency is an illusion, but rather, it operates in harmony with the cosmic dance of existence.

Consider this: If we truly understand that the person across from us is another version of ourselves, how would that change the way we interact with them? Hatred, jealousy, and malice would be replaced by understanding, compassion, and love.

When we truly understand that the entire universe is within us, and we are the universe, it shifts our perspective. We move from a place of separateness to one of unity. From competition to collaboration. From individualism to universalism.

So the next time you look into a mirror, see more than just your reflection. Recognize the entire cosmos staring back at you. Embrace the wonder of knowing that you are not just a speck in the universe; you ARE the universe.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Mirror of Compassion

Seeing Beyond the Self

In a world often driven by divisions and distinctions, the essence of seeing others through a lens of love is a profound step towards transcending the superficial boundaries that separate us. This insightful dialogue between host Steve James and me in this episode “Bodhi in the Brain” on Guru Viking, unveils a perspective that challenges the conventional paradigms of self and other.

The narrative unfolds a journey towards seeing others not as separate entities, but as reflections of our being. It’s a call to embrace a higher perspective, where love becomes the lens through which we perceive the world around us. This perspective is not about blurring the lines but about seeing the inherent unity that binds us all.

As this dialogue delves deeper, the notion of seeing others as we see our children emerges as a metaphor for boundless compassion and unconditional love. It’s about nurturing the seeds of empathy and understanding, allowing us to transcend the habitual tendencies of judgment and separation. This is not merely a philosophical idea, but a transformative practice that has the potential to reshape our interactions and relationships.

The profound statement, “Love thy neighbour as thyself,” is revisited with a fresh understanding. It’s not just a moral injunction but a pointer towards a state of consciousness where self and other are recognized as manifestations of the same divine essence. It’s about realizing that the same life force that animates our being also flows through every other individual, thus creating a bridge of compassion and understanding that transcends the apparent differences.

The journey towards seeing others as we see ourselves is a voyage into the heart of compassion. It’s about dismantling the walls of ego that keep us entrapped in a cycle of separation and conflict. It’s about cultivating a heart that sees not with the eyes of judgment, but with the eyes of love and understanding.

This perspective invites us to reflect on the quality of our interactions and the lens through which we perceive others. It’s a call to step into a space of openness, where love becomes the guiding light illuminating the path towards a more harmonious and compassionate world.

This conversation in “Bodhi in the Brain” is a dialogue with humanity, urging us to awaken to the boundless potential of love and compassion that resides within us. It’s a reminder that in the mirror of compassion, we see not just the reflection of others, but the reflection of our true self, united in the dance of existence.

As we embark on this journey of seeing others through a lens of love, we are not just transforming our perception; we are contributing to a collective shift towards a more compassionate and unified world.

Morgan O. Smith

Watch Bodhi in the Brain, and previous episodes below:

Ep 220: Bodhi in the Brain

Welcome to Episode 220 of our enlightening series, where today we delve into a profound narrative titled “Bodhi in the Brain.” In this episode, we are joined by a spiritual seeker who shares his riveting journey towards higher consciousness. Through a blend of ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience, we explore the realms of mind and spirit, unveiling a path that bridges the tangible with the transcendental. Tune in as we navigate the intricate dance of existence, and uncover the serene space where the mind meets the infinite.

Ep 176: The Awakening of Mista Mo

Ep 195: Enlightened Comedian

Laughter is often said to be a divine gift, but can it also be a gateway to a deeper understanding of our existence? In Episode 195, titled “Enlightened Comedian,” we explore the whimsical yet profound journey of a comedian whose quest for laughter led him to the shores of enlightenment. Through a tapestry of humour, insight, and spiritual awakening, we delve into the heart of a narrative that celebrates the confluence of comedy and consciousness. Tune in to this heartwarming episode as we unravel the laughter-laden path to self-realization and the profound wisdom that accompanies it.

