Podcast appearances and mentions of thom knoles

 We are less than two weeks away from the start of Thom's Australia visit. We have a range of tour events scheduled, including free introductory talks and a learn to meditate course for those who are new to Vedic Meditation. If you've completed a qualified Vedic Meditation course, we invite you to join Tom for knowledge sessions, group meditations and a one-day retreat he has scheduled in Sydney.  Thom is also offering a five-day four-night retreat in Gerringong, south of Sydney, as well as private mentoring sessions throughout the month.  You can find out more about all of these offerings at thomknoles.com/sydney. Detachment is frequently sold as a necessary step for spiritual progress. We're taught that attachment is often the root of our suffering, so it stands to reason therefore, that detachment will bring about the opposite of suffering.But as Thom explains in this podcast episode, it's an understandable yet inaccurate conclusion that actually causes more suffering.Thom brings clarity to the subject, using the Vedic concept of vairagya, a state of being that allows us to fully enjoy the fruits of life, without the bondage of attachment.Episode Highlights[00:45] Maharishi Patanjali's Yoga Sutras[02:56] Siddhis - Developing Extraordinary Human Capabilities[05:36] A Spontaneous State of Non-attachment[09:48] A Witnessing Phenomenon[12:55] A Consequence of the Practice of Vedic Meditation[16:23] An Indication of Cosmic Consciousness[19:08] The Freedom of Spontaneous Non-attachmentUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Many would be forgiven for thinking we don't have much control over our circumstances in life or how we feel about them. At times it might feel like someone or something else is pulling the strings and we simply have to do our best to play along.The Vedic worldview has a very different perspective, which Thom outlines in detail in this podcast episode. Looking through the lens of “locus of control,” Thom explains how we can escape the mindset of inescapability, and learn to better navigate the ups and downs that life inevitably brings.Episode Highlights[00:45] Locus of Control[04:23] Self-Sufficiency and Field Independence[07:03] The Hypnotizable Ones[10:23] Mass Suggestibility[12:50] The Anti-Hypnotic Benefits of Vedic Meditation[15:48] Spontaneous Responsibility[20:28] The Role of Disruption in Evolutionary Change[23:02] The Downside of Contentment[27:42] Phenomenal Adaptive CapacityUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Jai Guru Deva.We just wanted to remind you that you currently have two opportunities to spend some quality time with Thom at his upcoming retreats in Sedona, Arizona, from May 22-26, and Gerringong, Australlia from June 25-29.These retreats are your chance to get away to rexperience deep rest, industrial-strength stress release, quality company, and higher states of consciousness.Most importantly, you'll have close-up access to Thom at his famous lectures and Q&A sessions.Whether you are troubled by the changes the world is experiencing right now, or simply looking to fast-track your evolution, quality time with Thom is the ideal opportunity to tap into the wisdom you need at this time.Thom looks forward to seeing you in Sedona or Gerringong!Find out more at thomknoles.com/retreats. That's thomknoles.com/retreats.Vedic Meditation is rooted in an ancient Indian tradition that has preserved Vedic wisdom for millennia. The Shankaracharya Tradition, like many others, has senior custodians who ensure this wisdom remains both pure and relevant.In January 2025, Thom was honored with a role as one of these custodians, a distinction never before granted to a non-Indian. In this episode, Thom shares the story of his appointment and the ceremony where he received his new title, Shri 1008 Mahamandaleshwar Maharishi Vyasanand Giri Maharaj.It's a fascinating and colorful journey that will leave you in awe at the scale and significance of it.Image courtesy of Leeroy Te HiraEpisode Highlights[00:45] The Naranjani Akhara[04:02] Maha Kumbha Mela - The Great Gathering of Gurus[05:54] A Meaningful Title - Shri 1008 Mahamandaleshwar Maharishi Vyasanand Giri Maharaj[08:38] A Common Lineage to Guru Deva, Swami Brahmananda Saraswati[10:35] Instant Camaraderie[13:26] Vedic Mantras Fit for the Occasion[15:14] A Mountain of Petals and Shawls[18:10] A Slow Exit[20:37] Down to the River We Go[25:26] A Cold Plunge and a Ride on a Chariot[27:46] At Home in India[31:06] Cultural Appropriation vs A Choiceless Duty to PerformUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Jai Guru Deva.We just wanted to remind you that you currently have two opportunities to spend some quality time with Thom at his upcoming retreats in Sedona, Arizona, from May 22-26, and Gerringong, Australlia from June 25-29.These retreats are your chance to get away to rexperience deep rest, industrial-strength stress release, quality company, and higher states of consciousness.Most importantly, you'll have close-up access to Thom at his famous lectures and Q&A sessions.Whether you are troubled by the changes the world is experiencing right now, or simply looking to fast-track your evolution, quality time with Thom is the ideal opportunity to tap into the wisdom you need at this time.Thom looks forward to seeing you in Sedona or Gerringong!Find out more at thomknoles.com/retreats. That's thomknoles.com/retreats.In this episode of the Vedic Worldview, Thom delves into the life and journey of his spiritual master, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, before Maharishi met his own master, Swami Bramhananda Saraswati, revered as Guru Deva.The narrative follows Maharishi's initial resistance to a conventional life, his commitment to spirituality, and his eventual acceptance into the spiritual fold after completing his studies. It's an unconventional early life, even by Indians standards, and one which set Maharishi on the course to becoming the figure responsible for making meditation known and practiced throughout the world.Episode Highlights[00:45] Once Upon a Time[03:11] Maha Khumba Mela[06:15] Family Life[08:10] An Uncle Makes a Connection[11:41] “This is my master”[14:32] “I don't want a wife.”[18:16] Unfinished Business[20:34] From Physic Student to a Life of Service and DevotionUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Jai Guru Deva.We just wanted to remind you that you currently have two opportunities to spend some quality time with Thom at his upcoming retreats in Sedona, Arizona, from May 22-26, and Gerringong, Australlia from June 25-29.These retreats are your chance to get away to rexperience deep rest, industrial-strength stress release, quality company, and higher states of consciousness.Most importantly, you'll have close-up access to Thom at his famous lectures and Q&A sessions.Whether you are troubled by the changes the world is experiencing right now, or simply looking to fast-track your evolution, quality time with Thom is the ideal opportunity to tap into the wisdom you need at this time.Thom looks forward to seeing you in Sedona or Gerringong!Find out more at thomknoles.com/retreats. That's thomknoles.com/retreats.In Part One of this two-part series (see link below), Thom took us on a journey, exploring regret through the lens of unfulfilled desires. In this episode, Thom helps us shift our perspective on “the rearview mirror,” showing us how we can look back at our past actions, words, thoughts and deeds, without regret.It's a simple yet powerful paradigm that doesn't let us off the hook, so to speak, but it sets us up to make the most of our evolutionary progress.If you haven't yet listened to If Only… Living Life Without Regrets. Part One, you can do so here: https://thomknoles.com/podcast/life-without-regrets-1Episode Highlights:[00:45] Buddha's Hallway of Mirrors[05:43] Something Good is Happening[09:26] The Penitent Person[14:34] Saṃskara[17:41] You Are Not the Same You You Used to Be[22:35] I am Better TodayUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Jai Guru Deva.We just wanted to remind you that you currently have two opportunities to spend some quality time with Thom at his upcoming retreats in Sedona, Arizona, from May 22-26, and Gerringong, Australlia from June 25-29.These retreats are your chance to get away to rexperience deep rest, industrial-strength stress release, quality company, and higher states of consciousness.Most importantly, you'll have close-up access to Thom at his famous lectures and Q&A sessions.Whether you are troubled by the changes the world is experiencing right now, or simply looking to fast-track your evolution, quality time with Thom is the ideal opportunity to tap into the wisdom you need at this time.Thom looks forward to seeing you in Sedona or Gerringong!Find out more at thomknoles.com/retreats. That's thomknoles.com/retreats.The role of desire is one of the most misunderstood facets of spiritual evolution. Some schools of thought argue that we should transcend desires altogether, leading followers down a path of denial and disciplined detachment. This leaves many in a quandary, wondering why we are put to the test, surrounded by so many temptations.In this episode, Part One of a two-part series, Thom holds forth on the Vedic worldview with respect to desire and how we can live a life without regrets for desires unfulfilled. Discover why both obedience to desire's guidance and non-attachment to its fulfillment create the perfect balance for spiritual evolution. It's a revolutionary approach that transforms our understanding of what it means to want.Part Two of this series will be the next episode of The Vedic Worldview.Episode Highlights[00:45] Unfulfilled Desires[03:11] Reincarnation - Unfinished Business[06:18] Liberation from the Wheel of Death and Rebirth[09:00] Authorship of Desire: The Cause of Suffering[12:54] Percival from Arkansas Goes to the Cinema[15:31] Why am I having a desire?[18:18] Nature's Business[21:22] Filled with Fulfillment[24:56] Asteya and Vairagya[28:02] The Pollution of Unfulfilled Desires[31:31] What Are You?[34:22] Human Doings[38:48] Empirical Evidence Through Direct ExperienceUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Jai Guru Deva.We just wanted to remind you that you currently have two opportunities to spend some quality time with Thom at his upcoming retreats in Sedona, Arizona, from May 22-26, and Gerringong, Australlia from June 25-29.These retreats are your chance to get away to rexperience deep rest, industrial-strength stress release, quality company, and higher states of consciousness.Most importantly, you'll have close-up access to Thom at his famous lectures and Q&A sessions.Whether you are troubled by the changes the world is experiencing right now, or simply looking to fast-track your evolution, quality time with Thom is the ideal opportunity to tap into the wisdom you need at this time.Thom looks forward to seeing you in Sedona or Gerringong!Find out more at thomknoles.com/retreats. That's thomknoles.com/retreats.The global rise of yoga and meditation practices has introduced Sanskrit terminology to audiences worldwide. As Vedic wisdom continues to influence Western culture, Sanskrit words have become increasingly common in everyday conversations outside of India.In this illuminating Q&A episode, Thom addresses listener questions about chakras, and the concepts of sannyasi (renunciate) and grihasthi (householder). Thom dispels common misconceptions surrounding chakras, explaining their true significance in Vedic tradition, while also clarifying the authentic requirements and profound commitment necessary to genuinely embrace the sannyasi path.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - How do chakras influence our lives?[00:48] A - Gateways for Creative Intelligence[03:14] Not That Important[06:14] Q - Where did the fascination with Chakras come from?[06:20] A - Too Much Object Referral[08:53] Water the Roots[12:38] Q - What's the difference between a sannyasi and a grihasthi?[12:43] Four Varnas - Life Stages[17:32] Blessed Solitude[19:44] It's Better to Have a GuruUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Diagnoses of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) are increasingly common. These conditions are often misunderstood and surrounded by controversy, particularly regarding the medications typically prescribed as treatment.In this episode, in response to a listener question, Thom explores the topic through the Vedic perspective, presenting Vedic Meditation as a long-term, strategic solution to reduce reliance on medication.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - What's the Vedic Take on ADHD?[01:23] A - Distractible and Wiggly[03:42] The State of Humanity[05:22] A Deep Need for Boundlessness[08:06] Focus is Overdone[12:39] A Strategic Approach Through Vedic Meditation[16:15] The Brain Becomes Global[18:44] Exclusive Thinking is Not the Holy Grail[22:25] All-Inclusive ThinkingUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

