Posted on

The Complex Identity Of Being Born Again

The Complex Landscape of Being Born Again 

Faith is a profound and deeply personal journey for millions of people around the world. Among these seekers, born-again Christians have emerged as a vibrant community with a strong emphasis on following Jesus’ teachings. 

While there are undoubtedly positive aspects to their faith, it is essential to acknowledge the complexities that arise when rigid beliefs intersect with notions of exclusivity, judgment, and divisiveness.

If we’re honest, we know that Born-Again Christians tend to believe in a heaven that’s more difficult to enter than the wealthiest golf club.

Alignment With The Born Again Concept

The Christian concept of being “born again” fundamentally refers to a spiritual rebirth, moving away from an old way of life toward a new life in faith and understanding. While the terminology and religious context might differ, the essence of transformation, renewal, and awakening is also present in Hinduism and Buddhism. Here’s how these concepts resonate across these traditions:

In Hinduism

Hinduism, with its rich tapestry of philosophical explorations, presents the concept of spiritual rebirth through several lenses:

Reincarnation and Karma: At a fundamental level, Hinduism teaches the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), driven by karma. This endless cycle can be transcended through spiritual awakening and realization, leading to moksha, or liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. This liberation is akin to being “born again” into a state of eternal bliss and unity with Brahman (the ultimate reality).

Self-Realization and Enlightenment: Hinduism places a strong emphasis on self-realization, the profound understanding of one’s true nature beyond the egoic self. This is often described in texts such as the Upanishads. Achieving self-realization is akin to a spiritual rebirth, as it represents awakening to one’s true, divine nature, which is a state of pure consciousness or Atman, ultimately realizing its unity with Brahman.

In Buddhism

Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), emphasizes the idea of spiritual rebirth through the concepts of enlightenment and Nirvana:

Enlightenment (Bodhi): Buddhism teaches that through the practice of the Eightfold Path, individuals can achieve enlightenment, a profound awakening that offers insight into the true nature of reality, the impermanence of the world, and the causes of suffering. This awakening is a form of spiritual rebirth, moving the individual from ignorance to insight, from darkness to light.

Nirvana: The ultimate goal in Buddhism is achieving Nirvana, a state of liberation and freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Reaching Nirvana is the ultimate spiritual rebirth, characterized by the extinguishing of desire, aversion, and delusion, leading to peace, liberation, and a profound understanding of reality as it is.

Common Ground

In both Hinduism and Buddhism, as in Christianity, the transformation is not merely an intellectual shift but a profound change in one’s being and essence. It involves a moving away from a life led by ignorance, sin, or suffering toward a life marked by wisdom, purity, and spiritual enlightenment.

While the paths and practices toward this spiritual rebirth might differ, the core idea resonates across these traditions: a profound transformation that leads to liberation, enlightenment, and a deeper connection with the divine or ultimate reality. 

This rebirth is marked by an inner awakening that fundamentally changes how one perceives themselves and the world around them, embodying a new way of being that is in harmony with spiritual truths.

The Positive Aspects of Born-Again Christianity

Emphasis on Transformation: Born-again Christians place a significant emphasis on personal transformation and spiritual rebirth. The concept of being “born again” resonates with the universal desire for inner growth and renewal found in many spiritual traditions.

Love and Compassion: Jesus’ teachings on love and compassion are central to the faith of born-again Christians. These principles are in harmony with the core teachings of Buddhism and the emphasis on love found in various spiritual texts, including the Vedas.

Seeking Meaning and Purpose: Born-again Christians, like many others, are on a quest for meaning and purpose in life. This shared human aspiration transcends religious boundaries and connects individuals on a spiritual level.

The Poison of Arrogance and Exclusivity

Rigidity and Exclusivity: One of the major challenges in some born-again communities is an unwavering belief in their religious exclusivity. This can lead to intolerance and the assertion that their faith is the only valid path to salvation. Such rigidity can alienate those who follow different, even older, and more profound spiritual traditions.

Judgmental Attitudes: While born-again Christians are encouraged to live by the teachings of Jesus, many individuals within this community adopt judgmental attitudes towards those who do not conform to their beliefs. This judgment can be divisive and contrary to the spirit of compassion and acceptance found within the teachings of Jesus.

If you’ve ever been judged by a Christian, forgive them. They have NO idea what they’re doing. Most likely, the person judging you is at the beginning of their spiritual quest.

Hatred and Intolerance: In many cases, born-again Christianity has been associated with expressions of hatred and intolerance, including racism and discrimination. These attitudes run counter to the values of love and inclusivity taught by Jesus.

Moving Towards Harmony

Interfaith Dialogue: Engaging in respectful interfaith dialogue can help bridge the gaps between different religious communities. Recognizing common values and shared aspirations fosters understanding and harmony.

Self-Reflection: Born-again Christians, like all individuals on a spiritual journey, can benefit from self-reflection. Examining one’s beliefs and attitudes to ensure they align with the teachings of love and compassion can lead to personal growth.

Promoting Inclusivity: Encouraging inclusivity within faith communities and promoting acceptance of diverse beliefs can help counteract the poison of exclusivity and judgment.

Born-again Christians, like adherents of other faiths, navigate a complex terrain of beliefs, values, and behaviors. While there are undoubtedly positive aspects to their faith, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the negative tendencies that can arise, including arrogance, racism, judgmental attitudes, and exclusivity.

Harmony and understanding can be achieved when individuals of all faiths recognize the shared values that underpin their spiritual journeys. Embracing love, compassion, and inclusivity while addressing divisive attitudes can pave the way for a more tolerant and spiritually enriching world, where all seekers can coexist and learn from each other’s unique paths.

The Fruits Of Christianity

Like many other religions, Christianity has a rich tapestry of beliefs and values that often go unseen or overshadowed by some individuals’ negative attitudes and actions. 

Here are some of the most wonderful aspects of Christianity that may be overlooked:

Message of Love and Compassion: The message of love and compassion is at the core of Christianity, as exemplified by Jesus Christ. His teachings emphasize caring for the marginalized, showing kindness to others, and practicing forgiveness. These principles can inspire profound acts of love and service.

Community and Support: Many Christian communities provide their members a strong sense of belonging and support. Churches often serve as places of solace, guidance, and fellowship, where people can find spiritual nourishment and a sense of community.

Charitable Work: Christianity has a long history of charitable work, from running hospitals and schools to providing humanitarian aid worldwide. Christian organizations and individuals often engage in acts of kindness and generosity to alleviate suffering and promote social justice.

Focus on Redemption and Forgiveness: The concept of redemption and forgiveness is central to Christianity. It offers the hope of transformation and second chances, emphasizing the potential for personal growth and healing.

Art, Music, and Culture: Christian art, music, and culture have contributed immensely to human civilization. Christian themes have inspired iconic works of art, cathedrals, and timeless music compositions and have enriched global culture.

Philosophical and Ethical Reflection: Christian theologians and philosophers have engaged in deep philosophical and ethical reflection. Their writings have influenced moral and ethical discussions that extend beyond the boundaries of Christianity.

Promotion of Peace and Nonviolence: Many Christians advocate for peace and nonviolence, following the example of Jesus, who preached turning the other cheek and loving one’s enemies. This commitment to peace has inspired movements for social justice and reconciliation.

Resilience and Perseverance: Throughout history, Christians have shown remarkable resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Their faith has often given them strength to overcome challenges and hardships.

Spiritual Depth and Exploration: Christianity offers a rich tradition of spiritual depth and exploration. Contemplative practices, such as Christian meditation and prayer, provide avenues for individuals to connect with the divine and explore their inner spiritual lives.

