Live Free with Selena Sage

Asking “What is Zen?” is much the same as the masters who challenge us to ask, “Who Am I?” These questions are meant to dissolve the questioner. This talk is but an introduction, so I welcome you to join the “Introduction to Zen” event being held this Sunday, 17 Jan by registering at zen.Eventbrite.com to explore together. // Recording note: Very strong winds in Cabo Verde presently. The winds blew some things over during this recording haha. // Namasté. InstantlyZen.com // sage@instantlyzen.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author and Instantly Zen

After reading a note in a Zen text that masters were asked to write a verse after their awakening, I was inspired on my morning walk yesterday to rise to this challenge. The verse that I created was as follows, “Drop everything. Even you.” Then I added, “Bonus: What remains?” Noticing now this was a 7 word verse and feeling the smile! :) In this episode, I explore what I meant by these words and how you might use this pointing to discover what is timeless present...your Unborn nature as Presence itself! I will look forward to seeing you and sharing more about this in upcoming Instantly Zen sessions. Please subscribe at instantlyzen.com to be notified of the next events. Thank you. Namasté. selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author and InstantlyZen

Zen is the path of direct transmission of the truth of our true nature. In addition to direct transmission from masters, the method of sparking this realization has ranged from a flower to a koan to a haiku. The inspiration to create “Instantly Zen” events and sessions was based upon the power of personal experience. In this episode, I share samples from three books, “The Zen Teaching of Bodhidharma,” Translated by Red Pine; “The Transparency of Things” by Rupert Spira; and my own book, “HAIKU to be free,” which is available for free when you subscribe at zentaobooks.com or instantlyzen.com at the bottom of any page. Through this brief exploration, I hope that you can see the common transmission of truth, and I look forward to creating future, “Introduction to Zen” sessions to explore this with you more completely. Please stay tuned at instantlyzen.com or Fb +IG: Instantly Zen. You can also email me at sage@instantlyzen.com // Recording note: Unfortunately my former microphone here on the island is not working, so the recording is from a backup microphone which is not quite as clear. We work with what we can. Thank you for your understanding. Namasté. selenasage.com

Hello dear one! I am so excited to announce Instantly Zen — a live virtual experience with me to transcend stressful thoughts and recognize your true nature. Please visit instantlyzen.com for all of the details on events and 1:1 Zen Sessions, and you are welcome to register for the first event on Saturday, 5 December 2020 directly at zen.eventbrite.com // On Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, the pages are named Instantly Zen (links are also on the website) and you’re welcome to follow and share these pages. Thank you. // If you have any questions, please feel free to send them to instantlyzen@gmail.com // I look forward to seeing you soon! Namasté, Selena Sage

My sincere thanks for your continued support of this podcast! There was uncertainty as to how to close out Season 3, but after deciding to disable my social media for a while, I didn’t want to leave without a trace! // in this episode, I share wisdom from “Writing on Water” by Sri Mooji, and I hope that you’ll take some time to contemplate your true Self and simply move as Awareness itself. This is the direct pointing from the masters. // I will use this podcast and my website, selenasage.com to share relevant updates going forward and you are welcome to connect with me via email at selena@selenasage.com Namasté and thank you, Selena Sage