From an early age, we grow up with stories that spark our desire for boons, or wishes fulfilled. We dream of finding our own version of Aladdin's magic lamp, complete with a genie ready to grant our every wish.While the Vedic worldview doesn't embrace genies in a literal sense, the concept of boons does align with it. In this episode, Thom explores the true nature of boons and how we can cultivate “Cosmic desires” that increase the likelihood of them being realized.Episode Highlights[00:45] Guru Purnima[04:12] A Blessing[07:18] Channeling a Cosmic Desire[10:10] The Qualities of a Pure Desire[12:30] Purifying the Desiring MechanismUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

In this episode, Thom discusses the Guru Parampara, the Holy Tradition of Masters that have been the custodians of the wisdom behind Vedic Meditation for centuries. He traces the lineage through notable figures such as Adi Guru Shankara and his disciples, especially Trotakacharya. Thom notes the similarities between the experiences of Trotakacharya and his own master, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, focusing on their devotion to their gurus and how their willingness to serve led to their enlightenment.    Episode Highlights[00:45] Guru Parampara - The Holy Tradition[05:24] The Four Disciples of Adi Guru Shankara[09:52] A Devoted Simpleton[13:11] A Shining Star Returns from the River[16:10] Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Meets Guru Deva[19:42] Maharishi Finds Himself in an Awkward Position[22:23] “I Know English”[24:32] Holding Wisdom Through Devotion and Adjusted ThinkingUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

A quick update that early registration is now open for Thom's upcoming annual retreat in Sedona, Arizona, this Memorial Day weekend from May 22nd to 26.This is Thom's first retreat in the United States since the epic Maha Kumbha Mela held earlier this year in Prayagraj, India, so Thom has many fascinating new stories to share. The Sedona Rounding Retreat is also your opportunity to gift yourself profound rest and industrial-strength meditation through the daily rounding program. This is your chance to transcend uncertainty in the ever-changing world and celebrate spring surrounded by nature, supported by community, and immersed in wisdom with Thom.  Early registration discounts expire on March 17th, and you can find out more at thomknoles.com/sedona.Jai Guru Deva.Words matter. The way in which we speak, and the words we use, reflect a great deal about how we perceive ourselves and how we perceive our place in the world. In this unapologetically short episode, Thom invites us to consider whether or not we might be overusing the word sorry in our day-to-day interactions with one another. Considering the connection between sorry and sorrow, the alternatives Thom proposes may be more impactful than you might first think.Episode Highlights[00:45] A Life of Constant Sorrow[02:34] Sarcasm and Narcissism[04:41] You Deserve the Best[06:47] Mea Culpa[08:34] A Willingness to Take Responsibility for What We're ExperiencingUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

A quick update that early registration is now open for Thom's upcoming annual retreat in Sedona, Arizona, this Memorial Day weekend from May 22nd to 26.This is Thom's first retreat in the United States since the epic Maha Kumbha Mela held earlier this year in Prayagraj, India, so Thom has many fascinating new stories to share. The Sedona Rounding Retreat is also your opportunity to gift yourself profound rest and industrial-strength meditation through the daily rounding program. This is your chance to transcend uncertainty in the ever-changing world and celebrate spring surrounded by nature, supported by community, and immersed in wisdom with Thom.  Early registration discounts expire on March 17th, and you can find out more at thomknoles.com/sedona.Jai Guru Deva.Cannabis is widely used for relaxation and is increasingly prescribed for therapeutic purposes. But what effect does it have on our internal “balance”?In this episode, Thom addresses a listener's question about the relationship between cannabis use and the gunas—the balancing agents of Nature, as described in the Vedic worldview.Thom explains why cannabis has an impact on the body, how it interacts with our natural systems, and why our body's own “endogenous cannabinoids” provide a more sustainable and beneficial effect on our physiology.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - How does cannabis influence the three gunas?[01:20] A - Gunas - Balance Agents of Nature[04:27] Rajas and Tamas - Change and Inertia[07:52] Go Beyond the Three Gunas[11:32] Too Many Spinning Plates[13:47] Endogenous and Exogenous Cannabinoids[17:06] Endocannabinoids from Vedic Meditation[20:11] Like Riding a Bike[22:23] A Balanced State of ConsciousnessUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

