Guru Viking Podcast

Some weeks ago I was interviewed by Ashley from Inspire Initiative for his podcast. Ashley has diverse interests and so he asked me about a wide range of topics including relationships, meditation practice, the pros and cons of polyamory, business strategy for meditation teachers, and more. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/steve-interviewed-by-ashley-of-inspire-initiative/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... 0:00 Why does Steve live on a boat? 1:13 - What does Steve do for work? 4:36 - What is the most important thing in a relationship? 7:56 - Ashley’s unusual upbringing around romantic relationships 9:47 - Steve’s take on polyamory 14:31 - Religious conversion and relationship patterns 17:31 - Pros and cons of polyamory and seeking relational fulfilment 24:02 - Why have a relationship? 29:27 - Discovering your why 31:13 - Steve’s background in meditation 37:22 - Ashley asks Steve about his business and travel 43:44 - Steve’s advice for aspiring meditation teachers 49:42 - Enquiry over imposition 51:38 - Difficulties in assessing a teacher’s competence 54:18 - Routes to becoming a full time meditation teacher 58:56 - Ashley’s coaching strategy 59:45 - How to get started in meditation 1:05:49 - Which meditation techniques does Steve use? 1:12:42 - Ashley asks about Transcendental Meditation 1:16:16 - Does meditation unlock different states of consciousness? 1:21:24 - What is the best meditation to start with? 1:25:55 - Closing remarks To find out more about Ashley, visit: Inspire-initiative.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com

In this episode I host part 2 of a dialogue between Shinzen Young, meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student. We get a front row seat for what Shinzen calls ‘early science’ as Chelsey consults Shinzen on her current research project, a review of the neuroscience literature that examine states of self-identification and non-dual awareness. In the course of the discussion, we discuss different paradigms of enlightenment, including gating of attentional abilities, reducing self-referential activity, the neuroscience of clinging, top-down processing and more. Chelsey shares her own meditation experiences and Shinzen reveals a detailed account of how he experiences the world after a lifetime of extreme meditation and hard-nosed science. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep76-shinzen-young-chelsey-fasano-2-the-science-of-enlightenment/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:51 - The three stories of self and reality 6:23 - Gating attentional abilities vs reducing self-referential activity 7:59 - How the modern influences traditional teachers 8:27 - Integrating hard data and subjective experience 9:11 - Chelsey’s meditation experiences 11:23 - Antonio Damasio’s theoretical framework and other theories 14:14 - Decrease in identification with the body in advanced practitioners 16:50 - Is it possible to grade levels of enlightenment? 19:34 - How Shinzen proves someone is not an arhat 22:32 - Enlightenment in the body 26:28 - Clinging and the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) 35:27 - Reconfiguring top-down processing via meditation 40:12 - What is early science? 43:22 - Integration of liberation 49:40 - Shinzen’s experience after a lifetime of meditation and science 1:05:22 - Does theism have a place in science? 1:08:54 - Is enlightenment really about raw data? … Previous episode with Shinzen and Chelsey: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ Previous Interview with Shinzen Young: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Daizan Skinner, a British Zen Roshi trained in both the Soto and Rinzai schools. Daizan reveals the iconic Zen training technique of the Koan, and explains its manifold uses within the tradition. Dazian explains how waking up works, how he diagnoses his students’ enlightenments, and why he is very demanding on his trainee teachers’ psychological maturity. Daizan also discusses how awakening relates to moral purification, why so many famous Zen teachers have engaged in abusive behaviour, and reveals the esoteric energy and health practices of the Rinzai Zen lineage. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep75-daizan-skinner-esoteric-energy-practices-of-zen/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:42 - The Koan system of Zen 11:03 - How waking up works 18:36 - How Daizan diagnoses his students’ stream entry and spiritual attainments 22:19 - What to watch for during the waking up process 23:15 - Does enlightenment produce moral perfection? 24:16 - Recognising enlightened people 30:27 - How Daizan relates to morally flawed students 34:48 - How Daizan trains his trainee teachers in morality 36:42 - How Zen teachers can damage their students 37:53 - The significance of Inka transmission in Zen 43:17- Why Daizan has never given Inka transmission to a student or named a successor 44:48 - Does Daizan miss monastery life? 49:15 - The story of Hakuin and the energy practices of Zen 58:52 - Rikan and Naikan, the two wings of practice 1:00:53 - Daizan’s experience of the Zen energy practices … Previous Daizan episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep56-daizan-skinner-zen-and-the-unknowing - https://www.guruviking.com/ep63-daizan-skinner-chaos-temple/ ... To find out more about Daizan, visit: - www.zenways.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Dr. Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counselling at Naropa University. We learn how a mirror divination from a mysterious Lama, and a powerful lucid dream, saw Ian travel to Sikkim in search of the monastery of his previous incarnation. Ian discusses the similarities between the Western tradition of hypnosis and the system of Dzogchen, and why he considers hypnosis to be the best means to approach and apprehend Buddhist thought. Ian reveals why gurus are so often surrounded by high-hypnotisable people, to what extent hypnotic language can be used by spiritual teachers to induce religious conversion and enhance their followers’ devotion, and what the Dharma has to learn from Western hypnosis. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep74-dr-ian-wickramasekera-gurus-hypnosis-toxic-devotion/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Meeting a Dharma Guardian in a lucid dream 0:51 - Dream yoga and Ian’s past life as a monk in Sikkim 11:11 - Tenzin Wangyal’s lucid dreaming advice 13:38 - Visiting Sikkim to find his past life monastery 24:34 - Reflecting on Lama Dawa’s divination for Ian’s life 27:22 - Meeting hypnotists and Bon Buddhism teacher Daniel P Brown 28:29 - Hypnotism is the best means to integrate Western thought with Buddhism 37:30 - The Default Mode Network and the sense of self 41:24 - The similarities between the views of hypnosis and Dzogchen 49:52 - The possibilities of combining a realised Dzogchen master and a master hypnotist 54:18 - Common misunderstandings about Vajrayana 57:33 - What is a high-hypnotisable person? 1:01:16 - Hypnotism in marketing and propaganda 1:07:49 - Toxic guru devotion and spiritual materialism in Dzogchen 1:12:40 - Religious conversion phenomena and powerful state experiences 1:19:48 - Is high hypnotic ability required to experience the deepest meditation teachings? 1:25:02 - Do spiritual teachers deliberately use hypnosis to induce conversion and devotion? 1:36:40 - Teaching hypnosis to a Vietnam veteran with a catastrophic spine injury 1:38:54 - The tradition of open skepticism 1:43:43 - Different teachings suit different personality types 1:48:46 - How gurus use the hypnotic voice in meditation instruction 1:52:56 - Can you be hypnotised against your will? 1:56:44 - Ian’s powerful near-death experience … Previous episodes with Ian: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep67-dr-ian-wickramasekera-tummo-hypnosis-realising-rigpa/ To find our more about Ian, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Susan Guner recently interviewed me again for her 'Fireside Chats', a series of conversations for her 21 Day Meditation Challenge Community. https://www.guruviking.com/steve-interviewed-by-susan-guner-of-fireside-chats/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Why livestream meditation? 5:30 - Steve's meditation biography 11:55 - What kind of meditation does Steve practice? 14:47 - Susan's meditation journey 17:37 - How plant medicine transformed Susan's meditation practice 20:10 - 3am meditation, night sitting, and lucid dreaming 26:35 - Gradual vs sudden awakening 27:31 - Why does Steve meditate? 31:23 - How to get more people to meditate? 35:16 - How our culture validates meditation 37:03 - Trauma and the limits of meditation 39:46 - Different reasons people meditate 42:37 - Teaching at Esalen 44:36 - Did Esalen run secret plant medicine ceremonies? 46:30 - Meditation myths and 'Stealth Buddhism' 50:31 - Bias and unaware meditation teachers 54:38 - The courtship phase and advice for beginning meditators 1:00:14 - What has Steve noticed about meditation in the pandemic? 1:04:08 - Closing comments ... To find out more about Susan, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/groups/susanguner/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com ... Resources: - Non Linear Movement Method: https://www.michaelaboehm.com/the-non-linear-movement-method-2/ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeysiegel

In this interview I am once again joined by Daniel Ingram, meditation teacher and author of ‘Mastering The Core Teachings Of The Buddha’. In this episode Daniel responds to Bikkhu Analayo’s article in the May 2020 edition of the academic journal Mindfulness, in which Analayo argues that Daniel is delusional about his meditation experiences and accomplishments, and that his conclusions, to quote, ‘pertain entirely to the realm of his own imagination; they have no value outside of it.’ Daniel recounts that Analayo revealed to him that the article was requested by a senior mindfulness teacher to specifically damage Daniel’s credibility, to quote Daniel quoting Analayo ‘we are going to make sure that nobody ever believes you again.’ Daniel responds to the article’s historical, doctrinal, clinical, and personal challenges, as well as addressing the issues of definition and delusion regarding his claim to arhatship. Daniel also reflects on the consequences of this article for his work at Cambridge and with the EPRC on the application of Buddhist meditation maps of insight in clinical contexts. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep73-daniel-ingram-dangerous-and-delusional/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:11 - Daniel explains Analayo’s article’s background and purpose 17:37 - Who is Bikkhu Analayo? 24:21 - Many Buddhisms 26:51 - Article abstract and Steve’s summary 32:19 - The historical critique 41:30 - Is Daniel claiming both the orthodox and the science perspectives? 49:11 - Is Daniel’s enlightenment the same as the historical arhats? 58:30 - Is Mahasi noting vulnerable to construction of experience? 1:03:46 - Has Daniel trained his brain to construct false meditation experiences? 1:10:39 - Does Daniel accept the possibility of dissociation and delusion in Mahasi-style noting? 1:18:38 - Did Daniel’s teachers consider him to be delusional? 1:23:51 - Have any of Daniel's teachers ratified any of his claimed enlightenment attainments? 1:34:03 - Cancel culture in orthodox religion 1:38:40 - Different definitions of arhatship 1:43:08 - Is the term ‘Dark Night of The Soul’ appropriate for the dukkha nanas? 1:47:29 - Purification and insight stages 1:54:00 - Does Daniel conflate deep states of meditation with everyday life experiences? 1:59:00 - Is the stage of the knowledge of fear taught in early Buddhism? 2:09:37 - Why does Daniel claim high equanimity can occur while watching TV? 2:12:55 - Does Daniel underestimate the standards of the first three stages of insight? 2:16:01 - Do Christian mystics and Theravada practitioners traverse the same experiential territory? 2:21:47 - Are the maps of insight really secret? 2:28:54 - Why are the insight stages absent from mainstream psychological literature? 2:33:36 - Does Daniel’s work over-emphasise the possibility of negative meditation experiences? 2:37:45 - What have been the personal and professional consequences of Analayo’s article to Daniel? … Check out my previous interviews with Daniel: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep14-daniel-ingram-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep40-daniel-ingram-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep68-daniel-ingram-magick-the-occult-summoning-demons/ To find out more about Daniel, visit: - integrateddaniel.info - firekasina.org - https://theeprc.org/ Articles Referenced: - Anālayo, B. Meditation Maps, Attainment Claims, and the Adversities of Mindfulness. Mindfulness 11, 2102–2112 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-020-01389-4 - Anālayo, B. The Insight Knowledge of Fear and Adverse Effects of Mindfulness Practices. Mindfulness 10, 2172–2185 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-019-01198-4 … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

