Podcasts about spiritual counseling

Greetings Friends,I am just getting back from our Interdependence Sesshin— five-days of residential silent retreat practice in the hills of West Virginia with the Mud Lotus Sangha. It was moving for me to practice sesshin in a new environment with many people who it was their first longer retreat.Sesshin is healing, no matter what the theme, it transforms us to sit and live in silence together, to practice opening the senses and seeing into our nature. It's a non-linear practice that awakens faith, vow, deep love and interconnection. As well as a confidence in the imperturbability of Mind itself.Returning from sesshin is its own practice. One that I am getting more familiar with outside of the monastery walls. Our lives are interdependent, so naturally sesshin flows into the structures and routines of our living. The heart-mind awake in the play of work, relationship, driving, eating—as the many hands and eyes of compassion express and manifest so seamlessly.What is this wonder? Alertly seeing through confusion is the way of silent illumination and the way of subtle radiance. —HongzhiOn Monday nights I lead an online drop-in meditation group through ZCO. We are currently doing a summer read of the Hidden Lamp: 25 Centuries of Awakened Women. You are welcome to join, click the link for the schedule below.This past Monday we read Case 6: Bhadda Kundalakesa Cannot Answer. Here is a short version of the story.Bhadda is a wandering Jain ascetic very skilled in debate. Wherever she goes she throws down a rose apple branch signifying that she is challenging any who dare engage with her to debate. When she is seventy years old, Shariputra (the Buddha's disciple) challenges Bhadda. Bhadda asks him several philosophical questions and he answers them all. Finally he says to her. I have one question for you. And proceeds to ask:“ One—what is that?”Bhadda can not answer.Shariputra then begins to teach her the dharma. Bhadda asks to take refuge and meets the Buddha who says to her.“One phrase that brings peace is better than a thousand words that have no use.”At these words Bhadda awakens. This koan feels particularly relevant in the charged political climate we find ourselves in. The nature of debate so often is a practice of proving ourselves, trying to convince the other how our perspective is the right one. We can feel self-righteous in our views, or morally superior or better then.When you debate or argue with someone, are you actually open to hearing what they have to say? How do we stay curious in the face of differences? What is it like to stay connected to your heart's aspiration when engaging in speech?In the story, Shariputra asks a mind-stopping question to Bhadda.One—what is that?The question itself doesn't really even make sense. As I repeat the phrase my mind has no where to go with it. It stops, opens, all that is left is space—quiet, wakefulness.I imagine this is what happened for Bhadda. Has anyone ever asked you a question that you could not answer? What did you do?This moment of not being able to answer left Bhadda open to the dharma—to the truth before words.Our words, our thoughts, our fears are often the source of division. We get so caught up in them, in being right or needing to defend ourselves or prove our position—that we forget that we are all made of the same stuff. That we all share the same nature, that quite literally and experientially our lives contain each other.If interdependence is our nature. How do we realize it?What is this One?This is the theme we explore in this dharma talk, feel free to listen and leave a comment. I'd love to hear your reflections on this koan as well.* Who are you when you aren't identified with your thoughts? When your mind is silent, open, awake? * Have you ever had the experience of not being able to answer? What happened next?* What is your experience of the Buddha's teaching to Bhadda—one phrase that brings peace is better than a thousand words that have no use?Next week we will continue the theme of oneness and interconnection through the practice of listening. To follow along and join the conversation read Case 10: Asan's Rooster in the Hidden Lamp. I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

When something's wrong physically, you see a doctor. But when the pain runs deeper, you need a different kind of help. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans explains how the Bible reveals the root of our struggles—and leads us toward true healing.

When something's wrong physically, you see a doctor. But when the pain runs deeper, you need a different kind of help. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans explains how the Bible reveals the root of our struggles—and leads us toward true healing.

When something's wrong physically, you see a doctor. But when the pain runs deeper, you need a different kind of help. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans explains how the Bible reveals the root of our struggles—and leads us toward true healing.

When something's wrong physically, you see a doctor. But when the pain runs deeper, you need a different kind of help. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans explains how the Bible reveals the root of our struggles—and leads us toward true healing.

Secret societies, occult symbolism, and more have manipulated and changed how people think throughout history. We don't realize that Satan has hidden manipulations within popular media that turn us away from God's plan for us.Eyes On The Right Podcast host Amy has been delving into these theories and finding the patterns, connections, and biblical roots that reveal these hidden truths. Amy shares how God gave her freedom from addiction and opened her eyes to the truth of what the enemy is doing through mind control and manipulation.  She is joining us on this episode of the Revelations Podcast to educate and bring awareness to the Enemy's tricks and schemes.  Learn to discern the occult symbolism and mind control that can lead us away from God's path of living a full life.Protect yourself, and don't let these hidden manipulations in modern society trick you. Listen to this episode to learn more and keep your eyes on God's path.Here are three reasons why you should listen to this episode:Listen to Amy's powerful testimony of God guiding her to the ministry he had planned for her and how she now educates others.Find out how Satan uses music, Hollywood, the government, and occult symbolism to manipulate and control people's minds.Learn to focus and stay rooted in God and His Word as you face these manipulations.Want to be part of what God is doing through the Revelations Podcast? You can contribute here!ResourcesMore from the Revelations Podcast: Website | Instagram | Apple PodcastAmy: Eyes On The Right Podcast | InstagramBible Verses:Matthew 2Joshua 1:7Genesis 61 Samuel 15:23Psalms 91Psalms 51Psalms 143This Episode is brought to you by Advanced Medicine AlternativesGet back to the active life you love through natural & regenerative musculoskeletal healing: https://www.georgekramermd.com/Episode Highlights[02:15] About Amy And Eyes On The RightAmy is a Christian who mentors others as a teacher and a spiritual and biblical counselor.She enjoys counseling people about the truth of God's Word. That is where you can find freedom in your life.Eyes On The Right started when Amy first delved into conspiracy theories and made her first Instagram account.At that time, Amy had very conservative views politically. Now, she focuses on being biblically based and praying for the country's leaders.The "Right" part of the name is based on the Bible's symbolism of the right side.[08:38] How God Shifted Amy Back on the Right PathAmy grew up in a Christian home with a good family. However, during high school, she started down a path of rebellion away from God's plan for her.Through God's grace, she graduated, got a job, and began her career in teaching and ministry.However, Amy couldn't truly see the God-given blessings in her life and wasn't truly happy. She used alcohol to cope with the problems she faced.One day at the beach, she heard God's voice tell her to get up and go. Despite wanting to give up, Amy kept going until she got sober and let God renew her.Amy felt broken and hated her life. She thinks God pushed her back into the path He planned for her.[18:58] A Message For The StrugglingThe Enemy wants you alone, isolated, and struggling. However, that time will end, and you'll be able to move toward the life meant for you.[19:44] Amy: “But there comes a time when that ends and you need to get up and you need to start moving because you've got a life to live and God has a purpose for you. And those emotions and those feelings will catch up when you're obedient. God will get you there.”All you have to do is obey God and do what you can. Don't worry about the past or the future. Focus on today and keep your eyes on Him.God didn't create you to be a quitter. Don't give up.[21:25] How Amy Started Eyes On The RightEyes On The Right started when Amy's daughter encouraged her to create an Instagram page while getting sober.She started seeking “conspiracy theories,” patterns and truths hidden in the Bible. The first one she dived into was about biblical cosmology and the creation of Earth.As Amy dove deeper, she realized that there are many things in the world that Satan and his people use to manipulate others.Once you know this truth, you can see through these tricks and avoid falling for it. Amy chose to spread awareness about the Enemy's tricks to help others.[27:12] Reagan: “That's what the Enemy wants to do, steal, kill, and destroy our lives. And when we're aware of it, we can get our armor on and we can be protected from it as a fusion success.” [27:27] The Enemy In the Modern WorldYou need to be discerning and in a space where you can delve deeper into this truth. There has to be an internal conviction in Christ that can anchor us.There are secret societies like the Freemasons, the Templars, and more all over the world throughout biblical history.In today's world, many people in Hollywood continue to perpetuate the occult symbolism of secret societies. It was a way of mind control and idol worship for the public.Occult symbolism encourages the disobedience of God's word. It's visible in movies, concerts, and all over Hollywood and the nation.[32:09] Closing the Door On the EnemyThere are a lot of things happening that you can find on the internet, such as UFO sightings and secret projects. It's critical to be discerning about what's real and what isn't.One of these was the MK Ultra project, which focused on mind-controlling humans. These experiments were conducted on many people, including kids, prisoners, and more.At some level, everyone has been programmed and mind-controlled, which creates a door for the Enemy to come in and destroy our lives.[36:42] Amy: "Our society, and I'm sure many people listening can agree, has shifted dramatically. We are no longer discerning. We no longer are girded up and wise and, and sober-minded. We are the opposite of that."Many celebrities follow a pattern of starting as innocent and wholesome, then shifting slowly into occult symbolism.People who look up to them aren't aware of the shift and won't see the impact.[39:58] Choosing To Live Life From GodThe Enemy is holding you back from living the life God meant for you.We want to live a life that honors God and builds our relationship with Him. To do so, you must consistently do the work rather than only do what's convenient for you.Kids are more susceptible to occult symbolism.As the parent, it's up to you to be discerning and be aware to help protect them. Now that you know, do better.[44:08] The Scriptures as a FootholdAmy clings to the Scriptures as she lives her life. Many people may find them boring and difficult to read, but keeping an open mind is essential.She has recently finished reading Joshua and is currently studying Galatians.Verses from the Bible, especially Psalms and Proverbs, replenish Amy.[48:08] Amy's Plan Moving ForwardAmy feels like it's time to grow and nourish something new.Her focus is a niche. At the start, many people judged her work and the new information it brought forward. Amy simply stays patient.She wants to step away from symbolism and tie it back to God and the truth in His Word.About AmyAmy is an educator, counselor, speaker, and Bible teacher who helps others deepen their understanding of the Scripture. She is also the podcast host of Eyes On The Right, where she delves into and reveals the truth of secret societies, occult symbolism, Hollywood, and more in today's world. Amy uses her show and Instagram account to educate others and encourage discernment of the hidden truths.Learn more about Amy and her work at Eyes On The Right on her Instagram and podcast links.Enjoyed this Episode?If you did, subscribe and share it with your friends!Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning in, then leave us a review. You can also share this with your friends and family. This episode will educate you on becoming aware and discerning the hidden truths in today's world.Have any questions? You can connect with me on Instagram.Thank you for tuning in! For more updates, tune in on Apple Podcasts.kw: occult symbolismmeta: Occult symbolism is everywhere...even in your cell phones and TV! It's important to be constantly on guard.

Greetings Friends,We began the Summer Read of The Hidden Lamp: 25 Centuries of Awakened Women with the first koan—The Old Woman of Wutai, a story about the spiritual path, pilgrimage and life direction that features crone wisdom. If you are interested in joining the summer read, more information and reading schedule can be found here.In this email I would like to share the koan and some reflections about life as pilgrimage. I would also love to create space for your own reflections and engagement. First the koan.Hidden Lamp Case 1: The Old Woman of WutaiAN OLD WOMAN lived on the road to Mount Wutai. A monk on pilgrimage asked her, “Which is the way to Mount Wutai?” The old woman said, “Right straight ahead.”The monk took a few steps, and she said, “He's a good monk, but off he goes, just like the others.” Monks came one after another; they'd ask the same question and receive the same answer.Later, a monk told Master Zhaozhou Congshen what had happened and Zhaozhou said, “I'll go and investigate that old woman myself.”Next day Zhaozhou went to the old woman and asked, “Which is the way to Mount Wutai?”“Right straight ahead,” she replied.Zhaozhou took a few steps.The old woman said, “He's a good monk, but off he goes, just like the others.”Zhaozhou returned to the monastery and told the monks, “I have checked out the old woman of Mount Wutai for you.”This story begins with a person on pilgrimage. Chozen Roshi defines pilgrimage in her book on Jizo Bodhisattva as, a long journey to a sacred place as an act of devotion.* Have you ever been on pilgrimage?* Where did you go? Who/what did you encounter?* What did you learn?The Practice of PilgrimageI find pilgrimage to be a very good metaphor for our life as spiritual practice, especially for those of us who don't live at a monastery or temple. In our daily lives we move around, we walk, we journey to different places whether mentally or physically. We encounter strange, wise, ordinary and mysterious beings. Our seemingly mundane travels to the grocery store, to the gym, to the park, to work could be seen as journeys to sacred places. What makes something sacred? I think this is an important question to ponder. What in your daily life is sacred? What defines an encounter with the sacred?In the Buddhist tradition people make pilgrimage to see the places in the buddha's life, where he taught, the bodhi tree where he was enlightened, where he was born and died. These travels of devotion can be inspiring and connect us to an ancient path of practice.So too, we are living buddhas. Where we walk, drive or bike is sacred land. When we are present, attentive, mindful, aware—we are actualizing a practice of devotion. In her book, Jizo Bodhisattva: Modern Healing & Traditional Buddhist Practice Chozen Roshi explores the relationship between pilgrimage and wandering, she says:There is a difference between a pilgrim and a wanderer. Buddhist teachings use “wanderer” to refer to someone who is lost in the rounds of suffering existence, transmigrating through the six worlds. As we move day by day, hour by hour, among states of ignorance and stupidity, irritation and anger, greediness, coveting and jealousy, pain and mental discomfort, we are like people wandering in a dense primal forest, unable to find a way out or even to climb above the trees to see if there is an edge to this tangling wilderness. We will do this until we realize, hear or are shown that there is a way out.What is the difference between a pilgrim and a wanderer? First, we must know that there is a path. If we get lost and can't find our way out, the only choice is despair and/or a grim determination just to survive. What transforms despair and resignation to hope and joy is knowing there is a path.She then goes on to talk about the practice of pilgrimage and what we need for the journey.A pilgrim carries only the essentials. Jizo has a robe and bowl, a staff, and the Dharma jewel. Nothing extra. What do we need to step out on the path of practice? Just the equipment we were born with. A body and a mind. Actually, a body that is breathing.Body, breath and mind. That's all that's needed. The beauty of this is that it means you can practice anywhere, anytime. In line for the bank, in a traffic jam, rocking your child to sleep. Just align body, breath and mind and there you are…Students ask, “How do you find time for practice?” There are two answers. First, my life makes me practice. I could not do what I do without practice. Second, I turn my awareness around. Instead of looking for time to practice and trying to expand it, I look for time I am not practicing and try to shrink it.Meeting the Old WomanOn this journey in the koan, we encounter an old woman.This old woman embodies crone wisdom and is also a Jizo-like figure, living at a crossroads—offering direction.In the commentary to this koan Nancy Brown imagines that perhaps this woman lived on a crossroads point to Wu Tai her entire life. And perhaps when she was a younger woman she would give the pilgrims physical directions, “yes, turn right here and then follow the path until you get to the larger oak tree…” but as she entered elder-hood her directions became more of a spiritual nature that she expressed as—go straight ahead! There is another koan in our lineage that invites: go straight on a mountain road with 99 curves.Crone wisdom like koan wisdom is about stepping out of logical, rational, either/or dualistic ways of being—and awakening to a more-than-rational awareness.The people we meet on our journeys can be teachers. Sometimes a line from a chant catches us when we are practicing chanting. Similarly in the pilgrimage of our lives, sometimes an encounter with a stranger at the grocery store, a scene from a show, words on our instagram feed can be teachings—touching our hearts before words.I was recently reading the fairly tale the Maiden King, in it the young hero has an encounter with Baba Yaga, the crone figure who lives in the depths of the forest. In the tale she asks the hero,Did you come here of your own free will, or by compulsion?This pilgrimage, this healing journey, this spiritual quest, this life path you are on—how did you get here?Are you wandering or are you a pilgrim?In the fairy tale the hero answers, I came mostly of my own free will, and twice as much by compulsion.Mostly I was following my aspiration, and twice as much my wanderings.This is the way of things, we meet our lives as best we can through our vows, our intention. So much of what happens is beyond our control. Sometimes we wander and find ourselves in strange, challenging, habitual or unfamiliar terrain.The Way of Not-Knowing, The Way of IntimacyOne of my teachers invited us to practice aimless wandering. We would consciously disrupt direction oriented walking with a touch of chaos, moving not from the head but from some other source of direction.The practice was an invitation to embrace uncertainty as a practice—as something that we can embrace or be in relationship with. It also turns the duality of wandering and pilgrim around. Perhaps wandering too is the way—is part of this mysterious path.There is another koan about pilgrimage, here a pilgrim is asked where they are going on pilgrimage, and they answer honestly—”I don't know.” The teacher responds: “Not-knowing is most intimate.”I find when working with koans, that the phrases or images offered can become practice reminders. Which phrases or images feel alive for you? Carry them around and see how they open.I am practicing with the old woman's phrase—right, straight ahead. To voice this phrase internally as I notice mind-wandering into garden plans or song lyrics or stories about the people in my life—I say, “Kisei, right straight ahead.” And usually it wakes me up to the mystery of this place—the sounds of my hands typing, tree limbs dancing in the summer breeze, openness-unconditioned, belly-breath, an abiding tenderness towards life itself.Nancy Brown in her commentary shares that her teacher Zen Master Seung Sahn would end every retreat and every letter with the phrase:Only go straight, don't know; try, try, try for ten-thousand years nonstop; soon get enlightenment and save all beings from suffering.She continues:How do we go “straight-ahead-don't-know”? This question—any sincere question in the moment of asking it—returns us to a mind that is before thinking. In this moment of asking we and this universe are not split apart. How is it just now? What is the job of this moment? What a simple and portable practice!The Hidden Lamp ends each case with a couple of questions. I leave them here for you to reflect on and digest. I would love to hear your reflections.* What is the point of spiritual seeking, and what do you hope to find there?* Have you ever overlooked the wise person right in front of you, clothed in a seemingly ordinary form?* What from the koan or commentary has stayed with you? How are you practicing with it?* Has a question ever led you to the mind before thinking?I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Happy Summer Solstice!I feel deep gratitude to be on this path of friendship, communion and inquiry with you. The path of dharma is a path of truth, of getting closer to the actuality of our lives—to the heart of what is right here.In this journey of the heart there are so many encounters, so many opportunities for reflection, so many relationships, learnings, emotions, sensations. Fear is a natural part of the human experience. It is often connected to a sense of not feeling safe or a-getting-closer-to-what-is unfamiliar, unknown, uncertain.And fear can be quite ephemeral—leaving in its wake anger, anxious thoughts, panic, doom—as we attempt to distract ourselves, numb out or push it away.In the Buddhist tradition we have a lot of different practices for meeting fear and meeting our reactions to feeling fear. All of these practices are grounded in the four immeasureables: loving kindness, joy, compassion and equanimity.In the audio dharma talk I share some of the practices I have learned for practicing with fear, including metta, insight, working with Jizo Bodhisattva and tonglen. At the end of the recording I lead a guided tonglen practice for meeting fear/anxiety in ourselves and the world, opening to spaciousness and offering love. May we meet our fears with understanding and compassion, as we cultivate the courage to welcome everything that comes our way! …Summer Read—The Hidden Lamp: Stories from 25 Centuries of Awakened Women (First Session Monday 6/23)This Summer I will be offering teachings and open discussion on 15 selected koans and stories from The Hidden Lamp. I am inviting you to join in this Summer read.The Hidden Lamp offers stories from the Women Ancestors in the Buddhist tradition. These stories are raw, humble, playful and speak of this very human path of awakening. Each story is accompanied with commentary from a contemporary Buddhist teacher.The koans are stories that tell of the awakened life. They invite us with their metaphors and images to recognize our own awakened life.I will host a meditation, dharma talk and discussion weekly on each koan and provide brief commentary and inquiry questions here. You are invited to attend the meditation/discussion, share your comments here, read along or engage in whatever way feels good for you.the light of the dharma is shining through every experience of our lives. sometimes it appears hidden. this offering is an invitation to recognize the light of awakening in the midst of our living this summer.We will start this coming Monday June 23rd with the first Koan story: The Old Woman of Mount Wu Tai.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring supportive practice forms for engaging the dharma in life outside of retreat.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!) Currently full, contact me to be added to the waitlist.Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

