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GROUP MEDITATION
Group meditation transcends the mere concept of individuals
meditating together; it functions as an advanced interface for
fostering hyper-tribalization enhancing social connections.
This dynamic approach allows participants, often strangers, to
swiftly cultivate profound intimacy within a distinct yet
impersonal setting. Deep engagement in this shared activity
leads to the shedding of surface-level identities, allowing a
simultaneous exchange of a unique essence of presence. This
experience, unique to group meditation, nurtures a sense of
unity and personal connection that is both deep and singularly
individual.
A Shared Field of Consciousess
Initially, group meditation
mirrors the process of solo meditation, intensifying our
empathetic self-connection. When we close our eyes during
meditation, our body awareness is immediately amplified,
grounding us in a realm of
"I am Me" consciousness, centered around our physical being.
This heightened awareness then extends beyond ourselves,
allowing us to become more aware of our surroundings, even with
our eyes closed. In this introspective state, we become attuned
to the presence of others nearby. This progression into "You are
part of Me" consciousness deepens our connection with those
around us, fostering a profound, intimate bond that transcends
language, where words, while helpful, are not necessary for this
shared experience fo precense.
Group meditation swiftly and powerfully activates bonding
processes typically associated with family and friends,
frequently exceeding the depth of traditional familial
connections. This powerful dynamic has the potential to
transform ingrained behavioral patterns. During group meditation
sessions, intense bonds are formed quickly, achieving in a brief
period what would normally require years. Remarkably, these
connections often arise even between strangers, shedding light
on why individuals participating in more secterian meditation groups might favor these newfound
relationships over long-standing family bonds.
As a general rule, group meditation unfolds
as a linear expansion of the
collective consciousness. A notable indicator of this linear
extension in the consciousness circle is the emergence of an 'us
versus them' mentality, which manifests as a 'we are holier than
you' attitude. As explored in the previous chapter, "Fields of
Consciousness," our tribal legacy of forming bonds typically
evolves from smaller units to increasingly larger collectives,
such as nations. This progression often creates a metaphorical
protective barrier, delineating a sense of order (cosmos)
in contrast to disorder (chaos), reflecting our innate
tribal instinct to define and protect our group identity.
Let us now look at the mysterious
glue that connects us in such a state of collective
consciousness.
The river that flows in me also flows in you
Kabir
THE UNCOVERING OF THE HEART & THE AVATAR INTERFACE
"A human being has so many skins
inside, covering the depths of the heart.
We know so many things, but we don't know ourselves!
Why, thirty or forty skins or hides, as thick and hard as an ox's or
bear's,
cover the soul. Go into your own ground and learn to know yourself
there."
Meister Eckhart
Meister Eckhart's profound insight
reveals that within each human being lie multiple layers, akin
to skins or hides, that shroud the true depths of the heart. He
emphasizes our extensive knowledge of the world, yet a startling
lack of self-understanding. These layers, as numerous and tough
as the hides of oxen or bears, serve as barriers to our soul,
urging us to delve into our inner selves for true
self-awareness.
This metaphor extends to the concept of group consciousness and
the necessity of open vulnerability for its realization. Our
emotional wounds, manifested as weaknesses, insecurities, shame,
and guilt, often remain concealed as we, as social beings, are
conditioned to mask our vulnerabilities. This protective
mechanism is the role of the ego, designed to shield us from
both external judgment and internal scrutiny, ensuring our
survival in a social hierarchy where showing weakness can be
perceived as a liability.
These 'thick skins' that The Meister refers to are the facades we
present to the world, preventing us from achieving a deeper
connection with the fragmented parts of our being, and, by
extension, inhibiting the potential for true symbiosis within a
group. Only by shedding these layers and embracing vulnerability
can we hope to achieve a more profound, collective consciousness
and self-realization.
Authenticity is rooted in vulnerability.
When the setting of a meditative space feels safe,
individuals begin to trust and acknowledge their vulnerabilities
to themselves. This is the first step towards authenticity,
moving away from the need to impress or adopt false personas. In
such a space, people engage in collective, impersonal
vulnerability, which is the
essence of authenticity.
The Avatar plug
The concept of the Avatar plug in the movie 'Avatar'
metaphorically illustrates this principle. The hero's connection
with his dragon through a physical cable symbolizes the union of
human and ancient kundalini power, achievable only through
nobility, honesty, and vulnerability. This connection represents
a 'stargate' or a pivotal point, opening the pathway to profound
self-awareness and power.
In an ideal group meditation,
participants relinquish their defensive mechanisms, embracing
openness and vulnerability. This state allows for a genuine
connection with one's true power. Openness to vulnerability
heightens sensitivity, facilitating a deeper introspective
journey.
In this sensitivity,
we all plug into each other in a collective state of oneness.