I recently appeared on the ‘I Am Paulius’ podcast. Paul is an incisive interviewer and we talked in some detail about my early life, including martial arts, my apprenticeship to a Christian mystic, money & business, and more… Check out 'I Am Paulius' channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTxywX9Qn0gzu9kbjhmezhA ... From the 'I Am Paulius' shownotes: We talk to with Steve James known as Guru Viking, who teaches self-development, has vast experience in contemplative disciplines, outdoor survival and what it's like living on a boat. He is also currently collaborating with Shinzen Young on 11-Day Virtual Retreat. 🌐 Find Steve/GuruViking: https://www.guruviking.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuVI... https://www.instagram.com/guruviking/ FOLLOW IMPAULIUS: https://www.instagram.com/impaulius/ (coming soon) impaulius.com 🎵Music: https://soundcloud.com/saintebarbemusic Song: H2O

In this episode I host a conversation between Shinzen Young, a meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student. We take an inside look as Chelsey consults Shinzen on her current research project, a review of the neuroscience literature that examine states of self-identification and non-dual awareness. In the course of the discussion, Shinzen details the many meanings and connotations of the word ‘tantra’ (including its connection to karmamudra) and discusses the importance of definitions. Chelsey asks if all traditions lead to the same end, or if different techniques lead to different types of enlightenment, and Shinzen reveals what the gurus of the world must learn from the culture of science. ... https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... Topics Include: 0:00 – Intro 0:52 – Chelsey introduces her research project 2:20 – Shinzen asks Chelsey about herself 4:14 – Chelsey’s background in meditation and academia 8:20 – Chelsey’s ultimate dream 10:26 – Shinzen discusses the importance of words 13:40 – Shinzen on the adjective ‘tantric’ 17:39 – What does Chelsey mean by the word ‘tantra’? 19:38 – Shinzen describes Buddhist tantra’s central innovation 28:31 – The s*xual practices of Buddhist tantra 29:55 – What isn’t tantra, and tantra’s cultural context 36:41 – Do all traditions lead to the same end point or not? 40:03 – How Shinzen clarifies his thinking and teaching 43:12 – What the gurus have to learn from science 44:56 – Liberation and service, the two sides of practice 50:16 – Studying states of nondual awareness in advanced practitioners 51:51 – Is it possible to resolve the terminology issue? 54:09 – Chelsey’s five theories ... Previous Interview with Shinzen Young: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Shinzen, visit: - www.shinzen.org To find out more about Chelsey, visit: - www.chelseyfasano.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James Books mentioned: - ‘Good Sex: Getting Off Without Checking Out’ - Jessica Graham

In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Nida Chenagtsang, master of Tibetan Medicine and spiritual teacher of the Yuthok Nyingthig, to discuss karmamudra: Buddhist spiritual s3x. Dr Nida reveals his own training in karmamudra, under the Aku Lhamo, the so called ‘h0rny professor’, and the Longchen Nyingthig nun Ani Ngawang Gyaltsen. We learn about the difference between karmamudra and kamasutra, the role of tummo and tsa lung trulkor training, and the purpose of tantric feats such as vajroli mudra, sucking milk and bodily fluids through one’s genita1s. Dr Nida talks about s3xual abuse by Tibetan Lamas, the prevalence of spiritual gold diggers, and shares his advice for young tulkus facing the temptations of fame. Dr Nida also discusses pollution of the energy channels through p0rnography and promiscuity, how to heal s3xual trauma, and why he chose to make these once secret teachings available to the public. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep71-dr-nida-chenagtsang-karmamudra/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:01 - Dr Nida’s Karmamdura teacher, the h0rny professor 8:14 - Tibetan er0tic poetry 11:46 - Specifics of Nidra’s private Karmashastra and Karmamudra education 16:51 - Kamasutra vs Karmamudra 23:24 - 6 Yogas of Naropa and Tummo as a preparation for Karmamudra 27:22 - Karmamdura and Jnanamudra 28:35 - Why Karmamudra is not taught publicly today 35:27 - Tsa Lung Trulkor Karmamudra vs Ati Yoga Karmamudra 43:36 - Purpose of Vajroli Mudra and p3nis suction techniques 50:33 - Similarities between Tummo and Indian Hatha Yoga 56:44 - Has Dr Nida seen a yogi draw back their urine mid-flow and other miracles? 1:01:35 - The role of teacher-student sex in karamamudra 1:06:25 - Spiritual gold diggers and s3xual abuse 1:20:02 - Dr Nida’s advice for famous young tulkus with little social and relational experience 1:25:29 - Porn addiction and s3x education 1:30:28 - Criticisms of Dr Nida’s book 1:31:44 - Pollution of the energy channels from p0rnography and multiple partners 1:38:01 - Healing s3xual trauma with Karmamudra 1:44:13 - Dr Nida asks for Steve’s view on the book 1:46:54 - Bridging the traditional and modern views 1:49:36 - Dr Nida’s views on s3men retention … Previous Interviews with Dr Nida: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep49-dr-nida-chenagtsang-heart-of-a-nomad/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep41-dr-nida-chenagtsang-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Dr Nida, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James Studies mentioned: - Chan WFN, Gurnot C, Montine TJ, Sonnen JA, Guthrie KA, Nelson JL (2012) Male Microchimerism in the Human Female Brain. PLoS ONE 7(9): e45592. - Ronald S. Immerman & Wade C. Mackey PhD (1999) The Societal Dilemma of Multiple Sexual Partners, Marriage & Family Review, 29:1, 3-19, DOI: 10.1300/J002v29n01_02

In this episode I am once again joined by Stephen Snyder, a meditation teacher, author, and the first non-monastic Western man to master the virtuoso-level shamata meditation system of Pa Auk Sayadaw. In this interview we discuss Stephen’s new book ‘Buddha’s Heart’ a modern presentation of the Brahma Viharas, Buddhist heart meditations, from the perspective of Absolute Reality/ Awake Awareness. Stephen reveals how deficiencies in his early practice and the inaccessibility of his heart saw him engage these powerful heart practices derived from early Buddhism. Stephen discusses the damage done in the Americn Zen community by deeply enlightened masters with undeveloped hearts who abused students, embezzled money, and more. Stephen lays out the two routes to awakening, and how combining the brahma viharas with deep jhanic absorption can lead to profound spiritual insight. Stephen also talks about the counter-intuitive power of forgiveness, and his own journey in awakening the heart. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep70-stephen-snyder-buddhas-heart/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:05 - Writing two books at once and other writing projects 2:49 - What are the brahma viharas? 4:20 - How to do brahma vihara meditation 6:28 - Head, heart, and belly centres of spiritual practice 8:02 - The deficiencies of Stephen’s early practice 9:42 - Do heart practices translate to improved relationship skill? 10:55 - How the heart practices transformed Stephen’s behaviour 12:40 - The disaster of deeply enlightened masters with no heart 14:36 - Witnessing cruelty in the Zen world 15:42 - Stephen’s mastery of deep jhanic practice 17:16 - Combining super-concentration with brahma vihara practice 20:20 - The two routes to First Awakening 24:37 - Kensho vs Satori in the Zen tradition 25:57 - Common resistances to the brahma viharas 28:56 - How to work with resistances in heart meditation 32:41 - The power of heart practice to reveal and release negative emotion 35:02 - Stephen’s journey with forgiveness 39:23 - The counter-intuitive power of forgiveness 41:37 - Are heart practices relevant to awakening? 45:02 - Stephen’s 12 month mentorship program 47:01 - Stephen’s legacy Check out my previous interviews with Stephen: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep24-stephen-snyder-a-stroke-of-realisation-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep33-stephen-snyder-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Purchase 'Buddha's Heart’: - https://www.amazon.com/Buddhas-Heart-Meditation-Developing-Well-being/dp/1734781025/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=buddha%27s+heart+snyder&qid=1606403777&sr=8-2 To contact Stephen Snyder, please email: - [email protected] For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James

