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Episode 18 with Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma is the second part of a two-part conversation with Todd Norian, the founder of Ashaya Yoga®. The conversation centers on Tantra Yoga and how it offers a nondual and joyous framework for understanding life.
The episode picks up with Todd sharing his journey of integrating body, mind, and heart through Tantra Yoga. This opens the discussion on topics such as the metaphysics of Shaiva Shakta Tantra, concerns within traditional guru culture, how Tantra supports emotional agility, and the importance of courage and compassion when sitting with discomfort.
The dialogue wraps up with an introduction into Ashaya Yoga, and is an insightful episode on navigating spiritual teachings while emphasizing personal growth and emotional understanding.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introducing Todd Norian02:58 The Metaphysics Of Tantra Yoga09:10 Transcendence and Immanence in Tantra16:24 Navigating Teacher-Student Relationships26:58 Using Tantra Yoga To Explore And Accept Emotions45:51 The Three C's of Emotional AgilityGuest Bio:Todd Norian, E-RYT 500, YACEP, internationally acclaimed yoga teacher, founder of Ashaya Yoga, author of Tantra Yoga: Journey to Unbreakable Wholeness, A Memoir, musician, acharya in Blue Throat Yoga, and a Kripalu Legacy Faculty, teaches classes, workshops, retreats, and teacher trainings both live in-person and online, for students and teachers all over the world.
A student of yoga since 1980, Todd brings a depth of inner strength, devotion, vulnerability, and an unapologetic sense of humor to everything he does. Todd seeks to awaken others to their inherent potential for healing and joy by integrating the body, mind, and heart through Ashaya Yoga and meditation.
In 2012, Todd founded Ashaya Yoga®, an alignment-based, heart-centered practice which uses the five elements and the teachings from the Nondual Tantra tradition to build strength and flexibility while giving students access to a universe of power within. He is a guest teacher at many renowned spiritual centers and conferences including Kripalu Center, Omega Institute, Esalen, and the Toronto Yoga Show. As a classically trained jazz musician, Todd created several music albums for yoga and relaxation, including the world-renowned Bija: Soothing Music and Mantras for Yoga and Meditation.
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Episode 17 with Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma is the first part of a two-part conversation with Todd Norian, the founder of Ashaya Yoga®. The conversation centers on Tantra Yoga and how it offers a nondual and joyous framework for understanding life.
Todd begins the discussion by debunking some misconceptions of Tantra and then dives deeper into some of the core tenets of the practice, including its view on suffering, the balance between transcendence and embodiment, and the value of embracing life's full spectrum of experiences and emotions.
This episode highlights a more integrated approach to the householder path and encourages listeners to view life, including its challenges, as part of their awakening journey.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introducing Todd Norian03:03 Defining Tantra Yoga and Clearing Up Misconceptions12:10 The Balance Between Transcendence and Immanence17:56 Questioning Perfection and the Guru Tradition23:46 Embracing The Discomfort of Challenging Emotions Like Loneliness and Grief33:39 Three Guiding Questions For Spiritual Awakening and Empowerment Through TantraGuest Bio:Todd Norian, E-RYT 500, YACEP, internationally acclaimed yoga teacher, founder of Ashaya Yoga, author of Tantra Yoga: Journey to Unbreakable Wholeness, A Memoir, musician, acharya in Blue Throat Yoga, and a Kripalu Legacy Faculty, teaches classes, workshops, retreats, and teacher trainings both live in-person and online, for students and teachers all over the world.
A student of yoga since 1980, Todd brings a depth of inner strength, devotion, vulnerability, and an unapologetic sense of humor to everything he does. Todd seeks to awaken others to their inherent potential for healing and joy by integrating the body, mind, and heart through Ashaya Yoga and meditation.
In 2012, Todd founded Ashaya Yoga®, an alignment-based, heart-centered practice which uses the five elements and the teachings from the Nondual Tantra tradition to build strength and flexibility while giving students access to a universe of power within. He is a guest teacher at many renowned spiritual centers and conferences including Kripalu Center, Omega Institute, Esalen, and the Toronto Yoga Show. As a classically trained jazz musician, Todd created several music albums for yoga and relaxation, including the world-renowned Bija: Soothing Music and Mantras for Yoga and Meditation.
