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
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!
In the spiritual journey towards understanding and living in universal love, or agape, two enlightened beings emerge on parallel paths. They both embrace agape, yet their personalities and the way they manifest this profound love are strikingly different.
The Introverted Universal Love
The first enlightened being, whom we shall call Seraphina, channels agape through introverted universal love. This means her love is directed inward, nurturing the self and radiating outwards in subtle, non-obtrusive ways.
Impact on Others
Seraphina’s love affects others through quiet acts of kindness and a gentle presence. She may not actively seek to spread love, but those who come into contact with her feel a calm, loving energy that often leads to inner transformation. Her love is a tranquil pond, reflecting the beauty of the world without rippling its surface.
The Extroverted Universal Love
On the other hand, we have Gabriel, who embodies extroverted universal love. His love is outward-facing, actively engaging with the world, and seeking to connect with others.
Impact on Others
Gabriel’s love is a dynamic force, touching lives through acts of charity, teachings, and open-hearted connections. His love is a roaring river, sweeping people along in its powerful current and leaving change in its wake.
A Harmonious Dichotomy
While their approaches differ, both Seraphina and Gabriel contribute to the universal energy of love. They show us that love is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It’s a multifaceted gem that can shine through various personalities.
The Introverted Love: A Deep Well
Seraphina teaches us that love does not always have to be loud or grand. It can be a silent force, a deep well that nourishes the soul. Her love invites contemplation and self-reflection, allowing for a profound connection with oneself and the universe.
The Extroverted Love: A Brilliant Flame
Gabriel, on the other hand, shows us that love can be a brilliant flame that illuminates the world. It’s about embracing others, taking action, and spreading joy. His love is a call to action, urging us to engage with the world and make a difference.
Conclusion
The paths of introverted and extroverted universal love, though different, are equally valuable. They teach us that love can be manifested in diverse ways, tailored to our unique personalities and life paths.
In a world torn by division and conflict, the lessons from Seraphina and Gabriel remind us that agape is within everyone’s reach. It’s a love that transcends boundaries and unites us all. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil pond or the roaring river, the journey toward universal love is an expedition worth embarking on.
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 labyrinthine corridors of the soul, there lies a path seldom tread, shadowed by mystery and often enveloped by fear. It is a path that leads to a place known as the “dark night of the soul,” a phase of spiritual desolation that has baffled seekers across generations. Yet, within the enigmatic darkness, emerges an unexpected companion – the “dark knight of the soul.”
The Dark Night: A Crisis of Faith
The “dark night of the soul,” a term coined by St. John of the Cross, represents a profound spiritual crisis, a period where the familiar becomes strange, and the divine seems distant. It is a time of purging, where doubts, fears, and the hidden shadows of the soul rise to the surface. The comfort of belief evaporates, replaced by a void that challenges the very core of spiritual identity.
In the “dark night,” one is forced to confront the most profound existential questions. What is the nature of divinity? Why does it seem so elusive? What is the purpose of suffering? The answers are not easily found, and the path becomes obscured.
The Dark Knight: The Warrior Within
In contrast to the disorienting emptiness of the “dark night,” the concept of the “dark knight of the soul” represents a heroic inner archetype. It is the spiritual warrior within, forged not in battles against external foes but in the internal struggles against one’s demons.
The “dark knight” is not a saviour but a guide, a symbol of the courage, resilience, and wisdom needed to navigate through the night. It embodies the willingness to face the darkness, wrestle with doubt, challenge fears, and integrate the shadows rather than shunning them.
The “dark knight” does not vanquish the night but learns to dance with it, finding grace in struggle and meaning in confusion.
The Dance of Darkness and Light
The interplay between the “dark night” and the “dark knight” is a profound spiritual odyssey. One cannot exist without the other. The “dark night” provides the terrain, the challenge, and the abyss that must be crossed. The “dark knight” offers the tools, the strength, and the inner fire that illuminates the way.
In this spiritual dance, the darkness is not something to be feared but embraced. It is a crucible where the false self is burned away, leaving only the authentic soul, raw and unburdened.
The path through the “dark night” is not a path of despair but a journey toward enlightenment. The “dark knight” is not a symbol of battle but a metaphor for inner harmony.