In this episode I’m joined by Dr Miles Neale Buddhist psychotherapist and author of Gradual Awakening. When Dr Neale contacted me to offering appear on the podcast, I was intrigued by his impressive list of mentors - including Columbia University’s Professor Robert Thurman and Geshe Tenzin Zopa. Miles recounts how an affluent but disturbed childhood with alcoholic parents and a narcissistic father drove him to self harm and dissatisfaction, and how he found solace and healing in religious practice and a series of influential mentors. Miles tells a remarkable story of a supernatural experience with a reincarnated child master, a ‘tulku’. Miles goes on to addresses the conflicts between the view of his Western therapeutic training, which prizes healthy parental attachment, and his religious affiliation with Tibetan Buddhism, in which specially chosen boys as young as three years old are removed from their homes to undergo rigorous training to become avatars of their lineage tradition. Miles discusses the cultural and religious context of this practice, and the possible developmental impacts on the young boys. Miles reveals the secrets to being a good mentee, discusses the ups and downs of his relationships with his own mentors, and candidly discusses his own path as a practicing Buddhist and professional therapist. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep69-dr-miles-neale-buddhas-tulkus-narcissists/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:24 - Miles’ childhood with alcoholic parents and a narcissistic father 7:32 - Consequences of being raised by addicts and a narcissist 22:51 - How Miles was able to received healthy reparenting from his mentors 29:01 - Miles discusses the developmental consequences of the tulku system in young boys 31:58 - Miles’ supernatural experience with a young tulku 35:16 - The cultural and religious context of removing young tulkus from the family home 44:59 - Does the cultural and religious context shield the child from developmental damage? 51:08 - Miles asks Steve why he asked about tulkus 54:17 - The role of mentorship and apprenticeship in human flourishing 59:00 - What makes Miles such a good mentee? 1:03:28 - Miles’ 20 year mentorship under Dr Joe Loizzo 1:11:33 - Miles’ schism with Joe Loizzo 1:15:21 - Why Miles’ and Joe’s relationship ruptured 1:18:36 - Miles’ peer relationship with Geshe Tenzin Zopa 1:21:57 - A sense of coronation at Miles’ book launch 1:26:20 - Miles’ relationship with Professor Robert Thurman 1:34:22 - Negative experiences with Geshe Michael Roach community … To find out more about Miles, visit: - https://www.milesneale.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Daniel Ingram, meditation teacher and author of ‘Mastering The Core Teachings Of The Buddha’. Daniel is best known for his controversial claim to arhatship, one of the highest levels of enlightenment in Buddhism. Less well known is Daniel’s lifetime of practice in magick and the occult. In this interview Daniel reveals his magical biography, and comments on various systems including Goetia, Enochian, Kabbalah, Castaneda, Buddhist Magick, and more. Daniel shares his encounters with demons, astral entities, mythical beings, and entering into magickal combat with angry magicians who had cursed him. Daniel also critiques the modern mindfulness movement for its suppression of information about the magickal aspects of its own tradition, and gives advice on ethics and the accumulation of psychic power. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep68-daniel-ingram-magick-the-occult-summoning-demons/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:59 - Daniel’s view of conscious vs unconscious magick 8:43 - Confessional and purification practices 10:38 - The role of penance in confessional practices 13:35 - Insight value of confession and purification practices 16:40 - Daniel’s magical biography 20:18 - Encountering Buddhist magic 22:42 - Introduction to Western Occultism 24:59 - Unlocking the powers in retreat 31:46 - Magick vs Insight practice 38:42 - Black magick in the Dark Night of the Soul 42:20 - Seeing demons and ghosts 44:16 - What does Daniel mean by ‘seeing’? 46:30 - Encounters with ‘lower astral nasties’ 50:19 - Seeing a Garuda in Daniel’s bedroom 51:38 - Has knowledge of the powers been suppressed in Western Buddhism? 58:58 - ‘Waking up light’ and the advertising strategies of modern mindfulness teachers 1:01:18 - Sinister skilful means 1:02:02 - Remarkable stories of the magick of Dipa Ma 1:04:49 - Daniel’s take on Goetia Magic and conjuring demons 1:07:57 - Daniel asks for Steve’s take on Goetia Magic 1:08:54 - Daniel on the ethics of Goetia and his own conjurations 1:11:32 - Steve clarifies his position on Goetia Magic 1:13:07 - Daniel’s take on Enochian Magic 1:14:14 - John Dee and the origin of Enochian Magic 1:19:01 - Daniel on Kabbalah 1:21:40 - How useable are the widely available magickal texts? 1:26:29 - Daniel’s take on Carlos Castaneda’s system 1:30:20 - The key to Buddhist Magick 1:35:26 - The downsides of Buddhist Magick 1:36:26 - Dungeons and Dragons list of the powers 1:41:05- What are Daniel’s natural psychic gifts and siddhis? 1:45:56 - Daniel’s dream template 1:50:02 - Magickal combat, curses, and Daniel under attack 1:54:13 - Why did people try to curse Daniel? 1:55:56 - What is Daniel’s library of archetypal symbols? 1:57:51 - Are powerful people of today magickal practitioners? 2:03:17 - Is magick consciously used in the corridors of power? 2:06:42 - Power accumulation and semen retention … Check out my previous interviews with Daniel: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep14-daniel-ingram-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep40-daniel-ingram-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Daniel, visit: - integrateddaniel.info - firekasina.org … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Dr. Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University. We learn how a divination from a Tibetan master radically changed the direction of Ian’s life, and how he encountered the man who would later become his teacher, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche. Ian recounts how, on an intense tummo meditation retreat, he attained to the Dzogchen spiritual realisation known as rigpa, and its profound consequences in his life. Ian also discusses how he uses energy practices such as tsa lung and Tibetan yoga in his clinical practice to treat personality problems, substance abuse, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep67-dr-ian-wickramasekera-tummo-hypnosis-realising-rigpa/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - Receiving a personal mirror divination from Lama Dawa 9:30 - Ian’s previous life as a monk at Tashiding Monastery in Sikkim 10:50 - Trying to meet Namkhai Norbu 13:09 - Encountering the Bon master Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 15:02 - Meeting Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche and learning lucid dreaming 19:41 - Personal interactions with Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 26:40 - Choosing to follow the Bon path 30:30 - Taking refuge with Ato Rinpoche 36:42 - Advice for studying in dharma and hypnosis 40:20 - Learning Tummo from Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche in retreat 45:38 - Realising Rigpa 50:11 - Was this a glimpse or an abiding shift? 55:02 - Did tummo practice directly cause Ian’s realisation? 56:40 - The mind-body effect of tummo and chakra practice 1:05:57 - About Daniel P Brown 1:08:48 - Directly experiencing the subtle body anatomy 1:10:04 - The experience of rigpa and devotion 1:14:37 - Empowered to teach tsa lung and shiné 1:15:51 - The effect of rigpa on cognitive work 1:20:22 - Criteria for combining dharma and hypnosis 1:24:25 - Rigpa, tsa lung, the personality structure, and substance abuse 1:32:12 - How Ian uses Tibetan yoga and tsa lung in his therapy practice 1:36:55 - Confirming Ian’s realisation with Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 1:44:01 - Receiving pointing out instructions from Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche 1:46:26 - Similarities between Dzogchen and hypnosis 1:48:28 - Ian’s opinion about NLP 1:51:37 - Humility on the spiritual path 1:53:52 - Ian’s prophecy cliffhanger … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Previous episodes with Ian: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ To find out more about Ian, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhist Lama Glenn Mullin. We learn how a mystical vision at Tibet’s oracle lake Lhamo Latso directed Glenn to move to Mongolia for 10 years, where he would eventually receive the nation’s highest honour, the Mongolian Star. We discuss Glenn’s encounters and friendships with the great Shamans of the Steppes, Himalayan Oracles, and the last Princess of Mongolia. Glenn reveals the inner workings of Mongolian Shamanism including the training of apprentices, 99 Spirit channeling, ritual and trance practices, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep66-glenn-mullin-the-great-shamans-of-mongolia/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:47 - How Glenn came to live in Mongolia 4:28 - Troubles in Nepal 6:18 - Mystical visions at Tibet’s oracle lake 11:58 - Traveling through China and Mongolia to seek the mountains seen in Glenn’s vision 16:51 - Meeting a Mongolian princess and securing a long-term visa 24:19 - Communist oppression of Buddhism and Shamanism in Mongolia 25:46 - The special training of a Mongolian Shaman and channeling the 99 Spirits 30:04 - Meeting Byampadorj, the state Shaman 36:19 - Glenn’s friendship with Dorje Yudronma, a Tibetan Oracle 39:55 - Meeting more Shamans and presenting papers at the International Shamanism Conference (check name) 42:02 - The similarities between Tibetan Buddhist Tantra and Mongolian Shamanism 45:52 - Did Glenn either engage in channelling? 47:30 - Glenn’s remarkable experiences consulting Tibetan Oracles 57:24 - Attending Mongolian seances and receiving the Mongolian Star Of Honour 1:03:53 - Byampadorj’s rituals for a broken foot 1:09:03 - The influence of negative spirits as a cause of health problems 1:13:25 - How to relate to the ghosts, gods, and the spirit world 1:16:03 - The use of wrathful mantras and light vs dark magic 1:22:14 - ‘Reflections of a Mongolian Shaman’ book 1:25:58 - Byampadorj’s mother’s death 1:29:39 - What makes a good Shaman and right use of power … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep51-glenn-mulin-ufos-lineage-holders-tantric-secrecy/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep58-glenn-mullin-mystics-psychosis-madame-blavatsky/ ... To find out more about Glenn, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn Glenn’s video on the Mongolian Shaman Festival:- https://youtu.be/33bBm4frSbA ... For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Khandro Déchen, Lineage Lama, alongside her husband and teaching partner Ngak’chang Rinpoche, of the Aro gTér tantric house holder tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. We learn about Khandro Déchen’s upbringing and career in nursing, and how working with the sick and dying prepared her for her role as a spiritual teacher. Khandro Déchen recounts her first meeting and subsequent courtship with the man who would later become both her teacher and husband, Ngak’chang Rinpoche. We learn about Khandro Déchen’s practice in the hidden places of the Himalayas and her contact with great Lamas such as Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche . Khandro Déchen also discusses power differentials between teacher and student, females teachers and the patriarchy, her love of Kum-Nye physical practices, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep65-khandro-dechen-english-ngakma/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:59 - Khandro Déchen’s upbringing and meeting Ngak’chang Rinpoche 7:04 - Why Buddhism was so appealing to Khandro Déchen 8:40 - Khandro Déchen’s nursing career 11:53 - Principles for working with the sick and dying 15:15 - How Khandro Déchen works with spiritual students 17:28 - Khandro Déchen’s sisters conversion to Buddhism 19:57 - Early days of the Aro gTer 20:55 - Beginning a romantic relationship with Ngak’chang Rinpoche 27:14 - The power differential between teacher and student and its implications 34:04 - Chimé Rigdzin Rinpoche making the relationship public 36:40 - Meeting Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 41:12 - Stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche and Jomo Samphel Dechen 44:54 - How Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche viewed Ngak’chang Rinpoche 47:05 - Why Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche didn’t have many students 48:52 - ‘King of the Universe’ 50:22 - Where did Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche’s charisma come from? 51:01 - Khandro Déchen’s practice in the hidden places of the Himalayas 58:18 - Meeting the current incarnations of Dudjom Rinpoche 1:00:39 - Navigating being both the wife and student of Ngak’chang Rinpoche 1:02:47 - Considerations as Lamas raising children 1:09:58 - Khandro Déchen’s work in yidam drawing 1:14:12 - The physical practices of Kum-Nye 1:18:34 - Do female teachers bring a unique perspective? 1:23:24 - Gender politics over Khandro Déchen’s lifetime 1:27:44 - The end result of practice 1:28:33 - Patriarchy as male power ... Check out my previous interviews with Khandro Déchen: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep16-ngapka-chogyam-and-khandro-dechen-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep39-ngakchang-rinpoche-and-khandro-dechen-pandemic-edition/ To find out more about Khandro Déchen, visit: - -http://arobuddhism.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Nathaniel Menninger, creator of the documentary film ‘The Porter’ which follows him on an 11-day trek to Everest base camp, living and working alongside the Tamang porters. When tourists climb Everest, they don’t carry their own equipment. That job is done by local porters who, in difficult conditions for minimal pay and out of the site of the clients, carry loads of up to 100kg each. We learn about Nathaniel’s experiences immersing himself in this world, carrying the same loads and living in the same conditions as the Tamang porters. We discover how Nathaniel, who speaks 6 languages, initially taught himself Nepali to study meditation in the Himalayas, and why his life of blending adventure and art made this project so personally significant. We learn about the physical and psychological challenges of the shooting process, as well as the profound identity crisis that Nathaniel suffered in its aftermath. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep64-nathaniel-menninger-the-porter/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 2:15 - Nate’s previous adventures and how ‘The Porter’ began 6:51 - Nate’s 6 languages 7:42 - Nate’s language learning approach 10:52 - Language improvement after meditation retreat 13:49 -Studying meditation in Nepal 18:44 - Where does Nate’s drive come from? 21:40 - Who’s achievements does Nate admire? 22:52 - Living exactly as the Tamang porters lived 28:56 - Nate’s awakening and the effect of the project on his psyche 34:47 - Nate’s crisis of identity 40:00 - Tensions on how best to represent the porters in the film 46:32 - The gruelling physical demands of carrying loads with the namlo headband 51:53 - How Nate endured the pain to complete the project 58:32 - The positive reception to the film and the effect of becoming well known 1:04:16 - Nate’s next adventures ... To watch The Porter, visit: - www.theporterfilm.com … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this interview I am once again joined by Daizan Skinner, a British Zen Roshi trained in both the Soto and Rinzai schools. We learn why seeing so many senior monks become exhausted and ill sent Daizan on a search to Japan for the secret energy practices of Zen Master Hakuin. Daizan reveals why he left the Soto school to join controversial Rinzai Roshi Shinzan Miyamae, who’s motto was ‘First priority is kensho, second priority is kensho, third priority is kensho’. Daizan recounts stories of studying with Shinzan Roshi in Japan, practicing Koan on a mountain, and the chaotic lifestyle at Gyokuryuji temple. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep63-daizan-skinner-chaos-temple/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:18 - Why Daizan left the Soto school of Zen 1:47 - Energy practices to mitigate health problems of long-term Zen practice 19:11 - Meeting Shinzan Miyamae Roshi and joining Gyokuryuji temple 28:16 - The life story of Shinzan Miyamae Roshi 53:42 - Major fire at Gyokuryuji temple 1:04:09 - The effect of the chaos at Gyokuryuji on Daizan … Previous Daizan episode: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep56-daizan-skinner-zen-and-the-unknowing/ ... To find out more about Daizan, visit: - www.zenways.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Cinthia Font Zorilla - polyglot, translator, and chief Spanish interpreter for Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche. We learn about Cinthia’s remarkable upbringing as the daughter of a diplomat, raised a citizen of the world and becoming fluent in 7 languages. We discover how, when her father was stationed in India, an introduction to Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche by the King of Nepal would change Cinthia’s life forever. Cinthia recounts her close personal relationship with Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche, as well as the transformative effects of interpreting for her current guru, Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep62-cinthia-font-dharma-polyglot/ Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes, Spotify, and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:44 - Cinthia’s upbringing as the daughter of a diplomat 3:41 - Meeting her guru, Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche 5:09 - How many languages does Cinthia speak? 5:42 - How Cinthia became a polyglot 8:30 - Different personalities in different languages 9:31 - Other shaping effects of an international upbringing 12:21 - How to maintain a high level in 7 languages 13:52 - Cinthia’s conversion to Buddhism after meeting Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche 17:31 - Taking refuge 21:20 - Becoming a personal student of Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche 24:55 - Taking Bodhisattva vows and practice during Cinthia’s parents’ divorce 29:22 - Practice in difficult life circumstances 32:01 - The death of the Guru and finding Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche 37:11 - Who is Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche? 42:15 - What is it like to be a personal student of Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche? 44:24 - The evolution of Cinthia’s spiritual practice 47:15 - Cinthia’s demanding daily practice regime 48:43 - Different sitting postures for meditation 51:25 - Training to be a become a Lama under Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche 55:04 - Learning the Tibetan language 1:06:38 - The surprising key to being an excellent interpreter 1:09:48 - Language interpreting as devotion to the guru 1:13:57 - The transformative experience of interpreting for one’s personal guru 1:18:09 - What unlocks for practitioners of Buddhism when learning Tibetan? 1:22:32 - The importance of the oral lineage of a native speaker … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes, Spotify, and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … To find our more about Cinthia, visit: - skycinthia @ gmail . com - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cinthia-font-ba363111 … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Dr. Ian Wickramasekera, Bön Buddhist practitioner and associate professor of Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University. We discuss how a violent, childhood near-death experience propelled Ian onto the path of meditative exploration, and how psychedelics played a part in unraveling deep seated racial conditioning. We learn how early encounters with Glenn Mullin and Robin Kornman profoundly shaped Ian’s contemplative and academic trajectories. Ian recounts his first meditation retreats with the Shambala organisation, his opinion of the Sakyong, and why he left that lineage. Ian also explores dualistic and non dualistic epistemologies, the intersection of psychology and religion, and his academic work in the field of hypnosis. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep61-dr-ian-wickramasekera-devolving-the-self/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:53 - Childhood mystical experiences 4:18 - Violent near-death experience as a child 10:08 - Ian’s love for Catholic ritual and prayer 16:30 - Ian’s relationship with his Sri Lankan father 19:17 - Early racial conditioning and experiments with LSD 27:00 - First encounter with Tibetan Buddhism 31:27 - Ian discusses Glenn Mullin’s 37:34 - Meditation misconceptions 40:58 - First retreat at the Shambala Centre 48:32 - Meeting Robin Kornman 59:52 - The secret of space 1:03:13 - Devolving not evolving the self 1:09:31 - Space or spiritual materialism? 1:12:08 - Spacious equanimity vs setting personal boundaries 1:18:19 - Trends in psychology 1:22:52 - Non-dual perspectives in counselling and psychology 1:25:40 - Meeting Albert Ellis 1:31:41 - Dualism in science, personality disorders, and meditation studies 1:45:49 - Criticism from Buddhists about Ian’s work 1:48:39 - Comparing Dzogchen to hypnosis 1:54:40 - Counsellors and scientists who practice non-dual traditions 1:56:53 - Ian’s experiences on his first month-long retreat 2:06:45 - Meeting the Sakyong and leaving the Shambala organisation 2:14:04 - In search of a teacher … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … To find our more about Ian, visit: - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian_Wickramasekera2 - https://www.naropa.edu/faculty/ian-wickramasekera.php … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Taiwanese Youtube Fitness star Frank Yang who on May 25th 2020, declared himself to be an arhat - the highest level of enlightenment in Theravada Buddhism. Frank discusses his intense spiritual quest, from his early days as a bodybuilder struggling with sex addiction, to a multi-year deep dive into Buddhist meditation practice. We learn about Frank’s initial awakenings, kundalini phenomena, encounters with entities, and journeys to astral dimensions. Frank lifts the lid on his successful Youtube channel of over 160k subscribers, and shares his personal advice for all those who seek enlightenment. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep60-frank-yang-full-natty-arhat/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - The collective dark night of the pandemic 1:46 - Bodybuilding, sex addiction, and beginning meditation 8:33 - Plato and the link between physical training and meditation 10:48 - Frank’s relationship to his body 12:25 - Sex and philosophy 14:33 - Discovering Daniel Ingram and experiencing the Arising and Passing 16:54 - Frank’s first dark night 19:40 - Psychedelic explorations 23:54 - Stream entry on second Goenka retreat 31:18 - Frank’s meditation influences 32:07 - Kundalini awakening 37:16 - The affects of Frank’s Kundalini awakening 38:17 - Attaining 3rd path 41:16 - Attaining 4th path 51:14 - Controversy around attainments 52:38 - The effects of enlightenment on Frank’s sex addiction 57:34 - Stream entry to arhat in 1 year 58:42 - Out of body experiences and astral realms 1:01:06 - Frank’s encounters with negative entities 1:04:01 - Sensing energies in people and places 1:05:38 - Changes to personal relationships after awakening 1:08:10 - Why Frank is sometimes lonely 1:08:36 - Frank’s bi-polar diagnosis and his meditation path 1:11:15 - Frank’s Youtube channel and his creative vision 1:19:06 - Advice to those seeking enlightenment … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … To find our more about Frank, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/frankyang/featured … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Sang-gyé A-tsal, an ex-dancer, jazz club owner, and Brevet Lama in the Aro gTer lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. We discuss Sang-gyé’s personal journey through Santeria, Sufism, and Vedanta before meeting her future teacher, Ngak’chang Rinpoche. Sang-gyé discusses her transformative time spent in Nepal with Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, and recounts her completion of the esoteric practice of phowa under the guidance of Jomo Sampel. We learn about how to practice Vajra Romance outside of a partnership, and explore Sang-gyé’s passion for the physical practices of Kum Nye. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep59-sang-gye-a-tsal-santeria-to-sang-gye/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:42 - Sang-gyé’s childhood meditation parties and explorations of spiritual traditions 3:47 - ‘Sleepy Shiné’ and learning to meditate 7:29 - Vedanta, Sufism, and Santeria 10:45 - Unusual experiences in Santeria 12:20 - Moving to New York to open a jazz club 13:20 - Meeting Ngak’chang Rinpoche and becoming an Aro gTer apprentice 23:15 - Stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 29:09 - Sang-gyé on ‘emptiness’ and relating to a great Lama 34:45 - Working with neurosis as an artist and practitioner 40:15 - Vajra Romance as a single person 44:52 - Sang-gyé’s phowa retreat under the guidance of Jomo Samphel 49:52 - Sang-gyé’s retreat schedule and achieving the sign of completion 55:19 - Practice sequencing on retreat 59:08 - Plans for the continuation of the Aro gTer lineage 1:04:31 - Sang-gyé’s passion for the physical practices of Kum Nye 1:08:47 - How to learn Kum Nye Sang-gyé online 1:09:53 - Modern relevance of the Gö Kar Chang Lo'i Dé … To find our more about Sang-gyé A-tsal, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/movingbeing.naturalbeing - https://www.instagram.com/movingbeing/ - [email protected] Previous Aro gTer episodes: - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknxvlIXraR8zs4j4vNebA8os For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhist lama Glenn Mullin. We discuss a fascinating range of topics, including Theosophists Madame Blavatsky, Colonel Olcott, and Alice Bailey; and controversial American spiritual teacher Adi Da. We explore the line between mystical experience and psychotic delusion, and how mystics from various traditions have related to hearing voices and seeing visions. Glenn comments on the role of teachers and lineage in keeping mystics on track, reveals the 5 different ways to achieve clairvoyance, and discusses why the West produces so many self-initiated adepts. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep58-glenn-mullin-mystics-psychosis-madame-blavatsky/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:41 - Helena Blavatsky’s influence and Glenn’s history with the Theosophical Society 14:31 - Mysticism or psychosis? The paranormal powers of the Theosophical Society 31:07 - Nicholas Roerich and Glenn’s up-coming book 32:50 - Adi Da, 5 means of achieving clairvoyance, and the pitfalls of self-made mystics 38:14 - The benefit of a strong living tradition 45:47 - How do Tibetan cave yogis stay sane? Advice for long retreat. … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep51-glenn-mulin-ufos-lineage-holders-tantric-secrecy/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: - https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

