Weekly Chronicles No.9: Embracing the Path of the “I AM” Presence and Introduction to Pranayama Practice or Breathwork
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Weekly Chronicles No.9: Embracing the Path of the “I AM” Presence and Introduction to Pranayama Practice or Breathwork
Plus, we aboard the question of what is “Experience Seeking”.
Greetings and welcome to the 9th issue of the Weekly Chronicles, an independent conscious newsletter, presented by the Journal of Animaology.
In This Issue:
Journey to Awakening: Embracing the Path of the “I AM” Presence
The Illusion of Fear: Advanced Insights and Practices for Awakening to Our True Nature
Question of the Week: What is “Experience Seeking”?
Journey to Awakening: Embracing the Path of the “I AM” Presence
Embarking on the journey of self-realization and spiritual growth is a deeply personal endeavor, rooted in the recognition of our interconnectedness and the power within.
In the realm of human experience within the vast tapestry of existence, there exists a profound purpose—a journey towards becoming the “I AM” Presence. This transformative path beckons us to awaken from the slumber of illusion, transcending the limitations of the third dimension. Regardless of the lifetime we inhabit, whether in this realm or another, the quest for awakening rests upon each individual alone. As we delve into the depths of exploration, we draw insights from a diverse tapestry of teachings, encompassing spiritual philosophies, ancient wisdom, and modern psychology. This feature article embarks on an exploratory voyage, delving into the significance of awakening and its inherent connection to our spiritual evolution.
”Awakening is not about seeking answers outside of ourselves, but about realizing the truth that resides within."
Unveiling the Call to Awakening
THE ILLUSION OF SEPARATION: DISSOLVING THE VEIL OF DUALITY
The nature of duality and the egoic mind
Within the realm of human experience, duality permeates our perception of reality, creating a veil that obscures our inherent interconnectedness. Duality manifests as the apparent division between opposing forces or concepts, such as light and darkness, joy and sorrow, love and fear. This dualistic framework shapes our understanding of the world and molds the egoic mind—the conditioned and limited sense of self.
The egoic mind, rooted in separation consciousness, thrives on the illusion of individuality and thrives on comparisons, judgments, and the pursuit of self-preservation. It perpetuates a sense of "me versus the world," fostering a belief in the fundamental separateness of beings and things. This illusory identification with the egoic mind reinforces a fragmented perspective, veiling the underlying unity that binds all existence.
The interconnectedness of all beings
Beyond the veil of duality lies a profound truth: the interconnectedness of all beings. This interconnectedness transcends the boundaries of space and time, encompassing every particle of creation. Just as individual drops merge into an expansive ocean, every being is an integral part of the cosmic tapestry of existence.
Eastern philosophies and mystical teachings from various traditions have long recognized this inherent interconnectedness. The Law of One, for instance, speaks of the unity of all consciousness, highlighting that every individual is an expression of the One Infinite Creator. The Seth Material similarly emphasizes the interplay of energies and consciousness, affirming that the existence of one soul affects the entirety of creation.
By exploring this interconnectedness, we come to understand that our thoughts, actions, and intentions ripple through the collective consciousness, influencing the experiences of others and shaping the collective reality. Every word spoken, every gesture of kindness or cruelty, reverberates throughout the web of existence, ultimately impacting our individual and collective evolution.
Within the framework of A Course in Miracles (ACIM), the recognition of interconnectedness becomes a catalyst for forgiveness and healing. ACIM teaches that by extending forgiveness and recognizing the shared nature of consciousness, we dissolve the illusion of separation, paving the way for a more harmonious and loving existence.
As we awaken to the truth of interconnectedness, we begin to perceive the underlying unity that binds all beings. We realize that the divisions and conflicts that pervade our world are rooted in the illusion of separation, perpetuated by the egoic mind. By transcending this illusion, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of our interdependence and foster a greater sense of compassion, empathy, and unity.