I have been reflecting on the nature of practice-awakening. In the Buddhist tradition this refers to the process (both sudden and gradual) of realizing our fundamental wellbeing. This is a transformational practice. This is a healing practice. And it is mysterious. It doesn't happen in the way that we expect.Insights happen, and then are forgotten. Love is awakened and then seemingly covered over. Only to be rediscovered again. We can read the same teaching years later and feel like it opens a new level of depth, or is actually just what we needed to hear in that moment.The ancients spoke of stabilizing our insights, of familiarizing ourselves with the love, peace and understanding that we are.I am reading a book by Carol Gilligan called The Birth of Pleasure. In it Gilligan is using the myth of Psyche and Eros, to talk about the development of the psyche in women. She is also writing about relationship and the maturing of love. As I was reading I encountered a short paragraph where she introduced research between mothers and infants that revealed the relational attunement present at this early stage of our development. She spoke of how the research challenged assumptions of separation.Their research was challenging an orthodoxy of separation (we are born alone, we die alone) by revealing a reality of relationship. Finding and losing and finding again. This is the rhythm of relationship, played over and over again in the games that delight babies and young children. It is the rhythm of love.—Carol Gilligan, Birth of PleasureWhen I read this, I heard dharma practice instructions. That is the thing about immersing in the dharma, we hear it, we see it—everywhere.How many of us have this orthodoxy of separation ingrained in us? Who think thoughts or hold beliefs that—we are alone? We are separate from the rest of the world? That no one understands us? That we are unloveable or exiled in some way?The dharma challenges this orthodoxy, by revealing a reality of relationship. We can wake-up to the reality of interconnection, of non-separation. Practice is that finding and losing and finding again. Its the rhythm of love that delighted us as children. Its something we know deeply.We are never apart from it, but we get lost, as humans do. And then get found.A coin that is lost in the river, is found in the river.—Zen KoanWe are that coin. Our true nature is that coin. And actually we are the river too, where nothing is ever lost. Its always right here.In the Tibetan tradition you do practices a one-hundred-thousand times as part of the preliminary practices, called ngondro, this includes prayers, refuge practices, bows, atonement and offerings practices. I have a little taste of this from the studies I did at Tara Mandala. You keep a practice log, and you actually count.Part of the theory being that once you do it thousands of times, its in you. Faith, determination and trust are born through the practice of return. We actualize the rhythm of love that we delighted in as children.Isn't it delightful to rediscover the refuge of our breath, to reconnect with the stability and openness of our original heart?In the Zen tradition we have our own expression of this. Throughout the course of a retreat or a residential period, you will do 100s or 1000s of bows and hours of meditation. You will chant the same chants, participate in the same ceremonies, over and over again. Hogen used to say if you train at Great Vow Zen Monastery for at least 7 years—the dharma is in your bones. Ten or more years of dedicated lay practice that includes sesshin has a similar kind of embodied resonance.Part of the point here is the repetition. If we lose and find ourselves one-hundred-thousand times, we will start to trust the practice—we start to trust those periods of feeling lost, afraid or anxious as part of the rhythm of love—part of the rhythm of being. We will start to have a kind of experiential faith that love is us. That we are never apart from openness. That the peace we seek is really right here.one-hundred-thousand returns to loving kindness and kindness becomes more the ground from which we liveThe recognition, the experience of love, of ease, of understanding, takes an instant. But the true developing of the refuge takes time— perhaps one-hundred-thousand times or more.And we still get angry, we still get anxious—but our response is closer to the actual experience. We can feel the anxiety with kindness and openness, with curiosity and humility—and that changes everything.Sometimes we think, it must not be working if i still have to practice, if there is still this much anger. But this is the human realm, we live in a world with anger, with hatred, with loss and pain. Practice is an orientation of the heart, it's learning more and more to dwell with life as it actually is.Over the past year we have been reciting Ken McLeod's version of the Four Immeasureables prayer at Mud Lotus Sangha. I share it here, may you chant it 100k times until every cell in your body knows the truth behind these words.Four ImmeasurablesEquanimityMay I be free from preference and prejudice.May I know things just as they are.May I experience the world knowing me just as I am.May I see into whatever arises.Loving kindnessMay I be happy, well, and at peace.May I open to things just as they are.May I experience the world opening to me just as I am.May I welcome whatever arises.CompassionMay I be free of suffering, harm, and disturbance.May I accept things just as they are.May I experience the world accepting me just as I am.May I serve whatever arises.JoyMay I enjoy the activities of life itself.May I enjoy things just as they are.May I experience the world taking joy in all that I do.May I know what to do, whatever arises.…I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Summer Read— The Hidden Lamp: Stories from 25 Centuries of Awakened WomenJoin me starting on the Summer Solstice, Friday June 20th for a summer read of the Hidden Lamp. I hand selected 15 stories from the book that we will explore over the course of the summer.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring supportive practice forms for engaging the dharma in life outside of retreat.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!) Currently full, contact me to be added to the waitlist.Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

One can, the other cannotBoth are freeA god mask, a demon maskThe failure is wonderful indeed —Mumon's poemIf I reflect back on my life, it is possible to see a series of failures, mistakes, broken dreams and incomplete projects. Relationships that I probably should have left before they ended, others that I probably shouldn't have even pursued, still others that I could have worked harder to repair.One Zen teacher said at the end of their life—one continuous mistake.Ever feel this way?From one perspective failure is the feeling that we most want to avoid….From another, shame can be a kind of addiction, overwhelming us with feelings of self-pity and self-doubt so much so that we feel unable to take the next step.If I zoom out a bit from the failure finding mind, I see that there is another way to view the series of events I call my life. It is possible to see each seeming mishap, embarrassing moment, failed relationship, broken dream, emotional scar as the terrain my soul needed to journey to arrive here.In each of the scenarios my mind calls failures, I can see that I was doing the best I could given the thoughts, perspectives, emotional reactions and insight I had available to me in the moment.Our lives also have a kind of mythos. If we continue to zoom out and see the totality of our lives, we can begin to catch wind of the mythic dimension to our living.I recently encountered the fairytale The Maiden King. In this story, the main character reaches a kind of crisis point, he can no longer abide in the old way of being. He has left behind the false comfort of fractured relationships and beliefs he had about himself and the world. Stumbling around in the dark of the wood, feeling perhaps like a failure, an imposter, not quite up to the task, he comes to the house of Baba Yaga who asks him:Did you come here of your own free will, or by compulsion?I love this question. It rings like a koan.Did you come here of your own free will, or by compulsion?Here right here.In the catastrophe of your life.In the mystery of this embodiment.How did you arrive?What brought you here?The hero responds, I came mostly by free will and twice as much from compulsion.Ah, the truth of it.Where we stand, where we sit, in the heart of our lives—can we really say how we got here? A dream, a desire, a heartbreak, a crisis, a response—is it anyone's fault? What is free will when so much of life, the circumstances we encounter, the people we meet, the thoughts and sensations that arise in our experience are out of our control?Sometimes the inner critic wants to blame us for the circumstances of our lives. In a desperate attempt at clawing at some semblance of certainty in this ever-changing field of existence we call the world—the critic says, it's your fault, you failed, you're not good enough, you did something wrong.But life is often more mysterious than that. Our lives twist and turn and intersect with the lives of hundreds of thousands of millions of beings. Our life is part of this great web of interconnected life.And yet, it seems that we can orient our hearts in a particular direction. As we meet the circumstances, the people, the events, the inner landscape of our living we can orient the heart-mind towards kindness, openness, generosity, understanding.We call this orientation vow.We call this orientation practice.Practicing with failure invites us to feel our lives.To feel our fears.To awaken a compassion that can companion any emotion or feeling.It invites us to take responsibility for our lives—by meeting ourselves right where we are.—in the dynamic non-dual truth of this— mostly free will, twice as much compulsion existence.—in this— the failure is wonderful indeed— embrace.There is no better life.This life is our one life.Could it really be—wonderful indeed?…I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Summer Read— The Hidden Lamp: Stories from 25 Centuries of Awakened WomenJoin me starting on the Summer Solstice, Friday June 20th for a summer read of the Hidden Lamp. I hand selected 15 stories from the book that we will explore over the course of the summer.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring supportive practice forms for engaging the dharma in life outside of retreat.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