To support people in this pandemic, I decided to release the full workshop recording of 'Dimensions of the Heart - Exploring Meditation Practices Of Loving Kindness And Compassion'. The video version includes important slides and visual aids, and can be viewed here: https://www.guruviking.com/dimensions-of-the-heart-meditation-practices-of-compassion-full-workshop/ … 'Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.’ - Abraham Lincoln … Everyone likes to feel good. Much of the time how we feel is determined by our environment and circumstances. This can leave our emotions at the mercy of external conditions beyond our control. Many people don’t know that it is possible to deliberately choose to feel good, even in difficult circumstances. … In this 3hr online workshop we explore meditation approaches that cultivate positive states such as compassion and loving kindness. With practice, these natural states can be more readily felt and with greater richness, profundity, and consistency. … Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 1:08 - Lecture about Compassion Meditation practices 32:26 - 3D Loving Kindness - Guided Meditation 54:28 - Question: What if negative emotions arise during compassion practice? 56:19 - Question: Explaining the use of smiling in meditation 58:35 - Brahma Vihara Practice - Guided Meditation 1:49:35 - Steve summarises the techniques covered so far + tips for ongoing practice 1:54:00 - Question: What is the point of mindfulness meditation vs mantra meditation? 2:00:02 - Question: Steve demonstrates and explains the use of mudra in meditation (hand and body positions) 2:06:26 - Question: How to work with suffering when the conditions can’t be improved? 2:11:09 - Question: Tips for compassion practice with strangers 2:13:34 - Question: The ‘M. Night Shyamalan plot twist’ of the Brahma Viharas 2:16:31 - Question: Discussion about equanimity, helping the world, and the word ‘karma’ 2:25:40 - Question: Is it okay to wish your enemies happy for your own benefit? 2:29:02 - Question: Process vs outcome in meditation practice 2:31:34 - Question: The pain of feeling compassion 2:37:09 - Question: An ‘aha’ about equanimity 2:40:44 - Question: Equanimity with others’ suffering and spiritual bypassing 2:49:48 - Question: Comments on equanimity as empowerment, and the humanising influence of the heart 2:55:02 - A story about relating to one’s enemies 3:02:59 - Congratulations and closing remarks .... The Guru Viking Meditation Club started as a free Zoom class to support people in the pandemic - each Wednesday we meet to explore meditation and practice together on Zoom. Once a month we take a 3hr deep dive into themes like this one, chosen by members. To join the club, visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-meditation-club/

