Total Space, verse 32. Summary, recordings, and a bonus track from 60-ies.)))
Igor Berkhin
Igor led a meditation session focused on physical comfort and balance, followed by discussions on Buddhist concepts and teachings from Mahamudra and Dzogchen traditions. He explored key terms and ideas such as non-movement, non-interference, and the nature of reality, emphasizing the importance of understanding and integrating experiences without dualistic thinking. The session concluded with reflections on personal experiences, the challenges of improving the world through actions, and the value of contemplation as a means of positive contribution.
SummaryGuided Meditation for Body Awareness
Igor led a meditation session focused on finding physical comfort and balance through awareness of body support and sensation. He guided participants to notice the feeling of support in their bodies, achieve balance between torso and head, and relax while maintaining tonus. The session concluded with instructions for a breathing exercise called "9 breathings," which Igor emphasized was not a ritual but a method to experience physical effects.
Mahamudra and Dzogchen Teachings
Igor led a discussion on a verse from Mahamudra teachings, explaining key terms and concepts. He emphasized the importance of understanding the specific terminology used in Dzogchen, which requires some education and knowledge of Buddhist philosophy. Igor clarified the meanings of terms like Kaya (body dimension), Jnana (wisdom), and the five wisdoms associated with the five aspects of Mandala. He also shared a quotation from Longchenpa to illustrate the natural state of phenomena as described in Dzogchen.
Buddhist Concepts of Non-Duality
Igor discussed the meaning of key terms in a Buddhist verse, including Miyova (non-movement), Mikyodpa (non-interference), and non-self, explaining how these concepts relate to the experience of enlightenment and the integration of movement and calmness. He emphasized that enlightenment involves understanding the nature of reality without dualistic thinking, accepting all experiences as part of one's true nature, and not rejecting anything, including states of non-understanding. Igor also highlighted the importance of names and titles in communicating Buddhist teachings, while noting that these names do not capture the true essence of the experience.
AI-Assisted Translation of Spiritual Texts
Igor discussed his experience translating a commentary by Shri Simha, noting that the initial draft available was messy but improved after using AI to break down sentences and find context. He explained that each line of the text serves a purpose, helping to recognize patterns and acknowledge them as part of one's nature. Igor also described the concept of going beyond conceptual understanding, using the term "Ladawa," and explained that the experience of non-movement symbolizes Dharmakaya. He further elaborated on the meaning of Mahamudra, comparing it to a great seal or symbol, and shared a personal anecdote about a Chinese teacher's explanation of a similar concept.
Non-Movement in Dzogchen Practice
Igor discussed the concept of non-movement as a symbol of Dzogchen and Mahamudra, explaining that it represents a dimension filled with energy rather than an empty space or single point. He emphasized that practitioners should practice non-interference, accepting reality as it is without trying to improve or change it, as this leads to suffering when others disagree. Igor also explained that true wisdom and equality cannot be meditated upon or conceptualized, and that all meditative experiences are included in the unconditioned nature of reality.
Path to Mental Liberation
Igor led a discussion on transitioning from a painful state of non-understanding to a blissful state of understanding, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and integrating experiences without being disturbed by them. Lucila shared her experience of living in two dimensions, comparing it to being at the center of a hurricane, and expressed the challenge of balancing movement and stillness. Igor explained the concept of the "eye of the cyclone" and described a method for recognizing and integrating different mental states, including emotions and experiences, to achieve liberation. He also mentioned an upcoming retreat in Wales that will focus on these teachings.
Contemplative Action for Positive Change
Igor discussed the challenges of trying to make the world a better place through actions, noting that such efforts often lead to unintended harm and suffering. He emphasized the importance of being in a state of contemplation as the best way to contribute positively, without being driven by limited ideas of what constitutes a better world.
The recordings etc. can be found via this file https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bSU2etlrXo4ZmK_ABuBErxY_DZFlgR-xZuij6c1k4M4/edit?usp=drive_link
Stay well,
Igor
P.S. You can enjoy it but don't even think to make it better )))
Hey Jude