Interfaith Dialogue: Many Christians engage in interfaith dialogue and cooperation with people of other religions. This fosters mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation, contributing to greater harmony among diverse religious communities.

It is important to recognize that the negative attitudes and warped beliefs of some individuals do not represent the entirety of the Christian faith. Like any religion, Christianity is a diverse and complex tradition with a wide range of interpretations and expressions. These wonderful aspects of Christianity reflect the values and teachings that continue to inspire many Christians to live lives of love, compassion, and service to others.

Your Awakening

To learn deeply and to be steadfast and focused on transformation, we must clear ourselves of egoistic, trendy, consensus-driven, and incorrect information conjured by sensationalistic influencers, religious fanatics, and those who are born-again within their faith-based communities.

The Vedas and Buddha have outlined the technology of enlightenment for thousands of years, which extends far beyond the limits and judgments of Christianity.

To transcend the limits of your religion, focus on Sadhana (spiritual practices), and be devotional toward God, enlightened masters, and their teachings. This is the path to your rebirth. You are the only one who can do it. 

A wonderful place to start is The Shankara Oracle.

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

Herbs To Replace Ozempic And Metformin

Herbs To Replace Metformin And Ozempic

For many conditions, there are herbs and natural supplements thought to offer benefits, such as:

For Diabetes: As mentioned earlier, herbs like cinnamon, berberine, bitter melon, and fenugreek may help control blood sugar.

For Hypertension: Hawthorn, garlic, and fish oil have been studied for their potential effects on blood pressure.

For High Cholesterol: Red yeast rice, plant sterols, and psyllium have been explored for their cholesterol-lowering effects.

Key Considerations

Herbs can interact with Western medications or have side effects, so be careful and aware. It’s essential to discuss any interest in natural or herbal remedies with a healthcare provider who can provide advice tailored to your specific health needs and conditions and ensure any treatment plan is safe and effective.

That said, many doctors are living in 1975 when most of their textbooks were written – so they might be knuckleheads when it comes to an understanding of the amazing benefits one can find in the naturopathic offerings like herbs, tinctures, Ayurvedic Medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Dive deeply and challenge the egoistic doctors in your life to step up their research. 

In the meantime, check out the NIH website to learn about the latest research. 

Efficacy and Safety: Natural substances can vary widely in effectiveness and may not be suitable for everyone. Their interactions with prescription medications and potential side effects necessitate careful consideration.

Professional Guidance: Before incorporating any herbal or naturopathic remedy into your diabetes management plan, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide tailored advice, considering your overall health, current treatments, and specific needs.

Naturopathic or herbal supplements should be viewed as potential adjuncts to, rather than replacements for, conventional diabetes medications like Metformin and Ozempic. Professional medical advice is crucial to ensure any added supplements are safe and potentially beneficial within your health situation and treatment goals.

It’s best to seek out professional herbalists, naturopaths, DOs, Ayurvedic Practioners, and doctors of TCM.

The Herbs To Replace Metformin

When looking for natural alternatives to metformin, it’s important to approach the topic with caution. Metformin is a medication prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes, often chosen for its efficacy in lowering blood sugar levels and its beneficial effects on weight. 

While some herbs and supplements may have potential benefits for blood sugar control, they should not be viewed as direct replacements for metformin or any other prescribed medication without the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Several natural substances have been studied for their potential effects on blood sugar levels, including:

Berberine: This compound, found in several plants, has been researched for its potential to lower blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that berberine can be effective in managing type 2 diabetes, possibly by helping the body use insulin more efficiently. However, berberine can interact with many medications, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting it.

Cinnamon: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, results have been mixed, and it’s not clear what dose is effective or safe for long-term use.

Bitter Melon: This fruit is traditionally used in various cuisines and herbal medicine systems for its potential to lower blood sugar levels. Some research supports its use in diabetes management, but more studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety.

Fenugreek: Seeds of the fenugreek plant may help improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity, according to some studies. They’re often used in cooking and as a dietary supplement.

Alpha-lipoic Acid (ALA): ALA is an antioxidant that may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, though more research is needed to confirm these effects and determine optimal dosages.

Remember, check with a naturopath, herbalist or similar professional to help you make decisions about these things.

Herbal Replacement For Ozempic

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a medication used primarily to manage type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, for weight loss. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the incretin hormones that the body usually produces after eating. This results in increased insulin release, decreased glucagon secretion, and slowed gastric emptying, all contributing to lower blood sugar levels and, potentially, weight loss.

When seeking naturopathic or herbal alternatives to Ozempic, it’s important to acknowledge that while certain herbs and supplements may support blood sugar control and weight management, they do not work in the same way as GLP-1 receptor agonists and may not offer the same level of efficacy.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diabetes or weight management regimen. Here are a few natural substances that have been studied for their potential effects on blood sugar control and weight management:

Berberine: This compound, found in several plants, has shown promise in managing blood sugar levels comparable to some diabetes medications in research studies. Berberine may improve insulin sensitivity and enhance glucose uptake by cells, though it does not mimic GLP-1 action.

Cinnamon: Some studies suggest that cinnamon might help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, though results are mixed. The effect on weight management is less clear.

Fenugreek: Seeds from the fenugreek plant have been used to improve blood sugar control due to their high fiber content, which can slow digestion and sugar absorption in the bloodstream.

Gymnema Sylvestre: Often referred to as the “sugar destroyer,” Gymnema can help reduce sugar cravings and possibly support blood sugar control by influencing glucose uptake and the production of insulin.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA): An antioxidant that may improve insulin sensitivity and has been studied for its potential effects on weight loss and neuropathy in diabetes patients.

Bitter Melon: Contains compounds that act like insulin and help to reduce blood sugar levels by increasing glucose uptake and metabolism.

Seeking naturopathic or herbal alternatives to medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Metformin, both of which are commonly prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes, requires a thoughtful and cautious approach. 

While certain herbs and supplements have been studied for their potential to support blood sugar control and weight management, it’s crucial to understand that these natural options do not directly replace the actions or efficacy of prescription medications.

And when you’re looking to heal more deeply, like SOUL- LEVEL, check out The Shankara Oracle.

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

What Is Quantum Entanglement And How Does It Help Us?

What Is Quantum Entanglement And How Does It Help Us?

 

The Sacred Storm: Embracing the Journey of Boundaries, Karma, and Devotion

The sutras are like keys to a locked door inside you – helping you find your way through pain and escape paradigms that no longer serve your soul. They awaken the sharpness of your discernment, showing you exactly where you stand, and perhaps more importantly, where you need to go. They don’t just introduce you to the concept of dharma – they pull you into it, asking you to call upon the Dharma Protector for guidance. They push you to confront your confusion, and in the process, they awaken you to the deep truth that this journey is yours, not anyone else’s.

This is why boundaries and detachment are crucial in every relationship – most especially romantic ones. Romantic entanglements have a special way of tangling your essence into another’s. But here’s the thing: to honor someone’s path, you must protect not only your karma but theirs as well. We have to know when to speak, when to act, when to step in. And you know what? It’s not that often. In all relationships, knowing when NOT to act is an act of love.

You are not here to solve anyone’s storm, just as they are not here to solve yours. Their karma, like yours, has work to do. To reach this place of spiritual maturity – this clarity – you have to articulate your own journey. You must confront the rawness of your experience. Let ALL the emotions surface, let the images that haunt you rise to consciousness. Every fragment, every hidden scar, has to be released. That’s the work. It’s your work.

And let’s get real for a second. What do you think Buddha and Jesus were doing in the desert? Talking to bunnies?Absolutely not. They were confronting every shadow, every wound, every attachment, across all dimensions of time and space. They allowed their karma to surface, shake them, and break them wide open. Their so-called solitude was a meeting with their storms – storms that had nothing to do with other people. They faced their own inner chaos, their own deep-rooted karma.