This talk explores the profound pointings shared by God, Jesus, and Advaita Vedanta masters Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj and Sri Mooji. By exploring these pointings, we come to the essence of Consciousness and we can recognize that what we truly are as being aware of even that! // Recording note: I later learned that the knocking at my door was from a dear friend of mine looking for me haha Also, she called before I could finish the recording, so I created a closing clip to edit that out because I cannot imagine trying to re-record this episode haha It’s also fun to have this moment recorded to tease her with in the future haha ;) Hopefully the message is clear—You are THAT! Namasté and love. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired today to just breathe with you. The inspiration also arose to read a verse from the “Hua Hu Ching: The Unknown Teachings of Lao Tzu” by Brian Walker. The message, selected at random, could not have been more perfect, and I am thankful. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sometimes, even I find myself getting caught up in the energy of my environment when giving these talks! This talk is encouragement to make quiet space daily for calm contemplation, and to choose your own adventure through the choice of identification. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired by poem by the great Khalil Gibran, this talk uses the analogy of a river merging with the sea to explore transcendence. Namasté. // Episode notes: At times, there is recognition that sometimes the words “identify with Awareness” or “identify with person” are said during these talks. This is a natural reflex of the conditioned mind that is meant to mean “identify as the person” and “identify as Awareness.” There is no other ;) // Selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Live from Pebble Beach in Sinagoga, I’m happy to share what is perhaps my shortest talk ever (my phone battery is low haha)! My encouragement is simply for you to disentangle from the mind’s flow, direct your attention, and define your own (wonderful!) experience. Namasté and love from here in Cabo Verde :) SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing a story from my teenage years to illustrate a moment of self-sufficiency (with thanks to my parents and family for the strong foundation which helped me to be that way!) and encouragement to start where you are, with what you have, as you chart your own path. // Episode note: I forgot to mention that I arrived at Case Western on the weekend for the program. I remember going to a phone booth and finding the university in a phone book and calling the main number, but no one answered as it was the weekend. Recording here for my future memory haha. // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In this talk, I share wisdom from Sri Mooji to help illuminate the levels of identification. “When Awareness touches mind, ‘I’ begins. When mind touches body, ‘me’ begins. When ‘me’ touches object, desire, attachment, and fear begin.” And also from his book “White Fire,” this quote: “In the absence of you personally is the presence of you universally.” // These pointers help is to understand our true nature and be forever free, as we are freedom itself. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing thoughts on the nature of creation and our original nature, using the different forms of water as a mode of comparison to Formless Awareness. When Awareness touches Consciousness, we know we exist; In deep sleep, there is no Consciousness, only Stillness—our original nature. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Taking a moment to record a short talk from inside a cave on Sinagoga Beach, here on my island of Santo Antão (Cabo Verde, Africa) to encourage you to simply count your blessings. // My fourth book, “HAIKU to be free” is available for *free* when you subscribe at zentaobooks.com :) // Namasté and love. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This talk was inspired by a quote from Socrates: “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” Reimagine a new world and then build it ;) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This episode is dedicated to all who feel that what they are currently facing is insurmountable, especially to a dear friend who reached out today to share these feelings. My hope is that you reach out to professionals, as needed, (as extreme as it might seem, Suicide or Mental Health Support Hotlines for your country can be a valuable tool to get you immediate support in a crisis) to help you deconstruct the challenge and alleviate feelings of isolation. // I also share a bit of wisdom I ran across this morning and I hope it is a source of encouragement for you. You are loved, you are valued, you will get through this. I believe in you. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Happy to use this episode to share Indigenous wisdom, specifically from North America, and illustrate the overlap with wisdom from other spiritual paths. We are One. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired by wisdom from the great Sri Ramana Maharshi, this talk is centered around the nature and power of love, and our greatest opportunity to live in love. Sri Ramana says, “Love itself is the actual form of God,” and that resonates within me as the most beautiful truth. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired by a section from Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj’s masterful book, “I AM THAT,” I share a bit of one of his conversations with a questioner and provide additional commentary to delve more deeply into the nature of desires, fears, and emotions, and also how to be free of them. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

With love from Cabo Verde, during a brief electricity outage haha (this happens every few months), I’m inspired to ask you what living free means to you. Everything is possible for you. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired by a quote from Sri Mooji in his book “White Fire,” I share some of my early experiences with meditation and encourage you to rest inside the now and come to know your true Self as Presence itself. Also, my fourth book “HAIKU to be free” is available for free when you subscribe at zentaobooks.com :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

From Taoist Sage Lao Tzu: “Without form, there is no desire. Without desire, there is tranquility.” Find out what you truly are, beyond form. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

With my sincere thanks for your kind support, I decided to create another short talk today inspired by quotes from Oprah and Lao Tzu; and also from a question in my first book, “Meditative Questions” — available at zentaobooks.com : “How do you know when enough is enough?” :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Using a Taoist parable of the man with one eye, we explore what it means to derive happiness from a place of comparison rather than contentment. Contentment is the key as it multiples, comparison contracts and ultimately leads to unhappiness. Be grateful for what you have and you will find yourself with more. Reminded of one of my favorite quotes by Oprah, “Be thankful for what you have, you’ll end up having more. If you focus on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Drawing inspiration from the great Taoist sage Chuang Tzu (with thanks to theself_ on IG for sharing) and Naomi Osaka’s recent, inspiring comeback win at the US Open, this talk centers on how to win, and how to be happy right now. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