ASHAYA YOGA
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Episode 16 with Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Justin Kelley, PhD, the Executive Director at Tergar Institute and Tergar Schools. Raised in rural Massachusetts, Justin’s transformative journey began in Tibetan refugee communities in India and Nepal. This discussion dives into the role of the scholar-practitioner, his extensive research in Buddhist philosophy and meditation, his role as executive director in the Tergar community, the importance of balancing traditional and contemporary learning methods, and the challenges and adaptive strategies for transmitting Vajrayana Buddhism in the modern world.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Justin Kelley, PhD05:24 Justin’s Journey with Buddhism19:44 Meeting Mingyur Rinpoche27:20 Tergar Institute & Tergar Schools: Mission, Curriculum, and Approach Towards The Tradition34:57 Adapting Vajrayana Teachings and Discussing Power Dynamics in Traditional Institutes46:16 Psychedelics & The Importance of Stabilizing The ViewGuest Bio:Justin Kelley, a scholar-practitioner deeply engaged in both the academic and practical realms of Tibetan Buddhism, was raised on a farm in rural Massachusetts. His path took a transformative turn when he spent a decade immersed in Tibetan refugee communities across India and Nepal, where he dedicated himself to studying Tibetan language, Buddhist philosophy, and meditative practices.
In 2021, Justin earned his PhD from Rice University’s Department of Religion, under the mentorship of Dr. Anne C. Klein, a distinguished professor of Religious Studies. His scholarly interests are expansive, encompassing the meditative and philosophical systems of Indian and Tibetan Buddhism, phenomenology, contemplative studies, and learning theory.
Justin's research is particularly focused on the nuanced processes of personal transformation—how these transformations are cultivated and the outcomes they yield. His dissertation explored Longchen Rabjam’s ontology of purity within the framework of the Great Completeness (Dzogchen), contributing to a larger project aimed at tracing the genealogy of purity throughout Buddhist history.
In addition to his work in Buddhist theory and practice, Justin is passionate about the learning process and the art of pedagogy. His teaching philosophy is grounded in a transformative approach, emphasizing engaged and applied pedagogies that foster inclusive and empathetic learning environments. Whether in a classroom or digital setting, Justin is committed to creating educational experiences that honor the full spectrum of human experience.
Currently, Justin serves as the executive director of two interrelated organizations: Tergar Schools and the Tergar Institute. At the heart of both organizations is the seamless integration of Tibetan Buddhist theory and practice with contemporary approaches to learning, with Tergar Schools focusing on primary and secondary education and the Tergar Institute on continuing and higher education.
TERGAR INSTITUTE | TERGAR INSTITUTE ON FACEBOOK | TERGAR INSTITUTE ON INSTAGRAM
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Episode 15 with Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Sara Lewis, PhD, LCSW, the co-founder and director of training and research at Naropa University’s center for Psychedelic Studies. This conversation explores the intersection psychedelic-assisted therapy, healing intergenerational trauma, building resilience in the face of adversity, and how having a background grounded in contemplative practices can support with the preparation and integration of using plant medicines like ayahuasca and soma for greater healing. The conversation delves into the diverse frameworks for psychedelic-assisted therapy and advocates to make these transformative experiences accessible and meaningful for a wide range of individuals.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introducing Sara Lewis, PhD, LCSW03:07 The Intersection of Psychedelics and Dharma08:54 Somatic Experiencing Why Groundedness Is Important When Using Psychedelics14:33 How To Integrate Insights After Ceremony25:44 Traditional vs Modern Approaches For Psychedelic Use42:52 How Psychedelics And Buddhism Can Support With Healing TraumaGuest Bio:Sara Lewis, PhD, LCSW is co-founder and Director of Training and Research at Naropa University's Center for Psychedelic Studies. Sara earned her PhD at Columbia University in medical anthropology and public health; her research sits at the intersection of religion, culture and healing with an emphasis on non-ordinary states. As a Fulbright scholar, she conducted long term ethnographic research in India, culminating in her book, Spacious Minds: Trauma and Resilience in Tibetan Buddhism, which investigates how Buddhist concepts of mind shape traumatic memory and pathways to resilience. Sara has also published research on ayahuasca and spiritual emergencies. As a contemplative psychotherapist, she specializes in intergenerational trauma and healing through Somatic Experiencing and psychedelic-assisted therapy. She is an Associate MDMA-Assisted Therapy Training Consultant for Lykos Therapeutics and provides ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in her private practice in Boulder, CO.