And you, too, have a storm within you. It’s not someone else’s storm. It’s yours, deeply personal, forged by your soul’s journey, influenced by the cosmos and your past actions, thoughts, and intentions. It’s your fucking storm. And just as you must face yours, you must allow others to face theirs.

So here’s where boundaries become sacred. Protect other people’s storms. Let them rage, let them unfold, so that they can learn to navigate their own inner turmoil and find their own light. You can nudge, you can love, you can suggest, you can nurture – but you CANNOT reduce their power by commanding their storm. You cannot take their lessons from them. To do so is to rob them of their own evolution.

This is where the true meaning of devotion comes in. Be devotional not just to the people you love, but to their process. Be devoted to your own process, to your own expansion. Your light will grow as you respect the boundaries of their soul’s path. And as your light grows, it doesn’t just illuminate your journey – it spreads across the universe, helping others in ways you can’t even perceive.

You must learn to become more spacious, more expanded, more free. This is done through the deep inner work, the kind that requires confronting the darkest corners of your being. Embrace the brightest frequency within you – honor the purest, most untouched version of yourself, the part that can protect you without needing shields. As you honor your own purity, you learn to protect others toward their own expansion. You become a lighthouse in the storm, not a boat pulling them out before they’ve learned how to swim.

To get here, you must embrace every raw, unfiltered piece of your soul. Every failure, every joy, every wound. As you release it all, you give room for your true self to breathe and expand. This isn’t a process of becoming someone else – it’s about returning to the essence of who you are. That version of you that is pure light, pure frequency, pure divine energy.

Boundaries, detachment, and love are the tools. They are the methods through which you protect others and protect yourself. Without them, you bleed into others’ journeys, smudging the sacred lines of karma and keeping both them and you trapped in cycles that aren’t meant to be shared. You must honor those lines. When you act out of love and detachment, you are allowing their karma to be theirs, while staying aligned with your own path.

We are all tasked with carrying out this deep spiritual work, not just in solitude but in the context of our relationships – romantic, familial, and otherwise. Relationships are where karma plays out the loudest, where we are tested the most. But relationships are not about completion or saving anyone else. They are mirrors to your own process. They reflect where you’re at in your soul’s journey, showing you what still needs to be addressed within yourself.

You cannot hide behind the illusion that love means rescuing or fixing. Love means honoring boundaries, stepping back, and letting others be. It means loving with full awareness that their path is theirs alone. You can love deeply without getting entangled in their storm.

And if you want to become truly free, to experience divine grace, then devote every action, every thought, every intention as worship. Worship not in the religious sense but in the sense of reverence – for yourself, for others, for this incredible journey we’re all on. This is how you expand your light and become an anchor for the universe. This is how you align with the dharma, how you honor the deeper truths that guide you.

So the next time you find yourself wanting to intervene, wanting to save, stop. Pause. Ask yourself: am I protecting their karma by stepping back? Am I honoring their journey by letting them face their storm? Am I acting out of detached love, or am I acting from fear of losing them or being rejected?

True spiritual expansion comes from recognizing that every person’s storm is sacred. Let your own storm rage when it must. Let their storms rage too. Protect the boundaries, honor the storms, and from this place of deep knowing, watch as the universe opens itself to you. This is the sacred path.

Embrace the storm, honor the journey, and become the light.

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

The Astral, Causal, And Other Realms & Dimensions Of Existence

The Astral, Causal, And Other Realms & Dimensions Of Existence

The astral and causal realms, along with other dimensions or realms, are concepts found in various spiritual, mystical, and esoteric traditions. They are often described as levels of existence or consciousness beyond the physical world that we experience with our five senses. 

These realms are said to be accessible through meditation, out-of-body experiences, or at the point of death. Enlightened masters from various traditions, including Amma (Mata Amritanandamayi) and Paramahansa Yogananda, have spoken or written about these realms to varying extents. Their teachings provide insights into these concepts, drawing from their personal experiences and the doctrines of their respective spiritual paths.

Astral Realm

The astral realm is described as a plane of existence that is more subtle and vibrant than the physical world. It’s believed to be the world of emotions, dreams, and desires, populated by both deceased spirits and non-physical entities. In this realm, the laws of physics as we know them do not apply, and travel is often said to occur through thought or intention rather than physical movement. Paramahansa Yogananda, in his book “Autobiography of a Yogi,” talks about the astral world in the context of his guru’s teachings, describing it as a place of incredible beauty and light.

Causal Realm

The causal realm is considered even more subtle than the astral and is often described as the realm of ideas, thoughts, or the blueprint of creation. In some teachings, it’s considered the true source of our physical and astral worlds, containing the archetypes or perfect forms of everything that manifests in the lower planes. This realm is associated with deep states of meditation and enlightenment, where one can experience the unity of all existence.

Other Realms and Dimensions

Beyond the astral and causal, some traditions speak of even higher levels of consciousness and realms of existence. These might include the mental realm (where pure intellect and knowledge reside), the etheric realm (a template for physical reality), and various divine or spiritual planes that are home to enlightened beings and deities.

Enlightened masters like Amma and Paramahansa Yogananda teach that these realms are accessible through spiritual practices like meditation, devotion, and selfless service. Their teachings suggest that by transcending the ego and purifying one’s consciousness, one can experience these higher planes of existence and ultimately realize the unity of the self with the divine or the ultimate reality.

It’s important to note that descriptions of these realms can vary significantly across different spiritual traditions, and they are often expressed in symbolic or metaphorical language. The teachings about these realms are meant to guide individuals on their spiritual path, encouraging them to look beyond material existence and explore the deeper dimensions of consciousness and reality.

Diving Deeper

Exploring the concept of various realms or dimensions beyond the physical is a journey through the teachings of numerous spiritual traditions and enlightened masters. These concepts often transcend simple descriptions, delving into metaphysical and symbolic interpretations of existence. While the specifics can vary widely across different teachings, there’s a common thread that suggests a layered universe, each layer offering different experiences and lessons for the soul.

Physical Realm: The most familiar to us, it’s the realm of matter, energy, space, and time. It’s governed by the laws of physics and is the stage for human life, offering a range of sensory experiences and challenges.

Astral Realm: Also known as the emotional realm, it’s characterized by its vibrancy and fluidity. It’s a place where thoughts and feelings can manifest as tangible experiences. It’s often associated with the afterlife, dream states, and out-of-body experiences.

Causal Realm: This is the realm of ideas, where the blueprint of creation is held. It’s a more subtle dimension than the astral, associated with the mind and intellect. It’s said to contain the seeds of physical and astral realities, embodying the concepts and archetypes that shape them.

Mental or Intellectual Realm: Some traditions distinguish this realm from the causal, focusing on pure intellect and knowledge. It’s a space of universal wisdom and understanding, free from the distortions of personal desires and emotions.

Etheric Realm: Often considered a layer very close to the physical, the etheric realm is thought to be where vital life energy exists. It’s sometimes described as a template for the physical world, containing energetic blueprints for all physical forms.

Akashic Records: Not a realm per se, but a compendium of all thoughts, actions, events, and intentions that have ever occurred or will occur. Some view it as accessible through deep meditation or specific psychic practices, offering insights into past, present, and future potentials.

Higher Spiritual Planes

Beyond these, there are higher, more abstract realms often mentioned in various spiritual teachings, though descriptions and names can vary significantly:

Buddhic Plane: Associated with pure compassion and intuition, beyond individual intellect and emotions.

Atmic Plane: Related to the higher self, soul, or spirit, embodying unity with the divine will.

Monadic Plane: A state of consciousness that transcends individuality, often described as the essence of being or the spark of divine consciousness within.