With love and thanks to our beautiful Bella, Mrs. Quander, for sharing this message, and gratitude for the beauty and light of Godparents (especially my own! ;), I’m happy to share this lovely message of hope from the Catholic Pope Francis. May you seize the opportunity to be the author of your own destiny and write a wonderful story! Namasté. (And Happy Birthday Michea! ;) xoxo SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In response to an inquiry from a high school classmate who plans to move abroad, I thought I’d record a short talk with 7 tips and tricks to simplify process. // A bonus tip: Use *social media* (especially Facebook) to join Expat groups with people from your home country living in your new planned country. // One day, I will get around to publishing the book I wrote about this (a seven step follow-up to “Get Free: 7 Simple Steps to Free Your Mind and Live Your Dreams” about moving/living abroad), but until then, I hope this info helps! Happy trails! ;) SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired to share a brief message to both honor our body temples, but also to not get too caught up in the changing forms of this body. Rather, recognize your true nature and be free always! :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In America, 9/11 is a day that we remember because of the tragedy in 2001 that took so many innocent lives. For me, it is also reminder of all who have been lost and treated differently because superficial differences imposed by society. It is an opportunity to elevate the collective consciousness to recognize Truth—We are One, and what we truly are is beyond body and mind. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: Selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Thankful that the storm has passed and the sun is once again shining here on the island :) Reading through my fourth book, “HAIKU to be free” — available *for free* when you subscribe at zentaobooks.com — and stumbled onto a haiku that caused me to reflect, so I thought I’d share those thoughts. Here is the haiku: One worry brings more // Hold your breath and it’s all gone // Why is it like that? // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

As Tropical Storm Rene rages around me here in Santo Antão, Cabo Verde, I wanted to take a few moments to share a Zen story and encourage you to rest, reflect, and recognize your own power to create your ideal life. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

While reading some pointers from the great Sri Maharaj, I stumbled on a question: “Think of yourself as momentary, without past or future, then where is the personality?” (from the book, “Pointers from Nisargadatta Maharaj” by Ramesh Balsekar) This prompted reflection and the inspiration to share these words with you, from here in my hammock on the island haha—hopefully you can hear the ocean waves!—to experience freedom here and now ;) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

When you have right perception, you are able to simply watch your thoughts come and go while remaining at peace—your true nature. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

After reading the quote, “The mind that perceives the limitation is the limitation,” some thoughts flowed about perception and that which perceives even perception. This short talk are those thoughts ;) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

With no planned topic for today, the inspiration arose to randomly open each of my books and share thoughts for what came up! :) Please know you are always welcome to download my fourth book, “HAIKU to be free” for *free* at zentaobooks.com :)! Namasté and love. (My thanks for ignoring the loud bass in the background from one of my neighbors.) SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Thanks to Cory for reminding me of the importance of living in the present! (This episode is dedicated to you ;) // Added to this reminder, wise words from Sri Papaji (from his book “Wake up and Roar”) is a call to examine the nature of desire and how we might try to impose our desire on God. Papaji reminds us that we should only use our will to desire freedom, then everything is resolved. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Combining both the wisdom that you are not the body or the doer, this verse of the Ashtavakra Gita (taken from “The Heart of Awareness”, a translation by Thomas Byrom), illustrates the happiness and freedom of living as Awareness itself! I encourage you to absorb these words and embody them, and then live free! :) // I was also inspired to share a haiku I wrote after reading this verse early this morning a little after 4am: Waves are worlds rising / In the endless and formless / Awareness — I AM. // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

As a followup to the discussion that you are not the body, recognizing that you are also not the doer is the next phase of recognition that truly renders one free. I share a conversation of Sri Ramana with a disciple to illustrate how the roles we assume create suffering. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com //Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Thankful for a beautiful week spent with my dear friends Marcus and Diane in a town on my island of Santo Antão (here in Cabo Verde) called Cha D’Igreja! They kindly welcomed me to a lovely bungalow at their beautiful hotel property, Haus Am Weg - Casa No Caminho (meaning “House on the Way,” please visit their website and plan a visit to stay and/or have a delicious meal when in Santo Antão! You’ll be glad you did http://www.hausamweg.com :) // On the journey back home, the contemplation “you are not the body” kept arising, so I thought I’d share a talk on the topic! :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Jesus Christ boldly stated, “I and the Father are one.” If you said this, would it sound like blasphemy in your ears? The encouragement presented in this talk is to discover what the sages and saints found out and recognize your true nature. Then, BE that answer ;) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This short talk pinpoints thoughts as the main driver of our unhappiness. Sri Ramana tells us, “Give up thoughts. You need not give up anything else,” and therein lies the secret to freedom. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

With quotes from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Taoist Master Lao Tzu, this talk explores the nature of water and how we might use this wisdom to flow through the changes of life with ease. // Note: The parting quote was said with a loving nod to the great Bruce Lee who said, “Empty your mind. Be formless. Shapeless. Like water. You put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Water can flow, or it can crash. Be water, my friend.” // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

What is your true desire? Sit with it, recognize the value it represents, question if it will be replaced with a new desire once acquired. Letting go is freedom. Contentment is freedom. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