In this interview I am joined by Ron Serrano who, after securing financial freedom, turned away from the business world and declared the rest of his life a retreat, turning his full attention to spiritual awakening. Ron is a long time meditation practitioner and co-founder of the online meditation group Dharma Mechanics. We discuss Ron’s rigorous practice schedule, including his advanced lucid dreaming approach, and discover the one technique that increases lucid dreams by 20x. Ron also discusses his close association with Yale neuroscientist Judd Brewer, who scanned the brains of many meditation masters, and reveals the surprising results of those many years of research. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep57-ron-serrano-the-dharma-mechanic/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:49 - The kundalini yoga of Swami Kripalu 10:10 - Achieving financial freedom and discovering meditation 13:07 - Meeting Leigh Brasington and learning the jhanas 14:50 - Ron’s rigorous practice schedule and declaring permanent retreat 20:35 - The practice of recalling mystical experiences 23:53 - Meeting Judd Brewer and encountering meditation masters 30:03 - Buddhist Geeks, Dharma Mechanics, and discovering Dzogchen 33:41 - Meeting Tsoknyi Rinpoche 36:33 - Ron’s take as a businessman on sustainable Dharma 40:51 - Inside stories on Judd Brewer’s brain research on meditation masters 43:50 - What is meditation really about 47:09 - Ron’s 20+ year lucid dreaming practice 54:17- Prophetic and diagnostic dreams, and clear light sleep yoga 1:06:24 - Ron’s family’s surprising reaction to his rigorous practice schedule 1:08:26 - Sleep science and lifestyle effects on lucid dreaming success 1:13:09 - Ron’s love of maps of awakening and his current practice orientation … To find out more about Ron and Dharma Mechanics, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Dharmachanics/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this interview I am joined by Daizan Skinner, a British Zen Roshi holding lineages in both the Soto and Rinzai schools. We learn about Daizan’s Catholic upbringing, his fascination with the 14th century Christian contemplative text the Cloud of Unknowing, and how a search throughout Asia eventually led him to become a Zen monk for over twenty years. We lift the lid on his traditional training, including intensely painful meditation practice, severe sleep deprivation, and deep emotional catharsis. Daizan also reveals why he emphasises enlightenment in his teaching, lays out a traditional four stage model of awakening, and details his own awakening experiences in accordance with that model. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep56-daizan-skinner-zen-and-the-unknowing/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:49 - Daizan’s biography 5:37 - Why Zen over Catholicism? 7:10 - Learning meditation from a Catholic priest 9:44 - Dialogue between Catholicism and Zen 10:22 - The Cloud Of Unknowing 12:24 - Daizan’s research into the Cloud of Unknowing 18:41 - The spiritual heritage of the British Isles 26:36 - Asian spiritual quest and choosing Zen 32:51 - Suicide at the monastery 34:37 - Soto monastic training 36:11 The secret to succeeding in a monastic environment 39:51 - Daizan’s emotional catharsis 45:58 - The Way of Pain 52:42 - The Enlightenment Intensive 56:24 - Daizan’s intense yaza (night sitting) training and dream yoga 1:09:49 - The Rule of St Benedict 1:10:20 - Celibacy as a monk 1:14:48 - Enlightenment or passivity? 1:18:12 - Applying monastic training to lay life 1:20:38 - Daizan’s enlightenment experiences 1:28:36 - Attaining stream entry 1:34:11 - Attaining second path 1:37:22 - Awakening in Tibet 1:46:30 - Working with Daizan … To find out more about Daizan, visit: - www.zenways.org For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am again joined by Lorin Roche PhD, meditation teacher and author of ‘The Radiance Sutras’. We begin by discussing Lorin’s career as a writer, and learn why one of his early works triggered a visit from the CIA. We go on to discuss accidental mystical experiences, their positive and negative effects, and the role of practice in integrating such experiences. We learn why so many meditators are stuck and don’t know it, why meditation teachers are often the worst off of all, and what motivates people to become teachers. Lorin also shares his surprising top tips for a thriving personal practice, no matter the discipline. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep55-lorin-roche-instinctive-meditation/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:31 - Lorin’s life as a writer 7:11 - Visited by the CIA because of Lorin’s writing 8:18 - On creativity 9:43 - Lorin’s process and learning to write 16:08 - Accidental meditation experiences 22:51 - When meditation goes wrong 26:50 - Why reading meditation books is a bad idea 30:00 - Repression and meditation teachers 37:01 - Safeguards for meditators 38:58 - When gurus go bad 42:59 - Why do people become meditation teachers? 47:25 - When should a teacher quit? 54:41 - Lorin’s tips for a thriving personal practice, no matter the discipline … Check out my other interviews with Lorin here: - https://www.guruviking.com/the-guru-viking-interviews-ep1-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep6-lorin-roche-phd/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep30-lorin-roche-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Lorin visit: - www.lorinroche.com - www.radiancesutras.com - www.meditationtt.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this interview I am once again joined by Nyei Murez, personal student and writing collaborator of best-selling author and nagual sorcerer Carlos Castaneda. In this discussion, we learn about the art of dreaming in the tradition of the nagual. Nyei talks about the various different stages and training approaches to the art of dreaming, including how to become lucid - waking up in the dream and even to changing the dream environment. We discuss how to identify beings from other realms, so called ‘dream scouts’, and how to meet and communicate with other people, living or dead, while asleep. Nyei also discusses how to use the dream state to manifest favourable circumstances in the waking world, and how to defend against psychic or energetic attack from other skilled dreamers. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep54-nyei-murez-the-art-of-dreaming/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:56 - About the Art of Dreaming 8:36 - Training approaches for dreaming 20:02 - Interpreting the dream vs gaining stability 28:19 - Nyei’s training and differences between men and women 35:23 - Strategies to stabilise the dream 41:21 - Different strokes for different folks 44:48 - How to change the dream 49:16 - Differences between men and women in the dream world 52:29 - Identifying beings from other realms 55:46 - What is the purpose of dream scouts? 58:43 - Dream rendezvous between practitioners 1:01:46 - Contacting the dead through dreams 1:07:55 - Dreaming to manifest favourable circumstances in the waking world 1:12:20 - Influencing others and spying through dreams 1:14:11 - Defending attack from other dreamers 1:17:35 - Nyei’s personal to dream practice … Previous Nyei Murez episode: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep50-nyei-murez-scribe-of-carlos-castaneda/ To find out more about Nyei Murez, visit: - www.creationinflow.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Paul Linden​ PhD, who has practiced and taught Aikido for 50 years and out of that has developed body-based ways of teaching power and compassion. He has applied this in peace-making, conflicts between ethnic groups, and with victims of severe trauma. He summarises his work: Power without love is brutality. Love without power is ineffective. We learn about Paul’s early days in the martial arts, and how a lack of coordination forced him to completely re-engineer his physical learning process. We discuss Paul’s precise use of language, his love of operational definitions, and the remarkable insights he has gained living with Parkinson’s for 17 years. Paul discusses his work in Germany and comments on multi generational trauma in both descendants of holocaust survivors and of German war criminals, and leads a series of live exercises to unlock personal power. Paul also gives his advice on the protests and riots occurring the America, including how to act effectively and what he would do if he was in President Trump’s shoes. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep53-paul-linden-phd-aikido-power-and-generational-trauma/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:58 - Paul’s unusual childhood 2:15 - First encounter with Aikido and insights about physical education 5:21 - Paul’s childhood reading and 60s counter culture 10:10 - What is Aikido? Paul demonstrates. 16:05 - Paul’s journey from angry young man to a kinder person 20:56 - Paul demonstrates moving with Parkinson’s Disease 23:04 - Early symptoms and initial Parkinson’s diagnosis 24:45 - Secrets to working with negative emotions 27:34 - Paul teaches Steve power, compassion, and stability 31:31 - Enforcing a personal boundary with love 33:37 - Paul’s unique work with victims of severe abuse 42:22 - Dealing with complex and early trauma such as childhood abuse 46:53 - The ‘Noun-ish Fallacy’ 49:26 - Multi-generational trauma in descendants of holocaust victims and prison guards 51:29 - Paul comments on the American protests and riots of June 2020 52:09 - How to act effectively and what Paul would do if he was in President Trump’s shoe 1:00:18 - ‘Love without power is ineffective, power without love is brutality’ - unlocking personal power 1:04:16 - Power, love, and operational definitions … To find out more about Paul, visit: - https://www.being-in-movement.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. This episode is the third part of a series in which we explore Ben’s PhD dissertation about the ngakpa of the Himalayas, or as Ben calls them ‘wizards and socially engaged yogis’. In this episode we explore the realms of gender and sexual orientation, in both textual and social contexts. Ben discusses the complex situation of female spiritual practitioners in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, looking at terms such as ‘khandroma’, ‘dakini’, and more. We learn about the role of the sangyum, or sexual consort, and find out why Ben’s teacher and co-author Dr Nida Chenagtsang dedicated their book on sexual yoga to abuse victims, particularly those who have been abused in religious contexts. And finally we discuss the heteronormative / heterosexual perspective of traditional tantric texts, and hear Ben’s thoughts on how to practice sexual yoga in other orientations. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep52-dr-ben-joffe-3-dakinis-consorts-beyond-heteronormativity/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:08 - Ngakma, dakinis, and female practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism 15:55 - The dakini in traditional and new-age contexts 25:52 - Thoughts on the tantric prohibition against disparaging women 34:31 - The role of the sangyum (tantric consort) 51:52 - Sex with the tantric guru vs Western ethical trends 1:20:30 - Thoughts on practice of sexual yoga in contexts other than the heteronormative … Ngakpa series with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep52-dr-ben-joffe-3-dakinis-consorts-beyond-heteronormativity/ Ben’s dissertation - https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2335180529.html?FMT=ABS&fbclid=IwAR3bXYiUmC6YcOgR09-GuSiC_UwwXYuTcLJ-kce_tI3-8e-smZS99wy1HMY To find out more about Ben, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhism teacher Glenn Mullin. We discuss references to the extra-terrestrial origin of humanity in Mongolian shamanism and Buddhist Abhidharma. We explore the differences between a lineage and a sect, and the impact of the Tibetan diaspora on sectarian attitudes. Glenn reveals how it was he first began to teach, what makes a lineage holder, and how to relate to a tantric guru. We learn about why Glenn’s approach to samaya is very different to some other teachers, and examine the real world application of the 14 danshig or root vows. And finally we explore the tradition of secrecy in tantra - why it is prescribed and what is its purpose? … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep51-glenn-mulin-ufos-lineage-holders-tantric-secrecy/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include 0:00 - Intro 0:50 - The extra-terrestrial origin of humanity in Mongolian shamanism and Buddhist Abhidharma 4:34 - Lineages vs sects, and the impact of the Tibetan diaspora on sectarian attitudes 10:36 - How Glenn began to teach 12:00 - Discipleship in the Buddhist tradition 14:02 - Enlightened teachers and lineage function 17:50 - Tibetan vs Western guru devotion 31:12 - The origin of samaya vows and choosing a teacher 49:08 - What to do when someone ‘does you wrong’? 57:42 - Parallels between Buddhism and modern psychology 1:05:04 - The purpose of secrecy in tantra 1:13:59 - Discretion and the non-obvious … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: - https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this interview I am joined by Nyei Murez, personal student and writing collaborator of best-selling author and nagual sorcerer Carlos Castaneda. We discuss who Castaneda was, and Nyei gives a detailed history of his lineage up to the present day. We find out how Nyei first met Castaneda, and explore her intensive course of study and training under his personal guidance. We learn about Castaneda’s writing process, including stories of Nyei’s close collaboration with him on several best selling books. Nyei also talks on the nature of power, and shares insights into the current geo-political situation. … https://www.guruviking.com/ep50-nyei-murez-scribe-of-carlos-castaneda/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 0:45 - Meeting Carlos Castaneda and Florinda Donner 20:21 - The history of the lineage 49:38 - Nyei’s training with Carlos Castaneda and Florinda Donner 57:46 - Why did Nyei call Nyei a ‘genius’ + change in teaching style 1:01:54 - Time as a chacmool or ‘fierce guardian’ 1:05:30 - The purpose behind Nyei’s training 1:13:52 - Castaneda’s writing process and Nyei’s time as his scribe 1:24:15 - Scanning people energetically 1:33:31 - More on writing with Castaneda 1:48:08 - The death of Carlos Castaneda 1:59:25 - Castaneda’s widespread influence in today’s culture 2:1428 - Insights on the nature of power 2:22:38 - Nyei on the pandemic and immunity 2:30:31 - Nyei’s current work ... To find out more about Nyei Murez, visit: - www.creationinflow.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode we explore the life story of Dr Nida Chenagtsang, master of Tibetan Medicine and lineage holder of the spiritual teachings of the Yuthok Nyingthig. We learn about Dr Nida’s childhood as a nomad on the high grasslands of Tibet and the lessons he learned immersed in nature. We follow him to Lhasa, where he trained as a doctor of Tibetan medicine, and engaged in private spiritual training in lineages such as the Longchen Nyingthig, Dudjom Tersar, Yuthok Nyingthig and more. We hear Dr Nida’s critique of the tulku system of locating and enthroning the reincarnations of spiritual masters as children, and discuss why it is that Dr Nida offers previously secret teachings so openly to the public. This is the first in a series with Dr Nida, and future episodes will examine topics such as dream yoga, Tibetan medicine, karmamudra, and more. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep49-dr-nida-chenagtsang-heart-of-a-nomad/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:14 - Nomad childhood in Amdo, Tibet 7:19 - Learning from nature 9:38 - A special encounter and becoming a doctor 20:28 - Training in Lhasa 22:52 - Studying Longchen Nyingthig with Ani Ngawang Gyaltsen 25:04 - The importance of female gurus 27:14 - Yearning for retreat and medical practice hopes 29:57 - Studying Dudjom Tersar with Chonyi Rinpoche and Semo Dechen 30:39 - Dr Nida’s other gurus and further studies 33:46 - Learning mantra healing privately 38:34 - Dr Nida’s critique of the tulku system 44:30 - How to choose an authentic teacher 53:24 - About the Yuthok Nyingthig and spiritual experiences on retreat 1:08:36 - Samaya, preliminaries, and secret teachings 1:10:19 - The importance of karmic connections 1:15:55 - Teaching ‘Flight of the Garuda’ 1:16:32 - The importance of guru yoga 1:19:12 - Dr Nida’s wild nomadic karmamudra teacher 1:22:40 - Learning and teaching many things 1:24:08 - Tibetan geomancy 1:25:21 - Future interview topics … Previous Interview with Dr Nida: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep41-dr-nida-chenagtsang-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ To find out more about Dr Nida, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. This episode is the second part of a series in which we explore Ben’s PhD dissertation on the ngakpa of the Himalayas, or as Ben calls them ‘wizards and socially engaged yogis’. In the previous episode, we met the scholar, exploring Ben’s life as well as looking at his research methodology. In this episode we begin by defining the ngakpa, both in terms of traditional definitions as well as how the ngakpa exist and function today. We explore the various tantric vows associated with the highest yoga tantra yidam empowerments, including common misinterpretations about samaya, and how hair and clothing styles are often used as on outer expression of inner or secret principles. We look at how ngakpa develop their magical powers (siddhi), why they have often been viewed with suspicion by the religious and state authorities, and finally Ben recounts a story of a magical duel between sorcerers over local occult jurisdiction. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 0:00 - Intro 1:07 - Who are the ngakpa? 23:58 - Tantric vows and the complex issue of samaya 54:22 - How ngakpa develop and use magical powers (siddhi) 1:09:18 - Ngakpa Yeshe Dorje’s magical duel with local sorcerers … Ngakpa series with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ Ben’s dissertation - https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2335180529.html?FMT=ABS&fbclid=IwAR3bXYiUmC6YcOgR09-GuSiC_UwwXYuTcLJ-kce_tI3-8e-smZS99wy1HMY To find out more about Ben, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhism teacher Glenn Mullin. In this fascinating, story-filled episode we focus on Glenn’s career as an author and translator. Glenn has authored over 30 books on Tibetan Buddhism, which themselves have been translated into many languages. He has translated an extremely wide range of classical Tibetan literature from some of the greatest minds of that tradition, including many Dalai Lamas, Tsongkhapa, and more. We discuss Glenn’s personal journey with the Tibetan language, from gaining fluency in the bars and tea houses of 1970s Dharmsala to studying classic texts with Geshes and Tulkus in exile. We explore the fascinating history of the art of translation in Tibet, and the evolution of the Tibetan writing system. Glenn also reveals his stylistic influences as an English language writer, and lays out his process when approaching a new work of translation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep47-glenn-mullin-tales-of-translation/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Glenn’s beginnings as translator in Dharamsala 18:03 - Glenn’s work translating the Dalai Lamas 23:59 - Influences as an English-language writer 28:35 - History of Tibetan language and translation 47:12 - Difficulties learning colloquial Tibetan 49:15 - Unusual advice and gaining fluency 54:10 - Tibetan humour 58:49 - Glenn’s process for approaching a new translation 1:16:13 - Working closely with lineage holders 1:21:11 - The intellectual greatness of Ling Rinpoche, Trijang Rinpoche, and Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche 1:23:52 - The effect of intense meditation on memory power 1:25:15 - How great masters retain multiple lineages 1:35:22 - Glenn’s favourite of his translations 1:41:55 - Glenn’s opinion of translators today … Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: - https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this interview I am joined by Nicki Wells, internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter and composer. We learn about Nicki’s Himalayan upbringing in Dharmsala, India as part of the Sahaja Yoga group, a tradition of awakening that exposed Nicki to profound states of meditation as well as Indian classical music. We go into depth about the Sahaja Yoga system, including its approach to kundalini energy, darshan, and spiritual evolution, as well as Nicki’s own spiritual epiphanies. We explore Nicki’s career as a singer and composer, from collaborating with composer Nitin Sawhney and scoring for film and television, including Khyentse Norbu’s, also known as Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, 2013 film Vara - A Blessing. We also discuss Nicki’s solo work, including her 2018 debut album Ocean, her 2019 album of spiritual songs entitled ‘Shloka’, and learn about the deep spirituality the permeates her performances and creative process. … Video version:https://www.guruviking.com/ep-46-nicki-wells-spirit-and-song/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Nicki’s childhood in the Himalayas 4:32 - Childhood meditation in the Sahaja Yoga System 8:36 - Kundalini energy and transmission in Sahaja Yoga 15:27 - Moving to Australia and Nicki’s spiritual epiphany 21:15 - Facing hardship and challenge as a practice 23:59 - Nicki’s passion for evolution and growth 24:42 - Motivation for the business side of music 28:30 - Childhood exposure to Indian Classical Music 31:24 - Returning to the UK and launching her career 34:10 - Touring and collaborations with Nitin Sawhney 36:52 - Working on Khyentse Norbu’s 2013 film ‘Vara - A Blessing’ 40:33 - The story behind the name ‘Turya’ 43:51 - Creative process for the next album 45:14 - Nicki’s 2019 album of spiritual songs called ‘Shloka’ 48:20 - Nicki sings and explains ‘Vishuddhi’ 52:08 - We play and discuss ‘Rivers to Sea’ 59:19 - We play and discuss ‘When It Goes Quiet’ 1:03:57 - More about Nicki’s spiritual path and Sahaja yoga 1:07:50 - Stories of introducing others to Sahaja Yoga 1:10:17 - Subtle body awareness 1:11:07 - More about Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi 1:12:26 - Nicki’s personal time with Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi ... To find out more about Nicki Wells, visit: - https://www.turyamusic.com For Nicki’s Covid Calm series, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHaSV06sze6EpZlsl_QEfAg The meditation site Nicki mentioned is: - www.wemeditate.co For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Intro and Outro Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this interview I am joined by Jayür Dorje, a lama in the non-monastic Aro gTér lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and the partner of previous interview guest Métsal Wangmo. We learn about Jayür’s early explorations in Zen and the Karma Kagyu traditions, before an ususual meeting in France changed his course to become a Nyingmapa. We discuss Jayür’s early apprenticeship in the Aro gTer and explore his special interest in that lineage’s magical movements of trulkhor. Jayür Dorje recounts his time in Nepal with Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche, and talks about the unique practice possibilities afforded by his relationship with Métsal’s Wangmo. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep45-jayur-dorje-aro-gter-trulkhor-and-drala-jong/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 0:00 - Early explorations in Zen and the Karma Kagyu and joining the Aro gTer 25:48 - Starting a relationship with Métsal Wangmo 28:54 - Jayür’s early practices 30:34 - Choosing Nyingma over Karma Kagyu 33:47 - Jayür’s interest in trulkhor 38:40 - Stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 43:39 - The beginning of his relationship with Métsal Wangmo 46:05 - A sticky previous relationship 48:55 - Working with strong emotions 51:55 - Differences in trulkor lineages 54:14 - Jayür’s interest in hidden yoginis 55:45 - More stories about Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche 1:00:04 - Wim How and the tsa lung/chöd combination 1:02:19 - A day in the life at Drala Jong ... To find out more about Jayür Dorje, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/Takrig/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this episode I am joined by Dr Ben Joffe, anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. We discuss Ben’s early interest in Western Occultism saw him become a professional tarot reader at age 11 and engage in rigorous self study of magical disciplines. We learn about how Ben taught himself the Tibetan language, and follow him to Indian and Nepal where he carried out his doctoral field work among the Ngakpa community in exile. Ben reveals the methodological and ethical challenges of being both a scholar and practitioner, and recalls the significance of meeting the man who would later become his teacher and mentor, Dr Nida Chenagtsang. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 0:00 - Intro 0:43 - Early interest in Western Occultism 13:56 - Franz Bardon and occult mind training 15:34 - Childhood vision of Jesus 25:55 - Western vs Buddhist mind training 28:35 - Ben’s personal development in the occult 38:33 - Tibetan studies as Ben’s ‘nerd rebellion’ 52:45 - Teaching himself the Tibetan language 1:04:32 - Ben’s other languages 1:08:00 - The importance of language in tantric traditions 1:11:42 - An overview of Ben’s dissertation 1:15:14 - The research process 1:39:37 - Wang and the methodological and ethical challenges of being a scholar practitioner 1:51:37 - Where to find Ben’s work … Ngakpa series with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep44-dr-ben-joffe-ngakpa-the-occult-and-anthropology/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep48-dr-ben-joffe-2-siddhi-samaya-and-duels-of-magick/ Ben’s dissertation - https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2335180529.html?FMT=ABS&fbclid=IwAR3bXYiUmC6YcOgR09-GuSiC_UwwXYuTcLJ-kce_tI3-8e-smZS99wy1HMY To find out more about Ben, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