However, it is crucial here to distinguish between narcissistic
vulnerability and the type of sensitive openness in a meditative
field. The meditative openness is impersonal and not disturbed
by storytelling made by the mind. In impersonal
openness, we 'aware' all
'aware' all inner sensations
without naming them.
However, this field is only as powerful as its weakest link. Just one person's
unconscious unwillingness to be vulnerable affects the intensity of
the whole field. If everybody in a meditative circle could let
the wound be open, the intensity of the field would grow
exponentially with the number of participants. However, a larger
number of individuals in the circle as a general rule make people feel less safe,
and hence the field gets weaker.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE STORIES WE TELL OURSELVES AND OTHERS
The stories we weave for ourselves and share with others
hold significant power, shaping our perspectives and emotional
states. Achieving a state of openness hinges largely on the
narrative we construct internally. The right story can foster a
sense of open vulnerability, leading to growth and
understanding, while an unhelpful narrative can trap us in a
cycle of despair.
A compelling example is the journey of Olympic meditation master
Mingyur Rinpoche, who suffered from intense anxiety and
panic attacks in his youth. He transformed his experience by
altering the narrative he lived by. Instead of viewing his
anxiety as a debilitating force, he reframed it as a beneficial
ally, a potent source of energy for his meditation practice.
This shift in perspective profoundly changed his relationship
with his anxiety and more importantly, it improved his
meditation practize.
Viewing oneself as a victim is the problem child of our time. It can be likened to a spiritual
malaise, limiting personal growth and inner peace. Conversely,
reshaping one's narrative to see oneself as an overcomer, facing
and surmounting challenges on the path to triumph, can
drastically alter one's life trajectory. This approach empowers
individuals, turning obstacles into stepping stones towards
personal fulfillment and achievement.
However, in the context of group
meditation, it's crucial to establish a connection with the
unspoken aspects of our internal wounds. These wounds can
effectively serve as an 'avatar plug' only when acknowledged as
forms of 'energy' within our conscious and aware selves. While a
well-crafted story can create the environment for a shared
consciousness field, it should not intrude into the core of this
experience. It should never enter the octagon itself. In this
communion with oneself, words have no place; the interaction is
beyond verbal expression, emphasizing a wordless connection
between your inner self and the collective consciousness.
AUTHORITARIAN FIELDS AND THE ROLE OF THE GURU
I am a finger
pointing to the moon.
Don't look at me; look at the moon.
Buddha
Throughout my
extensive observation of various meditation practices, I've
realized that these spaces are often deeply rooted in ancient
storytelling, particularly in the way they establish their
meditative framework. This leads to a natural inclination
towards a leadership-centric model. Despite our idealized
notions of egalitarian hunter-gatherer societies, democracy, in
my view, is a relatively recent and more fragile social
structure in the span of human history. Historically, we have
predominantly lived under leadership systems, and this tendency
becomes even more pronounced in times of crisis or upheaval, a
common catalyst for individuals embarking on spiritual journeys.
Consequently, it's common for new age meditation groups to
revolve around a central leader. However, in our modern era,
these hierarchical systems are increasingly misaligned with
contemporary societal needs. In fact, the overly top-down social
systems often observed demonstrates a regression, a fall back
into archaic systemic interfaces used in previous historical
periods.
In meditation, particularly within
a group setting, the biggest hurdle is often the ego's
well-intentioned but obstructive efforts to protect us. In
hierarchical structures with an authoritative leader,
participants might relinquish their egos to this leader,
resolving the issue of self-protection, albeit at a significant
cost. Such authoritarian environments can amplify the group's
collective energy but may also suppress meta-consciousness and
independent thinking. This is evident from historical and
contemporary examples where sects under strong authoritarian
influence have led to destructive outcomes.
Acknowledging the inherent risk of power corrupting leaders,
from gurus to politicians, a horizontal structure in meditative
groups is favored. In such a setting, mentors and teachers
understand that their knowledge doesn't equate to control over
the group. Instead, they lead by example, fostering individual
freedom and inspiring participants to tailor spiritual teachings
to their personal journeys. This model nurtures a community of
shared learning and growth, where positive storytelling thrives,
unimpeded by the pitfalls of authoritarian leadership.
This perspective does not negate the value of spiritually
advanced leaders and teachers who lead by example rather than
command. The principle is straightforward: while I may possess
extensive knowledge about the moon, and thus can inspire others
by sharing this knowledge, it doesn't imply ownership of the
moon. My role is to enlighten and motivate through my own
experiences and understanding, recognizing that wisdom is a
shared resource, not a possession.
"A man chooses
the religion and path of his friend."