After seeing photos from past moments, the inspiration arose to reflect on those times with you and encourage you to do the same. Replay pivotal moments that you can now see were highlights on your path. Know that you are supported, and bravely step forward into living the future you can only imagine now. Namasté and love. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Today’s talk was inspired by a question in my first book, “Meditative Questions” (available at zentaobooks.com :): “When you can do nothing, what can you do?” Though storms may come, know that expressing your desires and asking for help is a way to make it through. I wish you peace. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

“Your urge to control life controls you,” is one of the pieces of wisdom from Sri Mooji (from the book, “White Fire”) shared in this talk. The encouragement is to take this wisdom and confirm for yourself with your own experience. Peace and freedom are your true nature. As you confirm this, and BE this, you will find there is no need to worry. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

All in the changing, phenomenal world is temporary, but that does not mean we don’t feel. Taking from wisdom from Zen Buddhist Master Thay, my encouragement is to embrace difficult emotions, watch where they are arising from, and use any suffering to help you recognize your true nature. All my love to you . Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

While reading verses I copied from the Katha Upanishad today, the inspiration arose to make this seventh talk a special edition and go beyond the normal time limits to share those verses. This wisdom is profound and points to your truest nature. Believing that this ultimate freedom is a possibility is the first step, then you must confirm with your own experience—achieved by dropping everything (even your idea of who you think you are!) and being of no-mind. From there, our great opportunity is to embody this truth and live in the perfect peace, joy, and love that is our true nature. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Connecting wisdom from the Holy Bible to that of Sufism, Advaita, and the Upanishads by means of recognizing that all that we see with our senses is temporary, while the Eternal—of which all is appearing in and as — is unseen. Knowing the true reality and Being That is freedom. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In the words of Jesus (Matthew 17:20), if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for you. My encouragement is to believe, confirm with experience, and then trust in the Higher Power, the formless Source, taking care of all. By connecting and merging with this limitless force, nothing can be impossible for you. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Talk included a quote from my first book, “Meditation Questions: Zen + Tao Inspired” available at zentaobooks.com :) Thank you. // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

I listened to a recording of Sri Mooji very early this morning, and I woke up remembering only one thing he shared, “Before Enlightenment: Chop Wood, Carry Water; After Enlightenment: Chop Wood, Carry Water but no Wood Chopper, No Water-Carrier.” In this talk, I explore that lesson and share the Zen story of The Stone Cutter to explore the journey to enlightenment. Namasté :) SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

So many masters speak of being of “no-mind.” What does that mean? How can you be without your mind? This short talk explores that concept and contains a few short pointers to put you in touch with your truest Self. Sri Mooji’s website is Mooji.org :) In the infinite space of now, you can accomplish all that you need to accomplish and be free always. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired by the beautiful day I’ve just had, filled with mindful moments, the feeling arose to share this message of encouragement to experiment with just being free for a moment...exactly where you are :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namasté Dear One and Welcome to Season 3! The inspiration has arisen to make Season 3 a series of short, spontaneous talks. These talks may not always be daily, so I encourage you to subscribe to be notified of new episodes. This first talk explores the concept of witnessing presence and how this leads to peace and ultimate liberation. Thank you for your ongoing love and support! Namasté. Selenasage.com // As always you are welcome to send spiritually based questions or thoughts via email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

I’m in awe that this is episode 100 of the podcast! Wow! Thank you for your continued support of me, my books, and this show! As always, you are welcome to subscribe at zentaobooks.com for a *free ebook* of my fourth book, “HAIKU to be free.” // In this episode, I touch on the link between Quantum Physics and Spirituality to explore the concept of “Nothingness.” // Note: I would clarify in the example of pictures and light that Existence is light and the world is a picture arising within that. And all things are pictures with the light of Awareness shining within. // Quotes from the book “Song of the Avadhut” and “I Am That: Talks with Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj” // I will take a break before starting up Season 3, but you are welcome to reach out to me in the meantime with your thoughts and questions. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

My deep thanks to the anonymous (by request) questioner who submitted six questions in one (haha!) that inspired me to truly reflect and reference spiritual texts and masters to expand on the essential message: You are already free! You are freedom itself. // Through exploring the questions presented (starting with “What if one does not have the freedom to get free?”), it became clear to me that it is truly a change of identification (from person to Presence) that would resolve every concern. But first, one has to recognize oneself as Presence, and that can only come from experience. It is my hope that my response and this podcast provide the necessary encouragement and support to have that very experience. Namasté. // My thanks also to the questioner for the kind words about my third book, “Get Free: 7 Simple Steps to Free Your Mind & Live Your Dreams”! It is available in ebook form at zentaobooks.com and paperback at amazon.com/author/selenasage Thank you for your kind support of me and my books! :) SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In this final Freedom Friday of Season 2, I decided to do a bit of a remix and share excerpts from ALL (four) of my published books! :)! I welcome you to get my fourth book, “HAIKU to be free” for *free* when you subscribe to zentaobooks.com :) A coupon code to download the ebook will be emailed to you! Also, other ebooks are on sale for $4.99 USD. As I am living abroad on the island, amazon.com/author/selenasage fulfills delivery of physical books, and the official ZENTAO BOOKS versions all have free Amazon Prime Shipping. Thank you for your kind support of me through supporting the books! // The message today is that you are already free! My encouragement is to walk away from people and situations that do not serve you and make space to discover your true nature, which is freedom itself! Namasté. // Recording note: Though I started the recording a little before 7am, at some point loud construction equipment was heard, so you’ll hear me walking around closing doors in my home here on the island haha All of my episodes are unedited and I was too far in to re-record! Haha! Thank you for your understanding. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Recounting memories from three past trips to Thailand: two times on the island of Koh Samui at the Lamai Muay Thai Camp, and once in Bangkok and the Hua Hin / Pranburi area. These trips to Thailand have always proved to be transformational and inspirational for me—encouraging me to get my Ducati and also to write four different books! Thailand has a special place in my heart, and so, too, do all of the wonderful people I’ve met there. I’m very thankful. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

I am so excited to share wisdom from the great Zen Buddhism monk and master Thich Nhat Hanh (lovingly called Thay, or teacher)! Born in 1926, his life has been a reflection of loving-kindness and mindful living. In preparing for this talk, I watched several YouTube videos he’s shared and used my notes to communicate some of the wisdom I found most potent. I hope you will be inspired to practice an exercise or two, and/or investigate his teachings further—they are transformational! Namasté. //Quick notes: Near the end of the recording, I noticed the time and rushed a little haha About collective consciousness, Thay teaches that an environment or fear or anger are forms of “nutrients” that we take in. So he encourages seeking peaceful places and communities to cultivate more love and peace. Second note: Just after that, I said that “humans don’t die,” and while that was a quote I’d heard from Thay, I meant to say, “The Being does not die” which is more true to me. Though these forms pass away, what we truly are cannot die because it is Unborn. Namasté. // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Living fully in the present moment, with your mind only full of the moment of now, is mindfulness. In the present moment, we find tremendous peace and freedom from the worries and depressions of the past and anxieties about the future. Sharing two poems from Thich Nhat Hanh, we explore how some Zen Buddhist monks stay present through blessing others and living in gratitude. May we not postpone our happiness or freedom until some future imagined time or state. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing wisdom from the great master Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, the encouragement is to end all suffering by going beyond NOW! This is your opportunity...the doors are self-inquiry, remaining in the Present as Presence itself, and full devotion to the Supreme. Don’t delay—Pick your door and walk through. You will be free, because what you truly are is already free. :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In this final week of Season 2, I will shine a light on many of the lessons and pointings that I feel get to the heart of the matter. This talk today is based on a Zen story called “Moving Mind” and two passages from “White Fire” by Sri Mooji. The encouragement is to reach the ultimate by truly recognizing ourselves as that Stillness from which Motion arises from. If you should have any thoughts or spiritually based questions for this last week of Season 2, I encourage you to email me at selena@selenasage.com Namasté. :) SelenaSage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Starting with a reading from the Ashtavakra Gita (“The Heart of Awareness” by Thomas Byrom) we explore how desire binds us. When answering a visitor, Sri Papaji (from the book “Wake Up and Roar!”) explains that the demon Buddha faced under the Bodhi tree was his own mind. And Sri Mooji reminds us that when we don’t want anything, that’s freedom! Identifying our true nature as that which is beyond the mind truly removes us from the endless desires, as what we truly are is changeless and perfect and without want or need. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Today I share poetry and insights from my second book, entitled “unbreakable” (available at zentaobooks.com and amazon.com/author/selenasage ). My encouragement is to live authentically, speak your truth, be honest with yourself and others, and trust your instincts. Accept people as they are and courageously walk away from toxic situations that drain you. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

I had originally intended to stick to memories of Paris, but ended up drifting to Toulouse, La Dune du Pyla, Bordeaux, and other areas I loved in the South of France! haha France is a beautiful and diverse country and I’m thankful for the wonderful times and great people I’m fortunate to know there. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Trying to capture the incredible life and profound wisdom of modern-day sage Maya Angelou (1928-2014) is a near-impossible task! But, with courage, I tried ;) Quoting extensively from her book, “Letter to My Daughter” and interviews and talks she’s given, I hope that you are able to glean a little wisdom from this master. I end the talk with her beautiful poem “A Brave and Startling Truth” which she read in front of the United Nations assembly in 1995. Mama Maya was a phenomenal woman beyond even her own definition and I am thankful for her wisdom. Her profound reaction upon reading, and re-reading, the sentence, “God loves me,” is both beautiful and inspiring. May we all come to know and live the truth behind these words. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Following a Qigong breathing exercise, we explore the moment of now and feel its freedom and spaciousness, aided by a story and teachings from Sri Papaji (from the book “Wake Up and Roar”). Namasté. // Recording note: On enhanced speakers, the background noise is from a fan as the day was hot. Thank you. // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

What does it mean to YOU when you hear the phrase, “Live your best life”? Is your definition based on things that change or that which is enduring? My encouragement is to focus on that which is enduring and meditate on the phrase — “Where there is no I, You are Free. Where there is I, You are bound.” (from “The Heart of Awareness” A translation of the Ashtavakra Gita by Thomas Byrom) // Here is the Papaji video I referenced: https://youtu.be/NMHcak07pmE // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

The one thing we know for sure about life is that it will one day end. Allow this to inspire you, rather than scare you, and encourage you to live your best life...right now! :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Thank you to my beautiful sister Iris (Texas, USA) for this wonderful question: “How do you overcome when you realize you made a mistake?” This question inspired me to reflect on our true nature, doership, and the nature of Awareness. Thank you. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // I welcome you to send me your spiritually based question too at selena@selenasage.com or Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In discussing my third book, “Get Free: 7 Simple Steps to Free Your Mind & Live Your Dreams” (available at zentaobooks.com and amazon.com/author/selenasage ), I recall congratulations from my phenomenal grandmother for living life on my own terms and encourage you to do the same. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Before sharing memories from one of my favorite cities in the world, I’m inspired to share my thanks to YOU for your kind support and love! You inspire me to continue forward and I always encourage you to reach out to me via email: selena@selenasage.com for any questions, requests for clarifications, or comments as I would be glad to enhance your experience of this podcast. Memories of Barcelona are filled with great food, wonderful music, the art of Gaudí, and the beauty of the sea right next to the vibrant city. I am so thankful for all of my wonderful trips to this great city in Spain! Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In learning more about the remarkable life of the Japanese poet Bashō (1644-1694), I felt so connected to his journey and indeed his writing! Bashō is known as the father of the haiku and popularized the “hokku” (later known as haiku) as an art form independent of the “renku.” In Bashō’s haiku, undertones of Taoism and Zen are evident and I’ve included references to two books that highlight these connections further: “A Zen Wave: Basho’s Haiku and Zen” by Robert Aitken and “Matsuo Basho” by Makoto Ueda. (Both books can be checked out for free at archive.org) I end the talk with Bashō’s final haiku for your contemplation: On a journey, ailing — /My dreams roam about / Over a withered moor. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author // I dedicate this episode to my dear friend, teacher, and mentor Dr. General Marshall who shared his wisdom and kindness with the world so freely and whose light will be missed in this world, but now seen in the sky. Namasté.

Starting with a Qigong breathing exercise, we explore the meaning of the statement, “I am not the body.” I also share a story from the book, “Before I Am” by Mooji. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In support of today’s message, I share a story from “Tales from the Tao” by Solala Towler. It is a reminder to me that the best teacher always sends you back to yourself. As you discover your truest Self, the encouragement is to keep going and not settle for half-peace or half-freedom. :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com

Happy Father’s Day to all fathers...and especially my own. Thank you, Dad, for being such a light in my life! I love you! // This episode is in celebration of the love and direction from fathers—both actual and spiritual—to believe in yourself and know that you are free. Jesus tells us that, “Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be given to you.” Sri Mooji advises us, “Pray to be free of troubles...and then pray to be free of the one who is troubled.” I am so thankful for this love and guidance and I hope that you will also use it to be free. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Email: selena@selenasage.com

Thank you to dear Cathy in the USA for the lovely question about holding onto beautiful memories! In this episode, I first read the Kena Upanishad and explore its teachings about the true Source, and then share a teaching from Sri Ramana Maharshi to a disciple to recognize our Self as the Light of Lights, before addressing Cathy’s question. When we recognize our true nature, we investigate the Source of our memories, thoughts, and emotions and gain true freedom and communion with all. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Starting with a discussion of a recent article that unhappiness is at record highs, I share wisdom from Sri Mooji to be free from the person. Added to the talk is a sharing of three haiku from my fourth book, “HAIKU to be free” which is available for *free!* with your subscription at zentaobooks.com (a coupon code will be automatically emailed to you). My encouragement to creatives is to refrain from harsh judgements and simply allow your creativity to flow. Your authenticity is itself inspiring! Namasté. Selenasage.com // You are welcome to email your spiritually based questions to me at selena@selenasage.com or via message on Fb+IG at Selena Sage - Author. Thank you.

