Listen "The Joy of Ordinary Enlightenment In Everyday Life"
Episode Synopsis
Paula sits down with Mike Kewley—meditation teacher, author, and spiritual guide—for a heartfelt conversation about mindfulness, suffering, and the idea of illusion. They explore how to stay grounded through life’s real pain and joy, and share a deep and illuminating discussion on non-duality. Mike reflects on why awakening isn’t about escaping challenges but meeting them with awareness and compassion.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Life is a mix of joy and suffering, and it's essential to acknowledge both. Transformation begins where you are, and it's important to engage with the messiness of life rather than dismiss it as an illusion.
The concept of life being an illusion can be misleading. While thoughts and perceptions may be ephemeral, the experiences of pain and joy are very real. It's crucial to explore and understand one's own experiences rather than simply accepting beliefs about reality.
Awareness or consciousness is a constant presence in our lives, observing thoughts and feelings without attachment. Recognising this inner watcher can help individuals detach from their thoughts and emotions, allowing for a more peaceful existence.
Embracing all parts of oneself, including anger, anxiety, and joy, is vital for personal growth. Each emotion has a place at the table, and integrating these aspects leads to a more compassionate and loving relationship with oneself.
The journey of self-discovery and enlightenment is ongoing. There is no final destination; rather, it's about learning and evolving through experiences, including the challenges and discomforts of life.
In the soft light of ordinary moments, enlightenment blooms—not in escape, but in the tender acceptance of all that is.
BEST MOMENTS
"You can't suddenly leap into, oh, it's an illusion. And I also think a lot of spiritual practice is often weighed down with beliefs that we think we have to take on board when we start meditating."
"It's okay to feel it all, because transformation starts exactly where you are. Because where you are is the door to the deeper knowing of your heart."
"The idea that someone is done, in inverted commas, in any way, is more of the fairy tale. And we have to really understand just how much we like fairy tales."
"You can't put this into any words, really. It's wordless. It's beyond words."
"Everything is inclusive. Everything has a seat at this table. Everything is love or a call to love."
ABOUT THE HOST
Meet Paula, the inspiring and grounded force behind a transformative Teacher Training Institute, where coaches and wellness professionals find their wings. As an entrepreneur, author, and speaker, she champions the fusion of science and spirituality. Drawing from thirty years as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, HR Director, Intuitive and Transformational Coach, Paula's mission is clear: to spark transformation within you. Whether you seek professional excellence or personal fulfilment, her guidance lights the path to your highest potential. Join the journey, where each moment is infused with the promise of growth and inspired living.
www.smartfoundations.co.uk
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Life is a mix of joy and suffering, and it's essential to acknowledge both. Transformation begins where you are, and it's important to engage with the messiness of life rather than dismiss it as an illusion.
The concept of life being an illusion can be misleading. While thoughts and perceptions may be ephemeral, the experiences of pain and joy are very real. It's crucial to explore and understand one's own experiences rather than simply accepting beliefs about reality.
Awareness or consciousness is a constant presence in our lives, observing thoughts and feelings without attachment. Recognising this inner watcher can help individuals detach from their thoughts and emotions, allowing for a more peaceful existence.
Embracing all parts of oneself, including anger, anxiety, and joy, is vital for personal growth. Each emotion has a place at the table, and integrating these aspects leads to a more compassionate and loving relationship with oneself.
The journey of self-discovery and enlightenment is ongoing. There is no final destination; rather, it's about learning and evolving through experiences, including the challenges and discomforts of life.
In the soft light of ordinary moments, enlightenment blooms—not in escape, but in the tender acceptance of all that is.
BEST MOMENTS
"You can't suddenly leap into, oh, it's an illusion. And I also think a lot of spiritual practice is often weighed down with beliefs that we think we have to take on board when we start meditating."
"It's okay to feel it all, because transformation starts exactly where you are. Because where you are is the door to the deeper knowing of your heart."
"The idea that someone is done, in inverted commas, in any way, is more of the fairy tale. And we have to really understand just how much we like fairy tales."
"You can't put this into any words, really. It's wordless. It's beyond words."
"Everything is inclusive. Everything has a seat at this table. Everything is love or a call to love."
ABOUT THE HOST
Meet Paula, the inspiring and grounded force behind a transformative Teacher Training Institute, where coaches and wellness professionals find their wings. As an entrepreneur, author, and speaker, she champions the fusion of science and spirituality. Drawing from thirty years as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, HR Director, Intuitive and Transformational Coach, Paula's mission is clear: to spark transformation within you. Whether you seek professional excellence or personal fulfilment, her guidance lights the path to your highest potential. Join the journey, where each moment is infused with the promise of growth and inspired living.
www.smartfoundations.co.uk
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