The Dissolution of Identity

The Dissolution of Identity To be free in this life, we must unlearn what we’ve gained and relearn what we’ve lost. What you will read about in the following chapters is a relearning of the natural way that has been eclipsed by what we’ve gained, the process of socialization. Then, and only then, will we become a bona fide zhenren (genuine person/Taoist sage). This means, though, that we have to examine and dismantle our identity as it is the byproduct of socialization. This is one of the most uncomfortable processes, but a necessary evil on the spiritual path, especially in Taoism.   One of the common misconceptions of Taoism in the West is that it is a path solely focused on flow and the art of living without any need for getting our hands dirty. This view is a very airy-fairy perspective of Taoism. It excludes the very thing that needs to dissolve to be in flow and embody the art of living—identity. With a strong sense of identity, none of the Taoist principles can be lived.   Some of these inane views of Taoism come from incorrect translations and other translations with no explanation. For example, someone will read in the Tao Te Ching about unlearning and think it is about unlearning what they’ve learned, such as education and also couple that with an unlearning of trying to know the Tao. And both may be necessary, and in part true, but they are not the whole puzzle. What unlearning really means in the Tao Te Ching is the unlearning of your identity, that thing within us that is the accumulative product of socialization. As discussed in previous chapters, the identity or ego acts as a fundamental blockage to the fundamental forces and flow of Tao. The fear people have concerning the dissolution of identity is that they incorrectly believe they won’t function without an identity, as if there is nothing intrinsically there without the ego. This is simply not true and something you will learn later in this book. People in the modern world, and especially Westerners, are often more favorable toward Taoism and Yoga, but they are more suspicious of Advaita Vedanta and Buddhism because of the inaccurate belief that the underlying premise of the dissolution of self of the latter two traditions doesn’t exist in the former two. This is simply untrue.   To be sure, the dissolution of the ego, self, or identity is the common principle and goal of many Eastern spiritual traditions. The methods and philosophy to achieve that end are different among the traditions and explained differently, but the principle is the same. Achieving such a dissolution is referred to in Hinduism and Buddhism as enlightenment but worded differently when referring to the sage in Taoism, as we discover with the word zhenren. Nevertheless, there is a natural state of being that we fundamentally are but has been suppressed. Essentially, we are all inherently enlightened but we’ve forgotten and must unlearn to realize this truth.   This fundamental truth of innate enlightenment within the Eastern spiritual traditions I sum up with one phrase: Enlightenment is the dissolution of “I” and the reidentification with the ultimate reality. The ultimate reality, as discussed, is known as either Brahman in Advaita Vedanta or Tao in Taoism. The reidentification with the ultimate reality in Advaita Vedanta is known as the realization that Atman (undifferentiated consciousness) within all is Brahman. You are one with Brahman as Brahman. Likewise, in Taoism, reidentification is the result of letting go of identity and merging as one with the river of Tao. To merge with the river of Tao requires a complete dissolution of identity.   To express our inherent virtue (te) according to our unique organic pattern (li), we must stop fighting the world according to our identity and let go of it so that the river’s power can become our power. We fight the current of the river of Tao because we see the world through the veil of identity. We measure the reality according to our identity and incorrectly believe that’s the way the world is. It is not. It is only the way your identity perceives it, and then all sorts of narratives are created, leading to conflict and confusion. Paradoxically, if we are serious about world peace, then the one who yearns for peace must disappear. World peace can never be attainable through personas created by the socialization process.   So the conflict we are constantly trying to resolve can never be rectified if the solution is filtered through identity, which is inherently flawed by self-interest and conditioning. Our innate nature knows no form of conflict because it is naturally harmonious and one with the river. Our nature was warped due to socialization and, as a result, the accumulation of a separate isolated self was born. The destruction of our nature is nothing new. Since the birth of agrarian cultures and large-scale societies, our nature has been distorted. Chuang-tzu warned us about socialization almost twenty-five hundred years ago due to the increasing tyranny of Confucianism.   The Story of Hundun In the very last part of the inner chapters of the Chuang-tzu text, there is an extremely important story that encapsulates the whole Taoist philosophy and view of identity and social conditioning. This is the story of Hundun. The word Hundun is known in its Cantonese variation as Wonton, a famous mixed dumpling that you may have eaten. But Hundun in the Chuang-tzu is no mixed dumpling, but rather some primordial state before the world of forms came into manifestation.   In ancient China, Hundun is a type of mythological being that represents the original state of the universe. Hundun is an indistinct primordial being without any features or qualities, similar to the Greek notion of chaos, the qualityless state of Nirguna Brahman in Advaita Vedanta, and the original state of Tao in wu chi. Hundun—as with chaos, Nirguna Brahman, and wu chi—is the cosmogenic idea that the

