About this episode
Eli Recht - The Transformative Power of Psychology and Spirituality Born and raised in San Diego, CA, and currently residing in Carlsbad, CA, Eli Recht is a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT), EMDR clinician, spiritual counselor, editor, and teacher of Self-realization. In 2020, Eli experienced a falling away of ego identity and an awakening to the true nature of Reality. As a result, Eli has dedicated his life to service – to help alleviate suffering, cultivate connection, guide people through the often-confusing journey of Life, and invite others to recognize our shared unconditioned essence. Eli’s specialty is blending contemporary psychological knowledge with timeless spiritual wisdom and advocating for the integration of these two disciplines. Website: elirecht.com Books (Editor and Foreword): Grace Happens: An Awakening of Consciousness Reflections of Consciousness: Essays on the Journey of Awakening and the Nature of Reality Summary and transcript of this interview Interview recorded January 11, 2025 YouTube Video Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction to Buddha at the Gas Pump Series 00:03:56 Discovering Spiritual Insights through "Buddha at the Gas Pump" 00:09:14 Discovering Eastern Thought at Deer Park Monastery 00:15:21 Exploring Higher States of Consciousness Through Music 00:19:32 The Challenges of Kriya Yoga Practice 00:24:04 Struggles with Kriya Yoga and Finding Purpose 00:28:25 Journey to Emotional and Psychological Healing 00:33:16 Understanding Kundalini Activation and Its Effects 00:38:00 Discovering My Higher Self 00:41:31 Differentiating Awakening from Psychosis 00:45:44 The Path of Perseverance and Enlightenment 00:49:48 Realization of Oneness and Unity 00:54:33 The Importance of Service Post-Awakening 01:00:47 Understanding the Transition from Ego-Identification to Ego-Transcendence 01:04:41 The Influence of Meher Baba and the Journey to Self-Realization 01:09:36 Embracing a Different Memory Post-Awakening 01:13:03 Navigating Non-Doership and Embodiment 01:18:00 Understanding the Ego and Brahman 01:21:01 Rocket Ship as a Metaphor for Awakening 01:25:44 Understanding Psychosis and Spiritual Awakening 01:30:48 Illuminating the Ego: Pre and Post Awakening 01:35:40 Challenges of Kundalini Awakening 01:39:29 The Relationship Between Ego and Self-Realization 01:44:19 Navigating the Role of a Spiritual Teacher 01:49:30 The Role of Spirituality in Addressing Mental Illness 01:53:13 Humanity's Journey Through Suffering to Awakening 01:58:20 The Role of Donations in Spiritual Endeavors 02:02:07 Vision for a Peaceful Humanity 02:06:18 Exploring Life's Big Questions: Meaning, Reality, and Participation 02:10:52 Embracing the Present Moment: The Power of What over Why 02:16:25 Upcoming Interview with Lisa Carrillo