THE QUEST FOR SELF-REALIZATION: NURTURING THE SEED OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH
Recognizing the yearning for spiritual growth
Deep within the core of our being, there exists a yearning—a subtle call to embark on a profound journey of self-realization. This yearning for spiritual growth often arises from a sense of incompleteness or disconnection from our true nature. It is a whisper from our soul, urging us to transcend the mundane and discover the expansive realms of consciousness.
This yearning may manifest as a longing for purpose, a desire to find meaning beyond the superficial aspects of existence. It may arise as an unexplainable restlessness or a sense of seeking that cannot be appeased by external achievements or possessions. It is a recognition that there is more to life than what meets the eye, and an invitation to delve deeper into the mysteries of our existence.
Eastern philosophies, such as Advaita Vedanta and Buddhism, have long recognized this innate yearning for self-realization. They emphasize the importance of turning inward, quieting the mind, and seeking the truth beyond the illusions of the material world. This recognition of the yearning for spiritual growth serves as the initial spark, igniting the flame of transformation within us.
Uncovering the dormant potential within
As we embark on the quest for self-realization, we begin to peel back the layers that have obscured our true nature. We uncover the dormant potential that resides within, waiting to be awakened and expressed. This potential goes beyond our mundane identities and limited beliefs, transcending the boundaries of time and space.
The teachings of various spiritual traditions and esoteric philosophies shed light on this inherent potential. The concept of the "I AM" presence, for instance, highlights the limitless nature of our being, representing the divine spark that resides within each individual. It signifies the awakening of our latent abilities, the recognition of our true power and essence.
The process of uncovering this dormant potential often involves inner work, self-reflection, and spiritual practices. Meditation, contemplation, and mindfulness serve as powerful tools for diving into the depths of our consciousness, allowing us to shed the layers of conditioning and tap into our highest potential.
Psychology also offers insights into this transformative journey of self-realization. Carl Jung's concept of the collective unconscious points to the existence of a reservoir of shared human experiences and archetypal patterns. Exploring and integrating these aspects of our psyche can unlock profound insights and lead to the discovery of hidden potentials.
As we delve into the depths of self-discovery, we unearth our unique gifts, talents, and passions. We align with our authentic selves, nurturing the seeds of potential that have long remained dormant. This awakening not only serves our personal growth but also contributes to the collective tapestry, as our unique contributions ripple through the interconnected web of existence.
”In the depths of self-discovery, we uncover the gems of our true potential and ignite the spark of transformation."
Awakening as a Personal Journey
THE UNIQUENESS OF INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCE
Embracing personal responsibility for growth
The path of awakening unfolds uniquely for each individual, honouring the intricate tapestry of their experiences, lessons, and soul's evolution. It is a journey that beckons us to embrace personal responsibility for our growth and transformation. Recognizing that we are the authors of our own narratives, we reclaim the power to shape our destiny and navigate the terrain of consciousness.
Embracing personal responsibility requires a willingness to take ownership of our thoughts, emotions, and actions. It entails acknowledging that we are co-creators of our reality, participating in the continuous dance of manifestation. By assuming responsibility for our growth, we step into the role of active participants in the unfolding of our spiritual evolution.
Eastern philosophies, such as Hinduism and Jainism, emphasize the concept of karma—the law of cause and effect. It underscores the idea that our actions, choices, and intentions have consequences that shape our present and future experiences. Embracing personal responsibility aligns with this principle, empowering us to make conscious choices and create a positive ripple effect in our lives and the lives of others.
Liberation from dependence on external influences
In the quest for awakening, it is essential to liberate ourselves from the chains of dependence on external influences. Society, culture, and conditioning often impose belief systems, expectations, and norms upon us, shaping our identities and limiting our potential. Breaking free from these external influences is a vital step towards reclaiming our authentic selves.
