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 Unfolding Symphony

Embracing Life through an Open Heart

Introduction: In the grand theatre of existence, our hearts play a central role in the symphony of human experience. To navigate the depths of life’s mysteries, we must learn the art of keeping our hearts open. A profound approach to achieving this lies in the act of wholeheartedly accepting and embracing everything we encounter – the sights, sounds, scents, flavours, and textures – as intrinsic aspects of ourselves. This philosophical journey explores the transformative power of openness, inviting us to delve into the essence of existence and cultivate a profound connection with the world around us.

  1. Embracing the Multitude of Perspectives: To keep the heart open, we must acknowledge the multitude of perspectives that shape our reality. Each experience we encounter is coloured by our unique perceptions, and no two individuals experience the world in exactly the same way. By embracing the diversity of viewpoints, we unlock the potential for genuine empathy and understanding, fostering an inclusive and compassionate society.
  2. Surrendering to the Flow of Life: Life’s tapestry weaves an intricate pattern of joy and sorrow, triumph and defeat. Embracing an open heart requires us to surrender to the natural ebb and flow of existence without resistance. When we stop trying to control or manipulate life’s course, we find solace in the understanding that every experience is a teacher, guiding us towards growth and self-discovery.
  3. Liberating the Self from Ego: The ego often entangles our hearts in a web of desires, fears, and judgments. To truly embrace life as an extension of ourselves, we must transcend the ego’s limitations and recognize the interconnection between all living beings. Letting go of the attachment to the “self” allows us to dissolve the illusion of separateness and discover a profound sense of unity with the universe.
  4. Cultivating Radical Acceptance: Radical acceptance is the key to unlocking the transformative power of an open heart. By embracing everything we encounter – the pleasant and the challenging, the familiar and the unfamiliar – as essential aspects of our journey, we learn to dance gracefully with life’s ever-changing rhythms. Embracing all facets of existence deepens our capacity for resilience and enriches our human experience.
  5. Living with Gratitude: Gratitude is a sacred gateway that opens our hearts to the splendour of life. Embracing a sense of profound gratitude for each moment, we begin to see life’s wonders with fresh eyes and a receptive heart. Gratitude is the beacon that leads us to treasure even the seemingly mundane, unveiling the beauty hidden within the folds of everyday life.

Conclusion: Keeping the heart open is an ethereal quest that unravels the essence of our existence. By accepting and embracing every encounter, we transcend the boundaries of self and connect with the universal tapestry of life. Embracing diverse perspectives, surrendering to life’s flow, and liberating ourselves from the ego’s grasp elevate us to a higher plane of consciousness. Through radical acceptance and gratitude, we find profound meaning in the ordinary and glimpse the extraordinary in the ordinary. Let us embark on this philosophical journey, keeping our hearts open to the wonders that life has to offer, and savouring the grand symphony of existence in all its magnificence.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Walking the Tightrope

A Meditation on Life, Breath, and Existence

In our vast and infinite universe, there’s a remarkable dance that each living being performs, the perpetual tango between life and death. Every day, we navigate this tightrope, threading the narrow path that distinguishes the vibrant hues of existence from the void of non-existence. This intriguing equilibrium that defines our existence, balancing on the precipice of mortality, is an intricate choreography that brings to light the profundity of being alive.

Our breath, the subtle rhythm that underpins our existence, exemplifies this precarious balance. This rhythm – this continuous cycle of inhalation and exhalation – serves as the metronome of life itself. Each breath we take teeters on the edge of this existential tightrope, acting as the anchoring point in our ephemeral dance with life and death.

Delving deeper into this concept, one realizes that within every inhale and exhale, within the heart of that rhythmic balance, lies the essence of life. Every breath, an intimate connection between our body and the universe, is an affirmation of our existence, a silent declaration of life. The breath is an intimate dialogue with life, a personal narrative of our existence that is shared with the cosmos in a language as old as time.

But like any equilibrium, the delicate balance that our breath maintains requires moderation. If we linger too long on an inhale, or we dally on an exhale, we stray from the path of life. We break the cadence that ties us to life itself. We teeter, we falter, and eventually, we fall. To exist is to balance impeccably on this precipice, maintaining an impeccable rhythm in our breath that keeps us firmly planted within the domain of the living.