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Episode Summary:
Episode 14 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with writer, psychotherapist, and ayahuasca integration coach, Kerry Moran. Kerry shares her fascinating journey of living in Kathmandu and practicing Dharma, to becoming a psychotherapist with a private practice in Portland, and finally moving to Peru and working closely with ayahuasca for spiritual and therapeutic purposes.
The conversation delves into how her background in Dzogchen and depth psychology enhances her work with psychedelics, the transformative power of ayahuasca, and the importance of integration in psychedelic experiences. Listeners will learn about the feminine archetype of the dakini, the embodied nature of ayahuasca experiences, and the role of compassion and embodiment in spiritual growth.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Guest Introduction02:21 Kerry's Journey into Dharma: Living and Practicing in Kathmandu10:27 Transitioning and Practicing Depth Psychology18:56 Ayahuasca Through A Tantric Lens27:16 Integrated and Embodied Healing After An Ayahuasca Ceremony44:33 How Dharma and Plant Medicine Can Be Synergistic In Inspiring AwakeningGuest Bio:Kerry Moran is a psychotherapist and writer who brings decades of experience in Vajrayana Buddhism and depth psychology to the integration of ayahuasca. She lives in the Sacred Valley of Peru, where she works, locally and internationally, as an ayahuasca integration therapist. Her approach is both spiritual and practical, working to ground the wisdom of ayahuasca in daily life. Among other things, she's a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, an archetypal astrologer, and an apprentice tabaquera.
Kerry's personal experience with master plants provides the foundation of her integration work with clients. She's worked intensively with ayahuasca for the past 10 years and has completed a lengthy series of plant dietas with a Peruvian tabaquero. Other plants she considers her teachers are iboga and huachuma (San Pedro).
Kerry's therapeutic approach blends depth psychology with the non-dual teachings of Tibetan Buddhism and a profound respect for the wisdom of the plants. You can find much more on her website, ayahuascawisdom.com, including an insightful blog about ayahuasca integration.
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INTEGRATING AYAHUASCA: 10 WEEKS OF SKILLS & SUPPORT TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR CEREMONIES
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Episode Summary:
Episode 13 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with poet, artist, and Zen meditation teacher, Brooke McNamara. The discussion centers on the intersection between art and Zen Buddhism and explores themes like the embodiment of Eros, the paradox of transcendence and intimacy, and the importance of uncertainty in spiritual practice. Brooke also reads one of her touching poems, 'Change the Lighting,' and discusses her perspective on poetry as a vehicle for transmitting life's vibrancy. The conversation touches on the influences of various Zen and Tantric masters and how their teachings intersect with creative expression and wraps up with a summary of her current work as an artist and with Dragon Lake Zen, a meditation community based in Colorado.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Guest Introduction02:03 Exploring the Intersection of Zen, Meditation, and Creativity19:27 Embracing Uncertainty and Aliveness in Zen25:37 Erotic and Creative Energies in Zen and Poetry36:35 The Importance of Ethics in Transgressive Practices39:51 Poetic Reflection and Closing ThoughtsGuest Bio:Brooke McNamara, MFA, is a poet, dance-theater artist, teacher, and Zen dharma holder. She has published two books of poems: Bury the Seed (2020) and Feed Your Vow (2015). For her poetry, she is the recipient of the Charles B. Palmer prize from the Academy of American Poets.
Brooke has taught at Naropa University in Yoga Studies and at the University of Colorado, Boulder in Dance, and she is co-director with Lauren Beale of Eunice Embodiment, an organization that offers cutting edge performances, embodiment education, and creative practice workshops and retreats.
Brooke is creator and instructor of the online courses Write to the Heart of Motherhood, Summoning the Unseen, Cultivate: Creative Practice (with Lauren Beale), and Women’s Ritual of Renewal (with Lisa Gibson). She is a long time Zen student of Diane Musho Hamilton, Roshi, and empowered as a dharma holder.