I have been contemplating being stuck. You know that feeling that something else should be happening. Something more, or different, or better. The sense that whatever is happening is somehow wrong, or bad, or amiss in some way.The sense of being stuck can even manifest as an over-identification with the hope for growth or healing in a particular area of life.I want to share a koan from the mumonkan. It's an old buddhist folktale, that offers some playfulness and insight to this dynamic of being stuck and trying to get unstuck.Mumonkan CASE 42: Stuck in SamadhiCase: Once in the ancient days of the World-Honored One, Manjushri went to the place where Buddhas were assembled and found that all the Buddhas were departing for their original dwelling places. Only a young woman remained, sitting in samadhi close to Shakyamuni Buddha's throne. Manjushri asked the Buddha, “Why can that woman be near the Buddha's throne while I cannot?” The Buddha said, “Just awaken her and raise her up out of samadhi and ask her yourself.”Manjushri walked around the woman three times, snapped his fingers once, took her up to the Brahman heaven, and exerted all his supernatural powers, but he could not bring her out of samadhi.The World-Honored One said, “Even a hundred or a thousand Manjushris would not be able to bring her out of samadhi. Down below, past twelve hundred million lands as innumerable as the sand of the Ganges, is the Bodhisattva Mômyô (Delusive Wisdom). He will be able to arouse her from her samadhi.”Instantly the Bodhisattva Mômyô emerged out of the earth and made a bow to the World-Honored One, who then gave his command. The Bodhisattva went before the woman and snapped his fingers once. At this, the woman came out of samadhi.Mumon's Commentary: Old Shakya plays a country drama on stage, but people of shallow realization cannot appreciate it. Just tell me: Manjushri is the teacher of the Seven Buddhas; why can't he bring the woman out of her samadhi while Mômyô, who is the bodhisattva of delusive wisdom, can? If you can grasp this completely, you will realize that surging delusive consciousness is nothing other than greatest samadhi.Like all koans, there are many ways to read this. And we are often invited to take the perspective of all of the characters in the koan. So, who in the koan actually thinks the woman is stuck? She doesn't seem to. The Buddha doesn't seem to. Manjushri is quite bent out of shape by this woman's samadhi.Now, the point of the koan isn't to analyze who is right and wrong here, or think too much about what it is about. Koans are meant to be brought inside. So one way of working with this is to see all these characters as parts of us.I think we all have a part like Manjushri. A part that is good at finding the problem, of diagnosing, of trying to fix.There might be aspects of your life or spiritual practice that this part is keeping track of. Where it feels you are stuck. If we were to inquire where in your life you are feeling stuck (could be in your relationships, in you career, in your spiritual practice, in your home life, in your experience right now?) We would meet this inner Manjushri.It starts with a seeming commonplace thought—this shouldn't be happening, something is wrong!Manjushri is a wise part, as the koan goes, he is the teacher of the past seven buddhas. This part of us knows a lot of spiritual maneuvers, a lot of tricks to get you unstuck.for example: take deep breaths, practice metta, imagine your body is made of light, see it as a dream, feel the space around the feelingManjushri knows all of the tools in the spiritual toolkit. And, he's operating with that belief— that this shouldn't be happening, you shouldn't be feeling this way.That you need to fix it, get rid of it, change it.This koan is showing us, an experience that we probably all know: that when we are trying to get something that we don't like to go away or change using spiritual practice, it often appears to grow stronger.So the Buddha here, that wise and compassionate aspect of being, says even 100 thousand wise Manjushri's wouldn't be able to get her unstuck.But there is a being, the bodhisattva of delusive wisdom, who lives in the depths of the earth, they will be able to do it.So who is this being, bodhisattva means awakening being, so we have the awakened energy of delusive wisdom.But, what is delusive wisdom?The zen the teachings say you must become like a fool, an idiot.Forget all that accumulated knowledge.Forget even the names for things.Slip below all thoughts and distinctions.To the place before right/wrong, good/bad, success/failurebefore buddha/delusion, wise one / idiot, woman/man.What is this place?Out before ideas of right and wrong there is a field, i'll meet you there—RumiThis is a place of true, fundamental acceptance.Spaciousness.This being isn't outraged that a woman is sitting near the buddha's throne, nor does it have an issue with her being stuck in samadhiDelusive wisdom is meeting her as she is. Momyo doesn't have some big agenda about what is supposed to be happening.Momyo is the aspect of our mind that just is.We sometimes call it the mind ground.Openness.When we meet our stuckness from a place of spacious acceptance, its allowed to change on its own.And so, the woman comes out of samadhi at the snap of delusive wisdoms fingers.It's hard for the thinking mind to believe that it can trust the simplicity of awareness itself, that there is medicine here.The mind thinks if we stop feeding our thoughts, or stop all of our doing—that we'll be stupid or inadequate in someway. There is wisdom in being no one special, in the openness of being itself—which is never stuck.…I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Summer Read— The Hidden Lamp: Stories from 25 Centuries of Awakened WomenJoin me starting on the Summer Solstice, Friday June 20th for a summer read of the Hidden Lamp. I hand selected 15 stories from the book that we will explore over the course of the summer.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring supportive practice forms for engaging the dharma in life outside of retreat.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Greetings Friends,I am returning from a 10-day stay at my former home—Great Vow Zen Monastery. While I was there I had the opportunity to co-lead a sesshin (weeklong silent meditation retreat). The sesshin's theme was The Light of the Ancestors.Yunmen said to the assembly of practitioners, “Everyone has a light. When you look for it, its dark, dark, hidden. What is this light that everyone has?”What is this light that everyone has?I find this to be a wonderful question. One I carry around with me, dropping it into my heart-mind as I walk through the glenn, as I meet seeming strangers at the grocery store or read the news, when I am talking to friends or family members, when I look in the mirror, meet a client or talk to my cat.What is this light that everyone has?Can I “see” it?During the sesshin we practiced opening to the help and support of the Zen + Buddhist ancestors. In the tradition I am a part of we can trace our lineage back generation by generation to the time of Shakyamuni Buddha. To do this awakens a sense of wonder and awe, its about 83 generations over the last 2500 years. We have a name for each generation. At the monastery we would chant this list of names everyday, saying the names of the ancestors in an act of gratitude for their generosity and practice.Having spiritual ancestors reminds me that my life and practice are deeply supported. It also reminds me that people have been doing this for a long time, since before the time of the buddha. We could imagine that perhaps throughout all time people have sat in some form of silent contemplation and awakened to their true nature.They too had support from their ancestors, which included other humans as well as the mountains, great earth, open sky, plants, animals and flowers.This is true for us too. Who supports your life and practice? What lineages of healing and awakening are you a part of? What qualities are you cultivating in your own spiritual journey that your ancestors, mentors, friends and family members, or the natural world embody?Maybe instead of imagining a line going back to our early ancestors, we could imagine trees with deep roots and many branches, or circles of support.Yesterday, my partner Kennyo and I went for a hike in Mohican State Park, a fertile forest of hemlocks in a more hilly part of Northeastern Ohio. Returning to the forest feels like a homecoming, like going to church, each foot step felt like a prayer or a remembering. As we met and greeted many other humans making their way to the waterfall I felt a kinship with them. We may all go to the forest for different reasons but I think on some level we are transformed, we are healed.Our ancestors are part of us, they speak through tree and star, through rushing river and wind. Through the stary sky and the life force that animates us.Our life is a shared life. We too our ancestors to this earth and all who live here and for all the future generations. May we take this responsibility seriously, may we remember that we are not alone.In the audio above I offer a short talk and then a guided practice for opening to the support of the ancestors, asking for their help and opening to their awakened hearts.I'm curious to hear from you:* What is your experience of opening to the help of ancestors and guides?* Have you considered or learned about any of your spiritual ancestors?* What qualities are you cultivating in your dharma practice or in your life?* Why do you go to the forest or into the natural world?Summer Read— The Hidden Lamp: Stories from 25 Centuries of Awakened WomenJoin me starting on the Summer Solstice, Friday June 20th for a summer read. Every two weeks we will read one of the koans from the Hidden Lamp as well as the commentary. We will spend two weeks reflecting on the koan and commentary and bringing it into our own lives. I will offer dharma talks during my weekly Monday night practice, and there will be opportunities to share your practice here through the comments section and live on Monday nights.I will publish a reading schedule soon. If you would like to participate, consider purchasing a copy of The Hidden Lamp or checking it out from the Library.…I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.I currently have a couple of spaces open in my Spiritual Counseling practice for the Summer.And my books are open for June if you would like to book an astrology reading. It's quite an interesting year astrologically and I do natal readings as well as solar return and year ahead readings.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring Dogen Zenji's Instructions for Zazen.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Are you dreaming? How is your experience, like a dream?In one sense, the words you are reading, the sounds you are hearing, the thoughts racing through your mind and the ones seeming to linger in the background, the worries, and any other emotion that you might be experiencing, including experience itself—all are un-pin-down-able, you can not grasp them, you can not even find a single unchanging sensation that you can call yourself.All appearance is as ephemeral as a dream.In Zen practice we are encouraged to inquire into this dream-like experience. To really taste and know experientially the empty-yet-apparent nature of all experiences.Such an inquiry can revitalize wonder in our living.For if this were a dream, then these characters, these people you seem to meet, the environments that you traverse, the feelings and thoughts that arise—are all part of the dream.Blue Cliff Record Case 40: Nan Chuan's As a DreamAn officer from the monastery was talking with Nan Ch'uan and said, “The Great Teacher Chao said, ‘Heaven, earth, and I have the same root; myriad things and I are one body.' This is quite marvelous.”Nan Ch'uan pointed to a flower in the garden. He called to the officer and said, “People these days see this flower as a dream.We can practice seeing the dream-like nature of reality and open to the oneness of experience. If heaven, earth and yourself have the same root, if the myriad things and you are one body. What is this root, what is this body?What is our shared nature?Meeting the Characters in This DreamI want to share a practice I have been exploring as a way of meeting the characters in this waking dream, as if they were characters in a night-time dream. I have found that when I entertain that this is a dream, and meet the characters and myself fresh, with compassion and curiosity. I can step outside of my projections and strategies of protection, and see the mystery of who and what we are.I would like to share the practice here. If you would prefer to listen to the guided meditation version. Click the link above. Today's audio is just the guided meditation of this exercise. You may want to have a journal as you listen or read along.* Recall a situation in your life where it feels stuck, this could be a relational conflict, work situation, impasse, your experience of the political situation.* See the different characters in this waking dream, see the environment where this situation is occurring from a zoomed out position. Remind yourself that this is a dream and notice if anything changes in how you are seeing and experiencing the situation.* Now see the dream of yourself in this situation, notice what feelings, beliefs are alive in you—what do you want? What are you afraid of?* Zoom out again and see the whole scene. Next imagine stepping into one of the other characters in the dream, this could be a person with a different belief or position, someone who is not you. What do you see from their vantage point? What feelings and beliefs are alive in them? What do they want? What might they be afraid of?* Zoom out again and see the whole scene. Now see if there is another perspective, maybe that of a third character, a pet, or part of the landscape of the dream (sky, chair, wall, floor) What is it like to step into their position? What do you see from their vantage point? How do they feel about this situation? What might they want for you? What wisdom might they have?* Come back to seeing the whole dream, the whole scene in this situation. Notice if you see anything you didn't notice before. What is it like to come back to the situation itself, after having stepped into the dreams of the various characters?Notice if you feel curious or open or more compassionate?* Come back to this dream, feel your body here, connect to your senses, look around your space. Take a moment to write down or draw anything you learned or observed.I'd be curious to hear about your experience. Feel free to leave a comment.* What was it like to see this situation as a dream?* What did you learn from stepping into the other characters in this waking dream?* Are you aware of anything that you weren't aware of before?I'm also curious to hear from you. We have been diving into the exploration of the dream-like nature of reality, are there other topics that you are interested in hearing more about or focusing on? I'm considering doing a Summer Read of The Hidden Lamp. This is a collective of koans/stories from the women ancestors with commentary from contemporary teachers. I would share the koans we are focusing on throughout the summer, and you could read along or listen to my talks on the koans. We could share thoughts and experiences with the koan live on zoom on Monday nights and through the comment section here on Substack. I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.I currently have a couple of spaces open in my Spiritual Counseling practice for the Summer. And my books are open for June if you would like to book an astrology reading. It's quite an interesting year astrologically and I do natal readings as well as solar return and year ahead readings.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring Zen and Dreams.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOLight of the Ancestors Sesshin—May 12 - 18, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery16 Bodhisattva Precepts Class—May 4 - June 8, online class series exploring the ethical teachings of Zen BuddhismGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Dream as Analogy for RealityThis world is psychoactive. So much so that we don't even realize how are fundamental beliefs and unquestioned assumptions shape our sense of who we are and what the world is.One of those assumptions is the referent to this simple, and often thought/spoken phrase I am.Its innocuous, we think it constantly. I am hungry, I am tired, I am sad, I am lonely, I am scared, etc.When we say “I am” —this thought or sensation goes unquestioned, and so we build our life or our sense of self on these unquestioned thoughts and feelings.Sometimes the shape of the I AM, is really negative or painful, I am not good enough, I am bad at this, I am unworthy.Or it takes the shape of shame, anger, fear, desire, anxiety, hatred.We usually get totally bought in to those feelings, sensations or thoughts being who we are— we suffer them. We become trapped in the world that is created through believing them or identifying with them.In the dharma practice, we are practicing looking into these basic assumptions, to ask well what does this I AM refer to?We can do this now, notice the sense of I am. How are you experiencing it? Is it a thought, a feeling, a sensation, something else?And if so, what is the nature of this thought, sensation, belief or emotion?When we look, with non-judgmental awareness and genuine curiosity what we begin to see is — the I Am is ungraspable, it changes, its spacious, flowing, here only in the moment of its happening, non-referential.So, the encouragement is to look, to really look, to see what happens in your own experience.Often we don't look back into the sense of I AM, we let it be a given, so this kind of inward looking, turning our awareness around, can feel strange and unnatural.Nothing happens—or there is nothing there, or its just this.These are actually profound experiences, but subtle, we are expecting some big fireworks experience of no-self or emptiness, and don't appreciate the profundity of verifying for ourselves the ungraspable, spacious nature of our sense of self.The openness of not-finding, is the openness of being. The openness of pure possibility.The dream-like nature of reality is one way of describing the ungraspability, the spaciousness, openness and the insubstantiality of direct experience itself .Any word is imperfect.So we have a lot of different analogies. Dream is a good one. There is also illusion, magic show, echo, reflection in water, phantom. Modern practitioners sometimes say, like a motion picture or a hologram.I feel like dream is particularly evocative, it shows up most in the Zen teachings.And its's a practice. An invitation to see through the assumptions or reactions we paste onto reality. This is a DreamTo practice seeing the insubstantiality of thoughts, feelings, emotions, reactions, fears, we can invite this slogan or phrase:This is a dream, am I dreaming?To work with this as an inquiry or koan, doesn't mean that we are carrying it around all the time, zapping things that we don't like into dreams.Its a living question, its about inviting curiosity.So maybe you are standing in line, and frustration is building—and your mind starts thinking about all the things that you need to do, or how you are going to be late, or how you don't want to be here. You can inquire:What if this is a dream? And really entertain it, what changes?When its a dream, we are usually present.So you might notice the other people, these characters in your dream—who are they? You might notice other things in the room, the colors, smells, sounds.You might notice what you are drawn towards, or what becomes present that you weren't aware of before.What does waiting feel like in a dream?If this were a dream you were remembering in the morning, what parts of it would you share, or record.Regard all dharmas as dreams is the first of the five slogans for awakening absolute bodhicitta in the Lojong. Pema Chodron comments in her book Start Where you Are.Really, regard everything as a dream. Life is a dream. Death is a dream, for that matter sleeping is a dream and waking is a dream. Another way to say this is everything is a passing memory.She goes on to tell a story of someone who opened to the dream like nature of reality spontaneously while on a solo backpacking trip. He started to feel like the mountains were dream mountains, and his food was dream food. He was writing on dream paper, dream words. The man remarked that in that state there was a vastness and a peace, a kind of possibility and okness about the way things were.Pema Chodron comments that the practice of regarding everything as a dream invites openness.Openness is one of the qualities of bodhicitta, its a practice of opening up to the spaciousness of being. Of being less identified with the suffering making mind. Openness brings possibility.When I entertain that this is a dream, I feel like I am leaning into life. The possibility of the hawk singing a song or the stones telling me a story, becomes vividly real. I see the magic of this world. I am filled with a kind of wonderment. Life is re-enchanted in an open kind of way.What happens for you?Is wonderment possible even in lines? Even in traffic? Even while watching the news? Even in challenging conversations or disagreements?Try it out. Let it be a living inquiry.This is a dream. Its psychoactive, it may just wake you up to the openness that you are. That this world is.For more. Listen to the talk. I would be interested to hear your comments and experiences trying on the inquiry This is a Dream. Feel free to share here.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring Zen and Dreams.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOLight of the Ancestors Sesshin—May 12 - 18, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery16 Bodhisattva Precepts Class—May 4 - June 8, online class series exploring the ethical teachings of Zen BuddhismIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

