Author, Philosopher, Spiritual Teacher, A Lead Facilitator at Sacred Media's Integral Mastery Academy, Founder of Yinnergy Meditation/Neurofeedback, Bodhi Mental Care & Wellness, Co-founder of KeMor Centre for Innovative Development
In the pursuit of well-being, human beings have often conflated happiness with bliss, treating them as interchangeable states. However, the ancient concept of Satcitananda, a Sanskrit term embodying the essence of ultimate reality offers a profound distinction between these two.
Happiness is a fleeting emotion, a reaction to external stimuli, tethered to the temporal and the material. It is as changeable as the weather, reliant on circumstances, people, possessions, and places. Happiness is the surface-level response to life’s favourable events and acquisitions, tied to the sensory and the transient.
Bliss, or Ananda, in contrast, represents a state beyond the physical or emotional. It is not contingent on the external but is the intrinsic nature of being, untouched by the vicissitudes of life’s ever-changing landscape. Bliss is the deep, unshakable contentment that comes not from what happens to us but from what we are at our core. It is a realization of one’s true nature, a state of being where one exists in complete harmony with the universe.
Satcitananda breaks down into ‘Sat’, ‘Chit’, and ‘Ananda’. ‘Sat’ refers to truth or existence itself, ‘Chit’ to consciousness or knowledge, and ‘Ananda’ to bliss. These are not mere attributes but the very fabric of the ultimate reality, the Brahman. To realize Satcitananda is to awaken to the truth that our own deepest self is not separate from this reality.
The journey from happiness to bliss is a transformational process of expanding one’s understanding from the finite to the infinite, from a state of doing to a state of being. Where happiness might be thought of as a single note in a symphony, bliss is the symphony itself. It is the silent space between notes, as integral to the music as the sound, offering a depth that is both immanent and transcendent.
To chase happiness is to chase the shadows of what we believe we lack, while to embrace bliss is to step into the light of our divine nature, which lacks nothing. It is a shift from seeking satisfaction from the external world to discovering the inexhaustible joy within.
In Satcitananda, one finds the key to unlocking a truth that spiritual traditions have whispered for millennia: that what we seek outside has always been within. As we navigate the shifting tides of life, the realization that we are not merely chasing fleeting happiness but are embodiments of eternal bliss can transform our entire way of being.
Thus, Satcitananda is not merely a philosophical concept; it is an invitation to a way of life, a reminder that beneath the ephemeral dance of happiness and sorrow lies a profound peace and joy, waiting to be realized.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Spiritual growth is an inward journey that involves deepening self-awareness, a connection to a higher purpose, and a pursuit of inner peace and enlightenment. Though one might perceive spiritual growth as purely internal, the environment plays an instrumental role in shaping this voyage. **The Outer Reflects the Inner**: Spirituality isn’t limited to the realm of meditation, prayers, or religious practices. It’s also about understanding oneself to the larger world. The environment serves as a mirror, reflecting the chaos or calm we feel within. A serene setting, like a tranquil forest or a quiet beach, can provide the space needed for introspection, while a tumultuous environment might challenge and refine our spiritual resilience.
**The Playground of Experiences**: Our experiences, heavily influenced by our environment, serve as lessons that guide our spiritual evolution. Facing economic hardships might teach us humility and gratitude while being in a nurturing emotional environment can facilitate feelings of love and empathy. Each environment, with its unique challenges and blessings, offers distinct lessons for our soul’s growth. **Environmental Genetics and The Enlightened Individual**: Modern scientific understanding acknowledges that both genes and the environment play roles in determining our characteristics. This interplay is also valid for spiritual inclinations. An individual with a genetic predisposition towards introspection and an environment that encourages self-reflection might have a smoother path toward enlightenment. Conversely, someone genetically predisposed to anxiety but raised in a supportive environment might learn to channel that anxiety into a deeper spiritual quest.
Yet, it’s crucial to remember that enlightenment isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. The combination of genetics and environment produces a spectrum of enlightened individuals, each with unique strengths, perspectives, and wisdom to offer.