Brooke lives with her husband, Rob, and their two wild, adorable sons, Lundin and Orion.
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Episode Summary:
Episode 12 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma is features an insightful conversation with Jess McNally, an experienced Buddhist practitioner and facilitator in Minyak Rinpoche's Tergar Meditation Community. Jess shares her journey with Buddhism, from her academic beginnings at Stanford University to living and training at Zen Mountain Monastery, and eventually ordaining as a monastic in the Tibetan tradition. The conversation delves into the differences between secular meditation and traditional Buddhist practices, the significance of having a good meditation teacher, the value in contemplating life (and death), and the profound benefits of attending retreat.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Guest Introduction06:51 Transition to Monastic Life13:59 The Importance of a Good Teacher20:17 Secular vs. Traditional Buddhist Practices27:00 Understanding Karma and Death35:41 Upcoming Retreats and Final ThoughtsGuest Bio:Jess McNally has devoted much of her adult life to practicing and studying Buddhism. After completing both a Bachelor and a Master of Science degree in Earth Systems at Stanford University, she moved to Zen Mountain Monastery near New York, where she lived and trained for over three years.
During that time she completed over forty week-long silent retreats (sesshins). In 2015, she decided to pursue Tibetan Buddhism and was ordained as a monastic by Thrangu Rinpoche. She met Mingyur Rinpoche shortly afterward at Tergar Monastery in Bodhgaya, India. Under his guidance, she completed a series of solitary retreats in Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo’s cave in the Himalayas, including a 5-month retreat over winter. Since 2016, Jess has also been a student of Tsoknyi Rinpoche.
In 2018, Jess chose to return to lay life and her hometown of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Jess serves as a Senior Tergar Facilitator and host for online Tergar retreats and workshops. She also runs her own web design business. In her downtime, she loves to go on adventures outside with her dog Pema, sing and cook.
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Episode 11 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma is part two of a conversation with shamanic Reiki master healer, Danielle Rateau. This episode explores Danielle's holistic healing journey, including her work at an ayahuasca center in the Sacred Valley, Peru and her expertise in with Reiki. Adrian and Danielle dive into the the details of working with ayahuasca including the often-overlooked importance of preparation before ceremonies, the impact of relaxing and somatically connecting with the experience, the role of set and setting on ayahuasca journeys, and of course, the importance of community and integration post-ceremony.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest05:21 Meditation, the Nervous System and Preparation Before Ayahuasca Ceremonies14:01 Surrendering and Having Faith In The Medicine22:50 Set and Setting in Psychedelic Experiences33:33 Balancing Silence and Music in Ceremonies37:23 Community and Connection in IntegrationGuest Bio:Danielle Rateau has been dedicated to the path of holistic healing since 2017. After two years living and working at an eco yoga community in Australia, she traveled the world exploring different healing modalities. In 2022, she worked at an Ayahuasca retreat in the Sacred Valley of Peru, where she deepened her understanding of Shamanism and healing with plant medicine.
As a Shamanic Reiki master practitioner, Danielle offers distance healings through her practice, Soul Embodied Reiki & Energy Healing. Through YouTube, she shares videos about personal growth, spirituality, holistic healing, and Reiki/ASMR.
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Episode Summary:
Episode 10 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Danielle Rateau, a shamanic Reiki master healer who spent a year facilitating ayahuasca retreats in the Sacred Valley in Peru. This episode dives into Danielle’s experiences leading ayahuasca ceremonies, the importance of preparation and integration regarding psychedelic sessions, and how to work with fear or difficult emotions that may arise during the journey.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Guest Background and introduction07:41 How Ayahuasca Ceremonies Are Facilitated11:38 Group Dynamics in Ayahuasca Retreats27:22 The Role of Visions in Ayahuasca Experiences33:50 Balancing Ayahuasca Use and Integration47:52 Working with Fear in Ayahuasca JourneysGuest Bio:Danielle Rateau has been dedicated to the path of holistic healing since 2017. After two years living and working at an eco yoga community in Australia, she traveled the world exploring different healing modalities. In 2022, she worked at an Ayahuasca retreat in the Sacred Valley of Peru, where she deepened her understanding of Shamanism and healing with plant medicine.