What is real? What is true?These questions are fundamental to the spiritual path, to the path of awakening.There is much confusion in our world right now. Blatant lies or mis-truths are being thrown around about immigrants rights, dei, trans and queer people, how the economy works, science, climate change, you name it…The question of what is real in a spiritual sense invites us to look into the basic assumptions we make about the nature of reality. This is relevant in our considerations of the real and the true.How do we know something is true?In Buddhist teaching there is a concept called Maya. Maya means illusion, fantasy, dream. Maya is used to describe what we call reality.It's illusory, dream-like.I think this teaching may be one of the most radical teachings in buddhism. If we really take it in and practice it, it invites us to question all the assumptions that we make about who we are, what we are doing and what we consider real.It also asks us to consider, well what is a dream? What is an illusion? What is fantasy?To me these are interesting and rich contemplations. As I think they were for many of the great mystics and spiritual practitioners throughout the ages. Practitioners and contemplatives like Longchempa, Dogen Zenji, CG Jung and Ursula K le Guin to name a few.I recently stumbled upon a piece of writing from Ursula K le Guin where she consults the OED in order to better understand the meaning of fantasy. I was fascinated to hear the wide ranging definitions for this word. The definition ranges from “the image of perception impressed on the mind by an object of the sense” to “a mental image” to a “spectral apparition, phantom; illusory appearance” to “a daydream arising from the unconscious” to “a product of the imagination”.These definitions of fantasy are relevant to the many layers of Maya in Buddhist practice.Fantasy (and Maya) include really basic experiences like perception and mental formation—how we create reality or see/sense the world—as well as imagination, the ability to dream or create something that doesn't exist, to the ways that we escape or get lost in our own delusions.Dogen Zenji says there is a dream within a dream prior to all dreams.To further explore this theme of dreams within dreams or fantasies within fantasies, I would like to share a koan.Nan Ch'uan's Like a DreamAn officer from the monastery was talking with Nan Ch'uan and said, “The Great Teacher Chao said, ‘Heaven, earth, and I have the same root; myriad things and I are one body.' This is quite marvelous.”Nan Ch'uan pointed to a flower in the garden. He called to the officer and said, “People these days see this flower as a dream.There are many layers to this illusion, to this dream that Nan Ch'uan is referencing.Daydreams, future plans, worries, past regrets, judgments all prevent us from seeing the flower that is right in front of us.Projections are another form of our mental dreaming, our mind-made illusions, where we misperceive someone based on our own fears or insecurities. We turn people, places, even flowers into nightmarish or godly characters in our own personal world of illusion.We also at times fail to see what is right in front of us because we know too much information. Instead of seeing the flower, smelling the soil, feeling the breeze on our face. Our mind starts talking about the latin name, the history of cultivation, names used in other cultures throughout time. Sometimes our knowledge can enhance curiosity and bring us deeper into the direct experience, other times our knowledge can prevent us from being here, in the flowerness(ness), in our bodies, in our hearts.The more subtle dreams that Nan Ch'uan is pointing to come down to those basic assumptions we believe onto experience. We can sense the flower. We see the red of the tulip, we smell its sweetness and the earthy(ness) of the soil. We can feel the breeze on our faces. But we have these layers of beliefs or habits of being that tend to reify a sense of separation. This sense of I am in here smelling the flower, seeing the redness. That this life is happening to me.The practitioner in Nan Ch'uan's dream says: all beings have the same root, all phenomena share the same body.Perception is illusory. Experience is dream-like.The moment it happens is all there is. If we look, we can't find a self that is separate from anything. When we gaze into a flower, or sip coffee or watch the news. We are the flower's redness, the coffee's bitterness, the sounds and images that move through awareness are inseparable from awareness itself. The sensations of body and thoughts (however personal they seem) all are inseparable from awareness itself. Are also only happening in the moment of their happening.They are illusory, dream-like.Even the words or concept dream or illusion are part of the dream.This isn't easy to grock. The way in is through the senses. Through our seeing, smelling, tasting we are opened to the immediacy of creation. This living body of continuous manifestation, continuous play. Nothing is outside of this happening. Nothing is outside of this great dream.When we study this, then roots, stems, branches, leaves, flowers, and fruits as well as radiance and color, are all the great dream. Do not mistake them as merely dreamy.—Dogen ZenjiContemplating Neptune: The Planet of Illusion and DreamIn this moment, astrologically we are undergoing a Neptune transit. Neptune is the planet that resonates with this teaching of Maya. Neptune represents the dream-like nature of reality. And presents an invitation to awaken in this dream, to study the dream. The truth is, most of the time we are seduced by different aspects of the dream, and fall into different degrees of fantasy or illusion. This is also Neptune territory. For it shows us the many layers of Maya that make up our sense of the real or cover over the direct aliveness of reality itself. Maya can take the shape of the fantasy of pride or greed, to the illusion of power or wealth, to the dream of romance or knowledge, to the fantasy of religion or belief or consensus reality.Neptune is changing signs from dreamy Pisces to fiery Aries. From now until October, we are getting a taste of Neptune in Aries. This will look a lot of different ways for each of us individually as well as collectively. We may see new military dreams, militant religious movements, idealogical wars or dreams used to puff up the ego or sense of separation, as Aries is connected to the self, the energy of the will, the god of war, as well as the fierce courage it takes for a plant to push out of the earth or a flower bud to open.For each of us personally, we can be used by the energy of Neptune in Aries or we can use it. To be used by it, we continue to move through life semi-conscious and let ourselves be puffed up by our own egoic fantasies and delusions, our anger, pride and willfulness become the prison we live in, the fantasy we put onto the world.To use the energy of Neptune in Aries is to let this fiery creative push infuse our spiritual practice. To practice being awake in this dream, to see the illusory nature, to see through our delusions.Being a self who has responsibility in this dream of the world, and being the world constantly being dreamed anew, is part of the divine tension of life as a human being.This is also the archetype of the Spiritual Warrior. It takes courage to question our assumptions, to see through our illusions and live authentically. Great courage.Practicing with the dream-like nature of reality, can re-chant life. When we de-center ourselves, when we allow life to be an open question, we are more connected to the mystery that this life is, that we are. We are more available for the magic of a flower blooming, a bird song, a shared smile at the coffee shop, the possibility of dreaming new ways of being together grounded in the insight that we share the same root and the same great body of being.We are perhaps also more available for the magic and the mystery that unfolds in our nighttime dreams. Neptune is just beginning this transit through Aries, in October it will move back into Pisces before settling into Aries for fourteen years. As a way of honoring this transit, I am picking back up a more active dream-practice. I intend to share more about how you can practice with your dreams and the dream-like nature of reality.…Listen to the podcast for a more in-depth exploration of Nan Ch'uan's Dream and ways to practice with your nighttime dreams.If you would like to learn more about where Neptune is in your chart, sign up for a natal or transit reading with me here.Dream of the Soul: Natal Chart Reading—exploring the myths and symbolism in your natal chartYear Ahead Transit Reading—curious to learn more about where Neptune is in your chart, or what forces are present in your year ahead, this reading can give you a foothold in some of the themes alive in your lifeI will continue giving dharma talks on this theme of dream throughout the month of April. So stay tuned or join us live on zoom on Monday nights.…I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring Zen and Dreams.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOLight of the Ancestors Sesshin—May 12 - 18, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery16 Bodhisattva Precepts Class—May 4 - June 8, online class series exploring the ethical teachings of Zen BuddhismIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Hello Friends,Happy April 1st! Here we are, its Aries Season, it's Spring, Mercury and Venus have both been retrograde for a while now (which can give a certain feeling of friction or underworld journey to our days), there is much happening in our geo-political world that I (we) wish wasn't happening. And still the magnolias are blooming, the songbirds are back, tulips are pushing through the mulch in our front yard, the sun is rising earlier and setting later.Aries season reminds us that our life force is resilient, there is a certain courage within the bud that allows it to open. There is a certain courage within each of us to continue to live our lives, to walk this path of awakening, to let ourselves be opened by the world—even when things feel fragile or scary or uncertain. In this spirit I would like to share this koan from the Hidden Lamp Collection called Ryonen Scars Her Face.As a young woman, Ryonen Genso was an attendant to the empress, and was known for her beauty and intelligence. When the empress died, she felt the impermanence of life, and she decided to become a nun. Ryonen traveled to the city of Edo in search of a Zen teacher.The first teacher refused her because of her beauty. Then she asked Master Hakuo Dotai, who also refused her. He could see her sincere intention, but he too said that her womanly appearance would cause problems for the monks in his monastery.Afterward, she saw some women pressing fabric, and she took up a hot iron and held it against her face, scarring herself. Then she wrote this poem on the back of a small mirror:To serve my Empress I burned incense to perfume my exquisite clothes.Now as a homeless mendicant I burn my face to enter a Zen temple.The four seasons flow naturally like this,Who is this now in the midst of these changes?She returned to Hakuo and gave him the poem. Hakuo immediately accepted her as a disciple. She became abbess of his temple when he died, and later founded her own temple. Before her death she wrote the following poem:This is the sixty-sixth autumn I have seen.The moon still lights my face.Don't ask me about the meaning of Zen teachings—Just listen to what the pines and cedars say on a windless night.This koan is about a lot of things, which is one of the beautiful things about koans. They often meet us in the stuff of our lives. They give us a nod, or a wink, or reach up and hold our hand and say me too. I see you.In this story we can find themes of courage, vow, determination, sacrifice, injustice, impermanence and a deep reflection on what is truly reliable. And still, in this koan with so many words, much still isn't said—or can't be said.Just listen to what the pines and cedars say on a windless nightAs I reflect on Ryonen with that hot iron in hand, I know that she probably wasn't thinking too much about what she was about to do and the impact that might have on her life into the future. She picked up the iron and touched it to her face. Done.There are times in our spiritual lives or simply on this path of life, where we take that brave next step willing to face whatever consequences come from such action. This is very Aries. Just Do. Act first, think later.Can you relate?In my own life, I can feel Ryonen's iron in my choice to become a monastic. At the time I was thinking about my finances or professional development, I wasn't thinking about what futures I might be giving up—I just had this vow in my heart and ordination felt like the only way I could live that vow. And, I felt willing to face whatever consequences came from orienting my life in this way.Some steps on the spiritual path have this bold, no turning back feel.A single act marks a transformation.For Ryonen, it marked an orientation, a vow, a direction. The inner process of transformation usually doesn't happen in one single gesture.Much of our letting go on the spiritual path happens gradually or even invisibly. Many times it is a series of small commitments. We give over a night every week to practicing in sangha. Or we rearrange our morning or evening routine to accommodate our meditation practice. Or we start using our vacation time for retreats. Or we find ourselves changing certain behaviors. Perhaps we stop using substances or clean-up toxic relational patterns. Perhaps we start investigating the nature of judgment or learn to accompany the feelings of boredom. Maybe we start to courageously feel our feelings or speak our needs in our relationships.It's like walking through fog, Suzuki Roshi says, after sometime we realize we are completely saturated. Transformed through our persistence, awakened through the simple, yet courageous act of continuing.The spiritual path can also bring us into relationship with the dark night. Times when the habitual ways that we have found pleasure and joy in the past no longer hit the spot. Times when we are called deeper into ourselves to discover a satisfaction that is not dependent on other people or things. I mentioned that Venus is currently retrograde. Venus retrogrades last about 40 days and 40 nights and can have a really similar feeling as the dark night of the soul. Or even lent in the Christian tradition. A time of discovering a even deeper and more enduring love.During this Venus retrograde, I have been studying the myth of Inanna. Inanna is the Sumerian goddess of love, beauty, harmony and relationship similar to the Roman goddess Venus. In one of Inanna's myths that astrologers relate to the Venus retrograde cycle, Inanna receives a call from the underworld.Now Inanna's sister Ereshkigal is the goddess of the underworld. So Inanna hears the call, and chooses to respond, chooses to meet her sister in the underworld. This is something we do in our own lives. At times there is a call, maybe from within from Psyche or from Spirit asking us to move towards a particular part of the path, to open or include more of who we are, to truly love ourselves. It could also be a call to action in the socio-political realm or in our relationship. In whatever shape it takes something compels us to move towards something unknown, something we othered or disowned or simply ignored.How do you heed this call?Inanna being a goddess and queen, gets all suited up in her royal and protective attire and sets off for the underworld. When she gets to the gate, the gatekeeper informs her that she is going to have to pass through the seven gates of the underworld. At each gate she must remove another layer of her protective and royal attire. By the time she reaches the underworld, her final destination, she is naked and unadorned.This is another shape that sacrifice takes on the spiritual path, through progressive surrender. We shed or see through the protective beliefs and adorning thoughts that have kept us separate or on the surface of things.In its heart, the myth of Inanna is a story of wholeness, the two sisters come to see that they are each other. Inanna's descent is actually an opening to inclusivity. True love and beauty include all facets and shapes of this one life.The descent is never easy, coming to wholeness or spiritual awakening involve periods of sacrifice, or darkness. These times help us discover our deeper resources, hidden or forgotten sources of support and a faith that isn't dependent on an object.As Ryonen says before her death:This is the sixty-sixth autumn I have seen.The moon still lights my face.Don't ask me about the meaning of Zen teachings—Just listen to what the pines and cedars say on a windless night.…For a more in-depth contemplation of this koan and the myth of Inanna listen to the audio.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. We are currently exploring Zen and Dreams.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKMonthly Online Practice EventSky+Rose: An emergent online community braiding spirit and soul, first Sundays (back in May)10:30A - 12:30P PT / 1:30P - 3:30P ETnext Meeting Sunday May 4thEmail me: amy.kisei@gmail.com to RSVPZen Practice opportunities through ZCOLight of the Ancestors Sesshin—May 12 - 18, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery16 Bodhisattva Precepts Class—May 4 - June 8, online class series exploring the ethical teachings of Zen BuddhismIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Carol Orsborn, Ph.D. received her Masters of Theological Studies and Doctorate in History and Critical Theory of Religion from Vanderbilt University with post-graduate work in Spiritual Counseling at the New Seminary in Manhattan. She, specialized in adult development and ritual studies. She has served on the faculties of Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount, and Georgetown Universities. She is the author of Older, Wiser, Fiercer: The Wisdom Collection (self-published 2019), The Making of an Old Soul: Aging as the Fulfillment of Life's Promise (White River Press 2021) and Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life (Park Street Press 2024)Interview Date: 1/10/2025 Tags: Carol Orsborn, aging, elder, old, acceptance, freedom, fear of aging, outliving our fantasies, self-protection, fear, choice, faith, failure, grassroots community of spiritual aging, Sag-ing International, loneliness, isolation, serenity process, Serenity Prayer, regrets, making amends, life review, Personal Transformation, Spirituality

Spiritual Counseling is the practice of honoring the spirit or soul, having a human experience. Full Circle Counseling takes traditional therapy approaches and unconventionally integrates services, tailored to each individual. Contact: Main email: agentk21podcast@gmail.com -Music: agentk21music@gmail.com -Counseling: Fullcirclecounselingservice@gmail.com Full Circle Counseling - https://www.keandranesmith.com/Dream interpretations - https://www.keandranesmith.com/services Reiki/Cardinal Healing - https://www.keandranesmith.com/services YouTube channel - https://youtube.com/@podcast-1111?si=9utAByuP2x8fOcKXArtistMary J Wanna Linktree - https://linktr.ee/MaryJWanna?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareDonations via CashApp $agentk21 Recommendations:Watch "Just...Pause Lyric Video" by MaryJWanna on YouTube - https://youtu.be/y91BuO4hsgs?si=3VfWnUKb7S9oPq--Watch "The Matrix Ending Explained: A Guide to Freeing Your Mind" on YouTube - https://youtu.be/SDkAGkd4NLc?si=75husKTI4J9Laavz Watch "CIA's Psychological Tricks to Make People Talk | Body Language Master Chase Hughes #shorts #podcast" on YouTube - https://youtube.com/shorts/a9asEu_0NK8?si=CYTE_Ecxo2G4zzOt

Book of Serenity #30: Dasui's Aeonic FireA monk asked Dasui: When the fire at the end of an aeon rages through and the whole universe is destroyed, is this destroyed or not?Dasui said: Destroyed.The monk said: Then it goes along with that?Dasui said: It goes along with that.A monk asked Longji: When the fire ending the aeon rages through and the whole universe is destroyed, is this destroyed or not?Longji said: Not destroyed.The monk said: Why is it not destroyed?Longji said: Because it is the same as the universe.Zen koans are always asking us about THIS. What is it that is always present? What is reliable?When so much that seems dependable appears on the brink of being destroyed…what can we rely on? What can we depend on?Perhaps the current administration has evoked this sentiment. The stripping away of the government, the attack on the education system, on immigrants, on freedom of speech, on gender expression, on trans and women's rights, environmental protections.Will THIS be destroyed?What is THIS?A new dharma friend was telling me about a book of Zen teachings for turbulent times called Zen under the Gun. One reflection he had was, the teachings aren't any different then the teachings we are familiar with. Another friend remarked, is it even possible to practice Zen if you aren't in turbulent times?Zen practice helps us wake-up in whatever life we are living. The clarity and love that we are—are not dependent on external conditions.When much is being destroyed or threatened, where are you finding refuge? What freedom can't be taken away? Can you find love here too?Its a fiery time. Astrologically many of the planets are in Aries or entering Aries soon. Collectively we are learning something about fire. About its capacity for great destruction as well as rebirth. Aries is a warrior and Aries is also the energy of spring. The courageous power it takes for new growth to push out of the earth, for a bud on a tree to open.Harada Roshi has this phrase—complete combustion. There is something about this koan, about this historical moment— that is inviting us to step fully into this life we are living. To clarify our intentions and to give life to the bodhisattva vow.May all being awaken to their true nature.May all beings know true wellbeing.May we discover ways to love a little more completely.*For a deeper dive into commentary on this koan, listen to the recording.Earth Dreams is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKMonthly Online Practice EventSky+Rose: An emergent online community braiding spirit and soul10:30A - 12:30P PT / 1:30P - 3:30P ETnext Meeting April 6Zen Practice opportunities through ZCOLight of the Ancestors Sesshin—May 12 - 18, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery16 Bodhisattva Precepts Class—May 4 - June 8, online class series exploring the ethical teachings of Zen BuddhismIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Carol Orsborn, Ph.D. is a recognized thought leader in the field of conscious aging and author of over 30 books translated into 15 languages, including her forthcoming The Making of an Old Soul: Aging as the Fulfillment of Life's Promise and Older, Wiser, Fiercer: The Wisdom Collection. Orsborn, who won Gold in the Nautilus Book Awards in the category of Aging Consciously, is chief archivist at Fierce with Age, the Digest of Boomer Wisdom, Inspiration, and Spirituality housed at CarolOrsborn.com. She co-leads the Sage-ing International Book Club for the leading global organization in the field of Conscious Aging, Sage-ing International. For the past forty years, Orsborn has been a compelling voice of her generation, interviewed on Oprah, The Today Show, CBS Morning News, The New York Times, and The Shift Network among many others.Dr. Orsborn received her Master of Theological Studies and Doctorate in History and Critical Theory of Religion from Vanderbilt University with specialization in the fields of adult and spiritual development. She has done post-graduate work in Spiritual Counseling at the New Seminary in Manhattan, Stillpoint, and the Spirituality Center at Mount St. Mary's College. A former top marketer helping brands like Ford, Humana, and Prudential build relationships with the Boomer generation, she is now committed to both living and expanding awareness of aging as a spiritual path.She lives in Madison, Tennessee, on the banks of the Cumberland River, with her husband of over 50 years, Dan Orsborn. They have two adult children, two grandchildren, and foster dogs for the Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary.

