Tag: mindfulness

The Unleashing of Shadows

A Deep Dive into the Repressed Unconscious Unveiled Through Meditative and Spiritual Pursuits

In the realm of self-discovery and spiritual evolution, often shrouded in an ambiance of tranquillity and enlightenment, lies a less explored, slightly tumultuous terrain: the unleashing of repressed unconscious material. It’s a landscape rarely highlighted in the glossy brochures of spiritual enterprises, yet it forms an intrinsic, undeniable part of the journey inward.

As aspirants embark on meditative and spiritual practices, they’re typically greeted with promises of serenity, self-realization, and transcendental experiences. However, what goes unmentioned is the inevitable encounter with the shadows lurking in the deep recesses of the unconscious mind. This confrontation with repressed material—unusual outbursts, amplified expressions of everyday actions, and unexpected impulsive behaviours—is a testament to the completeness of the inner exploration, albeit less glamorous.

Spirituality, now a multi-million dollar industry, is ironically at risk of mirroring the very worldly traits it proposes to transcend—namely, avoiding uncomfortable truths for the sake of marketability and profitability. There’s a reticence among many spiritual teachers to delve into the discussions about the darker aspects of spiritual awakening. This selective narration not only veils the full spectrum of the experience but also potentially leaves seekers ill-prepared for the confronting realities awaiting them.

Healing and self-realization are not merely about basking in the light of consciousness but also navigating the murky waters of the unconscious abyss. While one may attain a level of healing and understanding on conscious and subconscious levels, the journey doesn’t culminate there. The deep unconscious beckons, with its layers upon layers of repressed material, each layer a gateway to further integration and wholeness.

Furthermore, this exploration extends from the individual unconscious through to the collective and universal collective unconscious, encompassing a continuum of collective human experiences and existential realities. As we traverse from the personal to the universal, the expedition morphs from a solitary quest to a collective endeavour, revealing the interconnected tapestry of individual and collective healing.

The discourse around spiritual practices needs a fuller, more honest narrative that embraces the shadows, encourages preparedness for the unexpected, and fosters a holistic understanding of the path toward self-realization. We hope to attain a truly integrated, authentic spiritual awakening only by acknowledging and navigating through the repressed unconscious material.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Illuminating Paths

My Journey as a Youth Worker and the Gentle Intertwining of Meditation Practices

In the intricate dance of life, where every step can be a guide towards growth and understanding, my journey has been beautifully interwoven with my work with youth. During my discussion with Steve James on Guru Viking, I touched upon my role as a youth worker and how my spiritual practices, particularly meditation, have been gently introduced into this meaningful work.

Working with youth, I have been graced with the opportunity to witness the vibrant energy, the unfiltered curiosity, and the boundless potential that resides within each individual. It was not merely a position of guidance but a mutual journey where every interaction, every shared moment, and every exchanged word became a seed for growth, both for the youth and for myself.

I was encouraged to bring my expertise to the table, to share the wisdom and practices that have illuminated my path, with meditation being a significant aspect. Introducing meditation to the youth was not merely a practice of mindfulness but a gentle invitation for them to explore the boundless landscapes within, to navigate through their emotions, thoughts, and experiences with a sense of awareness and presence.

Incorporating meditation into my work with youth was a delicate dance. It was essential to approach it with a sense of openness, allowing the practice to be an invitation rather than an imposition, a path that they could explore with curiosity and find resonance within their unique way.

The intertwining of meditation practices in my work with youth has been a journey of profound learning and beautiful revelations. It has been a witness to the blossoming of awareness, the gentle unfolding of understanding, and the subtle nurturing of a connection with their inner being. It was a reminder that meditation is not merely a practice but a space where one can meet oneself, explore the depths of one’s being, and navigate through life with a sense of presence and connectedness.

Morgan O.  Smith

Watch Enlightened Comedian:

Ep195: Enlightened Comedian

Welcome to Episode 195, “Enlightened Comedian,” where humour meets the profound depths of spiritual awakening. In this episode, we explore the whimsical yet insightful journey of a comedian whose quest for laughter led him to the shores of enlightenment. Through a blend of comedy and consciousness, we delve into a narrative that celebrates the divine gift of laughter and the profound wisdom it unveils. Tune in to this heartwarming episode as we unravel the laughter-laden path to self-realization.

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

Everything is Spirit in Disguise

The Power of Perspective

In the vastness of our universe, we often find ourselves lost in the mundane, the mechanical, and the linear progression of everyday life. But what if, beneath this superficial layer of existence, everything is, in essence, spirit in disguise?

The spiritual world is not a separate realm, isolated from our day-to-day life, but is instead intertwined with every moment, every thought, and every object we encounter. When you hold a pebble in your hand, do you see just a stone? Or do you see millions of years of Earth’s history, the force of nature, and the energy that pulses within? Such perspectives shift our perception from seeing a mere rock to recognizing a spiritual entity that tells a grand story of our universe.