Liberation from external influences entails cultivating discernment and questioning the narratives that have been handed down to us. It involves exploring our own truths, values, and aspirations, rather than conforming to societal expectations. This process requires introspection, courage, and a willingness to challenge ingrained patterns of thought and behavior.
The teachings of Eckhart Tolle, known for his work on spiritual awakening and presence, highlight the importance of transcending external influences. Tolle emphasizes the power of the present moment and the ability to connect with our inner being beyond the realm of external circumstances. By cultivating presence and inner stillness, we detach from external influences and connect with the wellspring of wisdom that resides within.
Psychology also sheds light on this liberation from external influences. The concept of individuation, as described by Carl Jung, advocates for the development of an authentic self, separate from societal expectations. It involves integrating the various aspects of our psyche and embracing our unique individuality.
As we liberate ourselves from external influences, we uncover the vast landscape of our true potential. We become attuned to the whispers of our intuition, the guidance of our higher selves, and the wisdom that emanates from within. In this liberation, we reclaim our sovereignty and embark on a path of self-realization that is authentically ours.
LESSONS CANNOT BE TRANSFERRED
The limitations of vicarious learning
On the journey of awakening, it is important to recognize the limitations of vicarious learning—the notion that we can fully grasp and integrate the lessons and experiences of others. While guidance and wisdom from spiritual teachings, mentors, and role models can inspire and inform our path, the essence of spiritual growth lies in the individual's direct experience.
Vicarious learning occurs when we attempt to absorb knowledge and insights secondhand, relying solely on external sources for our understanding. However, true transformation requires personal engagement, introspection, and a direct connection with our own inner truth. No matter how eloquently wisdom is expressed or how profound the teachings may be, the path of awakening is ultimately an individual, internal journey.
The teachings of mystics like Rumi and Kabir emphasize the importance of seeking direct experience and inner knowing. Their poetry and spiritual insights guide us to look within ourselves and discover our own truth through personal exploration and realization. Their words serve as signposts, pointing us towards the inner realms waiting to be uncovered.
Embracing the individual path of self-discovery
Each individual is a unique expression of consciousness, traversing their own path of self-discovery. Embracing this individuality is paramount to our spiritual evolution. It entails honoring our personal experiences, insights, and intuition as valid and valuable sources of wisdom.
The process of self-discovery involves introspection, self-reflection, and a willingness to explore the depths of our being. It requires us to question our assumptions, beliefs, and conditioning, peeling away the layers of the false self to reveal the authentic essence that lies within.
The teachings of Jiddu Krishnamurti emphasize the importance of self-inquiry and self-understanding in the process of awakening. Krishnamurti encourages individuals to cultivate awareness and observe their thoughts, emotions, and patterns of behaviour without judgment or identification. Through this deep self-inquiry, we uncover the truth of who we are beyond the conditioned mind.
Psychology, particularly humanistic and transpersonal approaches, acknowledges the significance of the individual path of self-discovery. Carl Rogers, a prominent figure in humanistic psychology, emphasized the importance of self-exploration and self-acceptance in fostering personal growth. Transpersonal psychology, on the other hand, delves into the realms of spirituality and expanded states of consciousness, recognizing the transformative potential of the individual's inner journey.
By embracing the individual path of self-discovery, we align with our unique purpose, passions, and strengths. We tap into the wellspring of our inner wisdom and engage with life from a place of authenticity. In doing so, we contribute to the collective tapestry of human evolution, as the diverse threads of individual awakening interweave to create a more enlightened world.
Wisdom from Spiritual Teachings
INSIGHTS FROM ACIM
The nature of forgiveness and releasing illusions
A Course in Miracles (ACIM) offers profound insights into the nature of forgiveness and the process of releasing illusions that cloud our perception of reality. It teaches that forgiveness is not about condoning or justifying actions but rather a transformative tool for liberation and healing. By forgiving ourselves and others, we release the burdens of resentment, guilt, and judgment, paving the way for inner peace and spiritual growth.