Conclusion
The journey through the “dark night of the soul” and the guidance of the “dark knight of the soul” offers a rich tapestry of spiritual exploration. It reminds us that darkness is not an end but a beginning, a transformation that leads to a deeper connection with the self and the divine.
In embracing both the “dark night” and the “dark knight,” we find a roadmap to authenticity, wisdom, and a spirituality that transcends superficial understanding. The darkness and the knight are not foes but partners, leading us toward a horizon where the soul’s true radiance shines.
The odyssey through the dark night is an invitation, a calling to all who seek. The dark knight awaits, a silent companion ready to guide us through the shadows into the embrace of our luminous essence.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Imagine, for a moment, immersing yourself into an immeasurable realm of complete egolessness, a profound plunge into the depths of an eternal abyss that, paradoxically, awakens you to the highest pinnacle of existential understanding. It’s a journey toward the Monistically Absolute – an awakening to the Ultimate Truth where you comprehend an uncanny Total Singularity that scoffs at the confinements of quantifiable laws.
At the crux of this unfathomable awareness, you realize a truth so deep, it pierces the veil between the subjective and the objective. This is the domain where the intangible and tangible lose their distinctions, where The One that is Nothing becomes the full embodiment of Everything, actualized and present. It is a formless form encapsulating all of existence, flourishing within, around, and beyond the contours of its existence. It is a sphere of limitless awareness, an unbroken stream of consciousness that’s perpetually alert of its Totality. A No-Self that is paradoxically the True Self, a staggering enigma that transcends all earthly dialectics.
In this grand unveiling, God is no longer a figment of belief, a notion, or an intellectual construct. Instead, God morphs into an undeniable Knowing, an indelible Truth that shuns falsehood. It’s a profound Love that transcends expression and becomes the very essence of all that Is. The intimacy of this event is beyond temporal boundaries; it engulfs every moment of existence, a timeless experience that allows The One to be conscious of its simultaneous manifestation as All Things. It’s the silent observer, the omnipresent witness of the past, present, and future, all intertwined within the continuum of the eternal Now.
As you dwell deeper into this mysterious reality, the sensation of this something, this profoundly intuitive phenomenon, penetrates your very core. It is a transformative event, an encounter where you, the seeker, tap into the pulsating heart of the universe, the underpinning reality that blankets all forms of Being. This is an experience of a Paradoxical Presence that stretches beyond all measurable scopes. It leaves the experiencer in a state of rapturous awe, a sublime ecstasy so profound it overshadows any state considered sublime. It is an unbounded experience that cannot be confined by mortal limitations, it’s a boundlessness that transcends all known bounds.
For in this divine encounter, what once was restricted by the mortal mind finds liberation in an outpouring of boundless stillness, an ecstatic dance of Absolute Pure Essence. It is an experience that echoes within the realm of the ineffable, shattering all illusions, tearing away the cloaks of misconceptions, and inviting one to taste the nectar of the Monistically Absolute. It’s a realm where contradictions dissolve, boundaries disappear, and all that remains is the unending dance of absolute existence, consciousness, and bliss.
The realm of the Monistically Absolute is an invite to all seekers, a call to transcend earthly illusions and merge with the infinite truth. It’s a realm that unfolds before us when we are ready to let go of all we think we know and open ourselves to the enigmatic beauty of the universe. It’s a journey of self-discovery and cosmic understanding, an odyssey that has the potential to redefine our perspectives and transform our realities. Will you heed the call?
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
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!
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!
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!
Introduction: Meditative practices have long been revered as transformative tools in the realm of self-discovery and spiritual growth. They offer a profound pathway for individuals to explore the depths of their consciousness, seeking truth, peace, and liberation. However, beneath the surface lies a fascinating paradox—the false self, which appears as the practitioner, ultimately leads to the revelation of the Ultimate Self, the Ground of All Being.
The Illusion of the False Self: Within the tapestry of various spiritual traditions, the notion of the false self arises—a deceptive construct born out of our attachments to external roles, labels, and conditioned beliefs. This illusory identity emerges from our tendency to assign significance to transient aspects of our existence, such as social standing, material possessions, and superficial identities. Meditative practices, in their diverse forms, serve as illuminating mirrors, enabling us to perceive the transient nature of the false self and transcend its illusory grasp.