Every encounter, every experience, and every object has the potential to be a spiritual lesson. The person you pass by on the street, the food you consume, the song that touches your soul – all are manifestations of spirit, merely wearing different disguises. Our challenge is to peel back these layers, to see beyond the mask, and to recognize the spirit in everything.

This perspective does not demean the value of the material world but instead enriches it. By choosing to view the world through a spiritual lens, we cultivate gratitude, reverence, and a deeper connection with everything and everyone around us. The coffee you drink in the morning is not just a beverage, but a testament to the intricate balance of nature, human effort, and the magic of existence.

In essence, the choice is yours. You can continue to view the world as a series of random events, or you can embrace the idea that everything is spirit in disguise. By adopting the latter, you not only deepen your understanding of the world but also uncover the spiritual lessons that lie hidden in plain sight.

In the end, the spiritual world is not some distant realm. It’s right here, in every breath, in every heartbeat, and in every gaze. All it requires is a shift in perspective.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

Blossoming Through Darkness

The Transformation of Negative Traits Through Spiritual Enlightenment

In the journey of spiritual growth, negative traits often serve as impediments, obscuring the path toward enlightenment. Interestingly, these very traits—anger, envy, impatience, and so forth—harbour within them the seeds of their opposites. It’s through the understanding and maturation of these seeds that we can transcend our internal limitations and witness a splendid reversal: the blossoming of negative into positive.

Consider anger, often erupting unbidden and wielding the potential to unleash chaos within interpersonal relationships. Underneath this fiery emotion may lie suppressed pain or unmet needs. As one treads upon the spiritual path, understanding, and embracing this underlying pain is crucial. The eventual enlightenment brings forth patience and compassion, the antithesis of unrestrained ire, nurturing an environment where harmonious relationships can thrive.

Similarly, envy, a profound discomfort at another’s fortune, can be seen as a distorted reflection of admiration and a hidden desire for growth. Through the mirror of spiritual enlightenment, envy transmutes into inspiration, where another’s success becomes a beacon of possibility and motivation, devoid of malice and bitterness.

This remarkable transition from negative to positive is not automatic but rather a potential waiting to be unlocked through deliberate spiritual practice and mindful self-reflection. The moment of spiritual enlightenment does not merely extinguish negative traits but transforms them, allowing an individual to experience their opposites in their fullest expression.

In the deepest troughs of our negative traits lie hidden the peaks of their opposites, waiting to be scaled and unveiled through spiritual maturation. Enlightenment allows us to perceive and navigate this transformation with wisdom, enabling the innate potential of these traits to fully blossom into their most constructive and uplifting expressions.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing Anatta and Sunyata

A Buddhist Exploration of Spiritual Enlightenment

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!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Profound Transformation of Realizing Oneself as Brahman

A Journey Beyond the Self

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!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Dance of Consciousness

How Traits and States Influence Each Other

Introduction:
In the realm of philosophy and neuroscience, the nature of consciousness has long been a subject of intense scrutiny. As we delve into the complex interplay between traits of consciousness and states of consciousness, we embark on a thought-provoking journey that explores how these facets of our mind shape and are shaped by each other.

Part I: The Essence of Traits of Consciousness
Traits of consciousness refer to the enduring qualities and patterns that define an individual’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioural makeup. These traits form the bedrock of one’s personality, shaping how they perceive the world, process information, and interact with others. From introversion to openness, resilience to empathy, traits of consciousness provide a unique lens through which individuals experience their existence.

Part II: Unraveling States of Consciousness
States of consciousness, on the other hand, are transient and ever-changing mental conditions. These states can range from heightened awareness during moments of meditation or creative inspiration to altered states induced by substances or intense emotional experiences. States of consciousness are like ripples on the surface of a vast ocean, reflecting our immediate perceptions and inner states.

Part III: The Bidirectional Influence
At first glance, it might appear that traits and states of consciousness operate independently. However, upon closer examination, we discover the profound bidirectional influence they exert on each other.

1. Traits Shaping States:
Our enduring traits of consciousness lay the foundation for how we perceive and react to various states. For instance, a highly empathetic individual might experience deeper connections with others during states of heightened compassion or love. Similarly, a person with a predisposition to anxiety may be more prone to states of distress during challenging situations.

2. States Shaping Traits:
The fluidity of consciousness states can leave lasting imprints on our traits. Profound transformative experiences, such as spiritual awakenings or near-death encounters, can lead to significant shifts in an individual’s personality and worldview. Moreover, states like mindfulness and meditation can foster positive traits like patience and self-awareness.

Part IV: The Dance of Consciousness
As the dance unfolds, we realize that consciousness is not static but rather a dynamic process, constantly in flux. Traits and states intertwine, shaping and reshaping one another in an intricate and evolving dance.

Conclusion:
The relationship between traits and states of consciousness is a fascinating exploration of the human mind’s complexity. Acknowledging this interconnectedness can empower us to cultivate positive traits while embracing the ebb and flow of transient states. As we embrace the intricacies of our consciousness, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, leading us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Remember, we are not merely passive observers of our consciousness; we are active participants in its unfolding story.

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

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