Greetings friends~As we be together in this political moment, I wanted to offer some of the dharma teachings and practices that I have been leaning into. One of which is sharing poetry, so first a poem.For When People Ask by Rosemerry Wahtola TrommerI want a word that meansokay and not okay,more than that: a word that meansdevastated and stunned with joy.I want the word that saysI feel it all all at once.The heart is not like a songbirdsinging only one note at a time,more like a Tuvan throat singerable to sing both a droneand simultaneouslytwo or three harmonics high above it—a sound, the Tuvans say,that gives the impressionof wind swirling among rocks.The heart understands swirl,how the churning of opposite feelingsweaves through us like an insistent breezeleads us wordlessly deeper into ourselves,blesses us with paradoxso we might walk more openlyinto this world so rife with devastation,this world so ripe with joy.Honor the wisdom of your body. Our bodies are wise, they feel and respond to the information coming in through our environment. In the single unified field of embodied awareness, all response is welcome. All response is more information.To honor the body's wisdom is to make space to feel what you are feeling, to drop into the body and allow the sensations, feelings and emotions that are present to be experienced and processed through the body's awareness.I want to name that we are experiencing abuse of power on a national level and attempts to undo basic practices of equity and care for folks with already marginalized identities and our earth. This may activate trauma responses or nervous system alerts in our bodies, responses of fear, freeze, rage, fight, anger, grief and overwhelm or feelings and sensations that are hard to feel/name. What practices help you tend to your body and nervous system, to feel and listen to your emotions?Bayo Akomalfe quoting a Yoruba saying says: The times are urgent, slow downMeditation and mindfulness help us presence what we are actually feeling and transmute emotional reactions into wisdom, compassion and right action.This is a process of recognizing what we are telling ourselves, what thoughts, memories and worries are being triggered—and coming back to our direct experience—here— in this living present. The four foundations of mindfulness is one way of touching into the different realms of our experience, they are:Feel your bodyFeel you feelingsBecome aware of mental activity (remember we don't have to believe our thoughts)Rest in Awareness itselfArt, exercise, body movement practices, eating good food, taking in beauty, breathing deeply, being around others with regulated nervous systems like (meditation, yoga, art spaces, therapy, natural world) are other important ways to care for, nourish our bodies.Insight Practice—The dharma teachings remind us that right here, in our present experience, in the imminence of this—there is a refuge that can't be taken away. All the koans point us back here.We ask—who is it that is aware? What is this? Not merely as an existential inquiry, but as a way to remember ourselves back to the truth of who we are.In times of crisis, angst, hopelessness and fear our true nature is right here. Aware, open, deeply grounded, whole.Zen awakening reminds us that we can know this freedom in any situation.Sometimes when things are stripped away, when we are truly facing uncertainty or crisis, we are more available to this level of the teachings—what remains when even your sense of security is called into question?what remains when everything is taken away?Reflection on Impermanence—Hakuin Zenji likened impermanence to a black fire. We don't see it coming, so we are surprised when conditioned things change. Before the Buddha died he reminded his disciples that all compounded things are subject to vanish. Our bodies, our relationships, our work, our societies—are subject to change. Whatever is happening now, will change.In Buddhism we are invited to contemplate impermanence as a regular part of our practice life. When we do this, we see or remember that everything we love or depend on is of the nature to change.All beings are a life-cycle, they were born, they will die. It can be powerful to view each being like this, to see their birth and death within whatever their present expression is. Civilizations, societies also have a birth and a death.There is this teaching from Ajahn Cha, who apparently had this favorite cup that he always insisted on using when he gave formal talks. He would admire the beauty of the cup publicly. Once a student asked him about the teaching of non-attachment and impermanence in relationship to his cup. Ajahn Cha said, it is because I know that this cup will break someday that I love it so much.Impermanence can help us connect to what truly matters, to our love for this dynamic and wild life, and all the elements it contains.Four Divine Abodes—Loving kindness, compassion, joy, equanimity—these are qualities we can cultivate and dwell in—a clear and stable mind, a heart grounded in love, compassion and joy. Its actually quite subversive to practice the four boundless qualities of the heart-mind. To remember that we are interconnected, and that it is not our responsibility alone to save the world.When you don't know what to do, practice Loving kindness for yourself, for others, for the planet, for our world. For all beings who are experiencing fear. For all beings who are caught in greed, hatred and delusionHatreds never cease through hatred in this world; through love alone they cease. This is an eternal law.—the BuddhaDharma Protectors—Ask for help from the Bodhisattvas, Jizo Bodhisattva has this vow to enter any hell realm and guide beings to liberation. Ask Jizo to protect those who are most vulnerable, including parts of yourself!Vows—Stay connected to your vows. I find in times of stress, uncertainty, fear or confusion if I turn towards the bodhisattva vows, my personal vows clarify and deepen. Many of us may not have vows that we have articulated for this life, but may have a felt sense of calling, direction or orientation. Leaning into what matters, and drawing strength from this kind of north star orientation is essential for our hearts.Sangha—Thich Nhat Hanh said that the next Buddha is the Sangha. It has long been known that awakening and spiritual maturation happen in community, side by side with each other. We are stronger together. We just are.The more that we can rest into spiritual practice not being about achieving some kind of personal fulfillment, the more rich and meaningful spiritual practice becomes. I would say the same thing about living, if we are living for ourselves as a community of beings—life has a richness to it. Let's let our sense of community extend to include the entire world—the entire cosmos.Take refuge in community, and let yourself stay open to discovering more community in your life!Creativity—Make Art, Share Poetry, Sing, Dance, Illustrate, tell stories, make food for those you love, make time for creative expressionArt-making is an embodied practice.Art is healing, it opens us up to the different parts of ourselves and connects us to the collective.Art is a way to process and practice being imperfect.When we create, we are in touch with creation on an embodied level, love is being expressed through our being in all its various shades and colors.Art allows breakthroughs, something that has never been is given life.As systems crumble before our eyes, something new will be born, will rise from the ashes. Our creativity is part of that process. Trust that.In a Dangerous Time by Rosemerry Wahtola TrommerI think of the bonesof the unsung rib cage,the way they protectthe heart. How bone,too, is living, how it constantlyrenews and remakes itself.I think of how ribs engagewith other ribsto expand, to contract,and because they dotheir solid work,they allow the heart to float.This is what I want to do:to be a rib in this bodyof our country,to make a safe space for love.There is so much nowthat needs protection.I want to be that flexible,that committed to what's vital,that unwilling to yield.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions in the styles of IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKMonthly Online Practice EventSky+Rose: An emergent online community braiding spirit and soul10:30A - 12:30P PT / 1:30P - 3:30P ETnext Meeting March 9th with JogenIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaSpring Blossoms Daylong Retreat Sunday March 9 at Spring Hallow Lodge in Sharon Woods in Columbus, OHInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathaniel Sharratt explores the concept of the kingdom of God as an inner experience rather than an external reality. He discusses the metaphysical matrixes of influence that shape our consciousness and the importance of spiritual awakening. Through references to various spiritual teachings, including those of Jesus and the concept of Maya, he emphasizes the need to navigate the illusions of the material world and tap into the pure, unconditioned energy of God within us. The discussion also touches on the challenges of overcoming darkness and fear through Light work, and the significance of forgiveness in our spiritual journey.Signup for newsletter at transcend.onlineChapters00:00 Introduction03:05 The Journey of Light and Consciousness05:27 The Nature of Light Work and Resistance08:25 Exploring the Concept of Illusion11:11 The Kingdom of God Within12:46 Illusion and Reality: Understanding the Matrix15:52 Embracing Humanity and Spiritual Growth18:43 Spiritual Counseling and Connection to the DivineTakeawaysThe kingdom of God is not in the outer world but resides within each individual.Spiritual awakening involves recognizing the inner divinity and serving others.Metaphysical matrices influence our consciousness and perceptions of reality.Illusions of the material world can distract from spiritual truths.Forgiveness is essential for overcoming personal and collective challenges.Light work can liberate consciousness from dense influences.The teachings of Jesus emphasize the importance of inner awareness.Everyone is subject to the influences of their cultural and spiritual matrices.Tapping into the pure energy of God is a path to true freedom. Get full access to Transcend with Nat at natsharratt.substack.com/subscribe

Orsborn shares the concept of embracing old age as a transformative process. She emphasizes the importance of accepting reality, embracing mortality, and recognizing one's belovedness. She also touches on the evolutionary purpose of old age and the role of spiritual practices in navigating life's challenges, including illness and loss. Carol Orsborn, Ph.D. received her Masters of Theological Studies and Doctorate in History and Critical Theory of Religion from Vanderbilt University, with post-graduate work in Spiritual Counseling at the New Seminary in Manhattan. She specialized in adult development and ritual studies. She has served on the faculties of Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount, and Georgetown Universities. She is the author of Older, Wiser, Fiercer: The Wisdom Collection (self-published 2019), The Making of an Old Soul: Aging as the Fulfillment of Life's Promise (White River Press 2021)and Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life (Park Street Press 2024).Interview Date: 1/10/2025 Tags: Carol Orsborn, Joan Chittister, fear, denial, God, grace, Tolstoy, Death of Ivan Illich, Ram Dass, hope, expectation, curiosity, Personal Transformation, Spirituality, Aging