Sufi quote
In this regard, the Sufi tradition
is especially commendable. They often employ the term 'companion' to
describe the relationship between the wise ones and their
followers. This choice of wording highlights a sense of
camaraderie and mutual journeying on the spiritual path, rather
than a hierarchical teacher-student dynamic. It underscores a
shared experience of discovery and enlightenment, emphasizing
the value of collective wisdom and mutual respect in the
spiritual journey.
One of the most extraordinary spiritual inspirators I met was
Papaji from Lucknow. His
sense of humour was second to none, but there was always stern
advices embedded in his words. He said:
"If a teacher tells you to do
this or that
he should not be called a teacher.
He should be called a butcher!
Don't listen to anyone!
Don't even listen to me!
Listen to your own Soul
A true Masters message can only be:
There is no teaching
There is no teacher
There is no student"
This guy will not tell you what to do. I guarante that.
Because I created him - with the kind help of Dall-e.
Fundamentally we always create our own gurus.
EVERSIVE GROUP MEDITATION
Let's now contemplate the potential of a qualitatively distinct
field. Imagine if a group were to gather, each person
potentially embodying
what I previously have described as
cosmic eversive ouroboric
consciousness. As for my personal experience, have I encountered this eversive
ouroboric unity consciousness? Perhaps only in fleeting moments,
but these glimpses are enough to convince me of its tangible
possibility. However, it's important to acknowledge that the
meditation group I currently facilitate is more linear in its
capability, and has not yet embraced the eversive aspect I now
am going to elaborate upon.
Eversive Circles of Holy Ghost
In the utopian realm of group meditation, I've occasionally
glimpsed a profound phenomenon. Unable to empirically prove, yet
compelled to share this story-telling, I recount experiences of
transcending my own physicality when deeply secure among others
in a similar state of surrender. In such moments, I occasionally
experience a sudden shift, finding myself within another
participant's body in the circle. In this state, I can sense and
perceive the emotions and visions of both individuals and the
group collectively. Concurrently, there's an awareness that
others in this shared field also possess access to this communal
knowledge, creating a profound sense of interconnectedness and
shared understanding.
This collective experience, reminiscent of the Christian notion
of the Holy Ghost, resonates with Jesus' words about his
presence among those united in his name. Here, the communal
consciousness manifests as the Holy Ghost itself. In this state,
I become part of this collective spirit, expanding into the
totality of existence. This transcendent experience defies
linear group consciousness, evolving instead into an eversive,
oroboric implosion encompassing all.
Cosmic Unity Consciousness is the denial of denials
In eversive ouroboros meditation, 'tribality' is nullified. I'll make
sure to repeat the Meister to clarify things. Meditation is, in
its ideal essence, the denial of denials.
All
creatures contain one reflection:
one, that is the denial of its being
the other;
the highest of the angels denies he is the lowest.
God is the denial of denials.
Meister Eckhart
In the Buddhist compassion
traditions, the monks are not praying for the well-being of
their football team. They pray for all living beings. Such is
the essential nature of cosmic consciousness: It expands in
eversiveness until it has conquered all duality. The final conclusion
is reached with this statement:
Tat twam asi -
You are that
Therefore Meister Eckhart says
that you
must be free from
naught. (not)
To be undivided you must be free from not.
In this state, the 'I am you'
realizes that it is everything, not even sentient beings but all
collapsed waveforms. This is why I kiss my fridge door when I
come home after a long journey. Then I say hello to the walls
and my sofa, and they all seem to respond in a glow. This
happens when the omnipresent eversive pan-consciousness merges with the
stronger light coming from the torch of the human brain.
The mysterious glue of
love
All strife, every disagreement, every cancellation is based on a deep down
notion. It says:
I am not you.
In states of expanded Consciousnss, the first
fundamental realization is:
I am You.
In expanded states of
consciousness we become empaths
Cosmic
consciousness serves as a unifying force, enabling us to not
only see but also become the viewpoint of 'the other.' In
Christianity, followers are taught to love their neighbors as
themselves. However, when filtered through the thinking mind,
this becomes a commandment to be obeyed like a traffic rule. It
turns into an action we believe must be done, and when we
forget, we feel guilty and revert to our collectively created
morality to correct our behavior. As consciousness expands in
quality and quantity, the astonishing revelation emerges that
our neighbor is, in fact, ourselves. Loving sentient beings then
becomes a natural and spontaneous consequence of cosmic consciousness.
The group meditation field is using the drivers from our ancient
tribal interfaces. However, when it grows not only in expansive
intensity but also in eversive meta-aware quality, it holds the
possibility to transcend the limitations of its own archaic
programming that for thousand of years have set us in duality in
opposition to others.
In this blessed space we pray for all sentient beings. We merge
with everyone and everything while bridging the gap between
duality and non-duality with the help cosmic glue of love.
In the Pantheon of beautiful meditative phenomenons this is the
most beautiful.
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