#27 - Breaking Free: Meditation as a Path to Liberation and Peace in a Chaotic World

Welcome to episode 27 of the "Unreasonable Art of Living" podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into the realms of Zen, the practice of Kriya Yoga through the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, and the multifaceted world of meditation. As someone who has embarked on this transformative journey alone, I've discovered layers of self-awareness and connectedness that are both challenging and profoundly rewarding.We begin by exploring the concept of Zen and its intriguing first step, koans. These puzzling and often paradoxical statements or questions are not just intellectual exercises; they are tools for introspection and spiritual awakening. As we unravel the enigmatic nature of koans, we start to perceive the world and ourselves in a new light.We then shift our focus to the Self-Realization Fellowship and its core practice of Kriya Yoga. Here, the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda provide a blueprint for attaining spiritual growth through mindfulness meditation and non-dual meditation. These practices emphasize the unity of all existence and the dissolution of the ego, leading us toward a deeper understanding of our true nature.The journey of meditation, as I've personally experienced, begins with a simple yet profound step: calming the body. This initial stage is crucial but can be immensely challenging. The difficulty of quieting the mind and finding inner peace is a common struggle for beginners. However, with persistent effort, the benefits begin to manifest, often subtly at first. In my case, it took around 2-3 years of consistent practice before the transformative effects of meditation became apparent.Embracing meditation is a commitment for life. It's akin to maintaining physical fitness; just as we exercise to keep our bodies healthy, we need to nurture our minds and souls to stay spiritually robust. In the Western world, we often forget that we are not merely our physical bodies. This oversight, I believe, is a fundamental cause of suffering. We are complex beings composed of mind, soul, and body, all intricately linked and in constant interaction with the universe and its life force.Meditation is indeed hard work, comparable to the effort required to keep our bodies in shape. Through meditation, we develop a heightened sensitivity to our inner world, establishing a direct connection with everything around us. This process transforms us, making us adaptable and fluid like water, and enabling us to flow harmoniously with life's currents.Furthermore, meditation is not an isolated activity but an integral part of our daily lives. It calls for cooperation, sensitivity, and intelligence. It frees us from the shackles of envy, greed, and the pursuit of power, which are often the root causes of hostility and discontent.In conclusion, meditation is a journey of self-discovery and universal connection. It's a path that demands dedication and patience but offers profound rewards in return. As we embrace this practice, we not only transform ourselves but also positively impact the world around us.Until next time, keep exploring, keep meditating, and remember, we are far more than just our bodies. We are interconnected beings, continuously in touch with the universe's vibrant energy.Resources:* Alan Watts - Zen Bones This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.howtounreasonable.com