As we began 2025, I returned to the teachings of the Heart of Great Perfection Wisdom Sutra. In times of chaos, something in me turns toward what is most true. The Heart Sutra is one such text that invites this kind of turning.Moving through the Heart Sutra we arrive at a set of stanzas that read as a series of negations.Therefore, given emptiness, there is no form, no sensation, no perception, no formation, no consciousness; no eyes, no ears, no nose, no tongue, no body, no mind; no sight, no sound, no smell, no taste, no touch, no object of mind; no realm of sight ... no realm of mind consciousness.There is neither ignorance nor extinction of ignorance... neither old age and death, nor extinction of old age and death; no suffering, no cause, no cessation, no path; no knowledge and no attainment.With nothing to attain, a bodhisattva relies on prajña paramita, and thus the mind is without hindrance. Without hindrance, there is no fear. Far beyond all inverted views, one realizes nirvanaIt reminds me of the first koan in the MumonkanMumonkan Case 1: Joshu's MuA practitioner asked Master Joshu, does a dog have buddha nature?Joshu said: MUMu, essentially No, NotThe kanji character is interestingly an image of a shaman dancing.The buddhist dictionary defines MU as nothingness, beyondness. This single word has been used in Zen as a breakthrough koan.When working with this koan we are instructed to throw our whole selves into Mu, or let everything become mu, the sounds in the room and outside, every thought, every sensation, Mu, mu, mu.As the first case in the Mumonkan, Mumon offers extensive commentary on this simple koan, he says:For the practice of Zen, you must pass the barrier set up by the ancient masters of Zen. To attain to marvelous enlightenment, you must cut off the mind road. If you have not passed the barrier and have not cut off the mind road, you are a phantom haunting the weeds and trees. Now just tell me, what is the barrier by the ancestors? Merely this Mu – the one barrier of our sect. So it has come to be called “the Gateless barrier of the Zen Sect.” Those who have passed the barrier are able not only to see Jôshû face to face but also to walk hand in hand with the whole descending line of ancestors and be eyebrow to eyebrow with them. You will see with the same eye that they see with, hear with the same ear that they hear with. Wouldn't it be a wonderful joy! Don't you want to pass through the barrier? Then concentrate your whole self into this Mu, making your whole body with its 360 bones and joints and 84,000 pores into a solid lump of doubt. Day and night, without ceasing, keep digging into it, but don't take it as “nothingness” or as “being” or “non-being”. It must be like a red-hot iron ball which you have gulped down and which you try to vomit but cannot. You must extinguish all delusive thoughts and beliefs which you have cherished up to the present. After a certain period of such efforts, Mu will come to fruition, and inside and out will become one naturally. You will then be like a dumb man who has had a dream. You will know it for yourself and for yourself only. Then all of a sudden, Mu will break open. It will astonish the heavens and shake the earth. It will be just as if you had snatched the great sword of General Kan: If you meet a Buddha, you will kill him. If you meet a patriarch, you will kill him. Though you may stand on the brink of life and death, you will enjoy the great freedom. In the six realms and the four modes of birth, you will live in the samadhi of innocent play.This koan reflects something about the heart of our practice, about the aspiration for liberation, about reality and deep compassion.All in this single word, MU—NOThere are times in practice when we are invited to wield the sword of MU. To practice Prajna Paramita's Great NO. What is true? What is your original face?Not this, not this, no this.To see through all conditioned phenomena, to see for ourselves what can not be taken away.We have a tendency to see and react, hear and react, perceive or misperceive and react. We make our home in a belief, a thought, a reaction, or our anger, our fear.We make conclusions based on our limited perception, and the beliefs, emotions and thoughts that moment of perception triggers.When we swing the sword of MU, we cut through all that is insubstantial, temporary, fleeting. We see through our mental fabrications, our mind's fake news, the dusty habits that constellate this sense of separation, the assumptions that we paste on top of reality.What is left when all our conditioning is seen for what it is?We return to oneness.We awaken to our true nature. We live from a love beyond belief, beyond fear.Doesn't mean these feelings, thoughts and reactions don't arise—NO is helping us see into their nature, reminding us of their temporariness, their empty-but-apparent expression.The heart sutra is helping us find true liberation from our misperceptions, and misidentifications.To practice NO in meditation is an invitation to see through the content of thought, to sink below the stories and narratives that keep us on the surface of mind and to know ourselves beyond our habits of identification with mental objects, with sounds, sensations, sights, with the body, etc.What are we when we give everything over to MU?The ancient ancestors say, we will be free in life and death. We won't be at the mercy of our fear.What kind of world is possible if we weren't living in some kind of fear reaction to fear?What kind of life is possible, if we were in touch with the freedom and love of our true nature—in any situation?I personally feel excited to find out. I wish that for us as we face the uncertainty and mystery of this unfolding political situation in the US, may this be motivation for our awakening.The sword of wisdom is in our hands. Let NO take you to what cannot be negated. Stand here, in this sacred place.* Listen to the podcast episode for a more in depth dive into the practice of Prajna Paramita's Great NO!I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions in the styles of IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities. Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKMonthly Online Practice EventSky+Rose: An emergent online community braiding spirit and soul10:30A - 12:30P PT / 1:30P - 3:30P ETnext Meeting March 9th with JogenIn-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaIntro to Meditation on Sunday March 2 from 7P - 9:30P at ILLIO Studios in Columbus, OHSpring Blossoms Daylong Retreat Sunday March 9 at Spring Hallow Lodge in Sharon Woods in Columbus, OHInterdependence Sesshin: A Five Day Residential Retreat Wednesday July 2 - Sunday July 6 in Montrose, WV at Saranam Retreat Center (Mud Lotus is hosting its first Sesshin!)Weekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Greetings Friends,I remember when I first entered a space dedicated to dharma practice, after sitting in the zendo that first night my body felt like I was home.Which was strange because the building and atmosphere was so foreign to me, the spicey smell of incense, the monotone chanting, the long black robes that the monks wore, being told to sit still and face a wall. None of these things were reminiscent of any kind of home that I was familiar with and yet, I felt at home.The homecoming wasn't about the particulars of place, it was deeper then that. Somehow that environment, the silence of the meditation hall, the deeply embodied practice of meditation brought me home to myself.I was discovering myself in a way that I had tasted in peak moments scattered throughout my childhood and adolescence—myself before the labels, names, beliefs, judgments, self-criticisms, notions of good and bad, right and wrong.at home in myself was a spacious home of deep acceptance—and love unconditioned. everything was welcomed, nothing was amiss. through dharma practice my sense of being at home in the mystery of who I am has become a reliable refuge. a place of return when i get tangled up from time to time in thoughts, judgments, worries, fears and self-protective strategies.starting in the beginning of 2025, i have been giving talks on the heart of great perfect wisdom sutra. this teaching claims to offer a practice of liberation from suffering. in this podcast episode i offer some commentary and practices on the first two stanzas of the heart sutra. here is an excerpt below.Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, when deeply practicing prajña paramita, clearly saw that all five aggregates are empty and thus relieved all suffering.Shariputra, form does not differ from emptiness, emptiness does not differ from form. Form itself is emptiness, emptiness itself form. Sensations, perceptions, formations, and consciousness are also like this. Shariputra, all dharmas are marked by emptiness; they neither arise nor cease, are neither defiled nor pure, neither increase nor decrease.The heart sutra is reminding us of the ground of who we are. The stillness, quiet, spaciousness of our being before identification happens. Before we grab a hold of something and make a story out of it, make a problem out of it, and then need to try to fix or solve or get rid of the problem.Forms, sensations, perceptions, thoughts and consciousness are emptiness—pure potential energy—pure possibility—spaciousness—unconditional acceptanceThis is the heart of who we are.Its not something that we have to get to, or make happen.It is already us, we just tend to forget about it, or don't notice it—because we are busy identifying with our thinking, our problems, our worries, our to do list, our comparisons, our judgments.Avaloketeshvara is saying—our thinking, our problems, our worries, our to do lists, our comparisons, our judgments are no other then emptiness.Insubstantial—yet appearing.Shaping or coloring this moment of life.And there's nothing wrong with them —they aren't defiled or pure.It's just that their content isn't the whole of who we are. It just isn't the whole truth.We can follow them back home, being awake to them but instead of following them into some conclusion about ourselves or the world, or into crisis—What happens when we trace thought back to its source? Or judgements back to their source? Where do they seem to come from? Or go?What are we left with?What is this moment made of? What is this thought or feeling or belief made of?Anything that is seeming to arise, is already accepted in our awareness.Awareness doesn't flinch or push away or judge or shame us.Simply allows.Even our deepest pain or our most tremendous suffering is allowed—is accepted at the moment of its happening.Even our strategies to distract or resist feeling—are allowed at the moment of their happening.The heart sutra is welcoming us back home to ourselves.To our whole self.We often fall out of touch with the heart of who we are.We start identifying with a particular thought, belief about who we are or what is happening.And through that identification a world is born, usually a world of suffering—a world of fear, hatred, judgment, but sometimes a world of pleasure or delight.Often this identification happens so quickly, we don't even realize it.And when we do, it can be hard to come back to ourselves, it can be scary to look into the thoughts, beliefs or feelings that are creating our world—because its what we are used to, its feel familiar and though its uncomfortable we mistake its familiarity with who we are or what is true.We feel caught but we also are too afraid to let go…Adding more seeming degrees of separation between what's actually happening and what we think is happening.So in meditation we are practicing coming back to zero, that's the more direct translation of shunyata, the word we translate as emptiness.coming back to zero.taking the backward step to the space before thoughtcoming back home to ourselves, to the ground of being, the heart of who we are.for more—listen to the podcast! Thanks for reading folks!I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions in the styles of IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities. I will be traveling to Oregon in February and will be facilitating three events of varying lengths while I am there (most of which are taking place at Great Vow Zen Monastery.)Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. Feel free to join anytime. Event last about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKMonthly Online Practice EventSky+Rose: An emergent online community braiding spirit and soulFirst Sundays10:30A - 12:30P PT / 1:30P - 3:30P ETnext Meeting March 2ndIn-Person in OregonFeb 1 — Sky+Rose Daylong Retreat: The Strange Garden of DesireThe strange garden of desire: wandering, dreaming, feasting, tending, destroying.In this daylong workshop each person will explore their singular Strange Garden of Desires, taking a fresh look at what loves, longings, obsessions and obligations live within us.Through parts work, meditation, and practices of somatic expression we will engage our gardens in five distinct ways: wandering, dreaming, tending, feasting and destroying.Feb 2 - 9 — Pari-Nirvana Sesshin: A Meditation Retreat exploring Life, Death & the UnknownFeb 13 - 16 — Emergent Darkness – A Creative Process, Parts Work and Zen RetreatIn-Person in Ohio(See Mud Lotus Sangha Calendar for weekly meditation events, classes and retreats) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Greetings Friends,As we begin this new year, I want to spend sometime with the Heart of Great Perfect Wisdom Sutra. This chant is one that is chanted across Mahayana Buddhist traditions, within our own Zen school, it is chanted daily in most monasteries and regularly in many practice communities.It's a pithy teaching that cuts to the heart of our practice. And it starts with the Bodhisattva of Great Compassion (the archetype of compassion) practicing Prajna Paramita (which translates as wisdom beyond wisdom). Right here, in the first line of this chant we see a fundamental relationship between compassion and wisdom. Wisdom is the practice of Great Compassion. Great Compassion, the activity of wisdom beyond wisdom.There is a koan about the Bodhisattva of Great Compassion that I am quite fond of and would like to share.Blue Cliff Record Case 89—Hands and Eyes of Great CompassionYunyan asked Daowu, “‘How does the Bodhisattva Guanyin use those many hands and eyes?”'Daowu answered, “‘It is like someone in the middle of the night reaching behind her head for the pillow.”'Yunyan said, “I understand.”Daowu asked, “How do you understand it?”Yunyan said, “‘All over the body are hands and eyes.”Daowu said, “That is very well expressed, but it is only eight-tenths of the answer.”Yunyan said, “How would you say it, Elder Brother?”Daowu said, “Throughout the body are hands and eyes.The koan begins with two dharma brothers, two spiritual friends, walking together. One of the characters for friend in the Japanese kanji is the character for moon, twice. Two moons walking together. So intimate. The moon is a symbol we use in Zen to refer to our original, awakened nature. Two original humans, seeing each other's nature.I always think about this poem by Rumi called Sema, Deep ListeningThere is a moon in every human being, learn to be companions with itGive more of your life to this listeningIts like friendship is the act of seeing the awakened nature in another, nurturing their inner moon. And allowing our awakened nature to be seen by another. Letting them nurture our inner moon.And we also learn through friendship and through practice, how to companion ourselves—to nurture our own inner moons. To give more of our lives to this listening.Listening is an aspect of compassion. Kanzeon one manifestation of the bodhisattva of compassion hears the cries of the world.Listening is also a dharma gate to deep intimacy, wisdom beyond wisdom–many teachers awakened upon hearing a sound. Listening can help us move beyond the realm of concepts. We listen, and for many the sense of self expands. The whole body hears. Hearing open our awareness to the vast expanse of Mind's nature, spacious, without bounds.So we have two friends, two companions, the intimacy of friendship, deep listening, nurturing awakened nature in each other—And one friend poses a question—do you have friends like that? Who ask questions that draw you in? Ponder aspects of the dharma together? Ponder life together? Are you a friend like that? I think in Zen practice we are learning to be this kind of friend to ourselves, and others. We are practicing refining our questioning—and this can be playful.What do you think the bodhisattva of great compassion does with all those hands and eyes?In one depiction of Avalokiteshvara they have 10K arms and hands, in each hand sometimes they hold an eye (to see/bear witness to the suffering in the world) and sometimes they have a different kind of tool or instrument to help relieve suffering.Pause here—because we are learning more about compassion through these images, another facet of the jewel is being revealed. Compassion has this quality of bearing witness, of hearing, of seeing—of being present with. So often our attention—our kind, open attention is medicine—is healingAnd then another aspect of compassion is more active—taking the form of the medicine in the moment, responding as best as we can.In Shantideva's prayer, we become whatever is needed to relieve the suffering in the world, in others, in ourselves—may I be a bridge, a boat, a ship—may I be doctor, nurse and medicine.I like this question because they are playing in the mythology of buddhism, but they are also pondering it in real time. What is compassion? How does it function?So one responds—its like reaching back for a pillow in the middle of the night.Compassion is so natural—its happening even when we are unconscious or semi-conscious.When we are emptied out of the self who is trying to be good, to do it right—compassion, compassion.Here in the reaching in the darkness, there is something about spontaneity, uncontrivedness, naturalness.Is compassion our nature? How would we know? Can we even track all the moments of compassion that sustain our lives minute by minute, day by day?More immediate answer might have been reaching out and squeezing his hand, or scratching his back, or handing him a piece of fruit or some water—Don't just tell me about compassion being our nature—show me.But this image is good. Its an invitation. Something we can take with us and explore. How are your very own hands enacting compassion?What is your experience of letting the thinking mind get quiet, or open? What happens when you slip below the story of self?How does love arise? what does it look like now?…I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, budding Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions in the styles of IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more.Below you can find a list of weekly and monthly online and in-person practice opportunities. I will be traveling to Oregon in February and will be facilitating three events of varying lengths while I am there (most of which are taking place at Great Vow Zen Monastery.)Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. Feel free to join anytime. Event last about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKMonthly Online Practice EventSky+Rose: An emergent online community braiding spirit and soul First Sundays10:30A - 12:30P PT / 1:30P - 3:30P ETnext Meeting March 2ndIn-Person in OregonFeb 1 — Sky+Rose Daylong Retreat: The Strange Garden of DesireThe strange garden of desire: wandering, dreaming, feasting, tending, destroying.In this daylong workshop each person will explore their singular Strange Garden of Desires, taking a fresh look at what loves, longings, obsessions and obligations live within us.Through parts work, meditation, and practices of somatic expression we will engage our gardens in five distinct ways: wandering, dreaming, tending, feasting and destroying.Feb 2 - 9 — Pari-Nirvana Sesshin: A Meditation Retreat exploring Life, Death & the UnknownFeb 13 - 16 — Emergent Darkness – A Creative Process, Parts Work and Zen RetreatIn-Person in Ohio(See Mud Lotus Sangha Calendar for weekly meditation events, classes and retreats) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe

Make the New Year Your Best Year Free 2-part Workshop to build 3 new habits January 3 and 10th  – 12 Noon Eastern – 1 hour via Zoom Sign Up here _______________________ As the year winds down, it's time to reflect - and look ahead. Carol Orsborn, author of the new book Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life, explains why it's a wise move to continue that practice  with weekly reflections to tune into the spiritual side of aging. Carol Orsborn joins us from Tennessee. _______________________ Bio Dr. Carol Orsborn is the best-selling author of over 35 books including her forthcoming Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life. Her body of work includes The Making of an Old Soul: Aging as the Fulfillment of Life's Promise.  Older, Wiser, Fiercer: The Wisdom Collection  and 2015 Gold Nautilus Book Award winner in the category of Consciously Aging: The Spirituality of Age: A Seeker's Guide to Growing Older (with Robert L. Weber, Ph.D.) She has recently launched the Spiritual Aging Study and Support Group (SASS) at Spiritual Aging@ Substack.com.  She founded the Conscious Aging Book Club in conjunction with Parnassus Books and now housed at CarolOrsborn.com, and the Sage-ing Book Club run in conjunction with the leading organization in the field Sage-ing International Carol is curator of Fierce with Age:  The Archives of Boomer Wisdom, Inspiration, and Spirituality, housed at CarolOrsborn.com and a leading voice of the conscious aging and spirituality and aging movements.  For the past decade, she has also blogged about the Boomer Generation for Huffington Post, BeliefNet.com and PBS's Next Avenue, among others. Dr. Orsborn received her Masters of Theological Studies and Doctorate in History and Critical Theory of Religion from Vanderbilt University with post-graduate work in Spiritual Counseling at the New Seminary in Manhattan. She is an internationally-recognized thought leader on the fulfillment of the human potential through all life stages. For the past forty years, Dr. Orsborn has been a leading voice of her generation, appearing on Oprah, NBC Nightly News and on The Today Show among many others. Her blogs have appeared regularly in Huffington Post, Beliefnet, NPR's Next Avenue and McKnights, among others.  She has been  a frequent speaker at conferences and events such as the American Society of Aging, Sage-ing International Conference, Boomerstock, the Positive Aging Conference, Omega Institute and the American Academy of Religion. Dr. Orsborn established her reputation as a generational expert as co-founder of the first global initiative by a top ten PR company dedicated to helping brands such as Ford, AARP, Prudential and Humana communicate with Boomers. She has brought her talks and retreats on resilience, spirituality and aging to such venues as Omega Institute, American Society of Aging, Positive Aging Conference, Vanderbilt University Hospital and many other aging, healthcare, spiritual and religious groups. Dr. Orsborn received her Doctorate in History and Critical Theory of Religion from Vanderbilt University, specializing in adult development and ritual studies, including intergenerational values formation and transmission. She has served on the faculties of Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount and Georgetown Universities.  Dr. Orsborn lives in Nashville, Tennessee and Toronto, Canada. ________________________ For More on Carol Orsborn Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life Website Substack ________________________ Podcast Episodes You May Like The Vintage Years – Dr. Francine Toder Slow Living - Stephanie O'Dea From Role to Soul – Connie Zweig Getting Good at Getting Older – Rabbi Laura Geller ________________________ Thinking of retiring? Start here with our Best Books on Retirement summaries _______________________ About The Retirement Wisdom Podcast

Ellen Kohn's "Be Like the Wind" is a groundbreaking spiritual book written through the guidance of three extraordinary horses. This unique channeled work invites readers into the mystical world of the Spirit realm. Ellen Kohn is a renowned psychic and animal communicator, who collaborated with these wise equine beings that offer profound insights into the human condition, healing, and transformation. Did you know that all animals, especially the highly intuitive equines, can read your mind, feel your emotions, and understand your spiritual signature even before you meet them? Be Like the Wind offers readers an unprecedented opportunity to step into the world of horses and view life from their profound and intuitive perspective. Through the voices of Billy, Monty, and Romeo—a Thoroughbred, an Appendix, and a Mustang—this book reveals life-changing wisdom as the horses share their deeply personal stories of trauma, humility, and transformation.

Ellen Kohn's "Be Like the Wind" is a groundbreaking spiritual book written through the guidance of three extraordinary horses. This unique channeled work invites readers into the mystical world of the Spirit realm. Ellen Kohn is a renowned psychic and animal communicator, who collaborated with these wise equine beings that offer profound insights into the human condition, healing, and transformation. Did you know that all animals, especially the highly intuitive equines, can read your mind, feel your emotions, and understand your spiritual signature even before you meet them? Be Like the Wind offers readers an unprecedented opportunity to step into the world of horses and view life from their profound and intuitive perspective. Through the voices of Billy, Monty, and Romeo—a Thoroughbred, an Appendix, and a Mustang—this book reveals life-changing wisdom as the horses share their deeply personal stories of trauma, humility, and transformation.