Logoic Plane: The realm of the divine mind or cosmic consciousness, representing the highest level of spiritual realization.

Descent and Ascent Through Realms

Enlightened masters teach about the journey of the soul through these realms, often described as a cycle of descent and ascent. The soul descends from higher realms, taking on various sheaths or bodies to experience and learn from the lessons of each plane, eventually ascending back to its source as it gains wisdom and sheds the limitations of each plane.

Unity Across Diversity

While the names and categorizations of these realms can differ, the underlying message across many spiritual traditions is one of unity. The journey through these realms is a process of expanding consciousness, moving from identification with the physical and egoic, through various levels of subtlety, to a realization of oneness with all existence.

It’s crucial to recognize that these descriptions are often metaphorical, aimed at conveying complex spiritual truths in a way that can guide individuals on their spiritual journey. The specifics of each realm, and the emphasis placed on them, can vary widely among different traditions and teachings.

The Dimensions At Our Fingertips

The concept of “other dimensions” in spiritual, esoteric, and sometimes scientific contexts, often goes beyond the traditional three dimensions of space and the fourth dimension of time that we commonly understand. When people refer to “other dimensions,” they are typically discussing realms of existence or consciousness that transcend our everyday physical reality. 

These dimensions are said to be more subtle, encompassing realms of energy, thought, and spirit that interact with and influence our physical world in various ways.

Understanding Dimensions

Physical Dimensions: These are the three spatial dimensions (length, width, and height) plus time, which are familiar to us through everyday experience and scientific understanding. They constitute the framework of our physical universe.

Fifth Dimension and Beyond: Beyond the fourth dimension (time), the nature of additional dimensions becomes increasingly abstract and less tied to physical reality as we know it. These dimensions are often associated with spiritual realms, states of consciousness, or theoretical constructs in physics like those proposed by string theory, which posits the existence of up to 10 spatial dimensions and one of time.

Spiritual and Esoteric Perspectives

In spiritual and esoteric teachings, dimensions beyond the physical are described in various ways, often emphasizing their nature as levels of consciousness or being:

Fifth Dimension: Often characterized by a state of higher consciousness, unity, and oneness. It’s where individuality begins to blend with universal consciousness, and manifestations are believed to occur through thought and intention more readily than in the physical realm.

Sixth Dimension and Beyond: These dimensions are increasingly associated with pure energy forms, thought constructs, and spiritual planes. They are said to be realms of light, vibration, and the essence of creative forces, often beyond human comprehension but accessible to those who have attained certain spiritual heights.

Influence on Us

The influence of these higher dimensions on our physical world and personal lives is often described in terms of energetic interaction and spiritual evolution:

Energetic Interaction: It’s believed that the energy from higher dimensions influences the physical realm and our energy bodies (such as the aura and chakras), affecting our thoughts, feelings, and health. Practices like meditation, prayer, and energy healing are said to facilitate interaction with these dimensions.

Spiritual Evolution: The journey through or access to these dimensions is often seen as part of the soul’s evolution towards greater awareness and enlightenment. As individuals evolve spiritually, they are thought to become more attuned to the higher dimensions and capable of influencing their own reality and assisting in the collective evolution of consciousness.

Guidance and Inspiration: Some believe that higher dimensions are sources of spiritual guidance and inspiration, where beings like angels, spirit guides, or ascended masters reside, offering help and insight to those on the Earth plane.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, dimensions beyond the familiar four are largely theoretical and not directly observable with current technology. In theories like string theory, extra dimensions are proposed to explain the fundamental forces and particles in the universe, but these dimensions are not “other worlds” in a spiritual sense. They are mathematical constructs that might influence the fundamental structure of reality at the quantum level.

Conclusion

The concept of other dimensions bridges science, spirituality, and metaphysics, offering diverse perspectives on the nature of reality. While science explores the theoretical possibility of multiple dimensions to understand the universe’s fundamental structure, spiritual and esoteric teachings offer interpretations of how these dimensions influence human consciousness and spiritual growth. 

The common thread across many of these discussions is a deeper quest for understanding the complexities of existence beyond the immediately observable world.

One thing is certain: The Shankara Oracle will help you prepare for an opening to all dimensions and realms, taking you deeper into your purest Self.

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

How to Create Boundaries With Challenging Family Members

How to Create Boundaries With Challenging Family Members

(Or exit your birth family altogether)

 

Creating boundaries with challenging family members can be very difficult, but it’s essential for maintaining healthy relationships, preserving your wellbeing and creating a life path that is aligned with your authentic Self. 

When we learn to create appropriate boundaries with our family members, we can recalibrate old dynamics, uplift our other more aligned relationships, and heal oppressive patterns carried from prior lifetimes. 

While this is an important process that can help you empower yourself and heal old wounds, creating boundaries with family members can create a great deal of unnecessary guilt, shame, and regret – so you must tread this pursuit carefully and with great attention to your thoughts, feelings, and attitudes along the way.

Even more challenging is saying goodbye to family members who have proven their lack of respect and love for us. It’s with these relationships that we must begin to seek the deepest healing and the deepest forgiveness before we cut cords with them. 

Why it’s so difficult to create boundaries with family

Low Self-worth and Self-esteem, as well as a fear of conflict or rejection can make it difficult to express ourselves and to assert our needs in general. With family, it is even more difficult – often due to the following:

  • Our conditioning around our cultures, families, society
  • Our traumas and triggers
  • Our projections and attitudes
  • Our inability to release the past and forgive ourselves and others
  • Our unwillingness to perform proper Self-inquiry toward our illumination

After all, family is merely a contrivance – a karmic engine that is neither required nor necessary for your healing, happiness, personal development, or liberation. In fact, your family might be what’s preventing you from fully healing in this lifetime.

While setting boundaries (and saying goodbye) can be uncomfortable, it is quite often essential to our growth and peacefulness. Boundaries are also helpful to everyone involved, including the family members that we confront, breaking all members of the unit out of ancestral conditioning, codependence, oppression, and dependencies on outdated and harmful temporary Self-identities.

Throughout this life and prior lives, we each develop personas around our roles in families. When we recalibrate the old identities and patterns, we help everyone grow beyond the limits of their outdated limited projections, beliefs, attitudes, and identities. 

Discover your boundaries

Begin your journey to better boundaries  by assessing your own feelings, emotions, projections, beliefs, attitudes, needs, values, and limits. Imagine your most healed Self and commit to protecting her for all time. Determine and conjure the boundaries necessary for your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health. After all, Self-realization can be quite difficult if you’re continually projecting and arguing with old versions of your Self.

Setting healthy boundaries begins with Self-inquiry – truly knowing your Self. 

This includes: 

  • Sensing into and releasing trapped emotions
  • Understanding your attributes and releasing those that are unworthy of a fully healed Self
  • Focused attention on your will to forgive
  • A resolute mind that seeks liberation
  • Prayer and meditation
  • Journal writing

Oftentimes, we drag ourselves into other people’s dramas and agendas because we enjoy this type of addiction and we simply refuse to focus on our own lives.  

Learn to stay present with your Self and focus on creating your life in a way that feels nourishing and satisfying to you. No one is coming to save you, so dig deep and decide who you want to be and what your life will one day include.

Allow and release your emotions

Seeking to improve your dynamics with family members can bring up difficult emotions stemming from old traumas. 

As children, we were dependent on our family for everything. If we grew up in toxic environments, we created a variety of coping patterns to help us accept and deal with the reality around us. 

Some of these mechanisms might have been conflict avoidance, passive aggressive communication, obsessions with our projections, desires around being liked and needing other people’s approval, needing to appear to be someone you are not, and a variety of other ways that involve pleasing those around you. When we seek to release these coping mechanisms in favor of honest Self-expression, it can trigger deep fears and open old wounds. 

