The Sivana Podcast

Integrating western science with mystical ideas helps to give us a fuller understanding of how to use gemstones and crystals in healing work and in our daily lives. It's work that our guest, Nicholas Pearson has devoted his life to. In this episode we'll discuss how various gemstones and crystals can be used in relationship to the Chakra systems that so many are familiar with in our current day and age. Nicholas Pearson has been immersed in all aspects of the mineral kingdom for more than 20 years.

The United States is reaching a new threshold of acceptance for cannabis with recent legislation in numerous states allowing medicinal and, in some cases, recreational use of the plant depending on the state. It seems as though the US is moving towards national legalization, in large part due to recognition of marijuana's medicinal benefits and to it becoming more socially accepted by people all over the country.

The Hanuman Chalisa is a devotional hymn written in the 16th century by the poet Tulsidas. People have been reciting the chalisa for hundreds of years and it is a testament to its impact on the life of those who recite it. What story does the Chalisa teach us and how might it change our lives? Join us with return guest Naren Schreiner as we discuss the Hanuman Chalisa in the latest episode of the Sivana Podcast.

Our understanding of consciousness and the mind has changed dramatically in recent years. But what do we even mean when we say consciousness? How does it relate to or differ from the mind? What and where is the mind? What have the latest developments in brain research taught us? Join us with physicist turned neuroscientist, Paul Nunez, as we explore the latest understandings of consciousness from a modern western perspective.

What is Vedic Astrology and how does it differ from Western Astrology? Join us with Kari Field as we discuss some key ideas in Vedic astrology, dive into ancient stories of demons swallowing the sun, and explore important astrological moments in the weeks and months ahead. Kari Field (Anandashree) is a San Francisco based Vedic Astrologer and spiritual advisor, as well as a professional musician and Yoga/Pilates instructor. 

Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, BKS Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, TKV Desikachar. These are all names that many in the yoga community are familiar with and are considered by many to be the pioneers of modern yoga. But thanks to the work of modern yoga scholars like Elliott Goldberg, we are learning about numerous other figures who influenced the modern practice of yoga. Who were these characters and how did they affect how yoga evolved in modern times?

Often called the Hindu Bible, the Bhagavad Gita is considered by many to be the greatest spiritual text from India. What is this story about? When and where does it take place? What are its most important and relevant messages and can we apply them to our modern daily lives? Join us with Vanamali Mataji as we discuss the Gita and why it's more important now than ever.

What would happen to the practice of western medicine if doctors were taught mindfulness and self-care more often in medical school? What does mindfulness in medicine look like in actual practice? How can patients practice mindfulness and how might it help them in difficult medical moments? We explore these ideas and more in this great conversation with world renowned Doctor Ronald Epstein.

Gemstones and crystals have been appreciated and used by cultures since ancient times, but what uses do they have in our modern daily lives? Is there a way to discuss this topic while including both mystical ideas and science? Join us with expert Nicholas Pearson, author of the Seven Archetypal Stones, as we discuss the practical uses of gemstones and crystals in our every day life.

Most people believe that yoga, meditation, and prayer have positive effects on the mind, body, and spirit, but what does science say? What sort of research is being done in these fields? Join us with Dr. Amitava Dasgupta as we discuss some of the amazing work being done to further our understanding of how meditation, yoga and prayer can affect us, and what we can learn from these ancient and modern practices.

She has black skin, severed heads around her neck, blood dripping from her mouth, and a blazing red third eye. She is Kali. She inspires fear in those who don't know her and devotion and love in those who do, but who is she really? How can knowing about her benefit us in our daily modern lives? Why might modern yogis want to know about Kali? Join us with Daniel Odier as we dive into the mysteries of Kali and discuss the Nirrutara Tantra, the Twelve Kalis, and more!

The Story of the Swordsman and the Cat tells the tale of the swordsman Shoken, who is tormented by a mischievous rat in his house. After attempts by his own cat, the neighbor cats and even going after the the rat himself, Shoken must call for a famous cat, known for its skill in the art of catching rats. After easily capturing the rat, thE veteran cat goes on to explain why the various methods of the other cats and the samurai Shoken failed, and the proper methods of approaching anything in life...

Due in part to the popularity of festivals like Bhakti Fest and the modern Kirtan movement, people all over the United States are familiar with the word Bhakti. But what does it really mean? Is it a feeling, a practice, a religion? And what does it have to do with the modern postural yoga practice that has spread throughout the world? Join us with Naren Schreiner as we explore what Bhakti Yoga is and how it might influence a Hatha Yoga or meditation practice, and how it can affect your daily life.

Many scholars have speculated about the use of psychedelics, also known as entheogens, in the early stages of many religions. Is there any evidence of the use of entheogens in early Christianity? Our guest, Dr. Jerry Brown, author of the Psychedelic Gospels, believes there is. Join us with Dr. Brown, as we discuss his findings and the evidence he and his wife found on an epic journey to dive deeper into the origins of early Christian mysticism.

Sages of the past have compared the human experience to being a prisoner locked in a cell. Various types of yoga have been taught to help liberate one from this prison. How might these practices help in an actual, physical prison? Often violent stressful places, how would a practice that often encourages concepts like non-violence and compassion be received by inmates, some of which are serving life long sentences for violent crimes.