Meditation as a Mirror: Meditation acts as a reflective surface, offering a clear reflection of the illusory nature of the false self. By turning inward and observing our thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment or attachment, we gain a heightened awareness of the ever-changing nature of our experiences. Regular practice nurtures a profound realization—an understanding that our thoughts come and go, emotions rise and subside, and identities shift fluidly. This awakening brings us closer to recognizing that the false self is not a fixed entity but a construct that can be deconstructed through the power of self-inquiry.
The Ultimate Self: While meditative practices may originate from the false self, they hold within them the potential to reveal the Ultimate Self—the very essence of our being, the Ground of All Being. As we delve deeper into our meditative journey, we begin to touch upon an interconnectedness and unity with the vast cosmos. The boundaries that once separated our individual selves from the external world begin to dissolve, and we catch glimpses of the inherent oneness that permeates all existence. In this expanded state of awareness, the false self loses its grip, and we realize that our essential nature transcends the limitations of individual identity.
Integration and Transformation: The true essence of meditative practices lies in the interplay between the false self and the Ultimate Self. The false self, while illusory, acts as a vehicle for the exploration and transformation of consciousness. Engaging with meditative practices allows us to intimately observe the patterns and tendencies of the false self, ultimately leading us to transcend its limitations. By embracing the false self as a catalyst for growth, we integrate its lessons and move closer to the realization of our true nature—the Ultimate Self.
Conclusion: In the realm of meditative practices, the interconnection between the false self and the Ultimate Self invites profound contemplation. While the false self may present itself as real and compelling, it is merely a construct that can be unravelled through the transformative power of meditation. Engaging in these practices propels us on a journey of self-realization, unveiling the essence of our being—the Ground of All Being. Meditative practices serve as bridges, guiding us from the illusion of the false self to the profound truth of our interconnected existence. Embrace these practices, embrace the false self, and embark on the path toward ultimate liberation and self-realization.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Nirvana, Moksha, and Sahaja Samadhi Introduction: In the frantic, cacophonous world we inhabit, the pursuit of true peace of mind has become more essential than ever. Many of us harbour a longing, often unarticulated, for a state of being that transcends the mundanity of our daily routines. This is not just about calming the mind; it’s about an all-encompassing peace that permeates every fibre of our being – peace of the mind, heart, and gut. This form of liberation, known in different cultures as Nirvana, Moksha, or Sahaja Samadhi, is the ultimate aspiration.
Body:
I. Understanding the Concepts Nirvana, a term originating from Buddhism, literally means ‘to extinguish’. It is the extinguishing of desires, ignorance, and the sense of self. Moksha, rooted in Hinduism, signifies liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth, and the realization of one’s unity with the ultimate reality or Brahman. Sahaja Samadhi is an effortless state of deep spiritual absorption, where one is simultaneously aware of the inner Self and the external world. These three concepts, while having different origins, converge on the notion of liberation and inner peace.
II. The Nature of True Peace True peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a profound sense of unity and harmony within oneself and with the universe. It’s a sense of completeness and fulfillment that is not contingent on external circumstances. It is in this state that the heart finds contentment, the mind is unshaken, and even the gut, often referred to as the ‘second brain’, is at ease.
III. The Journey Within The quest for true peace demands a deep, inward journey. This is a path of self-discovery, contemplation, and inner transformation. Through meditation, self-reflection, and sometimes through guidance from spiritual traditions, one begins to detach from the illusions and constraints of the material world. IV. The Liberation of the Self In reaching Nirvana, Moksha, or Sahaja Samadhi, the self is liberated. This liberation is an awakening to the true nature of reality. It’s the realization that our essential self is not separate from the universe. This sense of oneness alleviates the turmoil of the heart, the restlessness of the mind, and the tension within the gut.
V. The Role of Compassion and Mindfulness Compassion towards oneself and others is a vital component of this journey. It is through a compassionate heart that one can embrace the imperfections of human existence. Additionally, mindfulness helps in cultivating an awareness of the present moment, which is fundamental in the pursuit of inner peace.
Conclusion:
The pursuit of true peace, as epitomized in Nirvana, Moksha, or Sahaja Samadhi, is a deeply enriching and transformative journey. It’s not just an intellectual exercise but an all-encompassing spiritual endeavour that engages the mind, heart, and gut. This form of liberation is the pinnacle of human aspiration and a goal that can guide us toward a more harmonious and fulfilling existence.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Morgan O. Smith 