ACIM recognizes that the world we perceive is a projection of our own thoughts and beliefs, often steeped in illusions. It invites us to question the validity of our judgments, opinions, and attachments, recognizing their illusory nature. Through the practice of forgiveness, we dismantle the barriers that separate us from others, fostering unity and compassion.
The teachings of ACIM encourage us to see beyond the surface-level appearances and connect with the inherent innocence and divine essence within ourselves and others. By releasing illusions and cultivating forgiveness, we gain a clearer perception of reality and deepen our connection to the eternal truth that underlies all existence.
Embracing love as the foundation for awakening
Love lies at the heart of ACIM's teachings and is presented as the fundamental essence of our being. It emphasizes that love is not an external force to be sought but rather an intrinsic quality that we can remember and reclaim. Love is seen as the antidote to fear, the key that unlocks the door to awakening and spiritual transformation.
ACIM teaches that as we embrace love and extend it to ourselves and others, we dissolve the barriers of separation and invite miracles into our lives. Love is the pathway to healing, reconciliation, and transcendence. It reminds us that we are not separate entities but interconnected beings, united in the fabric of divine love.
The teachings of ACIM echo the ancient spiritual wisdom found in various traditions, such as Hinduism and Christianity, which emphasize the transformative power of love. Love is seen as the unifying force that transcends egoic boundaries and dissolves the illusion of separation.
By embracing love as the foundation for awakening, we shift our perception from fear to love, from judgment to acceptance. Love becomes the guiding principle in our thoughts, words, and actions, permeating every aspect of our lives. It is through love that we awaken to the truth of our interconnectedness and step into our roles as co-creators of a more harmonious and compassionate world.
THE LAW OF ONE'S UNIVERSAL PERSPECTIVE
Understanding the interconnectedness of all beings
The Law of One presents a profound universal perspective that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the unity of consciousness. It teaches that at the core of our existence, we are all manifestations of the same divine source, intricately woven together in the fabric of creation. This recognition of our interconnectedness transcends the illusions of separation and fosters a deep sense of unity and compassion.
The Law of One teaches that every thought, word, and action has a ripple effect that reverberates throughout the collective consciousness. We are all threads in the tapestry of existence, and our individual experiences and growth impact the collective evolution of consciousness. This understanding invites us to be mindful of the energy we emanate and to approach interactions with empathy, kindness, and love.
By embracing the interconnectedness of all beings, we move beyond the boundaries of egoic identification and expand our sense of self to encompass the entirety of creation. This awareness encourages us to honor and respect the inherent divinity in ourselves and others, nurturing a deep reverence for life in all its forms.
Embracing service-to-others as a path towards ascension
The Law of One highlights the path of service-to-others as a transformative and evolutionary journey towards ascension. It encourages individuals to move beyond self-centeredness and embrace a life dedicated to the well-being and upliftment of others. Through acts of service, we align ourselves with the higher purpose of our existence and contribute to the collective awakening.
Service-to-others does not imply sacrificing one's own needs or well-being but rather embodying a mindset of genuine care and support for others. It is an invitation to extend love, compassion, and assistance to those around us, recognizing that their growth and well-being are intertwined with our own.
This perspective resonates with the teachings of spiritual leaders and mystics throughout history. Figures like Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi, and the Dalai Lama exemplify the transformative power of service-to-others. Their lives and teachings emphasize the inherent joy and fulfillment that arise from selflessly serving humanity.
By embracing service-to-others, we tap into the immense power of love and compassion, transcending the limitations of the egoic self. This path not only accelerates our individual spiritual growth but also contributes to the collective evolution, fostering a harmonious and interconnected world.
SETH MATERIAL: EXPLORING THE MULTIDIMENSIONAL SELF
Awakening to our multidimensional nature
The Seth Material, channeled by Jane Roberts, offers profound insights into the multidimensional nature of our existence. It presents the idea that we are not confined to a single physical dimension but rather have multiple aspects of our being that extend beyond the limitations of space and time.