Show NotesChris Wasko is a Spiritual Counselor, Psychic Medium, and Energy Healer dedicated to guiding individuals through healing and personal growth. She specializes in supporting old souls and survivors of narcissistic abuse, helping them uncover soul lessons and navigate life's challenges. “I see myself as a cycle breaker. It's about ending unhealthy patterns and creating a new, healthier legacy for future generations.”

If someone told you that you are intuitive and that you were born with this gift, would you believe it? In this captivating discussion, join Deborah as she converses with Veronica Drake about harnessing your intuition as a guiding force for discovering your true purpose. Intuition is a remarkable gift - a natural human ability that can profoundly influence your life when you learn to embrace and apply it effectively! Stay tuned! Here are the things to expect in the episode:Veronica's intuitive experiences in her early life.Some signs that indicate you are receiving intuitive guidance.What role does intuition play in aligning with your true purpose and values?The School of Spiritual Arts and Veronica's goal of impacting 500,000 women.And much more! About Veronica:Veronica Drake, Vee, as friends call her, is an Intuitive Medium and an Intuitive Business Coach with almost two decades of experience helping women make better decisions, live more confidently, be more creative, and ultimately discover their life's purpose.She is a highly recognized international spiritual teacher who holds a Metaphysical degree in Spiritual Counseling. She is a professionally trained Spiritual Life Coach.She is the creator of The Intuitive Incubator - an online group specifically for women business owners 50+ who are a lil bit woo and recognize the importance of spirituality and intuition when it comes to business and life.This exclusive community serves as a nurturing space where members can develop the power of their intuition while engaging their intellect to achieve their business goals.Her mission is to help women unlock their potential, make empowering decisions, and tap into their creativity like never before. She believes in living boldly, confidently, and authentically – and she's here to guide you on that path. Connect with Veronica Drake!Website: https://veronicadrake.com/Elemental Assessment: https://veronicadrake.com/elemental-assessment/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veronica.drakeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicadrakeofficial/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@veronicadrake Book Recommendation:A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson   Connect with Deborah Kevin:Website: www.deborahkevin.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher Check out Highlander Press:Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.comTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpressInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/highlanderpressFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress

R.G. Shore began his journey with a bachelor's degree in Religious Studies, but his spiritual journey has led him much farther. Through many hardships, and firsthand experience with the marginalized, R.G. has really begun to shape and cultivate his spirituality through lived experience.  R.G. was incarcerated for nearly 3 years. It was through his incarceration that he began to sit with his trauma. Being surrounded by very racist and dangerous people led R.G. inward. It was in prison that he began to master his own techniques for going into the body and sitting with the trauma within himself.  R.G. has a Masters in Education, and is a certified Reiki Master, and a certified spiritual director through SDI, and the Urban Spiritual Center in Portland, Oregon.  He specializes in embodied Spiritual Counseling, Healing energy, visualization meditative techniques, and Reiki Healing, and helps many people with grounding themselves. He has a passion for working with marginalized communities, including people of color, people who have been incarcerated, or people dealing with religious trauma. He is also the Award Winning Author of his Spiritual Memoir, The Ocean Inside Me.  _________________________ Work with me, your host,  here: Thelovelyalea.com Pre-order MEANINGFUL MANIFESTATION thelovelyalea.com/book Get spiritual 1-on-1 Coaching thelovelyalea.com/services Become a Patreon Member to get behind the scenes, extra content, and workshops.patreon.com/thelovelyalea Follow me on Instagram instagram.com/thelovelyalea ( Remember I will never DM you for readings - watch out for Scammers ! ) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thelovelyalea/support

Sufani Garza joins The Blend with Cara & John Krol for a conversation on her journey into the healing arts, finding Reiki as a way to find peace from stress and her migraine headaches, her journey from student to trainer - with nearly 60,000 enrollments worldwide through her online courses on Udemy. Sufani Garza is the Director and Founder of Place of Bliss Academy. She's a practitioner in many healing therapies such as Alternative Healing, Reiki, Channeling, Spiritual Counseling, Soul Care Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Shamanism, Guided Image Therapy and many more esoteric practices in cultural studies. She has owned place of Bliss Academy & Sanctuary for over twenty years teaching live classes, trainings and certifications, and in 2020 converted to the online platform called UDEMY, to reach a global audience. Since that time, she has published over 50 courses, gained over 36K students, with over 59K enrollments, is in 172 countries and 46 languages. She has over 10K reviews ranging on average from 4.7-4.8. Her unique style of teaching is the shamans way, teaching through storytelling and sharing. Her courses range from Alternative healing, counseling and psychology, writing, marketing, channeling, vodou, witchcraft, meditation, self-love, emotional intelligence, communication, and more. She is also a published author. In her publishing career, she has been published both traditionally through Austin Macauley Publisher and has self-published many titles. She was a columnist for The Reiki Times (IARP, Dear Reiki) and has been published in many magazines over the years on the topics of healing. She is an avid Horror reader and has published a horror/Thriller series called 1377 Rikoppe Lane, with book 1 & 2 written, and book 3 is on the way! She blends healing and horror in her own prolific style in every single book. She publishes under Sufani Weisman-Garza. She has three grown children, a husband of 20 years, and is the guardian of two adorable cats. Links: Udemy page: www.udemy.com/user/sufani-garza/ Website: https://www.placeofblissacademy.com/ Cara Krol's Balance & Bliss Wellness website: balanceandblisswellness.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

What is the ULTIMATE way to heal from your wounds? Spiritual Counseler, Tarot Expert & Ex-Fortune Teller  @LetaoTKH  joins us on SYSTEMS of EXISTENCE to answer exactly that question. Join us in an eye- & heart-opening, vulnerable episode that illuminates also how our clients are always mirrors to our own healing journey too! Follow Letao on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letaowang/?hl=en Visit Letaos Website: https://linktr.ee/thekingdomhealer Get excited for a NEW ERA! SYSTEMS of EXISTENCE is the new leading edge space that features experts and thought leaders form all over the world with their unique SYSTEM of EXISTENCE! The aim is to have eye and mind opening conversations, that shift the way you perceive reality and how the universe works and inspires you to birth your own SYSTEM of EXISTENCE into the world! Tune in. Get excited. Be part of the NEW AGE! Follow SYSTEMS of EXISTENCE on IG: https://www.instagram.com/systems_of_existence/ Follow KATHARINA on IG: https://www.instagram.com/magic_kathi_official/ GENE KEYS, Astrology, Human Design & Soul Alchemy sessions are Katharinas favorite SYSTEMS of EXISTENCE. DM her on IG for more information on that!

In this fascinating and wide-ranging discussion, Dr. Fred interviews Laura Hoorweg - a self-described "international spiritual counselor" and clairvoyant medium. Right from the start, Laura provides a unique multidimensional perspective on human existence: •⁠ ⁠We are all fundamentally "multidimensional spirits living in a human body" •⁠ ⁠She believes there are at least 13 dimensions or "universes" piled onto each other •⁠ ⁠The "veil" between dimensions can thin, allowing glimpses and experiences across realities   The conversation explores Laura's skills as a clairvoyant, including: •⁠ ⁠Seeing probable future events, though the future is always in flux •⁠ ⁠Accessing information about past lives carrying overinto present issues •⁠ ⁠Contacting loved ones who have transitioned to the afterlife realms   Laura differentiates ghosts as mere "energy echoes" from full souls trapped between worlds. She also discusses her intersecting interests in: •⁠ ⁠Quantum physics providing a scientific basis for unseen realms •⁠ ⁠How shamans travel between dimensions for healing purposes •⁠ ⁠Strange personal experiences defying normal 3D explanations   Throughout, Dr. Fred playfully prods Laura about the uncertainty and potential "weirdness" inherent to exploring marginalized metaphysical topics. He politely challenges her unique worldview from a rational, empirical perspective. In a powerful moment, Laura senses major changes on the horizon for Dr. Fred's life and work - foreshadowing his own evolution into new dimensions. The conversation illustrates Laura's talents while raising deeper questions about the fundamental nature of our reality.     Links: Website: www.spiritspeaks2.me FB: www.facebook.com/groups/SpiritSpeaksToMe     Time stamps: 00:00 Introduction to The Healthy Healer 00:30 Meet Our Special Guest: Laura Horwig 02:40 Exploring Multidimensional Existence 06:33 The Nature of Clairvoyance and Predicting the Future 11:33 Ghosts, Shamans, and Interdimensional Travel 18:59 Personal Experiences and Visual Evidence 21:21 The Role of a Clairvoyant in Modern Times 25:35 Final Thoughts and Contact Information    

In today's episode of Ignite Your Spark, I am thrilled to bring you an enlightening conversation with Eileen Marder-Mirman, a New York state licensed mental health counselor who wonderfully combines her vast experience in private practice with spiritual and alternative healing modalities. Eileen's passion for meditation, which she has practiced for over 47 years, shines through as she shares how this practice has helped her stay present and grateful through life's ups and downs.Eileen's journey is not just about personal growth; it's also deeply intertwined with her professional path where she focuses on integrating spirituality into psychological healing. Beyond her counseling, Eileen discusses the impact of societal pressures on self-image, the transformative power of realizing one's true self, and the various healing modalities she utilizes, including kabbalistic healing and essential oils. Her insights and personal anecdotes make for a captivating discussion that will inspire you to explore your inner world and ignite your spark to lead a more centered, authentic life.### Key Takeaways:- **Meditation as a Foundation**: Learn how meditation can help maintain gratitude, center oneself in challenging times, and it's never too late to start.- **Integrating Spirituality and Healing**: Discover the impact of non-dual kabbalistic healing and other modalities in fostering profound personal transformation.- **Empowerment through Self-awareness**: Eileen discusses the importance of owning one's thoughts and emotions to achieve true authenticity and personal power.

Ok. Wait. I am so glad you are here!!!!! You get to meet Meghan the Mystic. What is Spiritual Counseling? Press PLAY and learn more exciting ways to grow and heal. Woo hoo!Find MeghanMeghan the Mysticmeghanthemystic@gmail.comAre you a goddess? Or are you a goddess in training? And what the heck is a goddess? Join Julie Jacobs, your new favorite host of a personal development podcast that you will need to listen to over and over. Julie Jacobs brings you the experts so you can think about your life and your goddess potential in a different light. Julie Jacobs is a certified life coach, sober human, adored wife, and mom of two fantastically behaved teenagers. Julie weaves stories of her struggles and gives you the tools to be a victor in your own life. Julie Jacobs is a podcast host that will be hard to get out of your head. If you are looking for a podcast that empowers and that is educational The Goddesses Gather here is your prescription for solving life's problems. Goddesses Gather Here goes beyond the bold lip and the bubble bath and celebrates the zone of genius every woman has. For more information about Julie Jacobs and her goddessing check out: Julie Jacobs CoachingOr send your goddess a DM on Instagram @julie_jacobs_coaching

Linn Rivers is a functional health and wellness expert and educator. She teaches people all over the world how to take their health—mind, body, and spirit — into their own hands. She has over 15 years of education in the holistic health field and assists people in overcoming chronic health conditions and mental disorders. Her educational background includes Holistic/Functional Medicine, Microbiome Therapy, Spiritual Counseling, Eastern and Western Massage Therapy, Neurolinguistic Programming, Yoga Therapy, Life Coaching, Death Doula, Hypnosis, and Human Design Analysis. While her educational background is impressive, her own journey really sets her apart. She is able to connect with people on a wide range of traumatic events that she had to overcome by herself, such as: the death of all family members and partner, abandonment, neglect, sexuality, growing up with an alcoholic, relationship trauma, homelessness, career challenges, lack of direction, feelings of hopelessness, identity, anger and fear, addiction, illness, and near-death experiences. I am immensely passionate about helping people uncover the root cause of mental illness and chronic health conditions. It has been through my own drawn out healing process, research, education and clients that I have deeply understood the connection to food and our mental health, yet I take it so much deeper than anyone is currently going. For example, did you know that Salicylates in plants ( a neurotoxin) is directly linked to Autism, depression, agression, tinnitus and many other health conditions if you do not have a healthy microbiome to properly eliminate them from the body? There is so much more to this and so much more about why we are not well in this day and age. I was depressed the majority of my teens and 20's and did not want to be here for a long time. I was an aggressive child and it carried on until I was an adult and started uncovering the truth about it all. Did you also know that there is a specific bacteria in the gut that can cross the gut/brain barrier that triggers alcoholism? So many things. I am an ope book and happy to talk about anything including my own journey to healing Social Media www.linnrivers.com https://citvw.linnrivers.academy/ www.youtube.com/LinnRivers www.linkedin.com/LinnRivers YES! I am currently pre-launching my new course, 'Chronic Illness to Vibrant Wellness" and for all who find me through podcasts, they are able to enroll for $50 during the pre-launch! 80% off.

The workshop 'The Art of Creating' teaches you the foundational principles of creativity, intuition and reality design. To connect with your creative potential and empower you to become the prime creative force in your life and create what you love - participate now: https://simonrilling.com/events/art-of-creating-1

In this episode we will share ways that help unravel the emotions of grief.  Your favorite podcast host, TracyMac, will be joined by our VIP guest, Dr. Andrea Hines. Dr. Hines is not only the president of ALH Broadcasting but also an international TV and radio host, as well as the author of several spiritual and self-help books. With over 20 years of experience as an ordained elder, Dr. Hines brings a wealth of wisdom and insight to our discussion today. Together, they will share practical tips, stories of resilience, and compassionate guidance to help you navigate your grief journey with grace and strength. From the profound impact of losing a loved one to the subtler shades of mourning a relationship or career, loss brought on by post pandemic culture to the ways in which social media has reshaped how we communicate about death, we'll uncover the nuances of grief in today's society. So, whether you're in the throes of grief yourself or seeking to support a friend or family member, join us as we unravel the tangled heartstrings of loss and weave a path toward healing with compassion and hope. Lean in as practical tips, stories of resilience, and empathetic guidance are shared that can help you feel lighter when grief feels too heavy to bear alone. Along with Dr. Hines's expertise and compassionate perspective, we'll manage the complexities of grief with sensitivity and understanding. So, grab your earbuds, a cool healthy beverage or your favorite cozy blanket from wherever you are and join us as we embark on this journey of healing where all roads lead to love and self-discovery. Journey along was we all explore it all with compassion and hope together.You can watch this episode on TracyMac BWWP YouTube ChannelVIP Guest Info.  - Website: Andrea Hines andrealhines.com E: speaklifewithandrea@gmail.com Ph: 919-782-5405 Twitter: @Hispen2Monthly Newsletter: When Life Speaks-Subscribe: http://bit.ly/alh-newsletter-signup  References - Grief For Beginners: 5 Things To Know About Processing Loss by Stephanie O'NeillBe on the show: If you'd like to be our guest, know of incredible SistaNista you'd like to see featured, or a would like to submit a show topic email us: peace@blackwomensworld.com Website - Black Women's WorldTracyMac's BWWP YouTube ChannelInstagram - blackwomensworld_podcast TracyMac's 3 Amazon Bestselling Books  - https://www.amazon.com/Tracy-McNeil/e/B00J9TQ606/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1.Theme music "Laid Back" by Creative Son Media, LLC“Grief: It's Personal” Original Recording 9/16/2021 © ~ All rights reserved © 2021 – 2024 TRACYMAC™ Publishing  My Black Woman's World is whatever I say it is, simply because I AM. Welcome to my world.Thank you for listening SistaNistas & SistaNista Lovers. If you ain't a Black Woman get to know one. Please feel free to share. I'm grateful and I love y'all for real!Peace, Email - peace@blackwomansworld.comhttps://www.blackwomensworld.com/