This concept, although simple in its description, bears profound implications. It calls us to be ever present, to appreciate the now, to be conscious of our place in the larger fabric of existence. It urges us to seek balance, to stay centered in the midst of our worldly experiences. Just as the rhythm of breath oscillates between inhale and exhale, so too should we find our balance amidst the highs and lows of life. For to be alive is not merely to exist, but to persist in this delicate dance on the existential tightrope.

In every breath, in every moment of our existence, we are called to embrace this profound balance. This realisation should provoke us to appreciate the transience of life, to value every breath as the gift it truly is. The rhythmic dance of breath is not just a biological necessity but an existential miracle that affirms our place in the grand tapestry of the universe.

Life and death. Inhale and exhale. Beginnings and endings. These dualities define the human condition. We walk the tightrope between these two extremes every day, maintaining a balance that is as delicate as it is essential. And in understanding this, we uncover a deeper appreciation of life itself, a more profound sense of our place within the cosmos, and a newfound reverence for the delicate balance that defines our existence.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Enlighten Up! w/ Special Guest, Shayma Tssouli (Ep 10)

Welcome back to Enlighten Up! Join Spiritual Teacher Morgan O. Smith & Comedian Nathan Griffith along with their special guest, Shayma Tssouli, as they delve into topics of enlightenment, belief systems, non-duality, and Absolute Monism. Shayma brings her unique perspective, questioning the shadows that arise during spiritual awakening and sharing personal experiences of dealing with trauma. Experience moments of levity as Morgan and Nathan engage in lighthearted banter, making fun of pronunciation errors and debating on the potential of Canadian currency uplifting the Moroccan economy. And don’t miss Morgan’s exciting recount of his encounter with a demi-god in his meditative practice. This episode is filled with thoughtful debates, introspective moments and bursts of humour. Embark on this journey of wisdom and laughter with us and see spirituality in a whole new light. Remember to check out Morgan’s enlightening book, “Bodhi in the Brain” and learn more about Yinnergy Meditation at the link. https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Cosmic Dance

An Exploration of the Universe’s Nondual Governance

Introduction:
In the vast expanse of existence, we find the Universe – an intricate tapestry woven from the finest threads of the cosmos. From the gross body, encompassing galaxies and stars, to the ethereal nondual body, this blog delves into the profound interplay between the Universe and its creation. Join me on a philosophical journey as we contemplate the mysterious dance that governs both the Universe and everything within it.

The Gross Body – Galaxies, Stars, and Celestial Rhythms
At the foundational level, the Universe reveals its grandeur through galaxies, stars, and celestial bodies. The intricate movements and cosmic rhythms within this gross body shape the fabric of space and time. We ponder how the Universe’s gravitational embrace guides celestial objects, orchestrating a symphony of celestial phenomena.

The Subtle Body – Energy and Consciousness
Beyond the tangible cosmos lies the subtle body of the Universe, where energy and consciousness intermingle. Here, we explore the profound nature of dark matter and dark energy, contemplating their role in the Universe’s governance. Moreover, we delve into the captivating relationship between consciousness and creation, questioning whether the Universe itself possesses a form of cosmic awareness.

The Causal Body – The Laws of Nature
At the causal level, the Universe operates through the laws of nature, elegant principles that govern every aspect of existence. We contemplate the harmony and precision of these laws, reflecting on how they have shaped the Universe from its inception and continue to influence its evolution.

The Nondual Body – Embracing Unity and Oneness
At the highest level of existence, the nondual body transcends duality and embraces oneness. We dive into the concept of nonduality and its profound implications for our understanding of the Universe. Is there an inherent unity that underlies all creation, where the Universe and its inhabitants are inextricably connected?

The Dance of Reciprocity – Mutual Governance
Here, we explore the fascinating concept of mutual governance. We contemplate how every action within the Universe sets off a chain of reactions that echo throughout existence. This reciprocity prompts us to consider the profound responsibility we hold as conscious beings within this cosmic symphony.