The Seth Material invites us to awaken to our multidimensional nature by expanding our awareness beyond the physical realm. It suggests that we have simultaneous existences in other dimensions, and our experiences in these realms can influence and enrich our current physical reality.
This understanding aligns with the principles of quantum physics, which propose the existence of multiple dimensions and the interconnectedness of all things. It challenges the notion of a fixed and linear reality, opening the door to the exploration of parallel dimensions and the expansiveness of consciousness.
By embracing our multidimensional nature, we open ourselves to new possibilities, perspectives, and potentials. It encourages us to explore the realms of our subconscious, dream states, and higher states of consciousness, accessing deeper layers of wisdom and understanding.
Co-creating our reality through intention and belief
The Seth Material also emphasizes the power of intention and belief in the process of co-creating our reality. It suggests that our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs shape the fabric of our existence, influencing the events, circumstances, and experiences we encounter.
According to the Seth Material, our beliefs act as filters that determine the reality we perceive and attract into our lives. By becoming conscious of our beliefs and actively choosing those that align with our desired experiences, we can consciously shape and manifest our reality.
This concept resonates with the principles of the Law of Attraction and the teachings of modern psychology. The Law of Attraction suggests that like attracts like, and our dominant thoughts and beliefs magnetically draw corresponding experiences and circumstances into our lives. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating positive and empowering beliefs to manifest a desired reality.
Through the power of intention and belief, we become active participants in the creation of our lives. By aligning our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs with our desires and highest good, we tap into the creative potential of consciousness, bringing our visions into tangible manifestation.
LAZARIS MATERIAL: TRANSCENDING LIMITATIONS
Overcoming self-imposed boundaries and fears
The Lazaris Material, channeled by Jach Pursel, offers profound insights into the nature of personal growth and transformation. It teaches us to overcome self-imposed boundaries and fears that hinder our progress and limit our potential.
The Lazaris Material emphasizes that many of the limitations we experience are self-created. It encourages us to examine our beliefs, thought patterns, and conditioning that contribute to these self-imposed boundaries. By becoming aware of these limitations, we can consciously choose to transcend them, opening ourselves to new possibilities and expanded horizons.
This process requires courage, self-reflection, and a willingness to step outside of our comfort zones. The Lazaris Material offers tools and techniques to help individuals confront and release fears that hold them back from fully expressing their true selves. Through these practices, we learn to dismantle the barriers that prevent us from reaching our fullest potential.
Embracing the power of conscious choice
The Lazaris Material highlights the power of conscious choice in shaping our lives and creating our reality. It teaches that we have the ability to consciously choose our thoughts, beliefs, actions, and responses to circumstances. By exercising this power of choice, we become active participants in our personal growth and transformation.
Conscious choice involves being present and aware in each moment, rather than operating on autopilot or reacting unconsciously. It requires self-awareness, discernment, and a willingness to take responsibility for the outcomes of our choices. The Lazaris Material guides us to align our choices with our higher selves and deepest values, enabling us to navigate life with greater clarity and purpose.
This concept resonates with the teachings of modern psychology, particularly the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT emphasizes the power of conscious choice in transforming negative thought patterns and behaviors, promoting self-awareness and personal growth.
By embracing the power of conscious choice, we reclaim our agency and become active co-creators of our lives. We transcend the limitations of conditioned responses and step into a realm of empowered decision-making. Through conscious choice, we align with our authentic selves and shape our reality in alignment with our highest aspirations.
SAINT GERMAIN'S TEACHINGS: MASTERY OF THE SELF
Transmuting negative energies through alchemy
The teachings of Saint Germain emphasize the transformative power of alchemy in transmuting negative energies within ourselves and the world around us. Alchemy, in this context, refers to the process of inner transformation, where we consciously work with our thoughts, emotions, and energies to transmute lower vibrations into higher states of consciousness.