Reclaiming Taoism

Reclaiming Taoism Taoism is essentially a philosophy based on the way of nature. But even that statement on its own can be misinterpreted due to one’s own personal, social, cultural, or religious understanding of the way of nature. For Taoism, even though this definition seems self-explanatory, it is complex to understand and even more difficult to live by. This entire book will explain what it truly means to be in accord with and to follow the way of nature, the Tao. But before that, we truly need to comprehend that Taoism is essentially a natural philosophy. In the age of information saturation, Taoism, like much else, has fallen victim to misunderstanding, misinterpretation, and misinformation. Its nature is essentially mysterious, so if one has not studied Taoist philosophy extensively, a warped view of the tradition eventuates that, unfortunately, influences other people not schooled in Taoism. It is a constant cycle of misinformation, which has been ramped up since the advent and increased popularity of social media platforms such as YouTube. These platforms perpetuate misinformation about Taoism, especially that based on incorrect translations of the Tao Te Ching and Chuang-tzu texts. Unfortunately, a lot of these incorrect translations are the most popular versions of these texts—particularly of the Tao Te Ching. These versions have been stripped of their original meaning to make sense to a predominantly Western audience with certain cultural sensibilities. They are easier to follow and poetic for Western minds. Many people enjoy reading them because they relate to us in the here and now. Even I enjoy reading them occasionally. But at the end of the day, they are not correct and distort the original meaning and intent of the Taoist texts. The most accurate translations are vague and mysterious to the untrained mind. They require deeper contemplation and understanding. They require us to understand the real nuanced meaning of each line from what was truly written in Chinese. Each chapter and rereading elicit a new layer of understanding. We cannot honestly come to a conclusion on those texts after one reading. A deeper inquiry is needed. One that cannot happen in short spurts like five-to-ten-minute YouTube videos based on unclear translations. If you are serious about Taoism, then it is imperative to understand its genuine essence and what it truly is. A Need for Structure Though it may seem counterintuitive to the way of Taoism, there is a growing need for structure and clarity on what Taoism is and, essentially, what it means to be Taoist. Despite the lucid, effortless nature of Taoism, we live in an age where some framework is needed to avoid a complete disfiguration of the tradition. It is not just about knowing what particular aspects of Taoism are or even experiencing them, but rather a complete understanding of the tradition is required that will transform your psychology and worldview.   Based on the way of the Tao, many different systems of cultivation were created over the thousands of years since the time of the great Taoist sages Lao-tzu and Chuang-tzu (369–286 BCE) in China’s Warring States period. Most notable are the cultivation methods of martial arts and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) based on the holistic philosophy of Taoism. More precisely, these two branches are known in Chinese as Neidan, internal alchemy, and Waidan, external alchemy. The internal alchemy of Neidan is cultivated through the well-known martial and nonmartial arts spiritual practices of t’ai chi ch’uan (commonly known as t’ai chi), qi gong, baguazhang, xingyiquan, liuhebafa, and daoyin, which are all part of what is known as Nei Gong. The external alchemy of Waidan is practiced through herbal elixirs, specific foods, and other physiological practices all related to a holistic view of the human body and mind. Both Neidan and Waidan are based on the tenets of holism, which is the essence of Taoism, and a fundamental understanding of oneness that we will explore throughout this book.   Such traditions and lineages stemming from Taoist philosophy have developed and been refined for thousands of years. Personally, I am actively engaged in both Neidan and Waidan, and I can tell you from experience that if both are informed by their original philosophy of Taoism, then they will transform your life. A common misconception is a lot of people think if they practice t’ai chi ch’uan, for example, that this makes them a Taoist. Nothing could be further from the truth. That would be like saying anyone who practices hatha yoga is a Hindu. Hatha yoga is a small part of Hinduism, but you don’t have to practice hatha yoga to be Hindu. Likewise, you don’t have to practice t’ai chi ch’uan, qi gong, or Waidan to be Taoist. Will they deepen your understanding and experience of Tao? Yes, of course, especially if they are informed by Taoist philosophy. But are they necessary to follow the Tao? No.   Taoism is essentially an attitude, behavior, and worldview shaped by nature and not human socialization. Some people have an inherent aptitude for Taoism, and others need cultivation. Both depend on various factors: your genetic blueprint, your past life karma, your upbringing, culture, and religious indoctrination. Nevertheless, the Tao is ever-present, immanent within all experience, and at the same time transcends all experience. There is no one way to align yourself with the irreducible essence of Tao, though we could say Neidan, meditation practices, simplifying your life, and other practices are all effective methods. But, keep in mind, if you don’t understand the philosophy of Taoism, then no matter how much you practice meditation, for example, the experience and depth of the Tao within your being will not be realized.   Taoism requires a complete transformation via a dedication to unlearning the socialization we’ve all endured, which is not an easy feat. Taoism is a technology for deprogramming our minds from socialization so that we can finally return to our original natural state.   Returning to our basic disposition can, ironically, be one of the hardest things