### Balancing Agency with Environmental Influences
While the environment significantly shapes us, spiritual growth also involves recognizing and exercising our agency. It’s about acknowledging environmental influences while taking proactive steps to seek experiences and environments that align with our spiritual goals.
For many, this might mean seeking spiritual communities, immersing oneself in nature, or actively creating a personal sanctuary that facilitates inner reflection and growth. For others, it might involve challenging and transforming their environments.
In conclusion, the environment isn’t just a backdrop against which the drama of life unfolds; it’s an active participant, a teacher, a mirror, and a guide on our spiritual journey. Recognizing its influence can empower us to harness its lessons, navigate its challenges, and embark on a more profound, fulfilling spiritual voyage.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
My Journey with Meditation, Consciousness, and Awakening
Exploring the intricate facets of consciousness and the enigma of meditation has been a lifelong quest for me. This week, I had the privilege to join Ellevan & Winny Clarke on the “Disciplined Stoners” podcast, sharing my insights, experiences, and discoveries.
I’m not just here as a meditation enthusiast; I introduced them to my creation, Yinnergy, a program born from my years of exploring and understanding the depths of inner peace and mental clarity. We also delved into the themes of my latest book, “Bodhi in the Brain,” embarking on a thrilling discourse on states of consciousness, spiritual awakenings, and the fascinating world of psychological development.
It was a transformative conversation, touching upon the delicate line between mere understanding and direct experience – a distinction that’s been pivotal in my personal and spiritual journey.
For those of you intrigued to dive deeper into my Yinnergy meditation or to navigate the pages of “Bodhi in the Brain,” you can explore them here at https://linktr.ee/morganosmith
Join us in this episode, where we venture beyond mere conversation, stepping into a realm of true transformation!
A Journey Through Plutchik’s Wheel and the Hindu Subtle Body
Introduction
The exploration of human emotion transcends disciplines, cultures, and time. From psychological models such as Plutchik’s Wheel of Emotions to the spiritual teachings within Hinduism concerning the subtle body, the pursuit to understand our emotional selves is as complex as it is enriching. This blog post takes a deep dive into these seemingly disparate concepts, examining the intersection of emotion, spirituality, and subtle awakening.
Plutchik’s Wheel of Emotions
Plutchik’s model identifies eight basic emotions:
1. **Joy** – A sense of happiness and fulfillment. 2. **Trust** – Confidence in something or someone. 3. **Fear** – A response to perceived danger or threat. 4. **Surprise** – A reaction to the unexpected. 5. **Sadness** – A feeling of loss or despair. 6. **Disgust** – A strong aversion or repulsion. 7. **Anger** – A reaction to perceived wrong or injustice. 8. **Anticipation** – Expectation or excitement for what’s to come.
These primary emotions combine to form complex emotions and are mapped in a way that each emotion has an opposite.
The Emotional Subtle Body in Hinduism
Hindu philosophy introduces the concept of the subtle body, an intricate and vital part of our spiritual being, separate from the physical body. Comprised of the mind (Manas), intellect (Buddhi), ego (Ahamkara), and conditioned consciousness (Chitta), the subtle body is responsible for our thoughts, emotions, and consciousness.
Connecting the Dots: Emotions and the Subtle Body
The profound connection between Plutchik’s emotional spectrum and the emotional subtle body within Hinduism lies in the universality of emotions and the depth of human experience. Here’s a breakdown:
– **Joy & Trust**: These positive emotions align with spiritual awakening and the cultivation of inner peace and compassion, reflecting a higher level of consciousness.
– **Fear & Anger**: These emotions can be linked to spiritual blocks or ignorance (Avidya) within Hinduism, which hampers spiritual growth.
– **Surprise & Anticipation**: These emotions speak to our deep connection with the universe and the ever-changing nature of life, echoing the Hindu belief in the transient nature of our physical existence.