Take the time to work with your emotions, Learn how to allow and release these emotions. You might want to explore my Connect & Let Go Process and The Sedona Method. Journal or do other practices. A therapist, intuitive coach, or healer might be helpful. 

Learn about healthy boundaries

Your family was your world when you were a child. Even as adults we can continue to be deeply involved with our families, not yet having created our own lives. And all of this projection around family might merely and solely be happening within our own minds. 

We need to venture beyond our minds’ obsessions and our family’s dogma to evolve. Learning about healthy relating, boundaries, and goodbyes can help you understand your Self and your family. 

Forgive

Forgiving family members can be difficult, but it is helpful and necessary to our healing and evolution. Doing deep inner work, we might also find the resolve within to release old dynamics and evolve. If we so choose, we can clear the slate and start anew. 

Forgiveness is challenging inner work that pushes us to see everything more clearly, including ourselves, and to take ownership for our lives. To be truly Self-reliant means that we take responsibility for everything in our lives. Once we do this, we can more easily forgive.

While you don’t need to forgive to set boundaries, choosing to do this deeper work can help you find more peace, resolve, healing, and illumination.

As an adult, you are responsible for your actions and wellbeing. No one can go back in time and undo what was done. And while some families are abusive and neglectful, other families are simply imperfect due to being…you know, human. 

Sometimes there is simply no blame to be laid at anyone’s feet, just a complex human experience that results in pain. Allow your Self to grieve and rage in healthy ways as you need, and commit to letting go of the past. 

In all things, lay your burdens at the feet of The Divine, and seek Her friendship. She is the only one who can walk with you for all time.

Have compassion and patience

Don’t be embarrassed if you find it difficult to express your boundaries – have compassion and patience for your Self. You don’t need to go anywhere guns blazing and be the strongest possible version of your Self. Just blurt them out, text them, send a letter – do whatever you need to communicate your boundaries to your satisfaction.

You can also take your time and make incremental changes. At times, you might be harsher than you wish you were – other times softer than you wish you were. It is perfectly normal to have a process – and none of it has to be perfect.

Start with love and escalate as needed

Setting boundaries does not mean that we need to be aggressive. Others don’t even necessarily need to know you are setting a boundary – it is enough that they experience it and the dynamic shifts in favor of your peacefulness and wellbeing. 

It is okay to express a boundary lovingly and peacefully. If you are met with aggression, manipulation or abuse, you can respond adequately.  As you express new boundaries, it is bound that some loved ones will be confused or worried by this change. They might need time to adjust, accept and integrate. After all, you are addressing habits that have been engrained for a long time. 

It is possible some family members will prove unloving and intolerant, unable to move beyond their perspective and seek to understand you. While this is painful and difficult to confront, it is also essential to be aware of the quality of our relationships.

Sometimes, no matter what we say or do, our family members will turn our requirements and declarations into dramatic events to appease their projections of what they believe family should be. They might love using you as their foil or antagonist so they can feel better about themselves and their desires and beliefs. We never know what dark and embedded projections, patterns, attitudes, and beliefs are brewing within the members of our families. After all, a family is nothing but a group of strangers fighting over limited resources.

 

You might find it helpful to write down your boundaries, and make a plan for what to say and when. You might need a strategy for certain dynamics. 

You might also write about who you feel each person is within your family. Explore their attributes and seek to understand them. It’s in this way we can learn to better understand ourselves.

If you work with a loving, intuitive coach or therapist, they can help you articulate your boundaries in ways that are healthy and correct for you.

Allow others their process

While we change the dynamics in our relationships through our own action and will, it can take others some time to adjust to new realities. Quite possibly, they never experienced healthy boundaries and might take your needs, disagreement, or exit as outright rejection. It is important to allow for their process to unfold as well. You need not be involved in what they project, need, feel, or do. That’s their business. Focus on your Self.

Those who love you and truly want you in their lives will choose to make adjustments even if it is difficult and it takes them some time. 

Most families will not make much of an adjustment, so prepare your Self for a deep, inner journey. If something positive emerges, consider it a gift from The Divine.

Be consistent

Consistency is key to enforcing boundaries. Don’t waiver on your boundaries unless you genuinely feel the need to adjust them for a valid reason. It is up to you to show others that your boundaries are important to you. 

Sometimes as we set boundaries with our family for the first time, we might need these to be more stringent. We might need time away to heal old wounds or might find it difficult to deal with specific aspects for a certain period. It is okay to do any of these things. We are not required to show up in a specific way.  

Meditate often and be focused

Be clear and focused on your intentions and plan. This will help you set boundaries. Meditate often because this will help you be more present to how you truly feel. Instead of reacting, you can respond firmly and clearly – because you are aware of your Self. Meditation gives us this gift.

Our conditioned patterns tend to take over when we engage family. After all, we have been engaged in these dynamics for a long time, and most likely amid many prior lives. If you want to truly and deeply honor yourself, you need to be focused, present, and aware. 

Meditation and other mindfulness practices will help you see your Self and others more clearly, and help you respond better. Even if you let something go in the moment, you can become more quickly aware of your emotional response following your interactions. 

Focus on your healing and wellbeing

When you focus on your healing and growing in self-love, you become more aware of what you need to reject and accept in your life. The more you are in touch with your light body, the more you will be clear about what belongs in your life and what does not. 

Reevaluate and adjust 

As your circumstances change or relationships evolve, revisit and adjust your boundaries accordingly. What worked in the past may need modification in the future. And never expect others to change. It’s their right to stay where they are. In fact, it might be necessary for their karma and other influencing energies and factors. Remain focused on your Self.

With more Self-inquiry, meditation, and healing, you might find you do not need your family in any way. Releasing them might be the best thing for your evolution. After all, Siddhartha left his wife and newborn child to seek liberation and become The Buddha. You can certainly evolve beyond needing a family if that is what you wish. 

That said, after substantial effort and inner work, you might feel more open to spending a bit of time with prior troubling family members. It’s quite possible that others might uplevel and meet you where you are. You might also find that over time, your needs change.

Remain focused within, releasing old emotions, beliefs, attitudes, and patterns to avail your Self to the path of awakening, illumination, and Self-realization. To be liberated, your life might unfold in ways you cannot predict at this time. 

Remember: Your contract is not with individuals, it is with The Universe and The Divine. 

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

The Sacred Storm: Embracing the Journey of Boundaries, Karma, and Devotion

The Sacred Storm: Embracing the Journey of Boundaries, Karma, and Devotion

 

The Sacred Storm: Embracing the Journey of Boundaries, Karma, and Devotion

The sutras are like keys to a locked door inside you – helping you find your way through pain and escape paradigms that no longer serve your soul. They awaken the sharpness of your discernment, showing you exactly where you stand, and perhaps more importantly, where you need to go. They don’t just introduce you to the concept of dharma – they pull you into it, asking you to call upon the Dharma Protector for guidance. They push you to confront your confusion, and in the process, they awaken you to the deep truth that this journey is yours, not anyone else’s.

This is why boundaries and detachment are crucial in every relationship – most especially romantic ones. Romantic entanglements have a special way of tangling your essence into another’s. But here’s the thing: to honor someone’s path, you must protect not only your karma but theirs as well. We have to know when to speak, when to act, when to step in. And you know what? It’s not that often. In all relationships, knowing when NOT to act is an act of love.

You are not here to solve anyone’s storm, just as they are not here to solve yours. Their karma, like yours, has work to do. To reach this place of spiritual maturity – this clarity – you have to articulate your own journey. You must confront the rawness of your experience. Let ALL the emotions surface, let the images that haunt you rise to consciousness. Every fragment, every hidden scar, has to be released. That’s the work. It’s your work.