Reclaiming Self-Knowledge Online Retreat

Reclaiming Self-Knowledge Online Retreat Four Live Zoom Sessions | Every Saturday from July 26 – August 16 Join the Shanti Sangha with Jason Gregory for this mid-year online retreat on the nature of Self-Knowledge. In this retreat we will explore the ancient teachings of Atmabodha (Self-Knowledge), the philosophy of Nondualistic Vedanta. Jason will draw on the sixty-eight verses of the Atmabodha text to guide the participants to a greater understanding of this wisdom so that we can all reclaim Self-Knowledge.  Each class is in a traditional satsang format which will consist of a 1-hour monologue on the teachings from Jason and then a 30-minute Q&A about these teachings. This will be a great opportunity to explore these teachings together in a place dedicated to the teachings with other sincere spiritual aspirants in the Shanti Sangha.   Price and Schedule Cost is $200 USD. Classes will be held at 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM US Eastern time. A Zoom invitation with password will be sent Thursday prior to each weekend. A video recording of the class will be sent to your email address and the link will be available for 30 days. If you are a paid Patreon member, the cost is discounted to $180 USD. To secure your spot, please make payment in full with your name and email address to the following link. You’ll receive a confirmation email within 3 days once you’ve made payment. Course registration is valid until July 23, 2025.   Refund Policy After July 23, 2025, payment is nonrefundable. This refund policy is in place because from July 23, 2025 all of the retreat material will have been set for the expected number of attendees. There will be no refund after July 23 as a result. COURSE REGISTERATION

FOOTSTEPS OF THE ARHATS THAILAND TOUR 2026

FOOTSTEPS OF THE ARHATS THAILAND TOUR THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME EMBRACE PILGRIMAGE AS A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE OF ONENESS THE SACRED YATRA EXPERIENCE with Jason Gregory JANUARY 2026 The Sacred Yatra Experience is the ultimate pilgrimage of the spiritual traditions of Asia. The Footsteps of the Arhats Thailand Tour is one of the most unique travel experiences in the world. You can travel with author, philosopher, and teacher Jason Gregory on a mystical tour of Thailand to explore and trace the footsteps the Thai hermits and mystics. Get unique insights into Jason’s knowledge of the East and the memory of the masters and scared places you will visit. Jason wishes to take people to the most sacred places in Thailand to show that the ancient Hindu and Buddhist cultures are thriving. But this can only be experienced by those willing to join him on this pilgrimage of the heart.   1. About our tour to Thailand Our 10-day itinerary includes visits to the most breathtakingly beautiful and mystical places in Thailand. We will travel through Thailand to visit the most important sacred places in Thai history related to Theravada Buddhism and Hinduism. Most people never get the chance to experience face-to-face the archaic origins and sacred sites of Thailand’s spiritual culture. But on this journey, you will get a once in a lifetime opportunity to actually feel the ancient living spiritual culture that is still thriving in the sacred places you will visit. You will also get the chance to meet real-life mystics and mingle with the beautiful people of Thailand.   What is more, during the tour you will take part in private discourses given by Jason Gregory. He will show you the significance of how the great Eastern spiritual traditions can help you live more harmoniously in the modern world. You will begin to understand the deep wisdom the mystics of the East expounded for you to find true happiness and fulfilment in this life. And this is the reason for joining Jason Gregory on his tour of Thailand to follow in the footsteps of the great Buddhist masters. This is a once-in-a-life-time experience!   2. ITINERARY Day 1 – Arrival to Sukhothai, Thailand (January 22, 2026) From Bangkok, there are only two flights daily to Sukhothai. Arrival at Sukhothai Airport in Sukhothai, Thailand. A representative of the tour team will welcome guests at the Sukhothai Airport and transport them to the hotel. After the check-in process at the hotel, guests will have time to rest and recuperate while all guests arrive at the hotel. Day 2 – Ancient Sukhothai Historical Park (January 23, 2026) On day 2, we will rise early and visit Mahathat Temple for a sunrise meditation. Later in the morning after breakfast, we will ride cycles around the ancient Sukhothai Historical Park, exploring the Hindu and Buddhist ruins. The ruins of Sukhothai, literally ‘dawn of happiness’, is the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom in the 13th and 14th centuries. In the evening, we will explore the local markets and mingle with the community of Sukhothai. Day 3 – Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat Rajaworaviharn and Travel to Lampang (January 24, 2026) On day 3, we will travel to Lampang. On the way, we will stop by the sacred Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat Rajaworaviharn Temple. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Ratchaworawihan is a first-class royal temple in Si Satchanalai, Sukhothai, Thailand.   In the afternoon, we will arrive to Lampang and visit the famous Lampang night markets to experience the beautiful Thai culture. Day 4 – Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Sky Pagodas, and Travel to Phayao (January 25, 2026) On day 4, we will travel to Phayao. But before that, we will visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang in the morning. On the road to Phayao, we will stop at the iconic Sky Pagodas where ancient hermits used to renounce the world.   In the evening, we will enjoy dinner over the famous Phayao Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the northern region and the fourth largest in the country. Day 5 – Wat Analayo Thipphayaram, Phutthakhaya Pagoda, and the Submerged Temple (January 26, 2026) In the morning on day 5, we will travel to Wat Analayo Thipphayaram. The temple is beautifully nestled in the jungle. It is a very large temple complex on the slopes of Doi Luang, overlooking the Phayao Lake. A myth involving a monk called Phra Achan Phibun Sumangkhalo from Wat Rattanawanaram in Phayao had a dream and vision that resulted in the establishment of a temple on the mountain on the other side of the Kwan Phayao. Next, we will travel to Phutthakhaya Pagoda which is a replica of the Mahabodhi Temple where the Buddha attained enlightenment. This temple is in the middle of the jungle and feels deserted.   In the afternoon, we will get a boat ride over the submerged temple, Wat Tilok Aram. Submerged beneath the Phayao Lake is the 500-year-old temple. A stone inscription records that King Tilokkarad commanded Chao San Hua, the King of Muang Phayao, to establish the temple in 1476 – 1486 as an offering to the greatest king in the region. The temple stood for nearly five centuries until an irrigation project in 1939 inundated the temple, along with more than 10 other ancient sites.   We will end the day relaxing in this scenic town as we enjoy each other’s company. Day 6 – Travel to Chiang Dao and Wat Tham Pha Plong (January 27, 2026) On day 6, we will travel to Chiang Dao in the morning. In the afternoon, we will visit Wat Tham Pha Plong, a monastery nestled in the mountains of Chiang Dao. Day 7 – Wat Tham Chiang Dao Cave Temple, Wat Ban Den, and Travel to Chiang Mai (January 28, 2026) On day 7, after breakfast we will explore the famous cave temple, Wat Tham Chiang Dao. According to legend, the sage Phra Rama Rishi, renowned for his profound meditation, invoked divine