– **Sadness & Disgust**: Often seen as negative emotions, they can be channels for growth and understanding of the self, mirroring the Hindu concept of Dharma or righteous living. Conclusion: Emotions as Pathways to Spiritual Awakening
The emotional spectrum is not merely a psychological construct but a spiritual pathway. By understanding emotions through the lens of both Plutchik’s model and Hindu philosophy, we can embark on a journey toward subtle spiritual awakening.
The nuances of emotions, their combinations, and their reflections within the emotional subtle body offer us tools to navigate our spiritual paths. The profound connection between these concepts suggests that our emotions are not transient or superficial but deeply entwined with our very essence.
This exploration encourages us to recognize emotions as more than reactions to the world around us. They are signposts guiding us toward self-realization and a deeper connection with the divine within.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
In the rich and intricate fabric of Buddhist philosophy, two profound concepts stand out: anatta, or the principle of no-self, and sunyata, or the notion of emptiness. These ideas challenge our conventional understanding of self and reality, offering a transformative path to spiritual enlightenment.
This blog post delves into the fascinating journey of embracing anatta and sunyata and what changes might occur in a person as a result.
Anatta: The Principle of No-Self
Anatta challenges the notion of a fixed and permanent self, a radical idea that has profound implications on how we perceive ourselves and the world. Upon realizing anatta, an individual may undergo the following transformations:
– **Loss of Attachment to Self-Identity**: Labels, roles, and personal narratives lose their grip, allowing for a more fluid and adaptable understanding of self. – **Decrease in Ego-Driven Desires**: The pursuit of personal gain or recognition may fade, replaced by selfless compassion and loving-kindness. – **Deepened Interconnectedness with Others**: Seeing beyond the illusion of separate selves fosters a profound connection with all beings.
Sunyata: Embracing the Emptiness
Sunyata refers to the empty nature of all phenomena, a state where things are devoid of inherent existence. The realization of sunyata leads to:
– **Transcending Dualities**: Ordinary distinctions such as good and bad, self and other, become irrelevant, replaced by an all-encompassing view of reality. – **Detachment from Material Pursuits**: Recognizing the empty nature of material things may lead to a detachment from worldly desires and a more mindful way of living. – **Harmony with the Present Moment**: Seeing things as they are, empty of inherent existence, nurtures a profound connection with the present moment. The Journey Toward Enlightenment
Understanding anatta and sunyata is not an intellectual exercise but a profound experiential realization. The individual may engage in various practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and ethical living to cultivate this understanding.
The Impact on Relationships and Society
Embracing these principles fosters compassion, empathy, and altruism, reshaping relationships and offering a model of social harmony. It moves us towards a society rooted in wisdom and compassion, rather than division and selfishness.
Conclusion
The realization of anatta and sunyata is a transformative and enlightening experience that shifts our perception of self and reality. It dissolves the barriers that separate us and leads to a more compassionate and interconnected way of living.
In a world filled with complexity and conflict, these age-old Buddhist principles offer timeless wisdom and a path to inner peace. They invite us to let go of rigid self-identities and material pursuits, to see beyond the surface, and to embrace a more profound and holistic view of existence.
May the teachings of Anatta and Sunyata guide us towards a more awakened and compassionate life, where we recognize the interconnectedness of all beings and live in harmony with ourselves and the world.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
In the boundless tapestry of human existence, few ideas are as profound and transformative as the realization of oneself as Brahman. A central concept in Hindu philosophy, Brahman refers to the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit, a principle that transcends the individual self and unites all living beings.
This blog post explores the many changes an individual might experience upon this realization, a journey that transcends mundane existence and awakens a new consciousness.
### The Loss of Ego and the Embrace of Unity
Perhaps the most radical shift in consciousness comes from losing the individual ego. Recognizing oneself as part of the universal oneness leads to a dissolution of the self, allowing the individual to see beyond the superficial distinctions that often characterize human perception. This leads to a profound sense of unity, empathy, and compassion, transcending barriers like race, nationality, and religion.
### A Shift in Values and Desire
The realization of Brahman changes the very fabric of desire and ambition. Material possessions, social status, and even relationships may lose their significance, replaced by spiritual growth and a deepened understanding of the cosmic order. The individual might pursue selfless service, finding fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of all.