In this interview I am joined by Métsal Wangmo, a lama in the non-monastic Aro gTér lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. We learn about Métsal’s explorations in meditation and shamanism, that led her to commit to life-long study with Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen. We discuss how Métsal’s background in Steiner education influences her teaching style, and hear the story of the death of her first apprentice. Métsal recounts meeting and falling in love with her now teaching-partner Jayür Dorje, after many years of singleness - and the adjustments that relationship demanded. We also discuss portions of Métsal’s paper on vajra romance, including the importance of reconciling the inner male and female aspects. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep43-metsal-wangmo-varja-romance/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Métsal’s early interest in Gurdjieff, meditation, and shamanism 08:50 - Meeting Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen 11:18 - Childhood meditation experiences 12:04 - Pragmatism vs magical thinking 18:28 - Drala teachings of Vajrayana 19:44 - The Apprenticeship Model of the Aro gTér 27:24 - General Aro gTér curriculum and Métsal’s special interests 36:34 - The teaching style and example of Ngakchang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen 40:02 - The death of Métsal’s first apprentice 48:59 - Meeting and falling in love with her now teaching-partner Jayür Dorje 51:31 - Choosing to be single for many years 58:43 - Adjusting from single life to being in a relationship 1:04:01 - Reconciling the inner male and female aspects 1:11:56 - ‘Unrequiteable gender needs’ 1:15:17 - Relationship as practice 1:19:25 - Resolving emotional neediness and finding exponential appreciation To find out more about Métsal Wangmo, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/Takrig/ - http://arobuddhism.org/lamas/lama-metsal-wangmo.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Susan Guner recently interviewed me about meditation as part of her free 21 Day Meditation Challenge. 0:00 - How Susan met Steve 02:30 - About Steve 04:12 - Susan on meditation and self-agency 06:20 - Different types of meditation, guided meditation vs silent sitting 10:33 - Is guided meditation useful? 16:57 - Building a daily meditation practice 25:32 - Common meditation misconceptions 30:35 - Susan on different states of consciousness and meditating in life 35:35 - Aspiration vs practice 39:38 - Susan on natural meditation 44:40 - Is spiritual experience only for elite practitioners? 46:31 - How to tell if someone is as spiritual as they appear to be 50:14 - Advice for the participants in Susan’s 21 Day Meditation Challenge 53:30 - The Guru Viking Podcast 55:48 - How is Steve spending time in lockdown 57:30 - Susan on investing in education 59:35 - Meditating in any moment 1:01:09 - Short vs long meditation sessions 1:03:16 - Should one feel one’s emotions or let them go? 1:05:42 - What is the depth of meditation? 1:07:37 - Susan’s meme about the meaning of life 1:08:36 - Zen Master communication Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/susan-guner-interviews-steve-james-about-meditation/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. ... To find out more about Susan, visit: - https://www.warrioroflove.co.uk/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - http://www.guruviking.com My Meditation Livestreams: - https://www.facebook.com/guruviking/