FOOTSTEPS OF THE MAHASIDDHAS LADAKH TOUR 2025

FOOTSTEPS OF THE MAHASIDDHAS LADAKH TOUR THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME REVIVING THE LOST SPIRITUAL PRACTICE OF PILGRIMAGE  THE SACRED YATRA EXPERIENCE with Jason Gregory AUGUST 2025 IMPORTANT NOTE Ladakh is a high altitude region, ranging from 9,800 to 18,000 feet (3,000 to 5,500 meters). The majority of our tour will take place at 11,550 feet (3500 meters) high. Participants must have a good level of physical fitness. The Ladakhi Government recommends all tourists to take a 48 hours resting period after arrival. As a result,  the first 2 days of our tour has been allocated for rest and hydration. By joining this tour, you acknowledge these risks and confirm your fitness. A signed High Altitude Risk Disclaimer for Travel to Ladakh and Acknowledgment of Risks and Release of Liability is required. Document will be provided upon booking. The Sacred Yatra Experience is the ultimate pilgrimage of the spiritual traditions of Asia. The Footsteps of the Mahasiddhas Ladakh Tour is one of the most unique travel experiences in the world. You can travel with author, philosopher, and teacher Jason Gregory on a mystical tour of Ladakh to explore and trace the footsteps the Himalayan hermits and mystics. Get unique insights into Jason’s knowledge of the East and the memory of the masters and scared places you will visit. Jason wishes to take people to the most sacred places in Ladakh to show that the ancient Hindu and Buddhist cultures are thriving. But this can only be experienced by those willing to join him on this pilgrimage of the heart.   1. About our tour to Ladakh  Our 11-day itinerary includes visits to the most breathtakingly beautiful and mystical places in Ladakh. We will travel through Ladakh to visit the most important sacred places in Ladakhi history. Most people never get the chance to experience face-to-face the archaic origins and sacred sites of Ladakh’s spiritual culture. But on this journey, you will get a once in a lifetime opportunity to actually feel the ancient living spiritual culture that is still thriving in the sacred places you will visit. You will also get the chance to meet real-life mystics and mingle with the beautiful people of Ladakh.    What is more, during the tour you will take part in private discourses given by Jason Gregory. He will show you the significance of how the great Eastern spiritual traditions can help you live more harmoniously in the modern world. You will begin to understand the deep wisdom the mystics of the East expounded for you to find true happiness and fulfilment in this life. And this is the reason for joining Jason Gregory on his tour of Ladakh to follow in the footsteps of such great Buddhist masters as Padmasambhava. This is a once-in-a-life-time experience!   2. ITINERARY Day 1 – Arrival to Leh, Ladakh (August 24, 2025) Arrival at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. A representative of the tour team will welcome guests at the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport and transport them to the hotel. After the check-in process at the hotel, guests will have time to rest and recuperate while all guests arrive at the hotel. It will be imperative for all guests to rest as much as possible in the first two days to acclimatize to the altitude.  Day 2 – Rest, Relax, and Acclimatize (August 25, 2025) On day 2, we will all rest and acclimatize to the altitude. We will explore the Leh Market area to enjoy the local cuisine and explore the local markets as we adjust to the altitude throughout the day.  Day 3 – Leh Palace, Tsemo Maitreya Monastery, Spituk Monastery, and Stok Monastery (August 26, 2025)  On day 3, we officially hit the road and begin our journey. We will explore four of the most significant locations in the Leh region. In the morning, we will visit the Leh Palace, the former royal palace overlooking the city of Leh. It was constructed circa 1600 AD by Sengge Namgyal. The palace was abandoned when Dogra forces took control of Ladakh in the mid-19th century and forced the royal family to move to Stok Palace.   Next in the morning, we will visit the Tsemo Maitreya Monastery, which was founded by King Tashi Namgyal (1555-1575) of Ladakh. It has a three-story high gold statue of Maitreya Buddha and ancient manuscripts and frescoes. It is situated near the Tsemo Castle. In the afternoon, we will visit Spituk Monastery. This monastery has one of the most breathtaking views of the airports, where you can witness planes flying in and out from Leh. The site of Spituk was blessed by the Arhat Nyimagung. The monastery is home to 100 monks and a giant statue of Kali (unveiled during the annual festival).  Late in the afternoon, Jason will take you to one of his favorite tea shops in the world at Stok Monastery, with the most breathtaking views of the Himalayas you will see while enjoying a tea. Day 4 – Travel to Alchi and Alchi Monastery (August 27, 2025)  Alchi is a village located on the banks of the Indus River 70km (43.49miles) downstream from the capital, Leh. Unlike the other monasteries in Ladakh, Alchi is situated on lowland, not on a hilltop. The village is famous for the existence of one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, Alchi Monastery, mainly known for its magnificent and well-preserved 11th or 12th-century wall paintings, all in an Indo-Himalayan style. The monastery houses thousands of rare and unique sculptures and paintings dating back to 11th century Western Tibet.   On day 4, we will travel to the small village of Alchi and visit one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, the Alchi Monastery.  Day 5 – Likir Monastery and Travel to Thiksey (August 28, 2025)  On day 5, we will travel to Thiksey, but along the way, we will visit the Likir Monastery, the famous Klu-kkhyil (meaning “water spirits” who once lived there) monastery. The Likir Monastery was first built in the 11th century and was rebuilt in the 18th century, and currently has a 25-foot-tall (7.6 m) gold-covered Maitreya Buddha statue.   We will arrive in Thiksey village in the afternoon to enjoy