According to Saint Germain's teachings, we have the ability to shift our perception and experience by alchemizing negative energies such as fear, anger, and limitation. By bringing awareness to these energies, acknowledging and accepting them without judgment, and consciously choosing to transmute them, we can elevate our consciousness and experience greater harmony and balance.
This alchemical process involves inner work, self-reflection, and the cultivation of inner alchemical tools such as mindfulness, meditation, and energy healing practices. By engaging in these practices, we tap into our innate power to transform and shift our energy from denser states to more expansive ones.
Attaining mastery over the physical and spiritual realms
Saint Germain's teachings also guide us towards attaining mastery over both the physical and spiritual aspects of our existence. Mastery involves the integration and harmonization of our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.
On the physical level, Saint Germain's teachings encourage us to cultivate a sense of self-discipline, balance, and well-being. This includes taking care of our physical bodies through practices such as healthy eating, exercise, and self-care. By honoring our physical vessel, we create a solid foundation for spiritual growth and evolution.
In the realm of spirituality, Saint Germain teaches that mastery involves deepening our connection with the divine and expanding our spiritual awareness. This can be achieved through practices such as meditation, prayer, energy work, and the study of spiritual teachings. As we connect with our higher selves and align with the divine plan, we awaken to our true nature and tap into the infinite potential within us.
Attaining mastery over the physical and spiritual realms requires commitment, dedication, and a willingness to engage in ongoing self-reflection and growth. It is a journey of self-discovery and self-mastery that unfolds over time, as we deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
By embracing Saint Germain's teachings, we embark on a path of self-mastery and empowerment. We learn to alchemize our experiences, transforming negativity into positivity, and attaining a greater sense of balance and harmony. Through mastery, we unlock our fullest potential and contribute to the upliftment of ourselves and humanity as a whole.
Blending Ancient Wisdom and Modern Perspectives
EASTERN PHILOSOPHY: THE PATH OF SELF-REALIZATION
Insights from Advaita Vedanta and Buddhism
Eastern philosophy offers profound insights into the path of self-realization, particularly through Advaita Vedanta and Buddhism. These traditions teach us to look within and discover the truth of our being beyond the illusions of the egoic mind.
Advaita Vedanta, a philosophy rooted in the ancient Indian scriptures called the Upanishads, emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality. It teaches that at the core of our being, we are not separate from the divine or the universe. The realization of this non-dual truth leads to self-realization, the direct recognition of our true nature as pure consciousness or awareness.
Buddhism, on the other hand, focuses on the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. It recognizes that suffering arises from attachment and ignorance and offers a path of self-discovery and liberation known as the Noble Eightfold Path. Through practices such as mindfulness, meditation, ethical conduct, and wisdom, individuals can free themselves from the cycle of suffering and attain enlightenment.
These ancient wisdom traditions remind us that the answers we seek are found within ourselves. They invite us to question the nature of reality, challenge our assumptions, and embark on a journey of self-inquiry and exploration.
Practices for self-inquiry and meditation
Self-inquiry and meditation are key practices in the path of self-realization, as highlighted by Eastern philosophies. These practices offer powerful tools for quieting the mind, accessing deeper levels of awareness, and uncovering the truth of our being.
Self-inquiry involves directing our attention inward, asking fundamental questions such as "Who am I?" or "What is the nature of reality?" It is a process of self-reflection that invites us to examine our thoughts, beliefs, and identities, leading us to a direct experience of our true nature beyond the conditioned mind.
Meditation is a practice of cultivating stillness and presence, allowing us to transcend the ceaseless chatter of the mind and connect with our innermost essence. Through meditation, we develop the capacity to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment, and gradually experience a sense of spaciousness and inner peace.
Various meditation techniques are employed, ranging from focused attention on the breath or a mantra, to open-awareness meditation that encompasses the totality of our experience. These practices train the mind to become more calm, focused, and receptive to the deeper dimensions of our being.