As a Shamanic Reiki master practitioner, Danielle offers distance healings through her practice, Soul Embodied Reiki & Energy Healing. Through YouTube, she shares videos about personal growth, spirituality, holistic healing, and Reiki/ASMR.
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Episode 9 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Aaron Paul Orsini, an autistic psychedelic educator, author, and researcher at Autism On Acid. This episode explores the intersection of psychedelics and neurodivergence, and specifically touches on the medicine’s impact on ADHD and autism. The discussion leans heavily into Orsini’s research and personal experiences with microdosing LSD for ADHD management, psychedelics and sensory awareness, the importance of foundational practices like meditation, exercise, and proper nutrition, and the potential for psychedelics to enhance self-understanding and connection.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Guest Background and Intro to Psychedelics and Neurodivergence06:22 Aaron Orsini’s Journey with ADHD, Autism, and Psychedelic Use09:08 Microdosing LSD: A Day in the Life10:30 Strategies for Managing ADHD and Enhancing Focus23:31 Harnessing Technology and Psychedelics for ADHD44:52 Meditation vs PsychedelicsGuest Bio:Aaron Orsini is an autistic psychedelic educator, author, and researcher. He has published four books about his area of focus: Autism on Acid, Autistic Psychedelic, Introduction to Psychedelic Autism, and Psychedelic Autism, and presently serves as a psychedelic autism researcher, co-author, collaborator to University College London and an advisor to an ADAPT drug education study funded by Organization for Autism Research.
Aaron is also a lecturer on psilocybin facilitation for Alma Institute, Sound Mind Institute in Oregon, Naropa University in Colorado, and the lead instructor for his first of kind focus-intensive facilitation through psychedelicautism.com.
He presently lives in Denver, where he is focused on creating decentralized and affordable community care models that can offer psilocybin and other natural medicines through grow, gift, and get together approaches.
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Episode 8 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Erik Davis, an author and founding member of The Alembic at Berkeley. The discussion begins with an introduction to Davis’ recent work on an upcoming book about LSD blotter art and his Substack 'Burning Shore.' They delve into the contemporary dharma scene, the strengths and weaknesses of the younger generation of practitioners, and how psychedelics play a role in this landscape. Erik shares about the intersections between Zen practice, the non-dual awareness traditions, and psychedelics, emphasizing the importance of a pluralistic and open-minded approach to spirituality. The dialogue encapsulates a rich discussion on the challenges and opportunities within modern spiritual practices, the evolving landscape of psychedelic experiences, and the balance between tradition and innovation.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction, Guest Background, Erik’s Current Projects02:18 Insights From The Alembic: Observations on Young Dharma Practitioners12:16 Disenchantment and Enchantment in Psychedelic Experiences30:42 The Participant Observer: A Journey of Discernment and Non-Duality44:10 The Open Source Approach to Spirituality and Its Challenges50:55 Embracing Pluralism and Mystery in Spiritual PracticeGuest Bio:Erik Davisis an author, award-winning journalist, sometimes podcaster, and popular speaker based in San Francisco. He is the author of five books, including High Weirdness: Drugs, Esoterica, and Visionary Experience in the 70s; Nomad Codes: Adventures in Modern Esoterica; The Visionary State: A Journey through California’s Spiritual Landscape; and the 33 1/3 volume Led Zeppelin IV. His first and best-known book remains TechGnosis: Myth, Magic, and Mysticism in the Age of Information, a cult classic of visionary media studies that’s still in print.
Erik’s scholarly and popular essays on California, music, technoculture, drugs, and spirituality have appeared in scores of books, magazines, and journals, and his writing has been translated into over a dozen languages. Davis has spoken widely at universities, conferences, retreat centers, and festivals, and has been interviewed by CNN, the BBC, NPR, and the New York Times. He graduated from Yale University in 1988, and earned his PhD in religious studies at Rice University in 2015. He currently writes the Substack publication Burning Shore.
