Breaking Trail
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Breaking Trail episodes

  • The Heart of Jesus – Trailer
    Maybe you see yourself as a Christian, but struggle to find satisfying answers to your doubts? Or maybe you’re curious on understanding the concept of God and religion?
    In our new podcast series “The Heart of Jesus”, we help those whose hearts are ready to understand Jesus’ teachings through a non-sectarian approach; including Eastern philosophy and contemporary Christian theology. As Jesus himself put it, “I have much more to say to you, but right now it would be more than you could understand” (John 16-12).
    Through study of both the Bible and Vedic texts, we help you build your faith in God’s existence, explain the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and debunk the many misunderstandings about who Jesus was and why he came. Because after all, the core message of Jesus was love for God and love for others; the same message that all great spiritual teachers have been teaching since time immemorial.
    Welcome to come closer to the heart of Jesus.
    3 min
  • #70: The Reality of Pornography

    In average, the first exposure our kids have to pornography is when they are 10 years old. This is one of the consequences of a a culture that promotes sexualization and indulgence.

    And the fact is that sexual addiction is one of the hardest to overcome—physically changing the functioning of the brain—which is probably why the pornography industry is valued at over 100$ billion dollars per year worldwide. 

    From addiction to exploitation, today we peel back the layers to uncover uncomfortable truths on pornography, and offer real solutions. We emphasize the power of love over lust and the significance of taking care of our true selves. 

    Discover the benefits of a mode of goodness lifestyle and the potential for a complete personal transformation and growth.

    Highlights:

    • (5:15) Greed, anger, and jealousy stem from lust, causing anger and unhappiness. People are increasingly angry, including towards God.
    • (9:32) In a conservative upbringing, you are taught not to agitate the sex desire. Today, that is seen as hindering personal growth and damage our wellbeing.
    • (20:05) Most people think it's not okay to restrict or struggle with addiction.
    • (28:32) We need to have a higher taste. And we need to apply the cure, even though it might be uncomfortable in the beginning.
    • (38:09) We might be addicted even to outdoor activities. And those addictions will keep us here in the material world.
    • Recorded on November 8, 2022.

      Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

      https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail

      53 min
    • #69: Deep Work

      Drawing inspiration from the book "Deep Work" by Cal Newport, we explore how our modern society's constant distractions and focus on surface-level engagement hinder us from experiencing meaningful introspection and genuine growth. 

      We reflect on the impact of technology, social media, and the lack of solitude in our daily lives, preventing us from immersing ourselves in focused, uninterrupted thought. You’ll hear about an interesting encounter during one of Balakhilya’s mountain hikes and learn the importance of deepen our meditation practice to tap into our true potential.

      Touching upon faith and the erosion of traditional values, we offer insights on how to navigate the tumultuous waters of the modern world and find inner peace through deep reflection and connection to the Supreme.

      Highlights:

      • (5:14) If we go deep, like the divers during a tsunami, the big happenings around us will only be felt like a slight nudge
      • (10:36) Without faith in God, people are weak and easily manipulated. Society is being stripped of its strength by removing faith.
      • (18:03) We need to train the mind and avoiding constant busyness in mundane subject matters
      • (27:06) Prioritize deep focus and alone time, diving into the mantras
      • Recorded on August 17, 2022.

        Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

        https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail

        46 min
      • #68: What Creates a Mass Shooter?

        In the US there has been average 2 mass shootings per day this year, and more than 25000 deaths from gun violence. What can be done to stop this escalation? 

        In this episode we look at the phenomenon of mass shooting on an individual level, and get to the root cause of what it is that actually creates a mass shooter.

        As you’ll hear, the problem isn’t simply the guns. Mass shootings were not occurring as frequently in the past even when more households owned guns. The problem lies rather in a complete breakdown of moral and spiritual values in society which is leading to increased mental health issues, hopelessness–and anger turned outward.

        Highlights:

        • (2:54) In 1980, more Americans had guns but there were no mass shootings
        • (7:25) In Balakhilya’s childhood they grew up with guns and hunting, but there was never any violence toward other humans
        • (14:59) Moral standards are essential for true spiritual life and societal good. Removing spiritual teachings leads to moral decline.
        • (29:41) Reading from ’The Violence Project: How to Stop a Mass Shooting Epidemic’ by Gillian Peterson. Early childhood trauma seems to be the foundation, leading to a pathway of anger eventually turned outward. Self hate turns against the group.
        • (43:16) Quote from Oprah Winfrey, "I think what people are missing is a core moral center. Churches used to do that. Until we can return to that, we will continue to be lost.”
        • (47:35) World leaders are not interested in and refuse to acknowledge the benefits of following moral standards and rules
        • Recorded on May 2, 2022.

          Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

          https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail

          1 hr 5 min
        • #67: Is Money All Bad?

          Many people with a spiritual inclination feel that there is something dirty about money. Like money in itself is bad. But is that always true?

          Today we explore the complex topic of money; its role in society and its impact on individuals' lives. Through verses and teachings from ancient yoga scriptures, we highlight the significance of serving a higher purpose and transcending material desires associated with money.

