Detachment is frequently sold as a necessary step for spiritual progress. We’re taught that attachment is often the root of our suffering, so it stands to reason therefore, that detachment will bring about the opposite of suffering.

But as Thom explains in this podcast episode, it’s an understandable yet inaccurate conclusion that actually causes more suffering.

Thom brings clarity to the subject, using the Vedic concept of vairagya, a state of being that allows us to fully enjoy the fruits of life, without the bondage of attachment.

Episode Highlights

[00:45] Maharishi Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras

[02:56] Siddhis - Developing Extraordinary Human Capabilities

[05:36] A Spontaneous State of Non-attachment

[09:48] A Witnessing Phenomenon

[12:55] A Consequence of the Practice of Vedic Meditation

[16:23] An Indication of Cosmic Consciousness

[19:08] The Freedom of Spontaneous Non-attachment

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Many would be forgiven for thinking we don’t have much control over our circumstances in life or how we feel about them. At times it might feel like someone or something else is pulling the strings and we simply have to do our best to play along.

The Vedic worldview has a very different perspective, which Thom outlines in detail in this podcast episode.

Looking through the lens of “locus of control,” Thom explains how we can escape the mindset of inescapability, and learn to better navigate the ups and downs that life inevitably brings.

Episode Highlights

[00:45] Locus of Control

[04:23] Self-Sufficiency and Field Independence

[07:03] The Hypnotizable Ones

[10:23] Mass Suggestibility

[12:50] The Anti-Hypnotic Benefits of Vedic Meditation

[15:48] Spontaneous Responsibility

[20:28] The Role of Disruption in Evolutionary Change

[23:02] The Downside of Contentment

[27:42] Phenomenal Adaptive Capacity

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Jai Guru Deva.

We just wanted to remind you that you currently have two opportunities to spend some quality time with Thom at his upcoming retreats in Sedona, Arizona, from May 22-26, and Gerringong, Australlia from June 25-29.

These retreats are your chance to get away to rexperience deep rest, industrial-strength stress release, quality company, and higher states of consciousness.

Most importantly, you'll have close-up access to Thom at his famous lectures and Q&A sessions.

Whether you are troubled by the changes the world is experiencing right now, or simply looking to fast-track your evolution, quality time with Thom is the ideal opportunity to tap into the wisdom you need at this time.

Thom looks forward to seeing you in Sedona or Gerringong!

Find out more at thomknoles.com/retreats. That's thomknoles.com/retreats.

Vedic Meditation is rooted in an ancient Indian tradition that has preserved Vedic wisdom for millennia. The Shankaracharya Tradition, like many others, has senior custodians who ensure this wisdom remains both pure and relevant.

In January 2025, Thom was honored with a role as one of these custodians, a distinction never before granted to a non-Indian. In this episode, Thom shares the story of his appointment and the ceremony where he received his new title, Shri 1008 Mahamandaleshwar Maharishi Vyasanand Giri Maharaj.

It’s a fascinating and colorful journey that will leave you in awe at the scale and significance of it.

Image courtesy of Leeroy Te Hira

Episode Highlights
[00:45] The Naranjani Akhara
[04:02] Maha Kumbha Mela - The Great Gathering of Gurus
[05:54] A Meaningful Title - Shri 1008 Mahamandaleshwar Maharishi Vyasanand Giri Maharaj
[08:38] A Common Lineage to Guru Deva, Swami Brahmananda Saraswati
[10:35] Instant Camaraderie
[13:26] Vedic Mantras Fit for the Occasion
[15:14] A Mountain of Petals and Shawls
[18:10] A Slow Exit
[20:37] Down to the River We Go
[25:26] A Cold Plunge and a Ride on a Chariot
[27:46] At Home in India
[31:06] Cultural Appropriation vs A Choiceless Duty to Perform

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info@thomknoles.com

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https://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/