By engaging in self-inquiry and meditation, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, gradually unraveling the layers of conditioned thinking and accessing the wisdom that lies beyond the surface-level consciousness. These practices allow us to cultivate clarity, insight, and a direct experience of our true nature, ultimately leading us to self-realization and liberation.
THE INTEGRATION OF MODERN PSYCHOLOGY
Exploring the depths of the unconscious mind
The integration of modern psychology with ancient wisdom traditions provides a powerful framework for understanding the depths of the human mind. Modern psychology offers valuable insights into the workings of the unconscious mind, unveiling the hidden layers of our psyche that influence our thoughts, emotions, and behavior.
Psychodynamic theories, developed by pioneers such as Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, delve into the realm of the unconscious, highlighting the impact of early experiences, repressed memories, and archetypal patterns on our psychological well-being. These theories illuminate the importance of exploring and integrating the contents of the unconscious mind to promote healing, growth, and self-realization.
By exploring the depths of the unconscious, we uncover aspects of ourselves that may have been hidden or suppressed. This process of self-discovery can involve techniques such as dream analysis, journaling, and therapy, enabling us to gain insight into the underlying factors that shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Overcoming limiting beliefs and patterns
The integration of modern psychology also provides effective tools for overcoming limiting beliefs and patterns that hinder our personal growth and fulfillment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for instance, focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and replacing them with more empowering beliefs.
CBT teaches us to become aware of our thoughts and examine the evidence supporting or refuting them. By challenging and reframing limiting beliefs, we can shift our perception, emotions, and behavior, ultimately creating more positive and empowering experiences in our lives.
Additionally, other therapeutic approaches, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and psychodynamic therapy, help us explore the roots of our limiting patterns and develop strategies for change. These therapies provide techniques to cultivate self-compassion, increase self-awareness, and facilitate the integration of unconscious material, supporting us on our journey of self-realization.
The integration of modern psychology with ancient wisdom traditions acknowledges the significance of understanding the human mind and the impact of our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions on our well-being. By applying these psychological insights alongside ancient wisdom practices, we gain a comprehensive understanding of ourselves and unlock the potential for personal transformation and spiritual growth.
As we traverse the labyrinth of human existence, the journey towards becoming an Ascended Master calls upon us to awaken to our true nature. This sacred path transcends the confines of time and space, inviting us to embrace the unique experiences that shape our growth. Drawing inspiration from a myriad of spiritual teachings, philosophical perspectives, and psychological insights, we embark on a personal voyage of self-discovery. In the depths of our solitary journey, we find the keys to unlock the hidden potential within, ultimately manifesting our own ascension. May this exploration serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards awakening and the realization of our divine essence.
Introduction to Pranayama Practice or Breathwork
Pranayama is a Sanskrit word that refers to the practice of controlling the breath in yoga.
Pranayama is composed of two words: "Prana," which means life force or vital energy, and "yama," which means control or regulation. The practice involves various breathing techniques, including deep and slow breathing, holding the breath, and alternate nostril breathing. It aims to regulate the flow of prana in the body and calm the mind, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and improve overall well-being.
Pranayama is an integral part of yoga practice and is often done in conjunction with yoga postures and meditation. It has been practiced for thousands of years in India and is now popular all over the world as a way to improve physical, mental, and spiritual health.
The Path of Practice
The path of practicing pranayama typically involves the following steps:
Find a comfortable seated position: Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position with your spine straight and shoulders relaxed. You can also sit on a chair if sitting on the floor is uncomfortable for you.
Focus on your breath: Take a few deep breaths to settle yourself, and then begin to observe your natural breath without trying to control it. Notice the sensation of the breath moving in and out of your body.