And let’s get real for a second. What do you think Buddha and Jesus were doing in the desert? Talking to bunnies?Absolutely not. They were confronting every shadow, every wound, every attachment, across all dimensions of time and space. They allowed their karma to surface, shake them, and break them wide open. Their so-called solitude was a meeting with their storms – storms that had nothing to do with other people. They faced their own inner chaos, their own deep-rooted karma.

And you, too, have a storm within you. It’s not someone else’s storm. It’s yours, deeply personal, forged by your soul’s journey, influenced by the cosmos and your past actions, thoughts, and intentions. It’s your fucking storm. And just as you must face yours, you must allow others to face theirs.

So here’s where boundaries become sacred. Protect other people’s storms. Let them rage, let them unfold, so that they can learn to navigate their own inner turmoil and find their own light. You can nudge, you can love, you can suggest, you can nurture – but you CANNOT reduce their power by commanding their storm. You cannot take their lessons from them. To do so is to rob them of their own evolution.

This is where the true meaning of devotion comes in. Be devotional not just to the people you love, but to their process. Be devoted to your own process, to your own expansion. Your light will grow as you respect the boundaries of their soul’s path. And as your light grows, it doesn’t just illuminate your journey – it spreads across the universe, helping others in ways you can’t even perceive.

You must learn to become more spacious, more expanded, more free. This is done through the deep inner work, the kind that requires confronting the darkest corners of your being. Embrace the brightest frequency within you – honor the purest, most untouched version of yourself, the part that can protect you without needing shields. As you honor your own purity, you learn to protect others toward their own expansion. You become a lighthouse in the storm, not a boat pulling them out before they’ve learned how to swim.

To get here, you must embrace every raw, unfiltered piece of your soul. Every failure, every joy, every wound. As you release it all, you give room for your true self to breathe and expand. This isn’t a process of becoming someone else – it’s about returning to the essence of who you are. That version of you that is pure light, pure frequency, pure divine energy.

Boundaries, detachment, and love are the tools. They are the methods through which you protect others and protect yourself. Without them, you bleed into others’ journeys, smudging the sacred lines of karma and keeping both them and you trapped in cycles that aren’t meant to be shared. You must honor those lines. When you act out of love and detachment, you are allowing their karma to be theirs, while staying aligned with your own path.

We are all tasked with carrying out this deep spiritual work, not just in solitude but in the context of our relationships – romantic, familial, and otherwise. Relationships are where karma plays out the loudest, where we are tested the most. But relationships are not about completion or saving anyone else. They are mirrors to your own process. They reflect where you’re at in your soul’s journey, showing you what still needs to be addressed within yourself.

You cannot hide behind the illusion that love means rescuing or fixing. Love means honoring boundaries, stepping back, and letting others be. It means loving with full awareness that their path is theirs alone. You can love deeply without getting entangled in their storm.

And if you want to become truly free, to experience divine grace, then devote every action, every thought, every intention as worship. Worship not in the religious sense but in the sense of reverence – for yourself, for others, for this incredible journey we’re all on. This is how you expand your light and become an anchor for the universe. This is how you align with the dharma, how you honor the deeper truths that guide you.

So the next time you find yourself wanting to intervene, wanting to save, stop. Pause. Ask yourself: am I protecting their karma by stepping back? Am I honoring their journey by letting them face their storm? Am I acting out of detached love, or am I acting from fear of losing them or being rejected?

True spiritual expansion comes from recognizing that every person’s storm is sacred. Let your own storm rage when it must. Let their storms rage too. Protect the boundaries, honor the storms, and from this place of deep knowing, watch as the universe opens itself to you. This is the sacred path.

Embrace the storm, honor the journey, and become the light.

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do

What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do

Life is an unpredictable journey, and there are moments when we find ourselves standing at a crossroads, uncertain about which path to take. You might be facing difficult challenges and feel overwhelmed. You might be deeply unhappy and have no idea how to change it. 

Grappling with uncertainty is a common human experience, and it is okay not to have all the answers. Learning how to navigate periods of uncertainty is part of our journey.  Here is a guide to help you navigate challenging times of uncertainty:

Meditate

No matter how challenging the circumstances, try to find time to meditate every day. The more challenging the circumstances, the more important it is to find the time and space to meditate. When we allow our minds to take over, we can exacerbate negative states, and fail to see opportunities and possibilities. 

Meditation promotes relaxation and reduces stress. In a world filled with constant stimulation and information overload, meditation provides a much-needed pause. It calms the mind, lowers cortisol levels, and induces a state of inner peace. 

As you let go of your thoughts and find more inner peace, you can also create space for inspiration and divine grace. You won’t be able to access your inner wisdom or receive guidance from your spirit team if you don’t quiet your mind. 

Allow your emotions

When we suppress emotions we cannot see clearly. Find a practice that helps you connect to your emotions and release them. You can journal, go in nature, pray or do a ritual. Allowing your tears, fears and anger to express, you can finally release them. Each challenge is an opportunity to heal and renew. 

Depending on the situation, you might want to work with a therapist, intuitive reader, coach or other healer, to help you understand yourself. If you clear the inner debris, you can find the next step that serves you well. 

Pray 

Prayer is very powerful. Seek help and guidance by praying to your guru, deity or to the Divine as you might be referring to Her in your spiritual practice. You can also invoke the help of your guides, angels and ancestors. 

Perform spiritual rituals

When we head out in nature to connect with The Divine through rituals, we remember our origin and the power within us to change our lives. With the most loving and earnest intentions, you can shift, release, and transcend all that troubles you. Be devotional through rituals of letting-go and worship.

Evaluate your life objectively

It is important to take stock honestly so you can navigate your circumstances and be prepared. You may not know what to do next, but taking stock helps you understand what areas of your life need some improvement and attention. Evaluating your situation objectively might also show you that in fact you have nothing to worry about. 

Practice self care

Relaxation is a pathway to divine wisdom. Make time for spiritual practices, eat nourishing food, go for walks in nature, and explore activities that you enjoy. You can add helpful modalities such as acupuncture, and use herbs that help support your inner wellbeing. 

Seek guidance & support 

Getting advice can often unlock a lot of doors and relieve a lot of burdens. Sometimes we can remain stuck because we don’t have the right perspective or the right piece of information. As you meditate and reflect on your situation, consider what kind of help you need. While it may seem like a lot sometimes to invest in support, you may not be aware of the cost of not doing so. 

Surrender & Trust

You might be carrying burdens that are not yours to carry. You might be deeply attached to specific outcomes or desires. Lay it all down at the feet of the Divine and trust. You will still need to participate and take action, but you can do so without attachment. 

You can simply sincerely ask the Divine to take your burdens. You can do this in any way that feels good and nourishing to you. You can ask your spirit team, your guru, your deity or the Eternal Consciousness. The key is to do it genuinely from the heart. You can practice every day.

Uncertainty is difficult because we all tend to be deeply attached to specific outcomes and desires. If we are committed to evolving and growing spiritually, times of uncertainty can help us grow our spiritual inner strength, peacefulness and heal to the core. As you go within, release difficult emotions and mental obsessions, you can find your way to the next step that is right for you. 

Remember, Dear Soul!

In all things, you are unlimited, born from miracles – and you have great potential in every direction. Pray often, be devotional to your deity, guru, or The Divine – and over time, you will free your Self and merge with the brightest light in The Universe.

This is why I created The Shankara Oracle – to direct you to your deepest Self and help you find your way forward in every situation.

