This episode offers a clear, grounded conversation on one of the most misunderstood aspects of Tantra: the role of sexuality. In dialogue with Ashton Szabo, we trace the origins of this confusion, distinguishing between classical Tantra and modern neo-Tantra, and examining how the term itself was co-opted in the West. Listeners are introduced to the true context of sexual practice in the original Tantric tradition—not as a means of enhancing pleasure, but as a rare and advanced form of spiritual realization. The conversation concludes with reflections from the Tantrāloka on how the most intimate experiences can, under the right conditions, dissolve separation and reveal the undivided nature of reality.

Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.

Find out more about the upcoming retreats and pilgrimages at https://www.tantrailluminated.org/calendar .

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How can spiritual practice truly encompass the whole of our being—body, mind, and spirit?

This episode unpacks the teaching of the Three Upāyas—or “effective methods”—a foundational framework in non-dual Śaiva Tantra articulated by the great master Abhinavagupta. These methods are known as the Divine Method (śāmbhava-upāya, nonconceptual direct awareness), the Empowered Method (śākta-upāya, contemplation and working with the beliefs or thought-constructs), and the Embodied Method (āṇava-upāya, yogic practices involving breath, energy, and imagination). Far from abstract theory, this teaching helps illuminate how different kinds of spiritual practice function and why they matter. Listeners are guided through examples drawn from classic texts and everyday life, with reflections on how these methods interrelate and support a truly holistic path of awakening.

Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org.

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What if our most subtle awareness could be both deeply personal and seamlessly connected to all of life?

In this rich and nuanced conversation, Judith Blackstone shares insights from her decades of teaching the Realization Process—a nonsectarian path to embodying nondual awareness. Touching on themes of individuality, resonance, psychological healing, and the tactile texture of consciousness, the dialogue gently challenges assumptions about separation and unity. Judith speaks from lived experience, offering a grounded and precise way to attune to what she calls "fundamental consciousness"—a still, luminous field that both contains and liberates the contents of our being. The conversation also explores how awareness can inhabit the body fully, how spiritual bypassing can undermine growth, and how love may underlie even our most complex emotions.

Learn more about Judith and the Realization Process: https://realizationprocess.org

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