Learn the basic techniques: There are several pranayama techniques, and it's essential to learn them from a qualified teacher to ensure you're doing them correctly. Some of the most common pranayama techniques include deep breathing, ujjayi breathing, kapalbhati, and anulom vilom (alternate nostril breathing).
Start with simple practices: Start with simple pranayama practices and gradually build up to more advanced techniques. Begin by practicing for a few minutes a day and gradually increase the duration as your body and mind become accustomed to the practice.
Be consistent: Practicing pranayama regularly is key to experiencing its benefits. Aim to practice every day, even if it's just for a few minutes.
Observe the effects: As you practice pranayama, pay attention to how it affects your body, mind, and emotions. Notice any changes in your energy levels, mood, and overall sense of well-being.
Overall, practicing pranayama can be a powerful tool for improving physical, mental, and emotional health. It's essential to approach the practice with patience, consistency, and a willingness to learn and grow.
Techniques
There are many different pranayama techniques that one can practice, each with its own specific benefits. It's important to learn pranayama techniques from a qualified teacher who can guide you on the appropriate technique for your individual needs and ensure that you are practicing the technique correctly.
Q: What is “Experience Seeking”?
Answer:
Experience seeking is a concept that has been explored by many spiritual traditions, and is a common aspect of the spiritual journey. At its core, experience seeking involves actively seeking out new experiences, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, in order to deepen one's understanding of oneself and the world around them.
From a spiritual perspective, experience seeking can be seen as a way of expanding one's consciousness and breaking free from the limitations of the ego. By seeking out new experiences and pushing oneself out of one's comfort zone, one can gain new insights and perspectives that can help to transform one's consciousness and deepen one's connection to the divine.
However, it is important to note that experience seeking should not be approached recklessly or without mindfulness. Rather, it should be pursued with a sense of curiosity, openness, and respect for the experience itself.
We are cautioned against becoming too focused on or attached to these experiences, and there are several reasons for this.
Distraction from Inner Peace and Contentment: Constantly seeking new experiences can distract us from finding peace and contentment within ourselves. The Ascended Masters teach that true fulfillment and enlightenment come from within, not from external experiences.
Creating Attachments: According to spiritual teachings, attachments to experiences can lead to suffering. If we become too attached to a particular experience or if we continually seek more and more thrilling experiences, we might develop an insatiable desire that can never be fulfilled, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
Unbalanced Focus: By constantly seeking new experiences, we risk focusing too much on the future and neglecting the present moment. The Ascended Masters1 often emphasize the importance of being fully present and mindful, as this is where true spiritual growth occurs.
Misunderstanding the Purpose of Life: If we focus too much on seeking experiences, we might misunderstand the purpose of our lives. The purpose of life is to learn, grow, and evolve spiritually. While experiences can contribute to this, they aren't the sole purpose of our existence.
Risk of Illusion or Maya: The external world of experiences might be seen as illusionary or transitory from a spiritual perspective, a concept encapsulated in the Hindu concept of "Maya". The Ascended Masters warn against being too caught up in this illusion, as it might distract us from our spiritual path and our true selves.
While experiences are part of our journey, they are not the ultimate goal. The key is to seek experiences mindfully, without attachment, and to use them as tools for spiritual growth rather than ends in themselves.
In order to effectively engage in experience seeking, it is important to cultivate a strong spiritual practice, which can provide a foundation for exploring new experiences in a safe and grounded way. This may involve meditation, prayer, or other practices that help to cultivate inner awareness and connection to the divine.
Ultimately, the goal of experience seeking from a spiritual perspective is not simply to accumulate new experiences, but rather to use these experiences as a means of deepening one's spiritual understanding and connection to the divine. By approaching experience seeking with mindfulness and intention, one can embark on a powerful journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
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"Ascended Masters" is a term used in various spiritual and esoteric philosophies, including Theosophy, certain aspects of the New Age movement, and various other belief systems. These beings are said to be spiritually enlightened individuals who once lived ordinary lives but who have undergone spiritual transformation.