723. Eli Recht

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