          As you’ll hear, money is just “green energy”. What we do with that energy determines whether it’ll be good or bad, just like we choose what to do with the energy of our body.

          So how do I keep sane in a world centred around money? How can I move forward in my quest for spiritual consciousness amidst material wealth?

          Tune in for another perspective; the perspective of the ancient Eastern teachings.

          Highlights:

          • (5:47) Money is just “green energy” like they called it at the Rainbow Gatherings that Balakhilya attended many years ago
          • (13:37) Material desires fuel an endless bucket list
          • (27:58) Ruben considered donating some money to a spiritual cause, but upon deciding not to, all the money was removed through a fine he got
          • (35:46) Greed leads to anger. Simple people find happiness with little material possessions; they live a simple life.
          • (50:39) Money is a hassle; if you don’t have it you’re in anxiety trying to get it, and if you have it you’re in anxiety trying to protect it
          • (1:03:31) Put money in your spiritual bank account; that’s the real asset. Your spiritual consciousness is your real wealth.
          • Recorded on May 2, 2022.

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            1 hr 7 min
          • #66: The Spiritual Journey of Phenop das

            Today we have a very special guest with us: Phenop das, an old-time friend of Balakhilya. He shares an incredible story that takes us from living of jungle fruits on the island of Kauai to finding spiritual guidance and discovering the true path to happiness.

            Phenop recounts the challenges and encounters that finally led him to meet his spiritual teacher. And as you’ll hear, his journey is filled with unexpected twists and turns. He shares in a heartfelt way the teachings that resonated with his heart, and the transformations that took place within.

            Through Phenop’s story, we explore the power of faith, the significance of chanting the mantras, and the search for happiness in the material versus the spiritual world. We unravel the mysteries of existence and discover how a simple desire to find truth can lead to profound fulfillment.

            Highlights:

            • (3:52) Balakhilya and Phenop met over 50 years ago in a surf spot in Hawaii
            • (14:24) Phenop went to Kauai for a job and a place to live, but was rejected by the landlady because he was white. Then he and Balakhilya moved into an old house previously occupied by a sugar cane plantation manager.
            • (28:19) Even in the mist idyllic life situation, Phenop wasn’t satisfied. So he and Balakhilya together embarked on a spiritual quest that eventually led them to meet their spiritual teacher.
            • (45:11) Their spiritual teacher moves in together with Phenop and Balakhilya in “Om Valley”
            • (1:01:05) Material life is frustrating, requiring very specific conditions for satisfaction. By changing oneself to try to please God, spiritual life allows for real happiness.
            • (1:12:16) Chanting the mantras removes doubts, increases the motivation, and clears away confusion.
            • Recorded on July 22, 2023.

              Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

              1 hr 30 min
            • #65: Conquer Anger from Within

              For you, maybe it comes out as frustration, irritation, self-pity or just anger at the universe itself. But in any form, anger completely disconnects us from our true spiritual nature. And as long as we hold on to it, we are hindered from making any spiritual advancement. 

              So what can I do about my anger? And why is it there in the first place?

              As you’ll hear, because anger actually stems from the heart, the solution is to purify the heart. We need to convert lust back into its real state of compassion, care, and unconditional love. 

              Tune in if you’re ready for a profound reality check in your spiritual life.

              Highlights:

              • (6:40) Anger leads to loss of memory and intelligence 
              • (13:01) The reason there is so much anger in the world today is because everyone is controlled by lust, and the accompanying anger is always there
              • (20:27) Anger is a tool used for personal gain, and brings nothing but pain. True love is the opposite of anger.
              • (34:27) Forgiveness is the cure for anger
              • (42:12) The whole bhakti yoga process is about gradually purifying the heart
              • (49:53) Focus on your eternal life, and the more you can do that, the more successful you will be
              • Recorded on October 4, 2021

                Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

                1 hr 3 min
              • #64: Respect Your Elders? – The Downfall of Upbringing

                It’s hard to overestimate the value of a supportive upbringing. An upbringing that teaches children the essential value of respect. When missing, as generally we see in today’s society, the consequences are disastrous - for generations to come.

                In this episode we explore the impact of upbringing on a personal and societal level, and reflect on the effect that the technological revolution has had on our kids. Balakhilya looks back at his own childhood, a time when life was simpler, without the constant distraction of cell phones and excessive technology use. With this as an example, we uncover the essential values and principles that guided previous generations, such as how to bring up a child promoting respect for authority and a sense of belonging.

                Join us as we delve into the various challenges of raising kids in a materialistic society, reflect on the lessons we can learn, and establish the changes needed for a brighter future.

