PREVIOUS RECORDINGS

Kundalini: The Lived Experience, Psychology and Metaphysics

​

This talk explores the mechanics behind consciousness and how this manifest as a subtle body. Using the tantric model of the universe as a metaphysical framework, we will look at the union of gendered cosmic and physical principles within tantric rituals and the haṭha yogic system. Through this exploration, we look at a bi-piston subtle and biological mechanism which brings about the Kuṇḍalinī experience and the release of amṛta, divine bliss-inducing nectar. We look at different experiences which can arise from Kuṇḍalinī awakenings. We will look at the catalysts and the process. We will use tantric and yogic metaphysical frameworks to situate the experience to describe the path and potential to access higher parts of our being. I will use scriptures from the Yogic, Tantric and Buddhist world to describe the different types of Kuṇḍalinī awakenings as well as explore case studies from previous phenomenological research.

Navigating the Kundalini Experience

With Emerging Sciences Foundation

​

Ann discusses the different states of consciousness that can arise with Kundalini experiences and how they are situated Buddhist and Tantric paths to awakening. Through the lens of phenomenological research, manuals written by advanced meditation teachers and ancient Buddhist and Tantric texts, we will put into context some of the more challenging altered states and how one might navigate these experiences towards greater freedom. For more context, we will touch on the subtle body and biological mechanisms at play during a Kundalini awakening.

WHAT THE BUDDHA DISCOVERED -THE BUDDHIST MATRIX PART 1

Do we live in an illusion? If so, is there a way out of this mind matrix? In this talk, we will examine the Buddhas' realisations that led to his radical freedom. We will refer to the Suttas and the Abhidhamma as well as first-hand experiences from advanced meditators. The purpose of this talk is to provide a metaphysical framework for meditation practice and the fetter breaking experience as well as to unpack the meaning of right view. This is part 1 of a two-part series.

THE BUDDHIST MATRIX PART II

In Part II of the Buddhist Matrix, we discuss the four stages of enlightenment and the path of calm concentration (śamatha meditation) and insight meditation (vipassana) in the contexts of the Suttas and the Visudhimagga. We will look at how these two meditation paths interpenetrate and support each other. We will also look at the experiences of advanced meditators on the path as well as how to overcome certain psychological hindrances.

Ann has been practising yoga and meditation for nearly 20 years and has since completed her Masters in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation from SOAS University with ongoing Sanskrit training. Ann was inspired from an early age by her father’s anecdotal experiences with Kuṇḍalinī and his involvement in experiments with Zen priest and transpersonal scientist, Dr Motoyama. Her own experiences have pointed her towards a phenomenological investigation of the parallels between spontaneous Kuṇḍalinī awakenings and Buddhist paths to enlightenment. Her previous research focuses on the phenomenology of Buddhist and Yogic experiences through practice. Ann is currently researching spontaneous Kuṇḍalinī arousals and how these experiences map onto the path of realisation within Indian Buddhist and Yogic traditions as well as cutting-edge consciousness theory. Her mission is to gain a deeper understanding of the psychological processes that can arise from spontaneous transpersonal experiences or deep meditation practice and how we can safely support others walking this path towards greater wholeness.

Various methods exist for preparing the mind for profound insights and psychological changes which can happen during spontaneous Kuṇḍalinī awakenings and meditation practices – and refining our behaviour when accessing deeper structures of the mind can be highly significant. Ann will explore the mechanisms behind thought in Sāṃkhya Metaphysics (a philosophy which supports most traditions in Tantra and Yoga) to better understand how ethical behaviour impacts various stages on the path to awakening. She will also look at how preliminary practices such as the Pāramitā (transcendent action) safeguard against certain psychological hindrances when we start to deepen our insights, and she will examine spiritual teachers’ responsibility and the impact their behaviour has on furthering enlightenment. Ann Mathie has been practising yoga and meditation for nearly 20 years and has a Masters in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation from SOAS University of London with ongoing Sanskrit training. Her own experiences have pointed her toward a phenomenological investigation of the parallels between spontaneous Kuṇḍalinī awakenings and Buddhist and Yogic paths to enlightenment as well as cutting-edge consciousness theory.