Conclusion:
The journey through the various levels of the Universe’s governance has led us to ponder the interwoven relationship between creation and creator. As we contemplate the dance of the Universe, we discover that we are not merely passive observers but active participants in this cosmic drama. From the gross to the nondual body, we are interconnected in a profound and symbiotic relationship, where each action ripples through the fabric of existence. Embracing this understanding, we find ourselves invited to co-create the symphony of the Universe with awareness, reverence, and love.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Enlighten Up! – w/ Special Guest, Tennesha Skyers (Ep 09)

In episode 9 of Enlighten Up!, spiritual teacher Morgan O. Smith and comedian Nathan Griffith are joined by special guest, visual artist Tennesha Skyers. Listen as they dive deep into discussions of everything from supernatural beliefs, the power of transformation, and the role of gurus, to shared laughter over cultural references and personal experiences. Tennesha shares powerful stories from her life, touching on topics of racism, spiritual awakenings, and her unique path from reckless youth to a dedicated visual artist. Nathan offers insights from his own spiritual experiences and hilariously teases Morgan on their dynamic guru-disciple relationship. Morgan, keeping the humour alive, struggles to recall movie titles while showcasing his Tibetan Singing Bowls. From tackling serious issues like racism and environmental concerns to playful chats about the animated series Rick and Morty, this episode is packed full of deep insights, laughter, and the occasional supernatural anecdote. Don’t forget to check out Morgan’s book “Bodhi in the Brain” and Yinnergy Meditation at https://linktr.ee/morganosmith. Embark on this enlightening journey with us, filled with wisdom and hearty laughter.

The Dance of Emptiness and Form

Unveiling the True Essence of Yoga

The philosophical underpinnings of Yoga transcend the popular perception of it as merely a physical discipline. Yoga, in its quintessence, is a union, a symbiotic dance between emptiness and form. This dance, a philosophical waltz within the vast expanses of the universe, finds a profound echo within us.

When we speak of form, we are drawn towards the tangible, quantifiable aspects of our existence—our body, the physical world around us. These are things we can touch, see, smell, hear, taste—the concrete attributes of our being. On the Yoga mat, the physical form is the obvious manifestation of our practice. Asanas are the embodiment of form, an expression of our grounded reality.

On the other hand, emptiness is an abstract concept, often considered synonymous with void or nothingness. In Eastern philosophies, emptiness does not signify a lack or absence but is regarded as the space that allows the form to exist, the silence that cradles the sound. It is the immaterial consciousness, the observer within us.

In the practice of Yoga, we cultivate the experience of both form and emptiness. Through asanas, we engage with form, enhancing our physical wellness and strength. Yet simultaneously, through meditation and breath control (Pranayama), we connect with the space of consciousness, the emptiness.

The union of emptiness and form in Yoga echoes the concept of Yin and Yang in Taoism. These seemingly opposing forces are complementary and interdependent. Similarly, in Yoga, the physical form (body) and the immaterial consciousness (emptiness) are intertwined in a dance, with neither one being superior to the other.

The realization of this union empowers us to perceive ourselves beyond the limitations of physical existence. We start to experience our oneness with the universe, recognizing that the emptiness within us is the same as the cosmic void, and the form is an expression of universal matter.

In true Yoga, we find balance and harmony between form and emptiness. We start understanding that emptiness isn’t a void but a space filled with infinite possibilities, and form is not rigid but a fluid and ever-changing phenomenon. This balance and harmonious interaction between emptiness and form illuminate the path toward self-realization and enlightenment.

Consequently, Yoga transforms from a practice into a way of life, a journey towards unveiling the veiled, harmonizing the paradox of existence and experiencing the profound unity of all creation. It’s a journey that, while dancing on the stage of duality, ultimately guides us back to unity.

In essence, Yoga teaches us to embrace the dance of life, the continuous ebb and flow between form and emptiness. In this dance, we discover our true selves, learning to live in harmony with our internal rhythms and the universal pulse. Only by acknowledging and understanding both emptiness and form can we truly unfold the potential within, ultimately experiencing the profound union that is the heart of Yoga.

Through this exploration, may we all find our unique rhythm in the cosmic dance and awaken to the truth that Yoga is not just something we do, but rather a state of being. A union of emptiness and form, a harmonious dance in the infinite canvas of existence.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Drowning or Swimming? Decoding the Paradox of Mind Transcendence

Joseph Campbell, a luminary in the realm of comparative mythology and religion, once penned a remarkably profound quote: “The psychotic drowns in the same waters in which the mystic swims with delight.” This sentence invokes an evocative imagery of two people submerged in the same waters, yet experiencing entirely different outcomes. As we unravel the layers behind this quote, we delve into the profound disparity between losing one’s mind and transcending it.

On the surface, the quote suggests a nuanced understanding of how two people can experience the same reality in starkly different ways. But it goes deeper than that. It’s about the fine line that separates self-destruction and self-actualization, the boundary between psychosis and mysticism. The “waters” in this quote can be seen as the metaphorical sea of consciousness – the vast, undefined, often unruly and chaotic realm of the mind.

