In this episode I host a conversation between Shinzen Young, a meditation teacher and neuroscience research consultant, and Chelsey Fasano, a Columbia University neuroscience student.

We take an inside look as Chelsey consults Shinzen on her current research project, a review of the neuroscience literature that examine states of self-identification and non-dual awareness.

In the course of the discussion, Shinzen details the many meanings and connotations of the word ‘tantra’ (including its connection to karmamudra) and discusses the importance of definitions.

Chelsey asks if all traditions lead to the same end, or if different techniques lead to different types of enlightenment, and Shinzen reveals what the gurus of the world must learn from the culture of science.

...

https://www.guruviking.com/ep72-shinzen-young-and-chelsey-fasano-tantra-neuroscience-and-true-enlightenment/

Audio version of this podcast also available on iTunes and Stitcher – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

...

Topics Include:

0:00 – Intro

0:52 – Chelsey introduces her research project

2:20 – Shinzen asks Chelsey about herself

4:14 – Chelsey’s background in meditation and academia

8:20 – Chelsey’s ultimate dream

10:26 – Shinzen discusses the importance of words

13:40 – Shinzen on the adjective ‘tantric’

17:39 – What does Chelsey mean by the word ‘tantra’?

19:38 – Shinzen describes Buddhist tantra’s central innovation

28:31 – The s*xual practices of Buddhist tantra

29:55 – What isn’t tantra, and tantra’s cultural context

36:41 – Do all traditions lead to the same end point or not?

40:03 – How Shinzen clarifies his thinking and teaching

43:12 – What the gurus have to learn from science

44:56 – Liberation and service, the two sides of practice

50:16 – Studying states of nondual awareness in advanced practitioners

51:51 – Is it possible to resolve the terminology issue?

54:09 – Chelsey’s five theories

...

Previous Interview with Shinzen Young:

- https://www.guruviking.com/ep37-shinzen-young-pandemic-edition-guru-viking-podcast/

To find out more about Shinzen, visit:

- www.shinzen.org

To find out more about Chelsey, visit:

- www.chelseyfasano.com

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:

- www.guruviking.com

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Books mentioned:

- ‘Good Sex: Getting Off Without Checking Out’ - Jessica Graham