Born and raised in San Diego, CA, and currently residing in Carlsbad, CA, Eli Recht is a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT), EMDR clinician, spiritual counselor, editor, and teacher of Self-realization.

In 2020, Eli experienced a falling away of ego identity and an awakening to the true nature of Reality. As a result, Eli has dedicated his life to service – to help alleviate suffering, cultivate connection, guide people through the often-confusing journey of Life, and invite others to recognize our shared unconditioned essence.

Eli’s specialty is blending contemporary psychological knowledge with timeless spiritual wisdom and advocating for the integration of these two disciplines.

Website: elirecht.com

Books (Editor and Foreword):

Grace Happens: An Awakening of Consciousness

Reflections of Consciousness: Essays on the Journey of Awakening and the Nature of Reality

Summary and transcript of this interview

Interview recorded January 11, 2025

YouTube Video Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction to Buddha at the Gas Pump Series  

00:03:56 Discovering Spiritual Insights through "Buddha at the Gas Pump"

00:09:14 Discovering Eastern Thought at Deer Park Monastery  

00:15:21 Exploring Higher States of Consciousness Through Music  

00:19:32 The Challenges of Kriya Yoga Practice

00:24:04 Struggles with Kriya Yoga and Finding Purpose

00:28:25 Journey to Emotional and Psychological Healing  

00:33:16 Understanding Kundalini Activation and Its Effects

00:38:00 Discovering My Higher Self  

00:41:31 Differentiating Awakening from Psychosis  

00:45:44 The Path of Perseverance and Enlightenment  

00:49:48 Realization of Oneness and Unity

00:54:33 The Importance of Service Post-Awakening  

01:00:47 Understanding the Transition from Ego-Identification to Ego-Transcendence  

01:04:41 The Influence of Meher Baba and the Journey to Self-Realization

01:09:36 Embracing a Different Memory Post-Awakening

01:13:03 Navigating Non-Doership and Embodiment  

01:18:00 Understanding the Ego and Brahman  

01:21:01 Rocket Ship as a Metaphor for Awakening  

01:25:44 Understanding Psychosis and Spiritual Awakening  

01:30:48 Illuminating the Ego: Pre and Post Awakening  

01:35:40 Challenges of Kundalini Awakening  

01:39:29 The Relationship Between Ego and Self-Realization

01:44:19 Navigating the Role of a Spiritual Teacher

01:49:30 The Role of Spirituality in Addressing Mental Illness

01:53:13 Humanity's Journey Through Suffering to Awakening

01:58:20 The Role of Donations in Spiritual Endeavors  

02:02:07 Vision for a Peaceful Humanity  

02:06:18 Exploring Life's Big Questions: Meaning, Reality, and Participation

02:10:52 Embracing the Present Moment: The Power of What over Why  

02:16:25 Upcoming Interview with Lisa Carrillo