Starting Our Shiva Sadhana

At the core of our approach—my own included—lies the balance between Shiva and Shakti. Even if you haven't engaged in many practices yet, I will provide valuable insights during our Tantric Shiva Retreat. The focus is not on accumulating more knowledge; rather, it is about delving deeply into the mysteries of Shiva with what we already know.

Some of our students are familiar with certain practices, such as initiation mantras. To enhance our experience, we can revisit and refresh our understanding of the mudras associated with these mantras, which may have been forgotten. These initiation mantras will serve as the foundation for our development. Shiva Upasana that we can deepen over time.

In many ways, our retreat is intended to serve as a launch point for a new approach to spirituality, particularly the mystery of Shiva. That's why I mentioned to everyone that, even if you haven't prepared, it's still important to be present. However, the truth is that even those who have prepared may find themselves unready for what I'm about to reveal, because the essence of my message stems from personal discoveries I made around Labor Day, although my insights extend beyond that time.

The discovery I've made relates to the distinction between practices—important as they are—and their limitations. While practices can be beneficial, they may also constrain the understanding of the experience itself, which is at the heart of what I wish to convey during this retreat.

I'll explain how a practice can either limit or liberate a person's spiritual journey. You will have the freedom to decide whether to continue with it. What I plan to share can serve as a foundation for your development over the next two to six months, giving you ample time to digest the information. Our retreat marks a new beginning in our journey.

The Vision Of Our Overarching Curriculum

Think of the curriculum we explore not as a single entity but as a series of pillars that support a structure—like the Pantheon, for instance. This year, we have focussed on developing several of these pillars.

One core pillar will continue to be the feminine aspect, the Shakti, which may serve as the central support for everything else we study. Equally important, however, is the sacred masculine, represented by Shiva. Both aspects are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of Tantra.

While we recognize that Tantra embraces gender, it also transcends it. Our form of Tantra, unlike many others, is the venerated tradition of Sri Vidya that upholds the authority of the Vedas. We will also connected to the philosophy of Advaita. This philosophy is something that the Upanishads embody.

Our curriculum is structured around cycles, specifically two-month periods. We come together for discussions, and then, what we explore continues to unfold over the following months. Thus, even if you have not delved deeply into the practices before we meet, the themes will re-emerge every two months, allowing us to internalize these teachings.

In our small but dedicated Kula, we are developing what I like to term "inter-spiritual mysticism." While we may draw wisdom from various religions and cultures, our primary focus is not on religion itself. We are interested in the inner experience and the transformation that arises from it, as well as the kind of inner experience that inspires genuine transformation. That, I believe, is the core of what we are truly engaged in.

Finally, our practices—particularly our chanting—help guide us into greater alignment and a deeper sense of connection to the forces of good. We are all contributing to upholding dharma and rta, supporting the larger universe through our daily efforts. While our individual contributions may seem small, they are invaluable. Remember, in our practices, quality always outweighs quantity and consistency of application trumps occasional intensity.