In this episode I am once again joined by Tibetologist, author, and Tantric Buddhism teacher Glenn Mullin. We discuss tukdam and rainbow body, the mysterious after-death phenomena in which accomplished yogis can remain in suspended animation for days or weeks after death or dissolve their bodies into their elemental constituents. We hear about the remarkable death of one of Glenn’s own gurus, which he witnessed first hand, as well as discuss the means of communicating with deceased masters through relics and dreams. We also discuss the practices of phowa, consciousness projection at the time of death, and drong juk, the forceful projection of one’s consciousness into a fresh corpse. And finally we discuss the Tibetan tradition of reading omens about the time of one’s own death, and how to listen for signs and guidance from the natural world. Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep42-glenn-mullin-death-divination-and-sacred-relics/ Audio version of this podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. Topics Include: 0:00 - Introduction 0:55 - Tukdam, suspended animation of the body after death 11:54 - The death of Glenn’s guru, Namgyel Khensur Rinpoche 18:53 - Being a role model to others 20:57 - Cultural attitudes towards death 27:25 - Chakrasamvara Tantra teachings on death 31:12 - Rainbow body, another way to die 35:09 - Tukdam vs rainbow body, and relics (ringsel) of a deceased master 39:38 - Communicating with deceased masters through their relics 47:32 - The relics of the Buddha 50:54 - Phowa, consciousness projection at the time of death 55:39 - Drong juk, the forceful projection of consciousness into a corpse 1:01:00 - Ancient civilisations and pan-Asian energy techniques 1:02:27 - Death rituals of the Lamas 1:04:30 - Tantric methods of foretelling one’s own death 1:10:08 - Glenn’s personal approach to divination 1:12:08 - Listening to messages from birds, clouds, and nature …. Previous Glenn Mullin episodes: * https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep9-glenn-mullin/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep19-glenn-mullin-guru-viking-interviews/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep26-glenn-mullin-illusory-body-yoga-of-waking-sleep-and-death/ * https://www.guruviking.com/ep28-glenn-mullin-dream-yoga-solo-retreat-guide-and-unlocking-the-human-potential/ To find our more about Glenn, visit: * https://www.runawayjourneys.com/ * http://www.glennmullin.com/ * https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: * http://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

