Discover Your Authentic Spiritual Self | Reconnect to Your Inner Guide and Intuition | Wu Wei Wisdom

Summary

In this episode of WOAI, hosts David and Alex discuss connecting to our spiritual and authentic selves. They clarify that spirituality is an inherent, natural part of us, termed 'Shen' in Chinese, and emphasize it is not something supernatural. The talk explores how disconnection from Shen manifests as negative emotions like anxiety and stress. David and Alex explain that living authentically involves dismantling barriers formed by ego and inner child fears. They advocate for meditation and mindfulness as ways to reconnect with Shen, thereby leading a more fulfilling and truthful life.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Everyone is inherently spiritual and possesses a non-material essence called Shen, which is natural and intrinsic to who we are.
• 🔗 Shen cannot be damaged or taken away, even through physical or emotional trauma.
• 🛑 Emotional disturbances such as anxiety, stress, and fear indicate a disconnection from Shen, often due to layers of life experiences masking it.
• 💡 Denying our Shen, by believing in lies like 'I'm not good enough' or 'I'm unworthy,' creates a barrier to accessing our true spiritual self.
• 👶 The 'Shen test' involves treating oneself with the same compassion and affirmation as one would a beloved child, acknowledging our inherent worthiness.
• 🧘 Meditation and mindfulness practices help quiet the loud, ego-driven thoughts and attune us to the quieter, inner voice of our Shen.
• 🌿 Living life through the lens of Shen rather than the ego allows for a fuller, more authentic experience.
• 🛠 The golden thread process involves self-inquiry, recognizing that we create our emotions and understanding why, thereby reconnecting to Shen.
• 🎧 Guided meditations and consistent mindfulness reminders throughout the day can reinforce this connection to our spiritual essence.
• 🔄 Regular self-checks, such as focusing on breath and body relaxation, help maintain mindfulness and stay connected to Shen.

Q & A

What is the definition of 'spiritual self' or 'authentic self' according to the speaker?

The 'spiritual self' or 'authentic self' is described as an intrinsic, non-material part of who we are. It's a natural essence that we are born with, not something external or supernatural.

Why does the speaker emphasize that spirituality is not something external to us?

The speaker emphasizes that spirituality is not external because it is an inherent part of our being, something we are born with and cannot be taken away by external factors or traumas.

What does the term 'Shen' mean in the context of this discussion?

'Shen' is a term borrowed from Chinese to describe one's spiritual essence. It represents the intrinsic, unchangeable part of who we are, which remains intact regardless of external circumstances.

How does the speaker describe the relationship between 'Shen' and traumatic experiences?

The speaker explains that while traumatic experiences can affect the physical body, they cannot touch or alter the 'Shen'. Our spiritual essence remains untouched and constant despite such experiences.

What are the signs of disconnection from one's 'Shen'?

Signs of disconnection from one's 'Shen' include experiencing negative emotional feelings like anxiety, stress, fear, and tension. These emotions are seen as disturbances or layers that mask our true spiritual essence.

What does the speaker mean by 'Shen disturbance'?

'Shen disturbance' refers to the layers of negative emotions and beliefs that obscure our true spiritual essence. It is described as putting barriers or blocks that prevent us from connecting with our 'Shen'.

How does the speaker suggest one can reconnect with their 'Shen'?

The speaker suggests reconnecting with 'Shen' by practicing self-awareness, mindfulness, and meditation. This involves listening to the quieter, inner voice of one's true self and dismantling the barriers created by negative emotions and beliefs.

What is the role of meditation in connecting with one's 'Shen'?

Meditation helps in connecting with 'Shen' by calming the mind and allowing one to focus on their inner voice. It serves as a vehicle to settle the ego's racing thoughts and attune to the quieter guidance of one's spiritual essence.

What is the 'golden thread' process mentioned in the discussion?

The 'golden thread' process is a self-inquiry technique that starts with acknowledging that we create our emotions. It involves tracing back to understand why certain emotions are created and building a connection back to one's 'Shen'.

How does the speaker suggest using the 'Shen test' to support oneself?

The 'Shen test' involves imagining how one would respond to a child expressing feelings of inadequacy and then applying the same compassionate and supportive approach to oneself. It is a method to treat oneself with the same kindness and understanding as one would a child.