For the psychotic, these waters are treacherous, overwhelming, and ultimately engulfing. This individual is at the mercy of their thoughts, emotions, and perceptions, succumbing to the unfiltered and uncontrollable tide of the mind’s creations. They ‘drown’ as they lose their ability to discern between their constructed thoughts and objective reality.

On the other hand, the mystic does not just survive but thrives in these waters. How so? They are those who have mastered the art of transcending the mind. They don’t seek to control or suppress their thoughts and feelings but rather learn to navigate them. By developing a keen awareness of their internal states, they can distance themselves from their thoughts, recognizing that they are not defined or confined by them. This detachment isn’t a rejection of the mind but a profound understanding of its place.

Does this mean transcending the mind is merely about survival? Not in the least. For the mystic, the sea of consciousness becomes a source of delight and wonder, a playground of existential exploration. The waters which are tumultuous for the psychotic become serene for the mystic. They can revel in the complexities and curiosities of the mind, but they never forget they are swimming – not sinking.

So, what distinguishes the drowning psychotic from the delightfully swimming mystic? It lies in the relationship each holds with their mind. The psychotic is subjugated by their mind, entangled in a brutal dance with their thoughts, leading to the loss of self. Conversely, the mystic views the mind as a tool, a companion in their quest for enlightenment, not a ruthless master.

We can argue that the art of swimming in these waters, as a mystic does, is accessible to us all. The question is whether we can cultivate mindfulness, detach from our thoughts without suppression, and remain open to the vast possibilities of human consciousness. After all, the goal isn’t to escape the waters but to learn to swim and ultimately delight in them.

Joseph Campbell’s metaphor presents a thought-provoking dichotomy between two extremes of human consciousness. It is a profound reminder that our relationship with our mind can either lead to our downfall or our enlightenment. It urges us to transcend rather than lose ourselves in the convoluted maze that is the human mind. The water, after all, is the same. It’s the swimmers who are different.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Enlighten Up! – w/ Special Guest, Nathalie Delorme (Ep 07)

Discover the mystical side of life in Enlighten Up!, Episode 6! Join Spiritual Teacher, Morgan O. Smith, Comedian, Nathan Griffith, and Spiritual Life Coach, Nathalie Delorme, as they dive into a potpourri of intriguing topics. In this episode, Morgan shares his unique experience of meditating with Yinnergy using laptop speakers, debunking the usual requirement of headphones for binaural beats. Listen as Nathan puts forth his creative theories about the moon’s influence, challenging conventional beliefs. Join the trio as they discuss the varying levels of psychological development and our tendency to hold onto superstitions and myths. Listen to Morgan’s fascinating recollection of a man who claimed to be Jesus Christ and how past actions resurface unexpectedly. Adding more charm to the conversation, Morgan narrates his personal encounter with Paramahamsa Vishwananda, a spiritual guru from Germany, during his meditation. He also talks about the importance of humour in spirituality, demonstrating that enlightenment and laughter can indeed go hand in hand. Remember to check out “Bodhi in the Brain” and Yinnergy Meditation at https://linktr.ee/morganosmith. Enlighten up your life with us!

Follow Nathalie Delorme on Instagram for more spiritual insights: @evolution.nathalie

Exploring Spiritual Enlightenment

Unveiling the Essence of Being

Introduction:
In the realm of spirituality, few concepts captivate the human imagination as profoundly as spiritual enlightenment. It has been sought after, contemplated upon, and revered across cultures and traditions. At its core, spiritual enlightenment encompasses a holistic realization, knowing, comprehension, recognition, and liberation, leading to an intimate understanding of one’s essence as the Ground of all Being. In this thought-provoking blog, we embark on a journey to unravel the depths of spiritual enlightenment and explore its transformative power.

Realization: The Full Realization of What You Are as The Ground of All Being
The journey toward spiritual enlightenment begins with a profound realization—an awakening to the fundamental truth of one’s existence. It is an experiential revelation that transcends intellectual understanding, offering a direct encounter with the essence of reality. This realization unveils the interconnectedness of all existence and dissolves the boundaries that separate the self from the world.

Knowing: Knowing Who and What You Are as The Ground of All Being
Knowing, in the context of spiritual enlightenment, goes beyond intellectual knowledge or beliefs. It is a direct and intimate knowing of one’s true nature, beyond the ephemeral constructs of ego and identity. This knowing arises from experiential wisdom that transcends language and logic, revealing the profound interconnectedness of all life.