Epilogue – Nepal Tour 2024

Epilogue – Nepal Tour 2024 We just completed the Footsteps of the Himalayan Yogi Nepal tour with seven beautiful souls. What an amazing journey into the sacred heart of the Kathmandu Valley. It is a privilege to take people to the places that we love so that they too can connect with the ancient spirit of Nepal. We explored Shiva and Buddha’s divine valley of the gods in the Himalayas tracing the footsteps of such masters as Dilgo Khyenste Rinpoche, Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, Tilopa, Naropa, previous incarnations of the Buddha, and many other sadhus and siddhas of ancient times.   No matter whether it was being absorbed in aarti at Pashupatinath, engrossed in the subtle energy of Swayambhu, or in meditation at Namo Buddha, the group dived head first into the unknown and embraced the experience. It brought me tears of joy to see some of the participants overwhelmed with tears of divine love at places such as Swayambhu, for example, early in the morning. Every time I visit Swayambhu, I am also overwhelmed with tears, and so it was an honor to facilitate that same spiritual experience for others. On these pilgrimages, even though the places we visit have an intense energy only for those who are ready to experience these sacred spaces, it is the journey together and connection we build as a group that is the real jewel in the lotus flower.   Every time on these tours, people come as strangers and leave as brothers and sisters. The connection is something quite difficult to quantify, but it is there nevertheless. Maybe it is a sacred thread reconnected between us by going on such pilgrimages together so that we realize that when we trust each other with no sense of egoic resistance and take people for who they are, there is a power in that acceptance that reveals the superficial differences people cling to is a fundamental illusion. Such is the power of the pilgrimage and the courageous pilgrim.    On a personal level, these tours never get old for Gayoung and myself. The tours are like this peak experience, or should I say a shot of spiritual adrenaline, that shows how life could be if we just get out of our own way and allow life to be what it is while embracing our innate adventurous spirit into the uncertain wilderness we call life. No words can express how grateful we are for the people who joined us on this journey, but we do wish to send all our love to everyone for being there with us. In alphabetical order, I would like to send our love and appreciation to Chris, Dara, Matt, Mike, Ross, Scott, and Srini. We love and appreciate all of you. Thank you for entrusting us with your hearts to guide you on this journey. With the blessings of Shiva and Buddha, we all allowed the pilgrimage to soften our minds so that we could leave Nepal as one in the heart the divine.    OM NAMAH BUDDHAYA!!! OM NAMAH SHIVAYA!!!