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Episode 7 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Dr. Ian Baker from The Vajra Path, renowned Vajrayana Buddhism scholar, yogi, explorer, and author. They explore the origins, practices, and transformative potential of Tantra within both the Vajrayana Buddhism and non-dual Shaiva Shakta traditions. Dr. Baker breaks down the concept of Tantra, touching on its definition, historical emergence, and the non-dual essence of practice. Additionally, they touch on the use of psychoactive plants in tantric practices and the exciting potential for Vajrayana's future as it intersects with contemporary culture and beyond.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Background01:35 Overview of Tantra: Origins, Definition, Practices, Misconceptions, and Creative Essence09:27 Exploring Sahaja: The Innate Bliss and Its Relevance19:47 Karmic Knots and Tantric Practices for Transformation40:36 Psychoactive Plants in Tantric Traditions49:52 Vajra Path: Bridging East and West through PilgrimagesGuest Bio:Dr. Ian Baker holds a PhD in History and a MPhil in Medical Anthropology from University College London, following earlier graduate work in Buddhist Studies at Columbia University and English Literature at the University of Oxford.
He is the author of seven critically acclaimed books on Himalayan and Tibetan cultural history, environment, art, and medicine including, Tibetan Yoga: Principles and Practices, The Dalai Lama’s Secret Temple, The Heart of the World, The Tibetan Art of Healing, and Buddhas of the Celestial Gallery, with introductions by the H.H. the Dalai Lama and Deepak Chopra.
Recognized by National Geographic as one of seven ‘Explorers for the Millennium,’ he has conducted extensive field research in Tibet’s Tsangpo Gorge region, and currently leads private journeys and travel seminars in India, Tibet, and Bhutan.
Baker has studied under Tibetan Buddhist luminaries, such as Chatral Sangye Dorje Rinpoche, Dudjom Jigdral Dorje Rinpoche, and Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and is also the co-founder of The Vajra Path with Dr. Nida Chenagtsang.
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IAN’S WEBSITE
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Episode 6 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features part two of a conversation between Ryan Oelke from Buddhist Geeks and Adrian Baker. This episode talks about integrating awakening into modern culture through cultural, philosophical, and personal experiences. They discuss the distinction between proprietary dharma and open source dharma, the importance of personal development, societal structures, and the significance of embodying awakening. Oelke also shares his journey from traditional Vajrayana to studying with Judith Blackstone and the creation of his Integral Dharma course, emphasizing the essence and experiential aspects of awakening.
Episode Highlights:
00:10 Introduction and Guest Background01:21 Exploring Proprietary Dharma vs Open Source Dharma08:55 Transition from Traditional Vajrayana to Integral Practices11:13 The Role of Therapy in Spiritual Growth17:09 The Concept of Integral Dharma30:06 Closing Remarks and Future PlansGuest Bio:
Ryan is an Executive Coach at Stagen, an Integral Leadership Academy based in Dallas, Texas; co-founder and teacher at Buddhist Geeks; and a Senior Teacher in Judith Blackstone’s Realization Process. He has an MSEd in counseling psychology and 20+ years experience in meditation, particularly in the Tibetan Buddhist and Dzogchen lineages.
Ryan teaches an integral path of embodied, responsive presence and invites others into the mystery of their own lived experience and embodiment. His approach is grounded in the foundation of waking up, and includes cleaning up (healing), growing up, and showing up in the world.
He also has a BA in Spanish, 3 years of graduate study of classical Tibetan and translation, and is a passionate learner and teacher of languages.
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INTEGRAL LIFE
AWAKENING IN LIFE FOUNDATION
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Episode 5 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation Ryan Oelke from Buddhist Geeks. In the first part of this two-part conversation, Adrian and Ryan talk about their personal experiences with Buddhism, specifically the practice of Dharma and the Vajrayana and Dzogchen traditions. They discuss their journeys becoming practitioners and teachers, and the impact of certain teachings and figures like Ken Wilber and Namkhai Norbu. This episode then dives into the importance of experimenting with different traditions, maintaining an open mind, and navigating the relationship with one's primary spiritual teacher or "Root Guru".
