I got the thing. I found a teacher. After fifteen years of looking. Actually, two of them, at around the same time. Which intrigued me. None for fifteen years, and now two? How come? On reflection, I can see that the following conditions helped: I got clear on my path and lineage (Tantra, Non-Dual Shaivism) …
What’s the Difference between Yoga and Tantra?
Before I share, from my own direct experience, on this question, it’s useful to examine the question itself – which is a question people often ask me. The question assumes that there IS a difference between Yoga and Tantra, as if they are two separate things – like a chair and a cup. However as …
Conversations with Kara-Leah • Shambhavi Sarasvati on Direct Realization Tantra
Shambhavi is the spiritual director of Jaya Kula. Her principle training is in the direct realization traditions of Trika Shaivism (a.k.a. Kashmir Shaivism or Shaiva Tantra) and the Dzogchen tradition of Tibet. I first came across Shambhavi when I read her wonderful book, The Play of Awakening: Adventures in Direct Realization Tantra. I too follow …
How to Make Your Yoga Retreat a Huge Success, no Matter What
I’m going to share with you a story, of how I navigate the world of leading international retreats. You’re likely reading this article because you also lead retreats, and you want them to be a huge success. Here’s my inside secret on guaranteed success, no matter what. It’s my third year leading a retreat at …
Upāya • The Skillful Means to Liberation
Recently, I immersed myself in more of Christopher Wallis’ amazing book Tantra Illuminated. He was discussing Upāya, the three skilful means to liberation. The first is Śāmbhava-upāya, which is the Divine Means. It is the most subtle way to interact with reality on the road to liberation and is engaged through the spirit and intuition. …
When the Land Heals • Experiences at Haramara Retreat Centre
My first encounter with Haramara Retreat centre, nestled on a tiny peninsula of land beside the Pacific ocean tourist town of Sayulita in Mexico, was intensely challenging. I was there to lead retreat with a skilled facilitator, who also happened to be my now-ex partner. In between leading a retreat in New Zealand in May, …
