What if the boundaries between you and the world were an illusion? In a recent episode of The Tantric Life Podcast, I explored the Five Plus One Layer Self Model with yoga teacher Daniel. Rooted in Christopher Wallis’s Tantra Illuminated, this Tantric model provides a holistic view of self, integrating the physical, mental, and spiritual realms. The six layers—ranging from the physical body (deha) and thoughts/emotions (chitta) to pure awareness (chit)—offer a structured way to understand consciousness and deepen spiritual practice.
Daniel shared practical applications, including sensory awareness exercises, dream journaling, and meditation techniques to engage with each layer. We also explored the paradox of self in Tantra: balancing identification with the body while recognizing a broader awareness. This conversation was just the beginning, and I look forward to continuing this exploration. If you’re curious to dive deeper, check out Daniel’s work at ritualembodiment.com, and let me know your thoughts!
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The Tantric Life Podcast
Listen to the podcast episode of this topic on your preferred platform, here: E39 The Nature of Self: A Tantrik Perspective with Daniel Erulian.