A quick update that early registration is now open for Thom's upcoming annual retreat in Sedona, Arizona, this Memorial Day weekend from May 22nd to 26.This is Thom's first retreat in the United States since the epic Maha Kumbha Mela held earlier this year in Prayagraj, India, so Thom has many fascinating new stories to share. The Sedona Rounding Retreat is also your opportunity to gift yourself profound rest and industrial-strength meditation through the daily rounding program. This is your chance to transcend uncertainty in the ever-changing world and celebrate spring surrounded by nature, supported by community, and immersed in wisdom with Thom.  Early registration discounts expire on March 17th, and you can find out more at thomknoles.com/sedona.Jai Guru Deva. If you enjoy Thom's podcast, then we know you'd love spending quality time with Thom on his retreats in Sedona, Arizona, Gerringong, Australia, and Rishikesh, India. We wanted to give you a sample of what the retreat experience was like, so in this episode, we are sharing just a small portion of Thom's recent retreat in India. As you'll hear, the atmosphere is intimate yet jovial and the Q&A sessions are engaging and interactive. On retreats, you get to explore subjects that might not normally be covered on the podcast, and you certainly get to hear stories from Thom that you wouldn't hear anywhere else.Subjects covered in this snippet include, how to mend a broken heart, whether or not it's ok to be “guru resistant,” the significance of the moon from the Vedic perspective, and the phenomena of “lunacy.”We'd love to have you join us at one of Thom's upcoming retreats, so please sit back and enjoy this taste test of the retreat experience, then find out how you can join us in person at thomknoles.com/retreats. That's thomknoles.com/retreats.PS: If you'd like to watch this episode on video, you can do so on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/nZhFM1UgFIcEpisode Highlights[00:45] A Retreat Taste Test[01:35] Q - How Can We Mend a Broken Heart?[04:21] Something Good is Happening[07:59] What's the Vedic Worldview on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?[08:14] Ayurveda Has the Answers[10:34] Q - Is it OK to be Guru Resistant?[10:56] Scepticism vs Cynicism[13:19] Beyond Reasonable Doubt[16:11] Q - What is the Significance of the Moon in the Vedic Worldview?[16:42] The Role of Mythos[18:37] A Big Asteroid with Remarkable Qualities[21:39] Surya Deva[24:32] A Tremendous Amount of Prestige[26:22] The Floodgates of Soma Are Open[29:55] Soma Chandrah NamahUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

A quick update that early registration is now open for Thom's upcoming annual retreat in Sedona, Arizona, this Memorial Day weekend from May 22nd to 26.This is Thom's first retreat in the United States since the epic Maha Kumbha Mela held earlier this year in Prayagraj, India, so Thom has many fascinating new stories to share. The Sedona Rounding Retreat is also your opportunity to gift yourself profound rest and industrial-strength meditation through the daily rounding program. This is your chance to transcend uncertainty in the ever-changing world and celebrate spring surrounded by nature, supported by community, and immersed in wisdom with Thom.  Early registration discounts expire on March 17th, and you can find out more at thomknoles.com/sedona.Jai Guru Deva.Outside of India, the word yoga has come to mean various forms of dynamic exercises that test your flexibility and strength. Yoga is in fact much more than just these physical exercises, which are more correctly referred to as asanas. And believe it or not, asanas weren't created to make us look good in lycra! Asanas were first created to help prepare the body for meditation and union with The Absolute.In this episode, Thom explains how asanas, pranayama and Vedic Meditation are used in combination, also called ‘Rounding,' to give us ‘industrial-strength meditation' and to accelerate the benefits we get from ‘standard' meditation.He talks about the importance of proper instruction and supervision so we can truly let go and, if necessary, have the support we need if deep stresses are released.You can learn and practice Rounding at Thom's annual retreats in Sedona, Arizona, and Gerringong, Australia. To find out more visit the retreats page on our website. https://thomknoles.com/vedic-meditation-retreats/.Timestamps:[00:45] Asana, Pranayama, Vedic Meditation[02:49] Releasing Stress[04:18] Proper Instruction Needed[06:24] Industrial-Strength Meditation[08:02] Don't Try This at Home[10:25] Heightened Consciousness States[11:43] The Going-Home Program

A quick update that early registration is now open for Thom's upcoming annual retreat in Sedona, Arizona, this Memorial Day weekend from May 22nd to 26.This is Thom's first retreat in the United States since the epic Maha Kumbha Mela held earlier this year in Prayagraj, India, so Thom has many fascinating new stories to share. The Sedona Rounding Retreat is also your opportunity to gift yourself profound rest and industrial-strength meditation through the daily rounding program. This is your chance to transcend uncertainty in the ever-changing world and celebrate spring surrounded by nature, supported by community, and immersed in wisdom with Thom.  Early registration discounts expire on March 17th, and you can find out more at thomknoles.com/sedona.Jai Guru Deva.Twentieth-century science made a groundbreaking discovery: the Unified Field. This concept revolutionized physics, prompting scientists to reconsider the completeness of the Newtonian understanding of the universe.However, the Unified Field wasn't a new concept. Vedic Rishis and scholars have understood its existence for thousands of years, referring to it as "the field of Being."In this episode, Thom explores the Vedic perspective on this Unified Field of Consciousness and how it applies to our daily lives.Episode Highlights[00:45] Sankhya - The Cosmic Story Line[04:21] Is-ness, Am-ness, I-ness, My-ness[06:45] The 25 Qualities of the Unified Field of Consciousness[08:54] Breaking of Symmetry[13:09] Sequential Elaboration[17:45] Dharma - What is the Most Relevant Thing for You to Be?[21:07] Refreshing Our Relevance Through Vedic Meditation[24:27] Removing Identities of the Past[27:03] Not Just Any MeditationUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

While there's no shortage of external critics ready to judge us on any given day, none can match the relentless voice of our own inner critic. Always prepared with an arsenal of “evidence” to justify its stance, this inner voice excels at “keeping us in our place,” often at the expense of our confidence and growth.This poses a significant problem: countless human potential is squandered through self-diminishing inner dialogue.In this episode, Thom sheds light on the nature of the inner critic, revealing that it's far from a new phenomenon. He explains how it can be effectively overcome using a simple yet powerful technique—one that unlocks a wide range of transformative benefits.Episode Highlights[00:45] The Prosecutor and the Advocate[03:53] The Discriminating Force[06:02] Evolution of the Ego[09:37] Biased Intellect[12:41] Breaking the Cycle with Vedic Meditation[15:24] I Am Totality[18:41] A Schism Begins[20:58] The Prosecutorial Intellect Capitulates: Self-Doubt Disappears[23:48] It Takes a Thorn to Remove a Thorn[28:12] Bring It On!Useful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Discipline is often hailed as the key to solving life's challenges. We're told that with enough discipline, we can change our habits, endure hardships, stay focused, and achieve our goals.But can discipline sometimes backfire? Is it possible to become so rigid in our approach that we miss valuable opportunities or even create more problems than we solve?In this episode, Thom introduces the concept of the “ultimate discipline.” He explains how this approach ensures we maintain the structure and focus we need while remaining flexible enough to adapt to the ever-changing demands of life.Episode Highlights[00:45] Formulae for Self-Improvement[03:49] The Evolutionary Storyline[07:37] Forgetting to Think[10:51] Vedic Meditation - The Ultimate Discipline[12:54] A Non-Negotiable Phenomenon[15:09] Control States[18:37] Stop What You're Doing[21:31] Become an Invincible Human Being with a Fabulous StorylineUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Vedic Meditation is rooted in an ancient Indian tradition that has preserved Vedic wisdom for millennia. The Shankaracharya Tradition, like many others, has senior custodians who ensure this wisdom remains both pure and relevant.In January 2025, Thom was honored with a role as one of these custodians, a distinction never before granted to a non-Indian. In this episode, Thom shares the story of his appointment and the ceremony where he received his new title, Shri 1008 Mahamandaleshwar Maharishi Vyasanand Giri Maharaj.It's a fascinating and colorful journey that will leave you in awe at the scale and significance of it.This excerpt is from a recent session of Thom's online Satsang community. To listen to the full session, which includes nearly 30 minutes of additional Q&A and 200 hours of Thom's content from recent years, visit https://thomknoles.com/community.Episode Highlights[00:45] Akharas - Maintaining Ancient Traditions[04:09] An Invitation to Join Niranjani Akhara Council[06:37] Maha Kumbha Mela - A Fitting Occasion[09:41] The Largest Gathering of Humans in History[12:44] Pattibhishek - Celebrating a New Mahamandaleshwar[14:56] A Blessing[17:19] Saffron Robes and a Saffron Scarf[19:19] A New Name for a New Role[22:35] Q - What does this mean for the community?[22:46] A - No Question of Cultural Appropriation[24:42] No Hocus Pocus[26:45] How to Stay EvolutionaryUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Unlike rules-based teachings prevalent in both modern and ancient texts, Vedic teachings are renowned for not prescribing commandments or rigid “rules.” Instead, Veda offer timeless wisdom through lessons that we can interpret and apply according to our level of consciousness.One of the core Vedic teachings, The Mahabharata, contains a specific set of chapters known as the Bhagavad Gita — the Song of God. Within these chapters lies a profound teaching distilled into just five words that, if fully understood and implemented, have the power to end our suffering.In English, these words are: “Established in Being, perform action.”In this episode, Thom unpacks the meaning and transformative impact of this teaching. He also shares the technique that enables all of us to integrate this wisdom into our daily lives.If you'd like to dive deeper into the Bhagavad Gita, we invite you to take a look at Thom's Exploring the Bhagavad Gita series of courses. These engaging and lively courses examine how the ancient and profound lessons of the Bhagavad Gita can be applied to modern life. You can find out more at https://thomknoles.com/bhagavad-gita/,Episode Highlights[00:45] The God Song[03:34] Mahabharata[05:29] Pandavas and Kauravas[08:12] Krishna's Choice: Army or Advisor/Charioteer?[09:47] Arjuna's Dilemma[13:09] Go Beyond All Relativity, Perform Action[16:29] How to Solve All Problems[19:11] Brahman Saṃsparsash: The Kiss of Totality[22:12] The Universe Having a Human ExperienceUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

We often find ourselves unsettled by the words of others—criticism, manipulation, and verbal abuse are just a few examples of communication that can feel hurtful. But does it have to be this way?In this Q&A episode, Thom explains with clarity who truly holds responsibility for the hurt caused by critical or unkind words. The best part? By following his recommendations, you can free yourself from ever being at the mercy of someone else's words again.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - How do we positively handle criticism?[00:50] A - Your Critics Are Your Best Friends[02:54] Thank You[05:50] Q - How should we respond to criticism when it's harsh?[05:56] A - With Compassion and Gratitude[09:13] We Want to Find the Gold[10:39] Q - What's the best way to handle manipulation or manipulative behaviors?[10:45] A - Manipulative Behavior Requires a Reward[13:44] A Suffering Competition[16:32] The Greatest Crime Against Nature[17:59] Q - Can you share any strategies for responding to verbal abuse?[18:03] A - Just a Noise[20:02] A - They Must Be SufferingUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Sanskrit is a beautiful language that captures subtle distinctions that English and other modern languages often cannot.Take the word “love,” for example. In English, this word spans a wide net of emotions and feelings. For example, love can describe feelings a parent has for their child, as well as the fondness someone might feel for a football team or a favorite brand of chocolate.In this week's podcast episode, Thom explores the distinction between two Sanskrit words often translated as "love"—kama and prema—and reveals their unique and separate meanings.Episode Highlights[00:45] Puruṣārtha[03:59] Kama[04:35] Pleasure Experienced Through the Senses[07:19] Prema[09:58] Love is So Ill-Defined[12:35] Vedanta[15:02] Prema and Kama: A Dynamite Package[18:05] The Crest Jewel of DiscriminationUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

It's common to label someone as a narcissist, but while we often think of narcissism as excessive self-regard, the ultimate cause might be quite different. In fact, narcissism may stem from an underlying insecurity rather than an inflated sense of self-worth.In this episode, Thom explains the root causes of narcissism and shares key indicators of narcissistic behavior. Importantly, he encourages us to approach narcissists with compassion and offers a potential solution for those who recognize narcissistic tendencies in themselves.Episode Highlights[00:45] Narcissus[04:48] Somebody Has Done This to Me[06:49] The Narcissist's Caveat[08:42] One-Upmanship[11:30] An Impostor Syndrome[14:50] An Underlying Feeling of Desperation[17:40] Reconstructed Life Stories[19:48] Calming Narcissism Through Vedic Meditation[23:21] The Effects of Vedic Meditation on NarcissismUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

The pursuit of altered states of consciousness through substances like drugs and alcohol is an age-old practice. Despite their potential risks and negative consequences, these substances continue to be widely used with an increasing variety of options available.In recent decades, a new challenge has emerged: the conscious or unconscious manipulation of our body's feel-good chemistry. Activities like excessive social media use, compulsive shopping, and overindulgence in sugary foods can trigger dopamine releases, creating a short-lived sense of pleasure.This "more-is-better" mentality often leads to addiction and various chronic health issues.In this episode, Thom explores the impact of the more-is-better mentality and proposes a more balanced and sustainable approach to well-being. By focusing on natural methods, such as Vedic Meditation, we can harness our body's innate ability to produce feel-good chemicals without relying on external substances or compulsive behaviors.Episode Highlights[00:45] An Obsession With Control[02:53] Dopamine Should be Left Alone[05:41] Scurvy: The Unintended Consequence of Vitamin C Supplements[09:05] It's Better for You to De-Excite[11:34] Active Ingredient Mentality[14:22] Undesirable Effects[16:48] Nature Knows Best How to Organize[18:56] It's What You Do with What You Eat[21:48] Awaken Perfect Balance in the Human BrainUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Find out more about Thom's Enlightened Parenting Course here: https://thomknoles.com/parentingIn this episode, Thom explores the corners of the mind, in response to listener questions about various aspects of the mind: how we think, what we think, why we do things, and so on.Thom answers the perpetual question about controlling the subconscious mind and sets the record straight on using affirmations.Thom also gives us a shortcut to overcoming motivational blocks and provides a sustainable solution for anyone who lacks self-compassion or struggles with feelings of low self-worth.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - What's the best way to control your subconscious mind?[00:49] A - Avoid it Like the Plague[03:01] Become One with the Home of All the Laws of Nature[06:39] Q - Do Affirmations Make a Difference?[06:42] A - The Opposite is True and I'm Trying to Make it True[08:18] Internalized Locus of Control[10:43] Aham Brahmasmi - I am Totality[14:23] Go Beyond Thought Entirely[16:22] Q - How can I overcome motivational blocks?[16:26] A - Choicelessness is the Hallmark of Cosmic Motivation[19:26] Tidings of Comfort and Joy[23:03] Q - How can I overcome a lack of compassion for myself and feelings of low self-worth?[23:10] A - Think Like a Scientist[25:32] Support of the Bank of Goodwill[27:14] “But, but…”[29:29] You Have Infinite Potential[32:04] Equip Yourself Properly with Vedic MeditationUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Find out more about Thom's Enlightened Parenting Course here: https://thomknoles.com/parentingThere are more humans on the planet today than ever before, and we have more ways of connecting with each other than ever before, yet loneliness has reached epidemic proportions.The World Health Organization (WHO) launched an international commission on the problem last year, reporting that the health risks from loneliness are as bad as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and are even greater than those associated with obesity and physical inactivity.The US Surgeon-General released a report on Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, reporting that even in the years prior to Covid lockdowns, about one-in-two adults in America reported experiencing loneliness. And Japan, one of the most densely populated countries in the world, even has a minister in charge of measures for loneliness and isolation.Thom outlines some solutions to loneliness in this podcast episode, reminding us that connectivity and connection are very different things, and that, ultimately, it's our job to make ourselves socially relevant.  Thom also outlines an advantage that Vedic meditators have, making it possible to be alone while still enjoying rich company. Episode Highlights[00:45] Pheromone Clouds[02:50] Adaptive Mechanisms[05:36] Enriching Our Presence Through Vedic Meditation[07:03] Stepping Out of the Illusion of Loneliness[08:56] Social Chocolate[11:36] Sociological Exercise[13:16] Social Relevance[14:28] Human Interaction - Surgeon General RecommendedUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Hard work is often worn as a badge of honor. If someone works hard, then they “deserve” their successes. We might even say they have a “good” work ethic.But if someone appears to attain a particular outcome without working hard, we might say they've got it too easy. Too easy compared to what?Thom gives us some very clear guidelines in this episode on how to let Nature guide us on just how much effort is actually required for us to fulfill our dharma and to effectively meet the need of the time. Thom also helps us understand the distinction between effort and hard work. As is always the case, it's merely a matter of perspective.Episode Highlights[00:45] Reclassifying Success[03:39] Suffering is a Mistake[06:24] Kriya - Frictionless Flow of Activity[08:09] Michelangelo Liberating the Captives[10:23] Stop Being Merely an Individual[12:37] Hard Work Insinuates Suffering[14:52] You Are NatureUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

If you've noticed an increase in the use of the word “toxic” in relation to human behavior in recent years, you'd be right. Its use has become so prevalent, that Oxford Dictionaries named "toxic" as their Word of the Year in 2018. Oxford noted a 45% increase in lookups for the word on their website and observed its expanded usage beyond its literal meaning to describe various social and political issues.Of course, it's tempting to look for causes and attempt to fix them at the source. The rise in the use of social media, for example, has undoubtedly contributed to this increase, so we might be tempted to control toxicity there.Thom proposes a radically different cause in this episode, backing it up with a solution that puts us in control of potentially toxic behavior around us, rather than being at the mercy of it.Episode Highlights[00:45] Toxophilus - Poisoned Arrows[02:56] Source of All, Course of All, Goal of All[05:14] Too Big to Be Made Toxic[07:58] The Capacity to Be Toxified[09:21] Robust and Resilient[12:25] Overloads of Experience[14:19] Premature Cognitive Commitments[16:06] Unprecedented Rest Through Vedic Meditation[18:56] A Net Position of Structural Integrity[20:10] Attain to Personal InvincibilityUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Most listeners of The Vedic Worldview live in democracies and are all too familiar with the fact that irrespective of who is elected, there will always be a faction of the population who is disappointed and another who is pleased with the outcome. For those on the side of disappointment, many times the next thought that occurs is despondency or powerlessness. “What was my vote all for?” they might ask.While it might seem like one vote has little impact, Thom suggests otherwise. In this episode, he shares how Vedic meditators, in particular, have a unique ability to influence outcomes—not through politics, but by elevating collective consciousness.Thom explains that true power for change doesn't lie in government institutions like Congress or Parliament but in our capacity to transform consciousness.This episode revisits and continues with the themes from a previous discussion, The Crisis of Governance and Your Role in Its Resolution. You can listen to it here: https://thomknoles.com/podcast/crisis-governance-role-resolution/.Episode Highlights[00:45] The Origins of Governance[03:56] The Concept of Democracy[06:46] The Average of the Collective[08:55] Step Out of Mistaken Intellect[11:48] Ultimate Identity[14:43] The Importance of Direct Experience[17:31] Be a Satisfactory Citizen[19:57] Dharma - Your Personal Role in the Evolution of Things[22:01] I'm Not in Charge of What I'm Experiencing[24:50] Escaping an Impossible Situation[28:14] A Critical Mass for a Phase Transition[30:06] The Temperature of the Collective[32:14] Radiate Life for All to EnjoyUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Welcome to another Q&A episode, with Thom fielding a range of questions from listeners with a common thread of social discomfort.Thom holds forth on the subjects of social division, embarrassment, how to accept compliments gracefully, how to strengthen relationships in tough times, and anger, specifically whether or not enlightened masters can be angry.As always, it's an episode with universal appeal that could potentially tick off a few boxes in your own evolutionary journey.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - Why are people so divided right now?[00:48] A - Destructive Normalization[02:05] Mistaken Identity[04:03] The It-ification of Other Humans[05:51] Be an Inspiration to Others to Learn Vedic Meditation[08:07] Q - How can we recover after embarrassing ourselves?[08:11] A - Get Yourself a Sense of Humor[09:53] The Human Condition is Not a Serious Condition[12:09] Q - How can I accept compliments gracefully?[12:19] A - Words Can't Even Express Your Greatness[14:11] Thank You[16:44] Q - How can we strengthen a relationship during tough times?[16:49] A - Alliances vs Relationships[19:33] Honor the Best Interests of Each of You[21:28] Vedic Meditation Reminds You Who You Really Are[23:09] Work on Our Capacity to Give[25:16] Q - Can enlightened masters be angry?[25:20] A - Moments of Strong Expression[27:32] Be Masterful Without Being AngryUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Being an empath might seem like a gift—experiencing what someone else is going through must surely deepen our understanding of one another.But in this podcast, Thom brings a surprising twist to the concept. He explains that not all empathy is created equal; different levels of empathy can lead to very different outcomes. While some forms can unintentionally add to our suffering, "high-grade empathy" is what actually alleviates it.Thom leaves us with a clear sense of how to cultivate this higher level of empathy so we're better equipped to bring true comfort and understanding into our interactions.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Direct Experience of Being Another[02:56] Moving in the Direction of Unity Consciousness Through Vedic Meditation[05:47] An Extension of One's Own Inner Self[07:55] Big Toe Consciousness[09:39] Siddhis - Extraordinary Human Capabilities[11:52] Limping Dog Suffering[13:42] Capability to Alleviate Suffering[15:35] You Are Totality[18:01] Knowledge is for ActionUseful Links:info@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