Comprehension: Comprehending What You Are as The Ground of All Being
Comprehension in spiritual enlightenment refers to a deep understanding that arises from the integration of realization and knowing. It involves grasping the inherent wisdom that pervades all existence and recognizing the underlying unity amidst the apparent diversity. This comprehension allows us to perceive the world through a lens of compassion, empathy, and interconnectedness.

Recognition: Recognizing What You Are as The Ground of All Being
Recognition entails a moment of profound insight where the illusory veils of separation and limitation fall away, revealing the truth of one’s being. It is a transformative recognition of our true nature as vast, boundless awareness, intimately interconnected with the entire cosmos. Through this recognition, we come to acknowledge the divinity that resides within ourselves and all beings.

Liberation: Being Liberated from Shape or Form, Free from Illusion and Attachments
Liberation represents the ultimate culmination of spiritual enlightenment—a state of profound freedom and liberation from the constraints of ego, attachment, and illusion. It is an experiential transcendence of the limited, conditioned self, allowing one to dwell in the realm of pure emptiness. Yet, paradoxically, this liberation is not a detachment from the world but a unification with it, as the awakened individual realizes their inseparability from the tapestry of existence.

Conclusion:
Spiritual enlightenment encompasses a multidimensional journey that surpasses the limitations of language and rationality. It is a profound exploration of the self and the universe, revealing our interconnectedness and inherent divinity. Through realization, knowing, comprehension, recognition, and liberation, we can embark on a transformative path that leads to a deeper understanding of our existence. By embracing the essence of spiritual enlightenment, we may find ourselves united with everything that is form while being liberated from the illusory constraints that bind us. May this exploration inspire you on your quest for self-discovery and awakening to the timeless truth of the Ground of all Being.

Morgan O. Smith

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

The Dance of Divine Ignorance

Brahman’s Playful Journey to Self-Realization

From the mysterious depths of Hindu philosophy arises a compelling concept, the notion of divine ignorance. Within this notion, we find an intriguing paradox: Brahman, the supreme reality or absolute truth, embarks on a deliberate voyage of self-forgetfulness, only to rediscover itself anew.

The journey begins with Brahman, the substratum of all existence. As an eternal, infinite entity beyond time, space, and causality, it is all-knowing and all-encompassing. Yet, it willingly dons the cloak of divine ignorance, becoming unaware of its true nature. Why? It’s an act of divine playfulness or ‘lila.’ It is a purposeful exercise to experience life’s duality, diversity, and the contrasts it can offer.

In this state of divine ignorance, Brahman may assume any form, animate or inanimate, and traverse a myriad of experiences, each unique and valuable. As humans, animals, or even as the elements themselves, Brahman willingly dives into the sea of forgetfulness, plunging into the game of life and death, joy and sorrow, love and hatred. Brahman is there in every moment, in every experience, playing hide-and-seek with itself.

Each incarnation in this state is a chapter of the cosmic narrative, leading to an eventual grand finale – the rediscovery of the self as Brahman. This moment of awakening is not a simple return to the start but a profound realization heightened by the accumulated experiences. It is a conscious awareness of oneness, a dissolution of the illusory divide between the self and the universe.

However, this journey isn’t a linear path. It’s a dance, a rhythm of existence where each beat is a cycle of divine ignorance and self-realization. Each turn of the dance spirals upwards, towards an ever-deepening understanding and experience of the truth.

The concept of divine ignorance challenges us to see life not as a series of random events but as a purposeful, meaningful journey toward self-realization. It teaches us that ignorance isn’t a flaw to be eradicated, but an essential part of the cosmic play. It is a transformative cocoon that emerges as the butterfly of awareness.

Divine ignorance invites us to embrace our vulnerabilities, our doubts, and our seeming ‘ignorance,’ and use them as catalysts for growth. It gently reminds us that the path to self-realization isn’t a desperate escape from ignorance but a joyful dance through it.

In conclusion, the dance of divine ignorance is not just Brahman’s journey but ours. We are not separate from Brahman, we are Brahman; playing the role of being a part of it, participating in this cosmic dance. Divine ignorance is not an obstacle but a bridge to our ultimate truth. It’s a profound truth worth reflecting upon, and perhaps, just perhaps, it’s time for us to embrace the dance and rediscover ourselves anew.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith