Global Spirit Season 1 Episode 8 Exploring Consciousness: East & West
- TV-NR
- August 19, 2012
- 58 min
In episode 8 of Global Spirit season 1, titled "Exploring Consciousness: East & West," the viewer is taken on a journey into the world of spirituality and consciousness, where Eastern and Western philosophies merge and intersect. The episode features interviews with leading experts in the field of consciousness, including Buddhist masters, neuroscientists, and mystics, who share their insights on the nature of consciousness and how it can be experienced and understood from various perspectives.
The episode begins with a discussion on the concept of mindfulness, which is a key component of Buddhist philosophy and practice. The viewer is introduced to Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, who has dedicated his life to exploring mindfulness and its benefits. Hanh shares his insights on how mindfulness can help individuals cultivate inner peace and live in the present moment, rather than being consumed by anxiety or stress.
From there, the episode delves deeper into the world of consciousness, exploring the relationship between the mind and the brain. Neuroscientist Dr. Rudolph Tanzi discusses his research on the human brain and its connection to consciousness, explaining how brainwaves can be measured to gain a deeper understanding of how the brain works and how it can be trained to achieve greater awareness.
The episode also explores the role of mysticism in the exploration of consciousness, with interviews with scholars who specialize in the study of the mystical traditions of both the East and the West. Drawing on examples from the great mystics of all times including Mawlana Jalal ad-Din Rumi, the Sufi poet and mystic, the scholars discuss how mysticism can provide insights into the true nature of existence and the deeper realities of human experience.
Throughout the episode, the viewer is presented with a wide range of experiences and perspectives on consciousness, from the ancient Buddhist tradition to modern scientific research. The episode encourages viewers to explore their own understanding of consciousness and to embrace the possibilities of a more expansive and deep spiritually informed life.
Overall, "Exploring Consciousness: East & West" is a fascinating and thought-provoking episode that delves into some of the most profound questions of the human experience. Through interviews with some of the leading minds in the fields of spirituality and science, the episode provides a panoramic view of the richness and complexity of consciousness, and how different traditions and perspectives can enrich our understanding of the nature of the human mind and our place in the world. Whether one is a devout seeker of spiritual truths or a curious observer of the human experience, this episode of Global Spirit season 1 is a must-see.