I was recently interviewed by Bill and Jasmine of Awake-In Podcast about meditation, podcasting, and my thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic. Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/steve-interviewed-on-awake-in-podcast/ 0:00 - Introductions 02:40 - What has Steve learned from his guests on the Guru Viking Podcast 08:54 - The pros and cons of combative interview styles 11:08 - Steve’s personal meditation practice 14:16 - Explaining Steve’s practice to a child, a lay person, and an experienced meditator 22:54 - Steve’s solo meditation retreats 25:54 - Experiences and learnings from solo retreat 36:36 - Bill’s jhana practice 44:30 - Steve on jhana practice 52:14 - Steve’s advice for meditators during the coronavirus pandemic 1:01:04 - Steve on the coronavirus pandemic 1:10:33 - Jasmine’s year long practice intensive 1:16:06 - Meditation and personal alignment 1:21:04 - Meditating with emotional pain and trauma 1:22:38 - Sickness and compassion 1:27:06 - Steve reads Antonio Machado’s ‘Last Night As I Lay Sleeping’ From Bill and Jasmine’s show notes: Hope you enjoy! Find more or get in touch at: https://awake-in.com We cover all sorts with Steve, but here are some highlights: Learnings from the amazing guests he’s interviewed Steve’s meditation practice explained 3 ways – To a child To an adult To an experienced meditator His summer ‘part-time retreat’ – 4 hours of meditation a day Bill’s experience of Jhānic meditation Jasmine’s experience doing 3 hours a day of meditation for an entire year Thoughts on how to deal with the current COVID-19 crisis Books referenced: Daniel Ingram’s Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha and Fire Kasina Leigh Brasington’s Right Concentration Antonio Machado’s Last Night As I Was Sleeping Check out the amazing Guru Viking podcast and follow Steve’s other work at: https://www.guruviking.com/

Dr Nida Chenagtsang, master of Tibetan Meditation and lineage holder of the Yuthok Nyingthig, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep41-dr-nida-chenagtsang-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 00:55 - Guidance for those who are anxious, afraid, or panicked. 14:21 - Guidance for those who are sick. 18:28 - Guidance for those who are dying. 22:40 - Guidance for supporting those who are sick or suffering. 27:18 - Guidance for those in isolation. … To find our more about Dr Nida, visit: https://www.facebook.com/DoctorNida/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Daniel Ingram, meditation teacher and author of ‘Mastering The Core Teachings Of The Buddha’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep40-daniel-ingram-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 00:55 - Warning: listen before continuing. 01:43 - Daniel’s background in medicine and epidemiology. 03:44 - Daniel’s ‘Need to Know’ on the pandemic. 11:19 - Further guidance for the lay person. 12:49 - Daniel’s prognosis for the epidemic. 18:17 - Self care during the pandemic. 23:53 - Guidance for those who are anxious, afraid, or panicked. 39:46 - Guidance for supporting those who are sick or suffering. 46:06 - Meditation guidance for those who are sick. 55:24 - Guidance for those who are dying. 57:59 - Daniel’s personal meditation plan for his own death. 1:02:43 - Further comments on supporting the sick and dying. 1:07:15 - Processing emotional storms. 1:14:15 - Guidance for those in isolation. 1:17:16 - How does an arahant experience the pandemic? 1:25:40 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Daniel Ingram: https://www.guruviking.com/ep14-daniel-ingram-guru-viking-interviews/ To find our more about Daniel, visit: integrateddaniel.info For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ngak'Chang Rinpoche And Khandro Déchen, the Lineage Lamas and principal teachers of the a tantric Buddhist Aro tradition house holder tradition, are my featured guests in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. There is some audio interference in this episode, but the content is well worth the effort to listen. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep39-ngakchang-rinpoche-and-khandro-dechen-pandemic-edition/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 00:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 05:48 - Investing in the sense fields 09:18 - Guidance for those who are sick. 13:43 - Remembering the death of Robert, their son. 17:13 - Guidance for those who are dying. 19:15 - Guidance to supporting those who are sick or suffering 22:44 - Guidance for those in isolation. 27:26 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interviews with Ngak'Chang Rinpoche And Khandro Déchen: - https://www.guruviking.com/guru-viking-interviews-ep8-ngakpa-chogyam/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep16-ngapka-chogyam-and-khandro-dechen-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Ngak'Chang Rinpoche And Khandro Déchen, visit: - -http://arobuddhism.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Godfrey offers a breathing class and Q&A for the listeners of the Guru Viking Podcast focused on his ‘Free Breathing’ approach to pranayama. This practice is referenced and further explained in Episode 38 of the Guru Viking Podcast, and is part of a special series of the podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. … https://www.guruviking.com/free-breathing-class-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-podcast/ ... Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:00 - Class Intro 01:00 - Guided Class 30:31 - Comments 31:18 - Explaining ’svaramukta’ 35:29 - To control or not in breath practice 43:52 - Final comments … Check out my previous interviews with Godfrey Devereux: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep38-godfrey-devereux-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ - https://www.guruviking.com/ep15-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Godfrey Devereux and his online courses, visit: - www.radicalecology.net For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Godfrey Devereux, yoga and meditation teacher of over 45 years experience, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... https://www.guruviking.com/ep38-godfrey-devereux-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 04:20 - The role of movement in working with strong emotion. 05:46 - Guidance for those who are sick. 10:15 - Why the mind engages in loops and stories. 15:22 - Guidance for those who are dying. 19:15- How to face the reality of death. 23:18 - Guidance to supporting those who are sick or suffering 24:12 - Guidance for those in isolation. 28:48 - Radical embodied intelligence 29:36 - The consequences of embodied intelligence 30:56 - Concluding comments. … Free Breathing Class with Godfrey: - https://www.guruviking.com/free-breathing-class-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-podcast/ Check out my previous interview with Godfrey Devereux: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep15-godfrey-devereux-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Godfrey Devereux and his online courses, visit: - www.radicalecology.net For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Shinzen Young - meditation teacher, neuroscience researcher, and author of ‘The Science of Enlightenment’ - is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … This is a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I ask my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Shinzen’s personal practice response to the pandemic 10:49 - 3 practice opportunities afforded by Covid-19. 17:56 - Guidance for those who are afraid, sick, or dying. 22:56 - Shinzen on death and T.S. Elliot … To find out more about Shinzen Young, visit: - https://www.shinzen.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James Video Resources: - How Intense Emotions Can Be No Problem: https://youtu.be/lD1ny_Q8sKo - Mindfulness With Sickness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vhrTErrZD8 - How To Guide Someone Through The Death Process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDeMbojj8-E

Bar-ché Dorje, a Dutch Lama in the Aro gTer tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep36-bar-che-dorje-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 01:57 - Methods to relax 04:32 - Mantra and accumulating mantra power 09:48 - Guidance for those who are sick. 12:39 - Guidance for those who are dying. 18:50 - About the Yeshe Tsogyal Mantra 20:47 - Bar-ché Dorje sings the Yeshe Tsogyal Mantra 22:05 - Guidance for those in isolation. 25:06 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Bar-ché Dorje: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep21-bar-che-dorje-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Bar-ché Dorje, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/barche.dorje - http://arobuddhism.org/lamas/lamas-bar-che-dorje-and-me-sel.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Culadasa, meditation teacher and author of ‘The Mind Illuminated’, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... https://www.guruviking.com/ep35-culadasa-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 04:37 - Meditation strategies for working with fear 09:24 - Guidance for those who are sick. 20:39 - Guidance for those who are dying. 28:04 - Guidance for those in isolation. 30:24 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Culadasa: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep13-culadasa-guru-viking-interviews/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Paul Cavel, author and Taoist teacher, is my featured guest in this episode of the Guru Viking Podcast: Pandemic Series. Please share these episodes among those who might find them helpful, and let me know what you think in the comments below. ... Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/ep34-paul-cavel-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/ Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … I am producing a special series of the Guru Viking Podcast to support those affected by the pandemic. I'll be asking my guests questions like how to work with anxiety, fear, and panic? How to work with isolation? How to work with sickness and death? And how to help others having those experiences? Fear, sickness, death are perennial human experiences, and so my hope is that these episodes will be of use not only to those who are being affected now in this situation, but also of use to others beyond it. … 0:55 - Guidance for those who are afraid or panicked. 10:14 - Practices for grounding. 21:06 - Guidance for those who are sick. 33:04 - Guidance for those who are dying. 38:25 - Spiritual path 47:22 - Guidance for helping those who are sick or dying. 54:24 - Guidance for those in isolation. 1:02:26 - Information about sex and ejaculation. 1:05:58 - Concluding comments. … Check out my previous interview with Paul Cavel: - https://www.guruviking.com/ep25-paul-cavel-taoist-energy-arts-guru-viking-interviews/ To find out more about Paul, visit: – https://www.paulcavel.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: – www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James