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

What Is Shadow Work And How To Do It

What Is Shadow Work And How To Do It

Shadow work is essential to healing and growing as a beautiful, loving, and spiritual person.   Diving deeply within your Self is the way to heal and illuminate all that binds and restricts you. 

What is shadow work?

Shadow work is a concept that has been popularized by various spiritual and psychological traditions, including Jungian psychology, and it involves the process of exploring and integrating the hidden or suppressed aspects of one’s psyche. 

These are the aspects that limit your Self-love and the ability to love others.

These hidden aspects, often referred to as the “shadow,” typically consist of repressed emotions, traumas, fears, and desires that you may not be fully aware of or may be reluctant to acknowledge. 

Shadow work aims to bring these aspects into conscious awareness, so you can work through them to achieve personal growth, healing, and Self-realization. Most importantly, shadow work helps you bring darkness into the light, which is good for All Beings Throughout All The Realms. As you dive into these aspects and learn how to heal them, you can release difficult self-oppressive patterns that might have been part of your journey for lifetimes. 

Here are some general steps involved in shadow work, which can be adapted to different spiritual or self-help traditions:

Self-awareness: Begin by examining your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Pay attention to patterns that seem to repeat in your life or areas where you feel stuck or challenged. Allow emotions to rise up within you and give them as much space as they need. Over time, you can learn to release them by simply asking yourself – can I release this now? Okay, when?

Active forgiveness: Consciously and relentlessly working on forgiving someone can have profound effects in your life. Release what you can, forgive everything, and over time, you’ll have the space within you to embody the most divine attributes.

Journaling: Writing in a journal can be a powerful tool for exploring your inner world. Write down your thoughts and feelings, and be honest with yourself about your fears, insecurities, and past experiences.

Meditation: Practicing meditation can help you observe and release your thoughts and emotions without judgment,  reaction or impact. This can make it easier to uncover hidden aspects of your Self, so that you can eventually free the ones that restrict you and illuminate the ones that can bring you to Self-realization.

Seek spiritual guidance and study the ancient teachings: Work with a spiritual teacher who specializes in shadow work that leads to illumination and deep healing. Study the ancient teachings and you will find your mind and heart begin to relax, settle, and embrace the divine light within you.

Inner dialogue: Engage in an inner dialogue with the different parts of your Self, including the aspects you consider to be your shadow. Ask questions, listen to their responses, and try to understand their underlying motivations. In all things, speak highly of your Self and love you Self. No one is coming to save you – you must save your Self.

Acceptance and integration: The ultimate goal of shadow work is to accept and integrate the hidden aspects of your psyche. This involves acknowledging that these aspects are a part of you and finding healthier ways to express and manage them. When we truly own every aspect of our lives, including all experiences, we become Self-reliant, and eventually awakened and illuminated to our divine Self.

Engaging in shadow work while being devotional to your deity, The Divine, and your guru. Engage Sadhana (spiritual practices) to enhance your spiritual growth. 

Here are some tips to help you integrate shadow work into your spiritual journey:

Set a clear intention: Begin your shadow work with a clear intention. State your purpose for exploring your shadow self, such as seeking personal growth, healing, or a deeper connection with The Divine, your deity, and guru. This intention will guide your efforts and keep your spiritual focus intact.

Invoking The Divine Consciousness: Before starting your shadow work sessions, invoke the presence of your chosen deity through prayer or meditation. Ask for their guidance, support, and protection during your journey into the shadow self. This can help you feel spiritually connected and secure.

Align with your values: Ensure that your shadow work aligns with your spiritual values and principles. This means approaching it with humility, compassion, and a genuine desire for self-improvement. Avoid using shadow work as a means to indulge in negative behaviors or self-criticism. 

Incorporate shadow work into your sadhana: Integrate elements of shadow work into your existing sadhana. For example, you can include reflective journaling or introspection as part of your daily practice. This allows you to explore your inner world within the context of your spirituality.

Seek guidance from your deity: During your sadhana or meditation, communicate with your deity and seek their wisdom and guidance on your shadow work. Ask for insights, clarity, and the strength to confront and heal the hidden aspects of yourself.

Self-compassion: Remember that shadow work can be challenging, and you may uncover difficult emotions or past wounds. Be gentle with yourself and practice self-compassion. Your deity, if part of your belief system, is likely to encourage self-acceptance and forgiveness.

Rituals and offerings: Incorporate rituals or offerings to your deity as part of your shadow work process. These can serve as a way to honor your spiritual connection and seek blessings for your inner exploration. You can also use rituals as a way to release difficult aspects and set intentions for more positive aspects to enter your life.

Consistency: Make shadow work a consistent part of your spiritual journey. Dedicate time regularly to delve into your shadow self and work on integrating it with your conscious self. Over time, this practice can lead to deeper spiritual insights and growth.

Seek support and guidance: It can be beneficial or necessary to work with a spiritual mentor, therapist, or guide who understands both shadow work and your specific spiritual path. They can provide valuable insights and support as you navigate this journey. 

Trust the process: Have faith that The Eternal Consciousness, your deity, guru, and The Divine are supporting your growth and Self-discovery. Trust that your shadow work is an essential part of your spiritual evolution and that it aligns with your devotion. 

Shadow work is essential to spiritual and personal growth. Without the willingness to look at these aspects, we cannot heal and move forward. Suppressed emotions, old traumas, unhealthy conditioning can keep us stuck for lifetimes. When we choose to heal these aspects within ourselves, we can finally liberate ourselves. 

By integrating shadow work with your devotion to the Divine, your guru or your deity by making it part of your sadhana, you can create a holistic approach to your spiritual growth that encompasses both light and shadow. This will ultimately lead you to greater self-awareness and a deeper connection with your spiritual path.

In all things, be deeply devoted to The Divine aspects of The Universe and your divine Self. Over time, you will naturally release all that binds you and see the pathway to your illumination, and eventually your enlightenment. 

The Shankara Oracle and Paul Wagner’s The Personality Cards are profound tools to help you uplift your shadow into the light. 

Button Nav Icon
Posted on

World Headlines, Opinions, And Other Contrivances

World Headlines, Opinions, And Other Contrivances

 

World Headlines, Opinions, And Other Contrivances 

Since the beginning of time, a stubborn set of fears has lived beneath the surface, embedded in the substratum of Earthly consciousness. After all, this planet is born of lightness of Being and shadowy darkness and, while beautiful, has some issues.  

We might believe the left is right and the right is wrong – or vice versa. We might feel there is a current of change in play – or that we’re entering into what new-age knuckleheads call “5D Consciousness.” We might believe that Jesus is fed up – or will be here by Christmas. We might pray to Allah for peace or to the Israeli God for war.  

We’ve birthed opinions built upon religious, cultural, personality, and family conditioning – and we grow them using a continual stream of assumptions born from the contrivance of ego. We want to control reality in ways that align with our attitudes, desires, demands, presumptions, projections, and global identities, all amid a subtle (or flamboyant) self-righteousness.

Balance of Cynicism and Constructive Action

While it’s easy to become cynical and rage against the mess of global politics, there’s value in channeling that frustration into something tangible. 

Sure, I know – we can critique the system – those lazy, faux do-gooders and clueless politicians – but then what? Detaching from politics doesn’t mean inaction. It’s about finding a new way to contribute without feeding the chaos.

Imagine what could happen if the energy spent on opinionating went toward tangible community building, mentoring the youth, healing your past, forgiving the jackoff who stole your heart, or simply practicing presence and kindness in daily life. 

Action is louder than today’s egoic influencers and all ofour social media rants.

Here’s the thing: If you continually opinionate, support a war, promote fear and prejudice, or believe one country deserves more peace and land over others, you’re part of the problem – a soldier of ego and darkness. Good on ya, mate!  