### The Embrace of Paradox and the Transcendent Nature of Existence
This profound awakening allows for a comfortable acceptance of paradoxes and contradictions. Time becomes more fluid, creativity blossoms, and the person might develop an ability to recognize synchronicities, meaningful coincidences that reveal the interconnected web of existence. ### Living in Harmony and Transcending Social Constructs
Living in harmony with nature, respecting all life, and transcending conventional gender roles and social constructs, the enlightened individual moves through life with grace, mindfulness, and effortless action. Their actions are unforced, carried out with a sense of reverence and alignment with universal ethics.
### The Physical and Emotional Manifestations
The journey to realizing oneself as Brahman does not merely affect the mind but also resonates through the body and emotions. The individual may find improved physical well-being, experience deeper states of meditation, and become almost entirely devoid of internal and external conflict.
### The Inspiration to Others
Through this transformation, the individual becomes a living example of peace, love, and wisdom, inspiring others simply through their presence and way of being. They embody a philosophy that sees beyond the limitations of material existence and offers a path to spiritual awakening.
### Conclusion
The realization of oneself as Brahman is a profound spiritual concept that encompasses every aspect of being—mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual. It offers a glimpse into a state of consciousness that transcends the mundane and awakens a new way of perceiving reality.
In a world often driven by material pursuits and divisive ideologies, the teachings surrounding Brahman provide a timeless wisdom that calls for unity, compassion, and a life centred on spiritual truth. Whether viewed as a philosophical concept, a religious belief, or a spiritual experience, the realization of Brahman invites us to look beyond the self and embrace a vision of existence that is all-encompassing, transcendent, and profoundly transformational.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, may we find inspiration in the ancient wisdom that teaches us to see ourselves not as isolated beings but as part of a grand, interconnected cosmos, guided by a principle that is at once beyond us and within us. It is a journey of discovery, a path to enlightenment, and a call to a deeper, more meaningful existence.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
The journey of self-understanding often leads us to explore the contours of our own ego. The ego, our sense of self-identity, manifests in countless facets that embody our personality traits, motivations, and behaviours. Each of these facets, be they positive attributes like resilience and compassion, or negative tendencies such as jealousy and arrogance, forms an integral part of our self-image.
Picture the constellation of traits that define you. Some shine brilliantly, reflecting your strengths and virtues. Some might be darker, representing the areas we struggle with or seek to improve. These are the multiple dimensions of our identity, as intricate and vast as the cosmos itself.
Deep spiritual or mystical experiences can profoundly alter this constellation. During these moments of transcendence, the negative facets, those shadowy stars, seem to fade away. We are left with only the positive aspects, creating a luminous sense of heightened self-worth, inner peace, and profound connection with the world around us.
But the journey doesn’t stop at this dualistic understanding. As we delve deeper into these transformative moments, we encounter a state of nonduality. In this space, all facets of the ego, positive and negative, exist simultaneously, without clear distinctions or separations. They merge into the grand cosmic dance, each star in our constellation joining the larger cosmos, allowing us to experience the full spectrum of our human existence.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Introduction: In an age where spirituality is often a trend, the differentiation between authentic spiritual pursuit and a mere display of piety becomes pivotal. If one merely adopts the garb of spirituality without authenticity, is it spirituality at all? This article seeks to explore the delicate balance between presenting oneself as spiritual and embarking on an authentic spiritual journey. The Allure of Spiritual Image: Social media, popular culture, and sometimes peer pressure portray spirituality as a serene and enlightened state. This depiction can be tantalizing. People are enticed to showcase themselves as spiritual beings, oftentimes to fit into a community, gain admiration or even as a refuge from self-accountability. Defining Authenticity: On the other side lies authenticity, which is the honesty and genuineness in one’s thoughts, actions, and intentions. Authenticity in spirituality means that one’s quest is not for show, but a sincere endeavour to seek meaning, connection, and perhaps even transcendence. Dissecting Inauthentic Spirituality: If spirituality is worn as a mask and not lived, it becomes hollow. For instance, one might engage in spiritual practices in public but live a life contrary to those principles in private. This lack of alignment between external display and internal values questions the very essence of one’s spirituality. Is it spirituality or is it pretense? Authentic Spirituality – A Journey Within: Authentic spirituality, by contrast, is unshackled by the need for external validation. It is a deeply personal journey, irrespective of the eyes that may or may not be watching. This path might be replete with doubts, stumbles, and personal challenges, but it’s real and grounded in honest pursuit.