Episode Highlights:00:10 Introduction00:13 Updates from Ryan Oelke: Teaching Dharma Privately and Leadership Coaching05:16 The Contrast Between Different Buddhist Traditions21:55 The Impact of Namkhai Norbu's Teachings28:23 Finding a Style and Tradition that Suits You37:26 The Balance of Discipline and PlayfulnessGuest Bio:Ryan is an Executive Coach at Stagen, an Integral Leadership Academy based in Dallas, Texas; co-founder and teacher at Buddhist Geeks; and a Senior Teacher in Judith Blackstone’s Realization Process. He has an MSEd in counseling psychology and 20+ years experience in meditation, particularly in the Tibetan Buddhist and Dzogchen lineages.
Ryan teaches an integral path of embodied, responsive presence and invites others into the mystery of their own lived experience and embodiment. His approach is grounded in the foundation of waking up, and includes cleaning up (healing), growing up, and showing up in the world.
He also has a BA in Spanish, 3 years of graduate study of classical Tibetan and translation, and is a passionate learner and teacher of languages.
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RYAN’S WEBSITE
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INTEGRAL LIFE
AWAKENING IN LIFE FOUNDATION
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Episode 4 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Lama Justin von Bujdoss from Yangti Yoga. Justin is an American Buddhist teacher and chaplain ordained in the Karma Kamtsang tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Deeply invested in the preservation and adaptation of Tantric Buddhist tradition in the West, Justin shares his experiences as an ordained Repa, a position emphasizing householder tradition. He discusses his past work at the New York City Department of Corrections, the use of plant medicines in spiritual practice, and the importance of integrating meditation into everyday life. Justin also talks about his efforts in preserving Tantric Buddhist tradition through innovative methods, one of which is his aligning of Vajrayana teachings with social justice causes and environmental activism.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Justin’s Background04:44 The Role of Monasticism and the Alternative As A Householder11:46 The Paradox of Renunciation in Householder Practice19:03 The Power of Tantra and Its Contrast with Dzogchen and Mahamudra23:19 The Profundity of the Ordinary Moment in Practice35:19 Integrating Teachings with Plant Medicines such as Iboga42:49 The Role of Plant Medicine in Vajrayana Buddhism55:53 The Importance of Shorter Meditation Sessions in the Integration of Practice In Daily Life01:03:00 The Inevitability of Death and the Practice of DharmaGuest Bio:Justin von Bujdoss is an American Buddhist teacher and chaplain.
He was ordained as a repa in the Karma Kamstang tradition of Tibetan Buddhism by His Eminence Goshir Gyaltsab Rinpoche in 2011 and given the name Repa Dorje Odzer.
From 2012 until 2017 Justin served as the resident-lama and executive director of New York Tsurphu Goshir Dharma Center, an urban dharma organization which functioned as an affiliate of Palchen Chosling Monastic Institute, Ralang, Sikkim, India. Up until last year, Justin worked as the first dedicated Staff Chaplain for the New York City Department of Correction, providing spiritual support for the 13,000 employees, both uniformed and non-uniformed, who work through out the New York City Corrections system.
Justin is the author of Modern Tantric Buddhism: Authenticity and Embodiment in Dharma Practice published by North Atlantic Books, and a contributor to Buddhism and Whiteness: Critical Reflections published by Lexington Books. He is also a co-founder of Bhumisparsha, an experimental Buddhist sangha along with Lama Rod Owens, and Yangti Yoga, a retreat center rooted in the practice of dark retreat along with Dr. Nida Chenagtsang.
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ROOT HEALING PORTUGAL RETREAT
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Episode 3 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Janeth Jaramillo from Pachanoi Retreats. This episode discusses the integration of indigenous medicinal practices with plants such as Ayahuasca and Huachuma, and meditation in the Insight Tradition. The conversation begins with Janeth’s personal journey into plant medicine and meditation and her experience with different ceremonies, retreats, and sacred medicines like San Pedro cactus, psilocybin mushrooms, DMT, and Kambo. Some topics discussed include: the use of plant medicine for healing, cultural differences in the practice of traditional wisdom, how plant medicine can complement a non-dual contemplative practice, and ethical considerations that one must observe in the use of plant medicine. The discussion also delves into ethical considerations, power dynamics, and potential abuse within spiritual communities, alongside the importance of respect for indigenous knowledge and traditions.
Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Janeth’s Background09:39 The Role of Emotions in Awakening29:35 The Importance of Respect and Ethics in Plant Medicine39:56 The Impact of Set and Setting on Psychedelic Experiences53:52 The Power Dynamics and Shadow Aspects in Psychedelic Experiences58:02 Tips for a Safe Journey in Plant Medicine01:00:01 Introducing Pachanoi Earth Medicine RetreatGuest Bio:Janeth is an Ecuadorian medicine woman, plant medicine facilitator, and mindfulness practitioner. She has extensive knowledge of plant medicine and has worked closely with indigenous Shipibo people from Peru for over a decade. Her journey with plant medicine began with an Ayahuasca ceremony in Peru in 2010 and she’s been organizing and facilitating retreats since 2014. Janeth continues to deepen her understanding through countless plant medicine ceremonies not only with Ayahuasca but with other Sacred Medicines such as San Pedro cactus, psilocybin mushrooms, DTM and kambo.
Janeth is also a passionate Buddhist practitioner, she has been part of several silent, multi-day meditation retreats, including a 3-month silent meditation retreat at IMS in Massachusetts and a 2-month retreat in Yangon-Myanmar. She is a certified Mindfulness Teacher and studied under the direction of the well-known teachers Jack Konrfield and Tara Brach.
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Episode 2 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Chi Psilocybin from MushroomTao. This episode revolves around Chi's spiritual journey which began with meditation in the Theravada tradition and pivots to incorporate the use of psilocybin mushrooms. Chi provides insight on the intersection of Dharma and psychedelics and emphasizes how both practices were pivotal in addressing certain elements of his trauma and depression. Some topics explored include the multiple facets of mindfulness, addiction, fame, and how mushrooms can be a powerful mechanism for empowering people to make a change.
Episode Highlights:00:09 Introduction and Chi's Journey into Meditation11:23 The Impact of Mushrooms on Chi's Life and his Approach to Guiding Others On Psychedelic Journeys19:42 Buddhism’s Impact Perspective and Value Shifts26:10 The Negative Impact of Social Media and The Desire For Fame31:54 Humility, Gratitude, and Power Dynamics in the Guru Role36:43 The Value of Embodying Teachings, Connecting to the Heart, and Encouraging Self-RelianceGuest Bio:Chi Psilocybin is a facilitator, connector, and mentor for journeyers at every stage of the psilocybin initiation, from curious seekers to experienced guides and growers. He supports journeyers in managing expectations, letting go of rigid ideas, avoiding common pitfalls, and approaching psychedelic experiences with a long-term perspective. He is the co-founder of MushroomTao.Com, TripSitters.Org, and PsychEdCR.Org.
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Episode 1 of Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with Vincent Horn from Buddhist Geeks. The episode explores progressive perspectives on understanding and adapting Buddhist teachings in the context of contemporary times. Some topics touched upon include The Dharma and its inclusion in the mindfulness movement, cultural differences in its practice and interpretation in different countries, the notion of awakening and how it influences the practice, and the role of Dharma in addressing social issues such as climate change and diversity, equity, and inclusion, and so much more.
Episode Highlights:01:10 The Concept of Redesigning the Dharma06:17 The Challenges of Modernity in Dharma23:11 The Influence of Western Culture on Dharma37:04 Redefining Meditation and Dharma in the Digital Age46:02 The Complexity of Ethical Development01:03:50 The Challenge of Embracing Diversity of OpinionGuest Bio:Vince Fakhoury Horn is part of a new generation of teachers, facilitators, & translators bringing dharma to life. A computer engineering dropout turned full-time contemplative, Vince spent his 20s co-founding the ground-breaking Buddhist Geeks podcast, while simultaneously doing a full year, in total, of silent retreat practice.
Vincent began teaching in 2010 and has since been authorized in both the Pragmatic Dharma lineage of Kenneth Folk, and by Trudy Goodman, guiding teacher of InsightLA. Vince has been called a “power player of the mindfulness movement” by Wired magazine and was featured in Wired UK’s “Smart List: 50 people who will change the world.” He currently lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains outside of Asheville, North Carolina with his partner Emily Horn and their son Zander.
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