In a world where education is available to nearly everyone, one might expect that the major challenges facing humanity would have been solved by now, leading to a more prosperous and harmonious existence. But, as we can clearly see, that's far from the reality.In this episode, Thom explores the underlying cause: education today is focused on the wrong outcomes.Thom offers a profound solution—an approach that cultivates students who are able to tap into infinite creative intelligence, unlocking problem-solving abilities far beyond what mere knowledge accumulation can provide.Episode Highlights[00:45] What Is a Problem For You?[02:35] Archimedes and Leverage[06:29] Do You Have Problem-Solving Techniques?[08:10] University - Unified Diversity[10:51] What Kind of Human Have They Become?[12:29] Credentialed Persons[13:45] Highly-Qualified Uber Drivers[15:17] Knowledgeable in Very Certain Areas[17:23] Ignore, Ignore, Ignore[20:53] Increase Knowledge of the Knower[22:51] Knowledge of the Knower[24:57] Vedic Meditation Awakens the Home of All KnowledgeUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

One could easily spend a lifetime exploring Vedic literature and still barely scratch the surface in terms of the wisdom that's available to us. Between the four Vedas, Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Atharva Veda and Yajur Veda, the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutras, the six schools of Vedic philosophy, and countless other written and oral texts or translations, there's no shortage of avenues to explore.And even if you could absorb them all in a lifetime, you'd probably need to reread them to understand them from a more evolved point of view.  Fortunately, the Vedic worldview is that all this wisdom is experiential, and we can shortcut the process of attaining wisdom through “knowledge of the Knower.” Thom provides an example of this in this assessment of Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga, a subset of The Yoga Sutras. Thom clarifies that the piecemeal approach of trying to check off the eight limbs through our actions in order to attain the state of Yoga, is a misguided approach to take, and that practicing Vedic Meditation provides an express route that accelerates our personal evolution.Episode Highlights:[00:45] The Yoga Sutras[02:36] Ashta Anga[03:44] Yoga - Unification[06:27] Samadhi[07:39] The Simultaneous Arrival of Balance[09:57] 1. Yama and Its Five Qualities[13:21] Outcomes vs Causes[15:05] 2. Niyama and Its Five Observances[20:18] 3. Asana - The Sequential Elaboration of Limbs[23:32] Asana for Transcendence[24:51] 4. Pranayama - Administration of Breath[27:00] 5. Pratyahara - Inward Intentionality[29:31] Reversing Habits of the Senses[32:05] 6. Dharana - Inward Movement[33:41] 7. Dhyana - Arriving at the Subtlest Layer of Thought[35:14] 8. Samadhi - Being Knows Itself[36:50] Samadhi Affects Yama[39:50] Spontaneous Self-Sufficiency[41:34] Samadhi Affects Niyama[45:09] Samadhi Affects All Other Limbs[46:56] A Process of Verification and ValidationUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

We often hear cries for justice when what's being called for is actually revenge. So, what exactly is justice? And how do we distinguish the difference between the two? In this episode Thom lays out the Vedic perspective on revenge and justice, giving us clear guidelines to follow, and indicators on when we might have favored revenge over justice. Fortunately the distinction between the two is unambiguous and will leave us in no doubt moving forward as to whether we are leaning towards justice or revenge in our actions.Episode Highlights[00:45] Restoration of Balance[05:03] Was It Just?[07:33] Misguided Avengers[10:28] Satisfaction Through Moksha - Liberation[12:50] Karma - Actions or Thoughts That Bind You[15:43] A Futile Act[19:48] Does Nature Know What It's Doing?[21:33] Aham Brahmasmi - I Am Totality[23:53] Further StudiesUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

One thing that sets the Vedic worldview apart from other schools of thought is the notion that everything that we get to witness, every form, every phenomena, is the unfolding of an epic story.Thom explains the mechanism of evolution in this episode, including the infinite organizing power that it takes for stories to play out, with play being the operative word. Seeing our lives unfold in this way offers us an opportunity to reconsider our own stories from a vast, more Universal perspective.Episode Highlights:[00:45] The Writing of the Gods[02:53] The Infinite Organizing Power Attributed to The Feminine[04:50] Play Power of The Totality[07:41] Simplicity to Sophistication[09:15] Sequential Elaboration[11:55] Elevational Theater[14:04] Plateaus and the Status Quo[16:02] Leela Shakti and the History of The UniverseUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Listeners are steering the ship once again, in our latest Q&A episode.Thom answers a question about karma and how it fits into the dynamics of our relationships. It turns out that it's our relationship with our Self that matters most.Thom also tackles a question about charm, in particular, how we can adapt when charm doesn't seem to be as supported by Nature as we would expect.Finally, Thom gives a definitive answer to the age-old question, can there be art without suffering? It's a question that could easily be answered with one word, but Thom provides a rationale that leaves us in no doubt about the role of suffering in art.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - How do karmic relationships with others work?[01:20] A - Karma: Action That Binds You[03:24] The Knot of Karma[05:22] Kṛiya - Spontaneous Right Action[07:29] Untying the Knots of Karma[09:25] Moving in the Direction of Kṛiya[12:15] Vedic Meditation - Losing the Tendency to Create Problems[14:12] Q - How can I understand the nuances of charm?[14:52] A - A Big Bundle of Capability[16:55] Charm and Aversion[18:52] Thinning Out of Charm[20:02] Moving from Capability to the Field of Need[22:27] Witnessing vs. Engaging[23:53] Witnessing the Self in Action Through Others[26:03] Engage or Witness: Do What You Can[27:45] Q - Can There Be Art Without Suffering?[27:47] A - The Most Artistically Productive Era?[29:25] What Creates Great Art?[30:33] Artistic Talents Despite Suffering[32:17] The Artistic GiftUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

If you've ever wondered where one of the world's most astonishing gatherings takes place, look no further than the Kumbha Mela. This grand festival of spiritual significance draws tens of millions of devotees from around the globe in a display of harmony, wisdom and tolerance like no other.Having been to several Kumbha Melas over the past 50 years, and currently preparing to attend the next Kumbha Mela in January 2025, Thom is well equipped to give us a small but enticing glimpse into the significance and the spectacle of this truly unique phenomenon. Episode Highlights[00:45] A Contained Celebration[03:25] Triveni - Where Three Sacred Rivers Meet[06:03] Maha Kumbha Mela[08:10] Diversity of the Mela[10:05] Millions at Kumbha Mela[12:41] Ardh Kumbha Mela[14:50] Kumbha Mela 2025[16:29] Maintaining Order and Safety[18:52] Om Namah Shivaya[20:37] A Once-in-a-Lifetime ExperienceUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Followers of Vedic wisdom often refer to the four goals, Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha, as something we should aspire to in our lives.While these are, indeed, qualities that mark our level of consciousness, in this episode, Thom clarifies the status of these four qualities. In doing so, he also clarifies the meanings of each of the four qualities, which are often referred to in overly simplistic, and slightly misleading terms.As always, Thom will put the horse back in front of the cart, and equip us with a process that will ensure we embody these four qualities to the best of our ability at all times. Episode Highlights[00:45] The Four Goals[05:30] Your True Dharma[08:00] Tat Wale Baba - Abundant in All Things[10:27] No Abundance: What a Terrible Life[12:41] What True Abundance Looks Like[14:26] The Ability to Extract Maximum Pleasure[17:11] Living in a Dual Awareness[19:15] Attaining Puruṣārtha Through Vedic Meditation[21:45] Self-Realization by Numbers[23:57] The Process is the Outcome[26:03] Measuring Rods of EnlightenmentUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Most of us think of laws of Nature as being those laws that determine how the environment behaves on a physical level. The Vedic worldview expands the scope of these laws to include consciousness itself, and its constantly-evolving intentions. This effectively makes Nature a conscious entity, hence why you'll often find us spelling it with a capital N.In this episode Thom gives us a masterclass on how to live in alignment with the laws of Nature, taking into consideration not just the variability of the physical laws of nature, with a small n, but also the ever-changing intentions of Nature, with a big N.It's an approach that guarantees to reduce, and ultimately eliminate suffering from our lives. Episode Highlights:[00:45] Q - What Are the Laws of Nature?[00:51] A - Patterns of Cause and Effect[02:25] Elegance - The Pinnacle of Sophistication[04:12] Science's Evolving View of Nature[06:31] Laws that Change With the Need of the Time[08:25] Boiling Water in Your Hand[09:52] A Universe Becoming Conscious of Itself[12:15] Your Role in the Evolutionary Flow[14:15] Survival Through Evolution[16:41] Survival is a Product[18:37] Reduce Suffering - Act in Tune with Nature[20:23] Vedic Meditation and Laws of Nature[22:25] Be The Universe[25:01] Survival is a Product of Evolution[26:58] Theory + Practice = Science[29:31] Practice Vedic Meditation and Become an Effective Agent of EvolutionUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Many people go to great lengths to view eclipses, sometimes traveling thousands of miles to witness the shadow of the Moon passing across the Sun or the shadow of the Earth crossing the Moon.In Jyotish, or Vedic Astrology, however, such events can be seen as inauspicious, and the recommendation might be that we take shelter from them rather than expose ourselves to them.But such things are not so cut and dry. In this episode, Thom proposes that the impact of an eclipse depends, as does the impact of most things, on the consciousness state of the observer.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Parashara Saṃhita[02:40] Self-referral Consciousness and Object-referral Consciousness[05:59] What's in the Sky and What's Not in the Sky[09:00] Who are You and What are You?[11:10] What is the Nature of the Knower?[13:15] Degrees of Suffering[16:23] Reinforcing Totality Consciousness Through Vedic Meditation[18:58] A Little Bit of a Muddying EffectUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

When we think of quantum mechanics, most of us conjure up images of nutty professors and blackboards filled with incomprehensible equations. Though quantum mechanics does indeed have a lot to do with seemingly incomprehensible math, the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics are well worth understanding as they give us a fresh perspective on which to view the Universe we live in.In this episode, Thom gives us a lay-person overview of the essentials of quantum mechanics. Importantly, he explains how our consciousness shapes our world and why we should always question our assumptions.  Episode Highlights:[00:45] The Quest for Quarks[04:33] Ignore That[07:28] The Ultimate Discovery of Physics[09:30] Consciousness in Physics[11:28] There Are No Particles[13:01] Questioning Assumptions[15:50] You Live in a Universe that is a Response to Your Expectation[19:15] The Aristotelian DemandUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Listeners are running the show again today, with another of our popular Q&A sessions.This time around, Thom tackles a question on spiritual mediums, and whether we can trust what they say. His answer may surprise you.He also answers a question about right and wrong, using the Bhagavad Gita to set the context for spontaneous right action.And he also puts a listener's mind at rest, in answer to a question about whether a Vedic meditator can successfully be in a relationship with a non meditator.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Q - Are spiritual mediums communicating with people who have passed away?[01:11] A - Accuracy and Purpose of Mediumship[03:26] A Misunderstanding of What It's Like to be Dead[05:30] Communicating from One State to Another[07:13] How Exact Are the Medium-Delivered Messages?[08:40] Vedic Meditation is More Effective Than Seeking Messages from the Departed[10:16] Limitations of Mediums in Spiritual Communication[11:55] Controlling Behavior Towards the Departed[13:29] Let Go of the Need to Control and Embrace Self-Sufficiency[14:49] Q - Is There a General Right and Wrong in Life?[15:50] Q - The Paradox of Right and Wrong[16:54] The Bhagavad Gita[19:08] Thinking From the Narrow End of the Funnel[21:41] Spontaneous Right Action[23:52] Q - Can a Vedic Meditator be in a Relationship With a Non-Meditator?[24:46] A - We Want the Pizzaz[26:56] Consciousness Dynamics in Relationships[29:03] Embrace and Learn from Each Other's Views[30:46] Being Different Makes Relationships BetterUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Ceremonial fires have been used in most cultures for millenia. Often these fires just have a symbolic purpose, but the Vedic worldview has a particular use of fire, in combination with sounds and offerings, which has a specific impact on consciousness itself.In this episode, Thom gives an entry-level view of yagyas, a fascinating and specialized process that can be used to awaken impulses of creative intelligence and allow us to reveal more of what Nature intends for us. A yagya is a bridge between desire and manifestation, so to speak, giving us a helping hand to make our potential a reality.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Sanskrit - The Unambiguous Language[03:41] Awakening the Impulses of Creative Intelligence[05:59] Name and Form are Infinitely Correlated Indeed[07:50] Serving the Intention of the Knower[10:38] Stirring the Depths of Consciousness[12:27] Agni - The Sound Nature Makes When Intending Fire[15:29] Bring Forth All the Gifts[18:22] Favorable Conditions in the Consciousness of the Knower[20:06] Increasing CapabilityUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Sanskrit terminology has been slowly creeping into common usage outside of India, quite often incorrectly. Yoga, for example, has a widely understood meaning outside of India, which doesn't reflect the actual meaning of the word. In this episode, Thom explains the meaning behind many of the titles applied to or bestowed upon various positions within the Vedic realm. You'll learn the definitions for titles such as swami, yogi, yogini, and guru and understand the true meaning of these terms.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Umbrella Terms[02:22] Acharya[04:04] The Figurative Meaning[05:59] The Connotative Meaning[06:32] Grihasta and Grihasti[09:15] Vanaprasta and Vanaprasti[12:04] Sannyasz[15:58] Yogi[16:57] Guru[17:44] Mahamandaleshwar, Swami and Akhara[20:51] Maharaj[23:37] Pandit or Pundit[24:50] Maharishi, Maharishika[26:50] Satguru or Sadguru[28:43] Sadhu, Saddhaka, Saddhaki[30:03] Shishya or Shishyi[30:03] Swami[32:01] Yogi, Yogini and YogaUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most pivotal spiritual texts of all time. Its teachings have been taught for millenia throughout India, and outside of India for the past 100 years or so, inspiring billions with insights into how we can reduce suffering in our own lives.In this episode, Thom gives us a brief introduction to the Bhagavad Gita as a primer for his upcoming three-day course in which he'll take a deep dive into the subject, alongside fellow Vedic Meditation Initiator and Vedic literature aficionado, Jamey Hood. You can find out more about the upcoming course at https://thomknoles.com/bhagavad-gita/.Note: The prerequisite of Thom's new course on the Bhagavad Gita is the completion of a qualified Vedic Meditation training.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Song of God[04:46] The Mahabharata[07:21] Veda Vyasa[10:27] The Kurus[14:02] A Battlefield at Kurukshetra[16:46] A Deal with Krishna[19:05] Arjuna - The Invincible Archer[21:09] I Won't Fight![24:03] The Despondency of Arjuna[26:07] Learning to Meditate on the Battlefield[29:44] Transcend the Problem[31:28] What Makes a War Story so Pivotal?[35:30] Fulfillment is a Consciousness State[37:26] The Ultimate Spiritual Experience[39:13] A Study Course with ThomUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