The Purity Test: So, how can one discern authentic spirituality? A question that individuals must ask themselves is whether their spiritual actions and pursuits would remain the same if there was no one to witness them. The answer can be very telling.
Conclusion: To embrace spirituality is to undertake a journey of profound depth. It’s not just a robe one wears but the very fabric of one’s being. As such, authenticity should be its cornerstone. When spirituality is stripped of pretense, what remains is a raw and real quest – a journey that can be tumultuous, rewarding, and ultimately transformative. Let us aspire to ensure that our spiritual pursuits are rooted in the genuine soil of our being, not just the sands of outward display.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Life is a tapestry of personal narratives. Each of us is the author of our own story, swept up in the whirl of our everyday trials and tribulations, from the mundane to the monumental. We’re all preoccupied with our victories and defeats, joys and sorrows, dreams and disappointments, which collectively form our unique, personal content. Yet, amidst this tumultuous weave of personal stories, there lurks a broader tapestry, a profound, immutable context that transcends our existences—the Ultimate Reality or the Ultimate Context.
This Ultimate Context is akin to a vast ocean upon which our individual lives are but transient waves. We are too often ignorant of its presence, absorbed in the details of our fleeting crests and troughs, beginnings, and endings. But our myopic vision deprives us of the understanding that our waves are inseparable from the larger, unfathomable expanse of the ocean—the Ultimate Reality.
Unveiling the Veil of Illusion
Many philosophical traditions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, refer to our preoccupation with personal content as an illusion—maya or samsara. This illusion stems from our inability to recognize that the seemingly separate, solid, and enduring ‘self’ we believe ourselves to be is just a wave on the ocean’s surface, part of the boundless, interconnected, and constantly changing Ultimate Reality.
Our inability to perceive this reality is often compared to a dream from which we struggle to awaken. Our ‘personal content’ may seem to us the full reality because it engrosses our senses and emotions, yet it is merely a fragment of the ‘Ultimate Context.’
Rediscovering the Ultimate Context
How do we reorient our focus away from our narratives to understand the Ultimate Context? Philosophies and spiritual traditions around the world suggest varied paths, from rigorous intellectual inquiry to deep meditation. Regardless of the method, the goal remains the same: to transcend the confines of our consciousness and recognize our union with the Ultimate Reality.
Practicing mindfulness and living in the ‘here and now’ is one approach that offers us the chance to step away from our content. Mindfulness offers a way to become aware of the ‘nowness’ of existence, to experience the world and ourselves as a series of interconnected, ephemeral phenomena. Through this process, we can gradually attune ourselves to the Ultimate Context.
The Potential Impact
Imagine what our lives would look like if we acknowledged the Ultimate Context. Our struggles, while not diminished, might be seen in a new light. We would recognize that we are not isolated entities combating a hostile universe, but integral parts of a vast, interconnected whole. This understanding could engender a profound sense of peace, compassion, and interconnectedness, transforming our relationships with ourselves, others, and the world at large.
Embracing the Journey
Venturing into the realm of the Ultimate Context is not an easy task. It requires us to shift our perceptions, to question our deeply ingrained beliefs about ourselves and reality. But the journey, while challenging, holds the promise of a profound transformation—a metamorphosis from a wave oblivious of its oceanic nature to one that rides the currents of existence with grace, understanding, and wonder.