EVEN MORE about this episode!Embark on an extraordinary exploration of self-discovery and personal transformation with Veronica Drake whose story interweaves the threads of entrepreneurship and spirituality. Discover whether the entrepreneurial flame is kindled at birth or can be ignited through learning, as Veronica and I share our own transitions from conventional careers to paths less traveled. Our exchange delves into the pivotal role of curiosity and the enriching journey that unfolds when you're not the sharpest tool in the shed, but rather the one most open to growth.Join us for a heartfelt narrative that traverses the resilience of a woman whose career compass has swung from retail to chiropractic, dentistry, and beyond. Hear how she tackled her childhood fears and embraced the winds of change, ultimately leading her to spearhead a creative community initiative. This story is a testament to the importance of self-awareness and the joy of finding work that truly resonates with your soul. Our candid conversation also revisits the '80s era, when the workforce landscape shifted with the influx of women, underscoring the significance of intuition and self-trust in the realm of female entrepreneurship.Finally, ready yourself for a deep dive into the world of medical intuitive work and the power of laughter and joy in the face of adversity. We reflect on the enlightening path to psychic awakening, the value of embracing our natural gifts, and the quest for alignment between personality and soul. This episode is an open invitation to anyone on the lookout for guidance to sidestep life's drama, establish boundaries, and wholeheartedly engage with their unique journey toward soul alignment.Guest Biography:Veronica Drake is an Intuitive Strategist and Mentor working with female business owners to develop their intuition so they can operate their business from a place of unshakeable self-trust. Veronica Drake works with ambitious mission-driven women business leaders to help them confidently bring their vision to life. She focuses on supporting them to integrate their intuitive mindset with their rational logical mindset to build unshakable confidence.She has a metaphysical degree in Spiritual Counseling and is a professionally trained Spiritual Coach. She has 18+ years as a professional intuitive and a business owner.Episode Chapters:(0:00:01) - Personal Questions and Intuition Exploration(0:09:19) - From Fear to Fulfillment(0:26:56) - Women in the Workforce Shift(0:39:22) - Medical Intuitive Work and Personal Reflections(0:47:10) - Laughter, Joy, and Psychic Transformation(0:58:52) - Navigating Drama and Finding AlignmentPlease join Julie next week with your question.Thursdays at 8pm ET, 7pm CT, 5pm PT.https://askjulieryanshow.comAnd, please leave a five-star review and subscribe so you can hear all the new episodes.Sponsors & RecommendationsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Season 2 of The Kriya Yoga Podcast. Kriya Yoga teacher and psychoanalyst David McGrath (https://www.davidmcgrath.ie/) and I explore the benefits of counseling and psychotherapy as a way to accelerate one's spiritual growth process. Over the last 25 years, I have had significant shifts in capacity for meditation by engaging with a counselor, when needed, to help address psychological blind spots and complexes, and have seen outstanding progress in students of Kriya Yoga who remained steady in their meditation practice and supplemented their spiritual growth procedures with effective guidance from a skilled psychological professional. If you have been practicing for a while, and are curious why your spiritual awareness is not deepening or expanding, the topic of this podcast could make a big difference in your appreciation of the spiritual path. In this discussion we talk about my own experiences moving through difficult internal dynamics as well as the difficulty finding a helpful guide on the path to psychological harmony.  Yogananda was known to have said that 90% of the spiritual battle is psychological, and after that, it tends to take care of itself. In the Bhagavad Gita, the allegory is one of profound inner growth and resolving the tendencies of confusion, doubt, fear, etc.  For those on an advanced path to spiritual realization, consideration of the themes within this podcast will be of great benefit.  You can also explore episode #95 from season 1, Healing Blockages of the Heart Chakra to deepen your understanding of this discussion.  Your host, Ryan Kurczak, is a Kriya Yoga meditation teacher and author. He was authorized to teach Kriya Yoga in 2005, by Roy Eugene Davis, a direct student of Paramahansa Yogananda. If you would like to participate in online live sessions consider becoming a member of The Kriya Yoga Online Patreon Community or applying to the Kriya Yoga Apprenticeship Program. For continued inspiration and instruction, please read my new book, An Essential Guide to Kriya Yoga Practice. Now available in hardcover and softback on Amazon.  Also, now available Understanding the Holy Science: A Theoretical and Experiential Study Guide to Sri Yukteswar's Kriya Yoga Practice. For more information about Kriya Yoga events, courses and online classes please visit: A community of Kriya Yoga practitioners engaged in supporting this work. https://www.patreon.com/KriyaYoga Blog posts, books and information on the Kriya Yoga Apprenticeship Course. https://kriyayogaonline.com/ A Year Long Kriya Yoga Introduction Course Kriya Yoga Online Ashram (teachable.com) Hundreds of hours of videos related to Kriya Yoga and spiritual growth. https://www.youtube.com/user/KriyaYogaOnline

Rebecca E. Skeele, Author, Spiritual Mentor and Wisdom Teacher, is known as an expert in teaching the inner spiritual tools to initiate a major life shift in consciousness. She is gifted at being clear, focused, and on the mark in guiding a clear path so her students can experience their divine reality. Rebecca is an ordained minister and licensed counselor who facilitates seminars in multidimensional consciousness and practical spirituality in the United States and Europe for two decades. Rebecca holds two Master's degrees: M.A. in Spiritual Counseling and M.A. of Theology in Spiritual Science and will receive a Doctorate of Spiritual Science degree in 2024. Rebecca's second edition book, You Can Make It Heaven: How to Live Your Life with Abundance and Loving and journal, Keys to Make My Life a Heaven were published Spring 2019. This is the book we discusss in this episode. Rebecca mentors individuals on their journey to soul awareness and consciousness, teaches a Wisdom School, runs retreats, workshops and events. And one of her favorite experiences is taking small groups to England to co-create a new reality by walking in crop circles. For more information: Website, Facebook, LinkedIn

Link to Terri's Master Class on March 6th  https://theradiantlightmethod.teachery.co/masterclass-the-aura-of-an-empath   Link to Terri's Radiant Light Method https://theradiantlightmethod.teachery.co/radiant-light-payment-page?a=aHHAge3E     Always a pleasure to have my friend and Teacher Terri Ann Heiman back on the show. We chat about what's going on with us and the energies. Are you feeling isolated, down or just want to keep curled up in a blanket? This is all very common for the season.  Terri helps us to reflect on our own energies as well as the collective in this episode.  I know you will enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed creating it for you.    Many Blessings~ Namaste    Terri Ann Heiman, Interfaith Minister of Spiritual Counseling, Reiki Master Teacher, and Soul Reader helps women who are going through crises (like divorce or starting over) who feel lost and disconnected. Through  Empowered Spirit Programs, she teaches them tools and techniques to regain confidence and trust their inner guidance. She has been interviewed on ABC and published several times in Reiki News Magazine. Her first book, Confessions of a Shower Tapper - The Ultimate Guide to Living Your Purpose with EFT is available on Amazon. She is the host of the podcast The Empowered Spirit Show. Her latest project,  The Empowered Spirit Tarot deck, takes you on an adventure into the journey of your life.   She is available for individual sessions in Reiki, Reiki Certification, Akashic Readings, as well as private mentoring in her Empowered Spirit Programs.  

Want to find out how to deepen the connection between your purpose and your business?In this episode of the Business Ownership Podcast I interviewed Veronica Drake. Veronica Drake, Vee as friends call her, is a Master Intuitive with almost two decades of experience helping women make better decisions, live more confidently, be more creative in life and business!She is a highly recognized international spiritual teacher who holds a Metaphysical degree in Spiritual Counseling. She is a professionally trained Spiritual Life Coach. Veronica is the founder of Going Within, the membership for women who are ready to gain more confidence, clarity and consistency when it comes to business and life. She is also the creator of The One Word Method. A 5 minute intuitive assessment that gets to the root of where women are stuck! As a sought-after Keynote and Motivational Speaker, and frequent radio/podcast guest, her down to earth, relatable approach is a magnet for people of all ages and places. She has been called a ‘life changer', ‘guardian angel and cheerleader rolled into one', and ‘coach, intuitive and magician.'Veronica got her entrepreneurial start in 2009, her business has grown to serve women all over the world. As a Master Intuitive she focuses on serving spiritually curious, ambitious women who are ready to reinvent themselves.Learn how to use your intuition daily & how to raise your vibration and attract with it. Check this out!Show Links:The One Word 5 Minute Assessment: https://www.veronicadrake.com/wordsVeronica Drake Website: https://www.veronicadrake.com/Veronica Drake LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-drake-68976a147/Book a call with Michelle: https://www.AwarenessStrategies.com/m30Join our Facebook group for business owners to get help or help other business owners! The Business Ownership Group - Secrets to Scaling: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessownershipsecretstoscalingLooking to scale your business? Get free gifts here to help you on your way: https://www.awarenessstrategies.com/Digital Adoption Roadmap: https://www.awarenessstrategies.com/digital-adoption-roadmap/

⁠SURVEY - Please help us map out the future of this show! Do you want to experience elevated energy and an expanded aura? Ready to learn practical actions to achieve this? Let's dive into how you can elevate your energy and expand your aura through simple, effective solutions. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how near-death experiences can lead to personal growth and transformation. Learn how to harness energy vibrations to manifest your desired reality. Uncover the connection between gut health and mental well-being for a more balanced life. Explore the impact of chakras on organ vibrations for holistic well-being. Embrace self-awareness and unlock the power of play for personal development. About our Guest Linn Rivers is a functional health and wellness expert and educator. She teaches people all over the world how to take their health into their own hands; mind, body and spirit. She has over 15 years of education in the holistic health field and assists people in overcoming chronic health conditions and mental disorders. Her educational background includes; Holistic/Functional Medicine, Microbiome Therapy, Spiritual Counseling, Eastern and Western Massage Therapy, Neurolinguistic Programming, Yoga Therapy, Life Coaching, Death Doula, Hypnosis, and Human Design Analysis. While her educational background is impressive, it's her own journey that really sets her apart. She is able to connect with people on a wide range of traumatic events that she had to overcome by herself, such as: death of all family members and partner, abandonment, neglect, sexuality, growing up with an alcoholic, relationship trauma, homelessness, career challenges, lack of direction, feelings of hopelessness, identity, anger and fear, addiction, illness, and near death experiences. Resources ◼️ Happy Brain Mental Wellness Tips and Resources ◼️ Course - Chronic Illness to Vibrant Wellness Connect with Our Guest ◼️ Website: https://www.linnrivers.com ◼️ YouTube:  www.youtube.com/linnrivers ◼️LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linnrivers/ Connect with us!---- ◼️Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/seanstevebloch ◼️Show Instagram:http://www.instagram.com/happybrainfm ◼️Sign-up for Happy Brain Tips: https://bit.ly/HappyBrainTips

Colleen and Robyn welcome Patricia LaDale Lane . Patricia “Patty” is a spiritual teacher focused on empowering women to live life on their own terms, tap into their innate wisdom and transform their lives while embracing the healing art of Reiki. Patricia's passion is teaching women to develop their gifts and empower themselves to heal and help others. She is an author and spiritual teacher and holds a bachelor's degree in metaphysics from The University of Sedona with certifications in Metaphysical ministry, Metaphysical Practitioner, Spiritual Counseling, and IMM Counseling Psychology. 
 Patricia is a Licensed Reiki Master Teacher with the International Center for Reiki Training, www.Reiki.org and has been teaching Reiki for 11 years. She lectures and teaches workshops based on her personal experiences and the lessons in her book, “The Angel's Orchestra - A Little Book that takes you on a Big Spiritual Journey” available on Amazon. Connect with Patricia: Website:   https://sacredspacesbypatricia.com Email: patricialadalelane@yahoo.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/patricialadalelane Book on Amazon:  The Angels Orchestra - A Little Book that takes you on a Big Spiritual Journey The Reiki Lifestyle® Podcast: The podcast where we talk about all things Reiki! The Reiki Lifestyle Podcast is for all members of the Reiki community, lineages, and levels of training! Reiki questions and topics can be about everything; personal development, spiritual growth, Reiki healing techniques, teaching Reiki, Reiki training, and other professional Reiki business practices. https://reikilifestyle.com/podcast/ **DISCLAIMER** This episode is not a substitute for seeking professional medical care but is offered for relaxation and stress reduction which support the body's natural healing capabilities. Reiki is a complement to and never a replacement for professional medical care. Colleen and Robyn are not licensed professional health care providers and urge you to always seek out the appropriate physical and mental help professional health care providers may offer. Results vary by individual. Colleen and Robyn can be reached at: ReikiLifestyle.com Contact Colleen: colleen@reikilifestyle.com Facebook: @reikilifestyle Instagram: @colleenbenelli Contact Robyn: robyn@reikilifestyle.com Facebook/Instagram: @robynbenellireiki

     We all know that dreams have the power to transform our lives when we pay attention to them. Usually I'm referring to the dreams we have at night, but this also holds true for our daytime dreams. Now just imagine what can happen when we combine both daytime and nighttime dreams into our existence.     My guest, Spiritual Counselor and Dreamworker Dr. Royce Fitts, had the chance to do this when he embarked on a journey of self-discovery by walking the Ridgeway Trail in England. He captured what he learned about himself in his book The Geography of Soul: Dreams, Reality and the Journey of a Lifetime. On this episode he shares his insights which can help anyone seeking a journey of personal transformation, including:·      How to use dreams as a tool for personal growth·      How the word he uses to describe his journey fit perfectly with his desired outcome·      How nature helps us go within·      What happens when we face our shadows·      Why going it alone is sometimes the best answer·      The role of curiosity·      How a recurring dream can help us navigate through life    Most of us probably won't hike a 100-mile trail like Dr. Fitts did, but if you want travel vicariously with him to find out what it's like and what it can teach you, don't miss this enlightening episode of Dream Power Radio.This is what Royce has to say about his work:     I'm Royce Fitts, a Spiritual Counselor and Dream Worker with decades of experience as a clinical psychotherapist. I understand this beautiful tension that exists at the heart of a healer's life.      Some of the hardest, most enriching and loving work we will ever do is to try, in the face of it all, to create meaning, beauty and healing in our personal lives and in the life of the larger world.     This is our calling.     Open-hearted Spiritual Counseling and Dreamwork will unlock our greatest allies and deepest resources. This is about discovering and learning to express your heart's deepest values. Although I am an ordained minister, my process is not about dogma, rigid religion and rules, nor shame-based god-talk.If invited, I am honored to walk along your side as we explore your path and work toward your healing. Spiritual Counseling and Dreamwork is about deep, honest soul-searching for you to become your most authentic, healthy self. This is for you, your loved ones and for our beautiful, wounded world, for us to be “a light unto our courageous path.”Website: https://www.roycefitts.com/   Want more ways to find joy in your life? Check out my website thedreamcoach.net for information about my courses, blogs, books and ways to create a life you love.

REBELS OF DISCLOSURE CONFERENCE: May 13-16, 2024 Grafton Illinois

Sat Nam, Ever pondered the vast capabilities and intricate mysteries of your mind? Perhaps you've felt overwhelmed by the chaos and confusion it can sometimes bring? Join us as we unravel the workings of the human mind and guide you towards a more heart-centered, consciousness-driven life. We'll delve into how our brain functions as a lens, interpreting and distorting the universal and collective consciousness. And we'll explore how we can filter out the noise, discerning thoughts that serve us from those we should let go of. With the application of meditation, mindfulness, and heart-centered living, you can find peace and reduce stress, anxiety, and tension. At the end of the epsidoe, Jen guides you through a pranayam practice atimed at reducing stress and tension. Relevant Links: Click here to sign up for our free meditation program: 10 Days of Kirtan Kriya. Click here to learn more about Spiritual Counseling with Ramtin. With Love, Jen & Ramtin