What does it mean to be masculine in the modern age? In this episode, Thom strips the discussion back, questioning not just the premise of masculinity, but also the premise of modernity. Thom invites us to reset our expectations of ourselves and others, and to reevaluate our apparent need to compartmentalize behaviors.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Terribly Modern[03:16] What Does It Means to Be a Human?[05:31] Journey from Zygote to Human[07:27] Omnisexuality: Our True Nature[11:22] The Crazy Tiger[13:58] Cultural Inventions[16:14] Ardhanarishvara: The Balance of Masculine and Feminine[18:04] Being vs. Doing: What It Means to Be HumanUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

In the modern world, mantras come in all shapes and sizes. Though they originate from the Vedic tradition, it's becoming more and more common to see/hear mantras used in a more modern context, as political slogans or even as a rallying cry to get people behind a common cause.Modern and ancient mantras all have a similar purpose, to alter the thinking of the listener and/or the speaker of the mantra.In this episode, Thom Knoles delves into the origins and concept of mantras, and explores the various functions and intentions of some mantras that have been used consistently for thousands of years.  Thom explains the functional differences and applications of these mantras, including their role in Vedic Meditation and their broader use in various aspects of life. It's a deep dive into the scientific and practical aspects of mantras, providing insights into their transformative potential.Episode Highlights:[00:45] Name and Form are Infinitely Correlated[03:09] Denotative vs. Connotative Meaning of Mantra[04:44] Nivar Tatvam - Go Where You Are Not[08:00] Bija Mantra - Working on the Level of Sound[09:51] Right Mantra for the Right Person[11:48] Drawing Towards the Source of Thought[13:34] Effortlessness is a Skill Set[16:02] Vaidya Mantras[18:53] Om and Omkaraz[22:01] Gayatri Mantra and Surya Namaskar[24:25] Rishi - A Seer of Vedic zSounds[26:40] Sanskrit: The Sound of Nature's Intention[29:24] Expressive vs. Symbolic Languages[31:13] Thought-inducing Mantras[33:02] Mantras for All OccasionsUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Most of us attempt to control other people or situations more often than we like to admit it. Much of the time we're not even conscious of it, but control shows up in our lives in so many ways.In this episode, Thom addresses the fallacy of control. This is a series of curated questions and answers from Thom's online Satsang community, a resource for receiving lectures, sharing group meditations, and submitting questions for Thom to answer in real time. If you'd like to know more about Satsang, please visit the website.Episode Highlights:[00:00] Satsang[01:26] Is IVF Unnatural or Controlling?[02:05] Where Do Babies Come From?[03:33] Hit and Miss[05:27] Is It Charming?[06:13] A Bizarre Comparison[08:26] Another Analogy[09:55] A Growing Body of Knowledge[11:41] A Beautiful Soul Wanting Embodiment[13:36] Simple, Natural, Innocent[14:58] Responding to Nature's Invitation[17:30] How Can I Release Control in Professional Situations?[18:01] Loyalty-Based Administration[19:06] Fear-Based Administration[20:02] The Absolute Theory of Management[22:06] Be an Exemplar[24:10] How Can I Align With My Partner when Our Communication Styles Differ?[24:24] Get Rid of Our Superiority Complex[25:12] Birds of Different Feathers[26:21] What's Your Point?[28:02] Be Willing to Invest the Time[29:12] SatsangUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

The pinnacle of the journey for any meditator is to become an Initiator of Vedic Meditation. Not only does it give you the tools and opportunity to teach the technique to others, but it also gives a quantum boost to your own evolution. The opportunity to spend 12 weeks in the birthplace of our technique, absorbing Vedic wisdom from Thom and other course leaders, and the chance to develop lifelong bonds with new friends and colleagues from far and wide is unequaled.In this bonus episode, Thom extends an invitation to join him in January for our 2025 round of Initiator Training. Get ready to be inspired, and to maybe make the potentially life-changing decision to apply.Listen to the episode, then go here for more details: https://thomknoles.com/initiator-training/Episode Highlights:[00:45] A Sacred Setting[02:11] Program Structure[03:25] High Rounding[04:54] Representing the Shankaracharya Tradition[05:48] Independent Initiators[07:28] A Life-Altering Endeavor[09:04] Apply to Create the Fondest Memories of Your LifeUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

This episode of The Vedic Worldview explains the significance of Guru Purnima, which falls on this weekend, July 20-21. Vedic meditators are invited to join Guru Purnima celebrations with Thom and other Vedic Meditation Initiators around the world over the course of the weekend. If you'd like to join these celebrations, please visit thomknoles.com/guru-purnima for details of events near you.The Vedic calendar is full of days of celebration, but one of the most revered of these celebrations is Guru Purnima.It's a day where we honor all the teachers, and the teachings in our life, the lessons that have contributed to our evolution.In this episode, Thom discusses the origins and significance of this important and much-loved celebration. Los Angeles Guru Purnima Celebration - thomknoles.com/los-angeles-guru-purnima-celebration/Los Angeles Celebration with Thom Knoles - thomknoles.com/guru-purnima/Episode Highlights:[01:23] Movable Dates[04:29] Soma Chandra[05:50] Many Moons Ago[07:18] Apaurasheya - Not Authored By Anyone[10:15] Vyasa Purnima[12:29] Guru Puja[13:58] The Waxing Full Moon[16:37] Holding Awareness of Life's Teachers and Life's Lessons[18:11] Guru DevaUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

In this episode, we're celebrating the student-guru relationship, and the role it has in our evolution. Each year we celebrate this relationship, and the all the teachers and teachings in our life, with Guru Purnima. Vedic meditators are invited to join Guru Purnima celebrations with Thom and other Vedic Meditation Initiators around the world during the weekend of July 20-21, 2024. If you'd like to join these celebrations, please visit thomknoles.com/guru-purnima for details of events near you. The word Guru is very much misunderstood outside of India. Parodies often show the Guru as being someone who makes demands of their followers, and the disciple as being one who blindly follows the instructions of the Guru.But the truth of the relationship is much deeper than that, and it goes both ways. The wisdom of the teacher is brought forth by curiosity of the student, which in turn leads to a level of earned trust in the teacher from the student. Thus the student follows the instructions of the teacher with eyes wide open, not blindly, as most Western mischaracterizations of this relationship suggest.In this episode, Thom previews the Guru Gita, the song of the Guru, which eloquently and elegantly explains the teacher-student relationship. It gives us a benchmark to know when we've had the well-deserved great good fortune to invite a Guru into our life who is worthy enough to support our evolution.Episode Highlights:[01:33] The Process of Illumination[04:14] Grades of Manifestation[06:54] Elements of the Self[09:41] Expanded Awareness[11:17] Sensing the Cascades of Cause and Effect[13:42] Skanda Purana[16:10] The Song of the Guru[18:56] Sweet Surrender[21:58] Stop Trying to Control Everything with Thinking[23:42] Guru-Disciple Relationship[25:39] How to Make Use of the Guru Gita[28:06] Nama Rupa Sahitam Bhavati Eva[30:09] Well-deserved, Self-created Good FortuneUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/