For a time, I was an anti-war demonstrator and world-touring comedian. I was passionate about every idea that popped into my head. When I eventually came up for air, I found myself surrounded by a bunch of weak, passive, selfish, spineless idiots – the do-gooders and opinionators – who do nothing but complain.  

I got out of that business altogether.  

Then came Trump – a charismatic cartoon figure who wreaked of greed, selfishness, and narcissism. For a time, it was exciting to see a political leader who was genuinely (and obviously) evil – beyond a shadow of a doubt.  

I examined what Trump believed and what he eventually did in office. His levels of arrogance and ignorance were so alarming and dangerous that I could barely breathe.

Difference Between Detachment and Apathy  

You might find it interesting that your detachment from opinions and ego doesn’t mean becoming apathetic or in denial. Detachment is a place of power; it allows you to see the situation clearly without getting dragged into an emotional storm. If we stay out of storms, we heal, become stronger, and have a chance to participate in more profound and beneficial ways – for ourselves and everyone around us. 

Apathy, on the other hand, is indifference – it’s a fuck-you in a way. 

To detach is to step back and witness, formulate a peaceful plan to engage, and act from a place of clarity rather than reactivity. 

Detachment allows us to choose conscious, compassionate action and our expansion – whether feeding the homeless, offering a prayer, performing a ritual, helping a friend, or simply holding space for someone in pain. 

Apathy shuts the door on these possibilities because it involves a deep-seeded anger or sadness.

But, so what? If half the country loves this asshole, what am I going to accomplish by complaining? Who would listen? Who would change their beliefs based on my rants? And how will all this negative energy affect my life and ability to help others?  

Such a silly pursuit is politics.  

Soon enough, I found my way to being detached from politics. I did my best to see everything from an eagle’s perspective and understood that every aspect of Creation is born from The Divine Consciousness.  

There is nothing that is NOT God. EVERYTHING IS GOD.

How Non-Duality Helps Heal Division

The Advaita Vedanta, and the broader principle of non-duality remind us that division is an illusion. 

This isn’t just about letting go of political labels but understanding that each conflict, attitude, belief, and opinion is part of a cosmic dance.

 The concept of ONENESS suggests that the separation we perceive – and defend – whether left vs. right, good vs. evil, us vs. them – is simply ego play. 

Adopting this refreshed perspective makes navigating the world’s conflicts easier – without getting stuck in them. We’re not here to take sides; we’re here to see the interconnectedness of all things, even in war, politics, and personal disagreements.

Spiritual Awakening Amid Chaos 

In the grand scheme, the world’s chaos often catalyzes spiritual awakening. Pain, conflict, and destruction are uncomfortable but necessary. After all, amid our comfort, why would we choose to be discomforted? We wouldn’t.

Through trials, pain, and drama, we shed layers of attitude, ego, identities, old patterns, and rigid beliefs. The more insane things get, the closer we collectively approach a breakthrough. 

If the world’s current state feels like a breakdown, it’s because breakdowns precede breakthroughs. So, yes, more war might mean more pain, but it could also mean more awakening, more souls beginning to see through the illusion of separateness and into the heart of The Divine.

Even simple desires that do not point to hatred and war produce suffering – yet, we rarely curtail our desires in favor of less suffering. We pursue our desires until we are drenched in pain. Even then, do we change our behavior? Not very often.

But when we’re dragged to painful extremes, we are gutted – and only then do we clear the slate, dissolve portions of our egos, and begin again – with a fresh, more illuminated perspective.

Perspective Shift  

When I consider all these aspects together, I get excited about how elusive and delusional the world has become. It seems obvious now that everyone is working out the karma they created throughout their many births and lives throughout spacetime. How could I intervene effectively in their karmic dance? I could not.  

Eventually, people work through so much of their shit and darkness, they begin to make better choices. Their attitudes and beliefs shift for the better. Their addictions to culture, religion, family, and similar begin to dissolve. They evolve simply because they bumped into enough pain and mayhem, and their egos let go.  

With all the pain and insanity in the world, I almost look forward to more war and more insanity. If we don’t take it all to the next level and experience the highest level of pain, how else will we push through to the other side?

I love my life, but I cannot help but notice how insane the world has become, how difficult it is to accept all that’s happening, and how difficult it is to stay grateful, positive, and prayerful!  

As spiritual warriors, we must soldier onward! We must rise up – into our hearts and then into the embrace of the Divine.

Living Beyond Ego’s Complaints 

What happens when we live beyond the ego’s constant need to complain and control reality? We find peace. I know, crazy, right? Embodying a curious non-judgment, we create pathways to pure consciousness and service. 

After all, our complaints are a distraction, a mask over the fear of actually stepping into action. We’re lazy, right?

But the moment we drop the mental chatter and egoic obsession, what we think should or shouldn’t be happening – we become effective (and joyfully engaged) in surprising ways. 

From this higher space, our participation in the world shifts from feeding the problem to becoming part of the solution. And we should stop screaming at our screens long enough to see the world as it truly is: DIVINE, PURE, AND PERFECT!

Everyone Is Polarized

My friends on the left are as ignorant as my friends on the right. Some are obsessed with corporate non-allyship, where they refuse to buy products from a particular company. This is laughable because those companies all have the same board members and investors – nothing really changes with such an egoic stance.  

Drink Coke, Don’t Drink Coke. Stop complaining.

In fact, please shut the fuck up and try to do something constructive and beneficial for the world – something that doesn’t involve your uterus, beard, opinions, shopping habits, wardrobe, or kitchen.  

Most of our headlines now focus on world wars, presidential lawsuits, and conspiracy theories born from fear and false evidence. Most people assume that Israel and Ukraine deserve a win, no matter the cost. Meanwhile, Russians and Palestinian civilians are being killed at alarming rates – to hit 1M soon enough.  

While I don’t condone the Russian invasion or kidnapping of Israelis, my heavens, how about we try just to kill fewer people? Why isn’t this a priority? You have to imagine that while The United States is a beautiful country, it doesn’t necessarily have our best interests at heart. It prioritizes oil, and military bases over peace, children, education, poverty, and minding its own business. Btw, the US has continually voted AGAINST a Palestinian state. Who knew?

The Big Questions  

While it might seem that our opinions are justifiable, they’re not. Our opinions mostly prevent us from creating a beautiful reality for ourselves and those we love.  

To create a lovely life, we must dive deeply into the Self and ask some vital questions.  

Here are a few to get you going:  

  • What are you doing with your life? What’s the vision?  
  • How are you healing yourself? What’s the plan?  
  • Who can you forgive today? And tomorrow? And the next day?  
  • How are you expanding your consciousness?  
  • How do you love others?  
  • How are you greedy, and how are you generous?  
  • How are you participating beyond complaining?  
  • How often do you pray?  
  • In what ways are you improving your reality and that of others?  

It’s a wild and harsh world now. The Universe is working out its shit.

See if you can participate in ways that do not glorify your opinions, attitudes, and beliefs. See if you can contribute to your community in ways that surprise even you.  

The moment we declare I am Democrat, Republican, Christian, Pagan, Hindu, Muslim – we are being violent, creating separation that is not there. Your identity is not your contrived belief in an

illusion. Your identity is divine, without division, and embedded in the bosom of light and love.  

Forget who you were. It’s nothing.  

Check out my Shankara Oracle – it’s beneficial in dissolving illusions, beliefs, and opinions in favor of healing and expansion. It’s embedded in the Advaita Vedanta and helpful in showing you the reality of a non-dualistic Universe. Nothing is separate from anything. The whole has always been the whole, and each fraction of the whole is the whole. Consciousness is ONE BEING.  

ONE DIVINE BEING.  

Which is also YOU.

 

Button Nav Icon