Today, I was inspired to go beyond a discussion of landmarks in Singapore to discuss a bit of the country’s history, which was greatly influenced by Lee Kuan Yew (also known as LKY). I think of LKY as the father of Singapore and the architect of the country as it today. He was the first Prime Minister and served the longest term of any PM in history (from 1959-1990). Singapore’s road to independence and then as a major financial and business center for Asia is incredibly interesting and inspiring. I think there’s a lot to learn from it’s history. Namasté. // Correction: It’s actually “John” Oliver of Last Week Tonight. The towers in Singapore is called “Gardens by the Bay.” I would also clarify that we are living as the dream/movie with personal identification. // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sri Ramana Maharshi (1879-1950) is a Self-realized Master who is the teacher of both Sri Papaji and Sri Mooji (thereby making him my direct teacher as well). Sri Ramana’s encouragement is to pursue self-enquiry persistently and remain with the question, “Who Am I?” until it leads to the Silence that is the Self. // Correction: I mistakenly said he was born in 1979, but meant to say 1879. During this segment, I quoted extensively from the book “Who Am I” that was compiled from written wisdom of Sri Ramana, and you can send me an email for a pdf of these teachings or find it by searching on archive.org where persons have generously transcribed it. Sri Ramana encourages a sattvic diet to aid the process of Self-enquiry. // Also, there are tremendous winds on the islands and children playing which might be heard in this recording. Thank you. // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This episode is in complete tribute to Sri Mooji with my encouragement for you to investigate Mooji.tv for a free month trial of content from Sahaja Express. Investing in teachers and creators of uplifting content is so important, as they must eat too! I know of no greater investment than your freedom (from the person!). I know of no living master whose pointings are more direct or more potent than Sri Mooji, which is why I make this loving endorsement. But it is only an invitation. I hope you will find this chant as beautiful as I did. Thank you Sri Mooji. Namasté. // Recording note: It was a bit hot, so I did this recording with a small fan on. My perfectionist tendencies wanted to re-record, but I decided that it is actually ok :) Thank you. // SelenaSage.com // Email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Starting with a simple message to believe in yourself, I reference questions from my first book, “Meditative Questions” (available at zentabooks.com ) to explore our true nature as Pure Awareness. You got this! :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasags.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

How do we reconcile with the evil that exists in the world? The masters all encourage us to go beyond, within. This talk elaborates on that. // Book quote from “Wake Up and Roar” by Papaji. // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

I share the true story of getting locked out of my house this morning at 5:30am and my efforts to get a spare key from my closest friend in town—while in pajamas! haha I was reminded that the power of our attention has the ability to greatly impact our life experience and how we create+resolve problems for ourselves. I’m thankful to have resolved the key problem (with special thanks to my friends!) and I was in tune with the ways I observed the situation—both internally and externally. This Observer remained calm. I am grateful. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Discussion of poetry from my second book, “unbreakable” (on sale at zentaobooks.com ) led to a discussion of ultimate freedom, inspired by a talk from Sri Mooji (link: https://youtu.be/9Za9q1Zz6g8 ). Let go of you and recognize what you truly are to achieve endless peace and freedom. Namasté. // Shoutout to my Mom for always being amazing and MistaGoodBar for our awesome talk on The Remedy! You can hear that chat here: https://soundcloud.com/selenasage/sets/selena-sage-on-the-remedy-kpft-houston // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Recalling three different drives up the California coast from Los Angeles to San Francisco, and my love for Big Sur, National Park. Finding the beauty around you and taking time to enjoy it is the best. :) Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Rabi’a (717-801) is a Sufi Saint from the city of Basra in Southern Iraq. Trying to describe her remarkable life took me way beyond my usual time constraints! Haha There are many different accounts for her life and different poetry that is attributed to her. To me, this reflects Rabi’a’s profound influence of a great variety of people. To all, she embodies Love and that is enough. Her devotion to God shines through the poetry attributed to her and I remain inspired by the beauty of her devotion and strength. Namasté. // During this episode, I quote excerpts from two books: “Rabi’a from Narrative to Myth” by Rkia Cornell, and “Love Poems from God” by Daniel Ladinsky. // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In this episode, we raise the level of our consciousness to watch the space where our thoughts, feelings, and emotions are arising within. We recognize our true powers of Attention, Identification, and Belief...and we use them to calm ourselves and create a world of peace and beauty. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