The Teachings of Oneness in the Bhagavad Gita Course

The Teachings of Oneness in the Bhagavad Gita Course Four Live Zoom Classes | Every Saturday from February 1 – February 22, 2025 The deeper teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are often lost due to a warping of the text to suit the philosophical agenda of certain organized groups, no matter whether that warping is based on a dualist view or the ardent focus on devotion. As a result, the original teachings, which are nondual, are misunderstood. The true teachings of oneness in the Bhagavad Gita are usually misunderstood due to the complex cultural aspects of the great scripture. These aspects are not only lost somewhat within India but also inhibit a foreigner’s understanding of the Bhagavad Gita, especially due to the lack of traditional knowledge and values in the modern world. By returning to tradition, in this case to the true nature of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism), one will begin to comprehend the subtlety of the Bhagavad Gita, which will open the door to a deeper exploration of the nondual teachings within the scripture.   The Teachings of Oneness in the Bhagavad Gita Course is a comprehensive exploration and restoration of the original teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Rooted in the tradition of Sanatana Dharma, the Bhagavad Gita is demystified in this course, revealing the genuine essence of living in harmony with one’s Dharma.   Class 1: Modules 1 and 2 Module 1: Introduction to the Bhagavad Gita Explore the key concepts and principles of the Bhagavad Gita from the ancient traditional perspective of Sanatana Dharma. Understanding the traditional perspective and the key concepts and principles will guide us into a deeper comprehension throughout the following modules.     Module 2: The Foundations of Yoga in the Bhagavad Gita We will explore the true nature of yoga as we find it in the Bhagavad Gita. I will explain the very ancient yoga far before the Bhagavad Gita that informs the scripture as we traverse the numerous forms of yoga, from the highest yoga to the importance of the yoga of surrender.     Class 2: Modules 3 and 4 Module 3: Who is the Hero of the Great War? I will explain the importance of the Kurukshetra War, where the Bhagavad Gita takes place. To understand the importance of this war, we will explore the ancient philosophical teachings of Samkhya and Yoga alongside the traditional cultural systems that help resolve the debate between free will versus divine will.     Module 4: Yoga on the Battlefield of Life The Kurukshetra War in the Bhagavad Gita represents a reflection of our own trials and tribulations in life. I will explain in-depth the nature of this battlefield and the path of yoga set out for each and every one of us to be the hero of our own story.     Class 3: Modules 5 and 6 Module 5: Transcending the Power of Maya There are many misunderstandings of the concept of maya due to poor translations and a lack of spiritually intuiting the meaning correctly. I will explain what the concept of maya is within the Bhagavad Gita and the practices we need to employ to transcend its power so that we can abide in the oneness of Brahman, which is the Ultimate Reality of existence beyond God.     Module 6: Personal and Impersonal Love of the Divine We can often get swept up with our own quest for enlightenment by yearning for the impersonal Brahman and neglect the need for our personal love of the divine through the tradition of the Devatas, which keeps us humbly human. I will explain the Devata tradition and why devotion is important for spiritual growth.     Class 4: Modules 7 and 8 Module 7: The Secret Path of Meditation and the Vision of the Divine There is a secret path of meditation in the Bhagavad Gita that is not often discussed, nor is it usually considered one of the generic paths of yoga. But I will explain the concepts and practices of this secret meditation so that we can finally embrace the true vision of the divine, which was an unconventional revelation taught by Krishna that was a truth hard for Arjuna to accept.   Module 8: The Ultimate Yoga Beyond the Bhagavad Gita An ultimate yoga reserved for the great sages exists once we comprehend the true teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. I will explain the teachings of this ultimate yoga and why it is a path found by few and only for those who are ready to taste the sweet nectar of the Truth.   We will finish the course by having a discussion on everything we have learned in the past four weeks.   Price and Schedule Cost is $200 USD. Classes will be held at 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM US Eastern time. A Zoom invitation with password will be sent Thursday prior to each weekend. A video recording of the class will be sent to your email address and the link will be available for 30 days.   To secure your spot, please make payment in full with your name and email address to the following link. Course registration is valid until January 30, 2025. Refund Policy After January 30, 2025, payment is nonrefundable. This refund policy is in place because from January 30, 2025 all of the course material will have been set for the expected number of attendees. There will be no refund after January 30 as a result. COURSE REGISTERATION