In the end, the Ultimate Context is not a lofty abstraction to be pondered upon, but a living reality to be experienced. It invites us to shift our gaze from the canvas of our content and behold the magnificent tapestry of existence. To make this shift is to awaken from our dream of separateness and embrace the full richness of our interconnected lives. This is not an escape from our day-to-day trials and tribulations but a broader understanding of their place within a larger panorama of existence. By grounding our narratives within the Ultimate Context, we can navigate life’s ups and downs with greater equanimity, wisdom, and inner peace.
Implications for Society
If we expand this understanding from the individual to the collective level, the implications are profound. Recognizing the Ultimate Context could revolutionize our approach to societal issues, from climate change to social inequality. Instead of viewing these problems through the narrow lens of individualistic concerns, we would perceive them as disruptions in the interconnected web of existence that they truly are. This could catalyze a more compassionate, holistic, and effective response.
The Ultimate Journey
The journey toward the Ultimate Context is more than a philosophical quest. It is a profound transformation, an inner pilgrimage towards a fuller, more interconnected understanding of reality. It is a journey from the known to the unknown, from the surface to the depth, from separateness to oneness.
Embracing the Ultimate Context does not mean rejecting our content, our individual stories. Instead, it invites us to view them as integral threads of a grander cosmic tapestry. The beauty of our trials and tribulations, our victories and defeats, lies in their interconnectedness with everything else that exists.
In this journey, we are not alone. Every individual, consciously or unconsciously, is a traveller on this path. We are all part of the same quest, the same unfolding story of discovering and understanding the Ultimate Context. As we navigate this path, let us remember that our waves are not separate from the ocean. They are the ocean, expressing itself in all its diversity, beauty, and mystery. In embracing the Ultimate Context, we celebrate not just our narratives, but the grand saga of existence itself.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
A Harmonious Unveiling of Eastern and Western Spirituality
Introduction: In the transcendent tapestry of human spirituality, East and West have often been seen as disparate threads. The West, with its logical rigour and scientific orientation, seems worlds apart from the East’s mystical, inward-focused spiritual traditions. However, in the heart of a spiritual awakening, a resplendent horizon emerges, revealing the unity and complementary nature of these spiritual worlds. This article explores this enigmatic integration, delving into how the confluence of Eastern and Western spirituality can offer a comprehensive and profound spiritual experience.
The Philosophical Underpinnings: Eastern spirituality, rooted in traditions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism, often emphasizes the notions of unity, interdependence, and the cyclical nature of existence. In contrast, Western spirituality, particularly in Abrahamic religions, has been more inclined toward linear progression, individual salvation, and a personal God. Notwithstanding these differences, both sides seek to understand the fundamental nature of existence and the path toward greater fulfillment and enlightenment.
The Awakening Confluence: The moment of spiritual awakening can be likened to the dawn; the dark night of ignorance recedes as the sun of wisdom rises. In this pivotal moment, the dichotomies of East and West dissipate, as one comprehends the interwoven complexities of existence. The Eastern idea of interconnectedness suddenly harmonizes with the Western emphasis on individual worth, signifying that our individual journey has cosmic interconnected consequences. Science and Mysticism: One of the key avenues through which this integration is taking place is the dialogue between science (often associated with the West) and mysticism (a domain of the East). Through disciplines like quantum physics, Western science is beginning to echo Eastern concepts of interdependence and non-duality. The parallels between quantum entanglement and the interconnectedness emphasized in Eastern philosophies are a testament to this evolving synthesis.
A More Comprehensive Path: By integrating Eastern and Western spirituality, individuals may find a more comprehensive and balanced path. For instance, the Western emphasis on social justice and activism can bolster the Eastern focus on inner peace and equanimity. Conversely, the Eastern practices of meditation and mindfulness can bring a sense of inner clarity and purpose to the Western pursuit of external achievements.
Conclusion: As the human spirit continues to evolve, the integration of Eastern and Western spiritual perspectives offers a more holistic and enriched path. This synthesis, fully realized in the moment of spiritual awakening, acts as a bridge between dualities, fostering a deeper understanding of the self and the universe. Through this harmonious integration, humanity has the potential to weave a more intricate, compassionate, and enlightened tapestry of existence.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Morgan O. Smith 