🔗 For those yearning for a transformative meditative experience or eager to delve into the philosophical depth of “Bodhi in the Brain”, the gateway awaits https://linktr.ee/morganosmith A friendly reminder for seekers everywhere: Guru Viking continues to unfurl wisdom every Friday on YouTube. Enrich your spiritual palette on Apple, SoundCloud, and Spotify as well. https://www.guruviking.com/

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Fleeting Nature of States

A Blessing in Disguise

We often yearn for permanence, believing that if only certain moments or feelings could last forever, we’d attain a sense of contentment and completion. But the very essence of life is its impermanence. Every heartbeat, every fleeting thought, and even profound spiritual awakening are mere ripples in the vast ocean of existence.

Imagine for a moment that states were permanent. The joy of holding your newborn child, the grief of losing a loved one, the euphoria of a first kiss—each of these moments would not be fleeting episodes but everlasting realities. And while that might seem like a blessing, it’s essential to recognize the consequences.

Take, for instance, the state of a nondual spiritual awakening, a profound realization of oneness with everything that is. To remain forever in that state might sound divine, but it would rob us of the diversity of human experience. If we were permanently anchored in such an awakening, we’d be prisoners to its intensity, perhaps even losing touch with our humanity. A never-ending seizure, as we drown within the depths of our divinity, unable to connect, feel, or relate to the myriad of other experiences that make life so rich and varied.

This is why the impermanence of states is a blessing. It allows us to evolve, to learn, and to experience a wide range of emotions and realizations. With every passing moment, we’re given a new canvas, an opportunity to paint a different picture of our lives. The ebb and flow, the highs and lows, they’re all integral parts of this wondrous journey.

In essence, our states, be they of joy, sorrow, or profound realization, are like the changing seasons. Each has its time, its beauty, and its challenges. By embracing this impermanence, we can better appreciate each moment, knowing that it’s unique and will never come again in quite the same way.

In conclusion, while the allure of permanence might seem enticing, it’s the very transience of our states that offers us depth, growth, and a true appreciation for the beauty of life.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Paradox of Gain

A Journey Beyond the Self

In our dialogue on Guru Viking, the episode “Bodhi in the Brain” unfolds a narrative that delves into the essence of spiritual enlightenment and the realization of oneness. The conversation between host, Steve James, and me explores the paradoxical nature of gain in the spiritual realm, a concept that challenges the conventional paradigms of achievement and acquisition.

The journey towards spiritual enlightenment is often perceived as a quest for something greater, a pursuit of a higher state of being. However, as this dialogue unfolds, it reveals that the essence of spiritual enlightenment lies in the realization that there’s nothing to gain. It’s a journey of unbecoming, a process of shedding the layers of ego and illusion that veil our true nature.

The beauty of spiritual enlightenment is encapsulated in the simplicity of being, in the acceptance of our inherent wholeness. It’s not about acquiring something new, but about recognizing what has always been present. It’s about coming home to the essence of who we truly are, beyond the transient identities and desires that often entangle us.

The narrative further delves into the realization of oneness, a state of consciousness where the illusion of separation dissolves, unveiling the interconnectedness of all existence. In this state of realization, the concept of gain loses its significance. When we recognize ourselves as an integral part of the cosmic tapestry, the desire for personal gain transcends into a desire for collective harmony and well-being.

However, our dialogue also acknowledges the contrasting perspective from the ego standpoint, where the notion of gain is rooted in separation and individual achievement. It’s a realm where the self is perceived as distinct from the rest, and the pursuit of gain is driven by a desire for validation and fulfillment.

Our conversation invites you to reflect on the transient nature of worldly gains and the eternal fulfillment that lies in the realization of oneness. It’s a call to transcend egoic desires and step into a space of boundless love and unity.

This episode “Bodhi in the Brain” is not merely a discussion; it’s a gateway into a realm of higher understanding, a realm where the paradox of gain unveils the profound simplicity of existence. It’s a reminder that in the journey of spiritual enlightenment, the greatest gain is the realization of our inherent oneness with all that is.

Morgan O. Smith

Watch Bodhi in the Brain, and previous episodes below:

Ep 220: Bodhi in the Brain

Ep 176: The Awakening of Mista Mo

Ep 195: Enlightened Comedian

Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

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