The Advanced Teachings of Taoism Course

The Advanced Teachings of Taoism Course Six Live Zoom Classes | Every Saturday from March 8 – April 12, 2025 Taoism, the most bastardized spiritual tradition and philosophy in the world, has fallen victim to misunderstanding, misinterpretation, and misinformation due to incorrect translations of the Tao Te Ching and Chuang-tzu texts. These flawed translations have stripped the original meanings, catering instead to a predominant Western audience with specific cultural sensibilities. However, these translations are inaccurate and distort the authentic meaning and intent of the sacred Taoist texts. Misinformation is eroding the essence of the Taoist tradition, creating an urgent need for clarity regarding what Taoism truly represents and what it means to be Taoist.   The Advanced Teachings of Taoism Course is a comprehensive exploration and restoration of Taoism. Rooted in the philosophy of nature, Taoism is demystified in this course, revealing the genuine essence of living in harmony with the natural way, the Tao.     Class 1: Modules 1 and 2 Module 1: Reclaiming Taoism  Explore Taoism from the ancient Chinese traditional perspective based on the two source texts, the Tao Te Ching and the Chuang-tzu. I will explain why classical Taoism is actually a lot different from how a lot of people think about Taoism today. Module 2: The Metaphysical Framework of Taoism For the first time ever recorded, I will explain the metaphysical framework, all the way from the undifferentiated reality to the manifest world. I go into how that universal unfolding is reflected in our very being, making the human being a reflection of the entire universe.   Class 2: Modules 3 and 4 Module 3: Taoism’s Critique of Confucianism and Socialization We will explore how Taoism was actually a critique of Confucianism throughout the Warring States period of China. In doing so, I will dispel a lot of the false views around Confucius and Confucianism. I will explain why Taoism is the real natural system, which goes deep into its critique of how Confucius had this strange belief that by following his rules and regulations, that is what made us natural again. Module 4: The Dissolution of Identity Taoism’s ultimate aim is the dissolution of identity so that the undifferentiated Tao can make use of an individual. This is never spoken about in pop-Taoism for some reason, but from an ancient traditional perspective, Taoism is very similar to other nondual traditions throughout Asia. Though Taoism does differ slightly from the strict nondual traditions, it has a more holistic, integral teaching. I will explain in this module Taoism’s integral nondual approach.   Class 3: Modules 5 and 6 Module 5: The Immorality of Morality I will explain the illusion of morality based on the teachings of Chuang-tzu and, as a result, why Taoism is an amoral tradition centered on nature and not governed by man-made morals. No one ever explores the amoral perspective of Taoism because most people don’t know about it or are afraid to speak about it candidly in the face of our moral systems. In understanding the amorality of Taoism in this course, you will have a roadmap to go beyond the illusions of good and evil to come closer to an understanding of true oneness, which is the goal of Taoism. Module 6: The Politically Incorrect Nature of Taoism This module covers the politically incorrect nature of Taoism and why a society stricken with political correctness is unnatural. I will explain some of the deepest, yet misunderstood stories from the Chuang-tzu text so that you can understand the natural amoral perspective of Taoism. I explain that Chuang-tzu himself had to also deal with the politically correct nonsense of Confucianism, as we do too in the modern world. As a result, I will use the teachings of Chuang-tzu to critique the modern politically correct attitude that is infecting innocent people’s minds in the present day. Class 4: Modules 7 and 8 Module 7: Beyond Good and Evil We will explore why Taoism believes our human nature is fundamentally good. In doing so, I will destroy the commonly held assumption that we are beasts from birth. I will explain this by using Taoism to analyze Confucianism, the Abrahamic faiths, and other Western traditions that believe we are beasts from birth. Module 8: The Simple World vs. The Complex World Moving constantly into a complex world is something Lao-tzu and Chuang-tzu warned us about. They knew if we fell for the artificial linguistic conventions and cultural frameworks, it would be hard to wrestle our awareness from these tools of partiality so that we could see the world as it truly is. I will explain in this module the subtle battle between the natural, simple world and the evolving, complex world. We will explore Lao-tzu’s teaching of the two desires and Chuang’s great undoing so that we can attune to the Tao. Class 5: Modules 9 and 10 Module 9: The Art of Doing Nothing The essential Taoist teaching of wu-wei can be a confusing concept for those who are addicted to doing. Modern teachers and students of Taoism are also puzzled by wu-wei, as we discover through many people adapting it to their own sensibilities. We need to understand wu-wei as it is. I will explain the different translations of wu-wei and how in essence all interpretations lead to nondoing. Module 10: The Spontaneous Reality The real world of the Tao is a spontaneous reality. The sage lives in this spontaneous reality. I will explain the nature of this spontaneous reality by delving into the Taoist concept of tzu-jan (naturalness), the illusion of thinking, mind seeking, and the hidden teaching of what thoughts would be without language. I will expand this knowledge through an exploration into the concept of the unsupported thought and how the unconscious linkage of thoughts create the identity. Class 6: Modules 11 and 12 Module 11: Free and Easy Wandering in Oneness I explain the ultimate teaching after wu-wei, xiaoyao you (free and easy wandering in oneness). Xiaoyao you