                Highlights:

                • (6:43) Parents in the past taught values, morals, and spirituality to their children, leading to a more disciplined and spiritually evolved society. The negative impact of modern technology and lack of guidance is evident in the current generation with issues such as disrespect, hopelessness, loneliness, and suicide.
                • (11:45) The core value instilled in Balakhilya during his upbringing was respect. We discuss how to make this a reality.
                • (17:05) Broken homes make it very challenging to raise children. Mother and father play equally important roles.
                • (23:33) Good parents with strong relationships built trust and unity with their children, leading to respect and avoiding conflict.
                • (27:07) The Bhakti teaching promotes respect for all life forms. It includes offering respect to others and expecting none for oneself, respecting animals, plants, and the planet.
                • (35:11) A person just needs to understand that there is a better way to live, a more happier life waiting for us. Even if I’m externally doing good, I need to look at how to improve on the inside.
                • Recorded on June 13, 2023.

                  Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

                  https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail

                  1 hr
                • #63: Getting Older – What Can I Do About It?

                  They call old age the “golden years”. A time to rest and enjoy all the things you never had time to enjoy before. The only problem then is that your body is too old to enjoy all the worldly pleasures, and there is an increasing amount of pain and discomfort associated with living in this world. We have the same desires as always but a body that is unable to fulfill those desires.

                  This podcast is from we sat down for a reality check on old age. Because after all, if you know the truth, the picture isn’t that dark and gloomy. Old age is simply a reminder that death is coming closer every day. And if we replace our material desires with spiritual desires, understanding that satisfying our material needs will never really satisfy our hearts, we can transcend old age and truly be forever young.

                  You’ll hear us share an inspiring story about a friend with ALS who found solace and spiritual connection through the practice of mantra meditation, even when unable to speak. We also explore the scripture Srimad-Bhagavatam and the unlikely pairing of a young sage with an older king who sought spiritual understanding before his impending death. We underscore the significance of maintaining a healthy body and mind, as we share personal experiences and stories of individuals who have defied the limitations of old age.

                  Highlights:

                  • (4:43) Old age brings physical and mental decline, making it difficult to enjoy life. Senses weaken, digestion suffers, mental facilities decline, and diseases like Alzheimer's appear. The golden years are not so golden.
                  • (12:24) When you don’t feel good, you lose motivation and fall into a downward cycle of quitting exercising, not eating properly, and finally developing disease. Some of the vital ingredients for a good quality of life is exercise and good food.
                  • (18:37) There are two types of desires: material and spiritual. As we age, we must accept the limitations of our bodies and focus on cultivating spiritual desires for growth.
                  • (23:11) How a friend helped her dying relative leave his body
                  • (32:23) It is a misconception that older people are always wise: example of the king who learnt the Absolute Truth from a 16-year old sage.
                  • (44:14) Regardless of age or situation, even when unable to speak, one can still hear and think. Mantras are our best friend and should never be neglected.
                  • Recorded on August 31, 2022

                    Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

                    https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail

                    49 min
                  • #62: How to Follow My Heart in Life?

                    How do I know what to really do with my life? And how can I discern between material and spiritual desires when I try to follow my heart?

                    Tune in for a heartfelt and personal podcast, where Balakhilya tells the story of his finding deeper purpose and direction in life. We discuss the analogy of scuba diving: when we go beyond the shallow reef to greater depths, a hidden world is revealed to us which is not visible from the surface. Just like that, we need to dive deeper to discover the greater truth of spirituality.

                    And one of those deeper truths is that “following our heart” can lead us in the completely wrong direction if we don’t understand that we are not our bodies. Or if we think that we follow our heart by simply doing what we feel like.

                    You’ll hear us address the challenges that may arise along the way, such as losing enthusiasm or facing difficult decisions in life. By staying serious about spiritual life and seeking guidance from a higher power, we can navigate the uncertainty and find the clarity and guidance we crave in our lives - to really satisfy our hearts.

                    Highlights:

                    • (1:18) What should I be doing with my life? Seeking guidance on finding direction from a Vedic perspective.
                    • (6:26) Balakhilya initially considered a career in zoology, then marine biology, but eventually went to Hawaii for surfing from where his interest in spiritual life and yoga grew.
                    • (15:34) The example of the hippies: stepping out of society isn’t enough; real spiritual understanding is also required
                    • (21:16) Accepting one's essence as a spirit soul, not the body, is essential. Material pursuits do not benefit the eternal spiritual self. Following the Supreme guidance for true fulfillment gradually purifies ones heart and leads one in the right direction.
                    • (34:14) Struggles in spiritual life have clear causes - lack of enthusiasm, laziness, bad association, or abandonment of principles. Success in spiritual life requires seriousness.
                    • (42:53) The spiritual teachings are the buoy in a material world. Listen to the truth and practice chanting.
                    • Recorded on August 24, 2022

                      Watch video version, join our email list or contribute to the podcast here:

                      https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail

                      57 min

                    About Breaking Trail

                    From the publisher's feed

                    No filter, no hidden agenda, just the truth about life - as it is. Breaking Trail is where you, the sincere seeker, can get answers to to life’s most important questions, such as “Who am I?”, “What is the purpose of my life?” and “Does God really exist?”. Our discussions are based on the ancient spiritual teachings of the East, carefully passed down since time immemorial from teacher to student in an unchanged form.