The Seeker’s Mind

The Seeker’s Mind Often people want to learn and be creative, but they can’t focus for long periods of time and have no creative calling. This is common in our world today because we are so distracted. A mind constantly distracted will only seek more distraction because it is used to overstimulation. A distracted mind is like the ocean waters during a hurricane. On the other hand, a tranquil mind is like a pristine lake on a bright and sunny day. A motionless lake is transparent and reflective; you can see right down into its ultimate depth.   Our attraction to entertainment is destroying our innate ability to learn and be creative. Constant entertainment pacifies our mind. As a result intelligence is undervalued in our world, and creativity is thought of as something isolated to artists. The truth is eclipsed when we overfeed our mind with entertainment and poor food, forget to exercise, and just allow our thoughts and emotions to run amok. We become desensitized to the world around us and even ourselves, as we vicariously watch the whole world implode into unconsciousness.   Becoming more conscious of our inner and outer landscape allows us to learn and create at an optimal level. However, developing expert skill and reaching peak performance also depends on having the discipline and dedication for cultivating more intelligence and creativity, which will enhance your overall life. The irony is that many people who just go through life with no discipline and allow life to push them around are often arrogant about what they “think” they know and are incapable of learning as a result. They have not been humbled by life, so they continue to fight and be jaded. We are unable to learn when we are rendered unconscious by overstimulation of body and mind.   Cultivating Intelligence   Cultivating intelligence requires us to finally admit that we don’t really know anything. This is not a desirable position to be in in our world. We always want to save face by appearing to be intelligent. We often speak about topics and current affairs that we really don’t know anything about because we are paranoid that not knowing about something opens us up for criticism. But it is highly unintelligent to speak on matters we don’t really know about. Even current affairs are issues we shouldn’t speak about. Just because the news broadcast or newspaper gives us information on certain matters doesn’t mean we actually know what’s really going on. It’s unintelligent to formulate opinions on such scarce information without diving deep into the subject.   By nourishing the little things in our life we realize that we actually don’t know much, but on the flip side we are eager to learn. As a result we are not afraid to admit that we don’t know because that is the most honest and intelligent position to be in. We learn to be truly humble and not at all worried about not knowing, and as a result we approach life as explorers rather than know-it-alls. We embrace the seeker’s mind, meaning we remain a student of life. Having a seeker’s mind cultivates intelligence, which allows us to grow psychologically. Our minds become more articulate and clear, which becomes evident in our speech and emotional conduct. If we pretend we know, we cannot learn. And if we cannot learn, we cannot grow. Learning is the fertilizer for growing our intelligence. Learning is just like nature because it is nourishing, moving, and growing—it’s alive! Learning itself grows our mind, and if we are growing, then we are fully alive.   Our habit to try to be a know-it-all cuts us off from the feeling of growing and being alive. Once we think we know something categorically we stagnate and disconnect from our mind’s natural growth. Our all-knowing habit makes us come across as an authority on certain matters, but we forget that information always changes and knowledge deepens as our mind grows. By remaining a student and continuing to learn throughout our lives, we understand more and continue to grow. Even when we think we aren’t learning, life is teaching us, as philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti explains:   “There is no end to education. It is not that you read a book, pass an examination and finish with education. The whole of life, from the moment you are born till the moment you die is a process of learning. Learning has no end and that is the timeless quality of learning.”   There should be no end to learning. If you are humble enough to remain a student your growth will be continual, and as a result your mind will cultivate a keen intelligence that has a deep understanding of self, others, and life. This process should continue to the day we die, as Mahatma Gandhi said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” Learning nourishes this deep intelligence, making us more aware with a profound sense of understanding. Deep intelligence is something we all can have if we are willing to do the work. We are losing contact with intelligence because of the toxic habits that keep us distracted. Instead of diving headfirst into distractions, we need to go old school with simple habits that have become background noise in our modern world.   Reading as a Discipline    Reading books is essential for learning. Books are a super fuel for cultivating intelligence. But in our modern world books have taken a backseat to the toxic habit of watching screens. We watch television and watch on our smartphones and computers. It’s a constant observation of everybody else’s lives but our own. When we watch whatever it may be, including mindlessly surfing the internet and scrolling the social media feeds, we zone out in a stupefied zombie state. As a result, watching too much stuff on screens makes us stupid.   Watching screens doesn’t require a lot of our attention. The more we partake in watching activities the less our mind can concentrate and think clearly. When people have these types of habits it is hard for them to complain about their lives. How can any of us complain if we are not making our lives conscious?   We need to take our power back. Instead

The Cult of Comparison in the West

The Cult of Comparison in the West People in the West often cry and whine about some perceived privilege others have. But not in India and many countries throughout Asia. This cult of comparison has infected the hearts of many in the West, which is a special type of sickness stemming from a trained tendency towards competition and comparison. What an immature society and culture we have created in the West, so sick with jealousy and envy. But, astonishingly, there is always an insane justification for such a mental illness for those infected by this disease. Luckily, as I said, places such as India generally are not victims of such immaturity. In contemplating this cult of comparison, I think about my restaurant waiter friend in Pushkar. He is quite the character. Every day when I would see him, I would ask how he was doing. He would always reply, “This is a perfect life.” Some may say, How can he be so content “just” being a restaurant waiter? Well, he wasn’t sold on the illusion of the American dream, where one must be “special” in order to be validated by others and society at large. Isn’t it silly that we feel we need to be validated by the world instead of being content with who we are naturally?   Often, those who work their whole lives to gain that validation realize that it is not an American dream but rather a nightmare, and the torture on their souls in chasing this illusion leaves scars on their hearts that, in most cases, are irreversible. My friend, on the other hand, doesn’t even know what the American dream is and has no idea that people outside of India try so hard to be noticed and validated. He can’t grasp the concern about trying to be special. His contentment arises from not having such illusions drilled into him daily by a society and culture that does not care for you. He is not “just” a restaurant waiter but rather a brilliant restaurant waiter. He doesn’t need millions of dollars, loads of unnecessary material possessions, or validation from others. Why? Because he is content with his plight in life, and nothing is more fulfilling than being content with where you are in life. He has no idea of specialness, so, as a result, he has no desire to be somebody special. He is not looking over the fence or scouring the social media feeds for what others have and what he apparently lacks because he has no desire to measure his life against others.   His liberated content state of mind we can all have if we accept where we are in life, and if that needs to change, then do something about it rather than measure your life against others. Take ownership of your life and realize that in most cases, a lotus flower indeed grows out of the mud, but that doesn’t make that lotus flower special; rather, it has its own unique path in life if you allow your life to grow as it intended without comparing your path to others. These are the lessons one can learn from being away from cultures that continually promote lack due to the preposterous idea that you are not good enough. But when you realize you aren’t more special than anyone else, you realize you are good enough as you are and that this is truly a perfect life when you stop complaining about privilege and comparing your life to others. When you stop complaining or see no need to complain like my friend, then you come to the realization that the real privilege is to be alive and breathing in this moment together. What a blessing we all have to be graced with the amazing lives we share together, exactly in our right place, as naturally ordained by the Ultimate. SHARE