During this talk, I use the analogy of a full closet to discuss letting go. I wish I’d gone further to say that while we can push aside old clothes to make room for new ones, at some point the weight on the bar becomes too much and everything collapses. When we become too full of attachments, thoughts, and emotions, it can be too much. To make space for meaningful change, we have to let go. Becoming completely empty is the way to radical change. (Talk includes excerpt from “White Fire” by Mooji). Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: Selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Starting with a quote from a tea bag, I share my spontaneous journey to create this podcast episode to illustrate the Taoist principle of “wu wei”—effortless action. I share readings from the books “Hua Hu Ching” by Brian Walker; “Tales from the Tao” by Solala Towler; and “White Fire” by Mooji during this talk. I also quote a parable from the NYTimes article, “A Meditation on the Art of Not Trying” by John Teirney (link: https://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/16/science/a-meditation-on-the-art-of-not-trying.html ). Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Today, I read from from the incredible book, “I Am That: Talks with Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj” and discussed the Timeless in relation to a questioner’s concern about violence happening in the world. As true masters do, Sri Maharaj encourages us to look beyond the crumbling building at the untouched space and recognize our true Self as Awareness. Namasté. // You are welcome to send your spiritually based questions to me for future Saturday sessions via email: selena@selenasage.com or Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author // selenasage.com

I discuss three questions from my first book, “Meditative Questions: Zen + Tao Inspired” (On sale at: zentaobooks.com ) and provide inspiration to re-imagine situations to find opportunities, and then take small steps to achieve change. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // You are welcome to send your spiritually based question via email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired this morning by a recording shared by a dear friend in London (link below), I reflect on shared experiences of People of Color around the world; recall my past visits to London; and share my hopes that all will recognize our Oneness and come to celebrate perceived differences as beauty. Link to radio interview: https://www.lbc.co.uk/radio/presenters/james-obrien/remarkable-caller-racism-new-light/ Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

I am so happy to honor modern mystic, Sister Thea Bowman (1937-1990) who actually had an impact on my life in a way I didn’t know—she was the pivotal force behind the “Lead Me, Guide Me” hymnal used in African-American Catholic Churches, like the one I was raised in! The granddaughter of an enslaved person, Sister Thea earned advanced degrees (B.A., M.A., and PhD) and became an educator before becoming an evangelist focused on uplifting others, especially through song. A case for Sainthood has been opened for Sister Thea and she has been designated a “Servant of God.” How thankful I am for her contributions and wisdom! Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

While this day is typically devoted to guided meditations, I bent the rules and instead discussed peace and why I decided to temporarily disconnect from social media and spend more time in nature. I also shared a passage from a book I love entitled, “The Unborn: The Life and Teachings of Zen Master Bankei, 1622-1693” by Norman Waddell. Bankei points to the Unborn with a simple and beautiful style that is accessible to all, and I highly recommend this book. After the discussion, we end the talk with a simple breathing exercise to center us in the moment. Namasté. // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com

In this episode, I speak as a concerned citizen of America. I have been very privileged in so many ways, but living as a Black woman in America has given me a unique window at different inequalities that still exist. I share those insights and some ideas, and I hope that I’ve done the changemakers in my family proud with this message. They paved the way for me and I owe them for the path to freedom I’ve been blessed to walk. May we all see ourselves in others and work to create positive change that benefits the people. Namasté. // Episode notes: I wish that I would have emphasized the Indigenous population of America more and that the USA was, in fact, stolen from them. Also — Here is a link to an article to support the comment I made about Black women being the most educated group in America: https://www.inc.com/sonia-thompson/black-women-equal-pay-equity-how-to-make-progress.html Thank you for your efforts to fix broken systems around the world. America is just an example of what is still happening globally. // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Like so many others, I have been deeply affected by the tragic murder of George Floyd. Examples like this shine a light on racism and injustice in society, and it is a call to action to stand against these forces of darkness with our own Light. The episode is dedicated to George Floyd, his family and friends, and all who have been affected by this tragedy—particularly those who have been called to action. I stand with you and I will continue to use this small platform to promote positivity and freedom to help you to recharge when you need it, and call others to support you, too. May we all awaken to truth and recognize ourselves in others. Namasté. // I highly recommend this 17 minute video from enlightened master Mooji about the tragic killing of George Floyd: https://youtu.be/VoaG9qHHFmM // Love to all. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Thank you to my dear friend Lelita here in Santo Antão, Cabo Verde for submitting the wonderful question that I address today. Overcoming fear to get free is discussed in terms of (1) Career, (2) Relationships, (3) Situations, (4) Society, and (5) Spirituality. // As mentioned in the talk, I would like to share information for the National Domestic Abuse Hotline: www.thehotline.org and 1-800-799-7233 (USA) for support with leaving abusive situations. I send you blessings, love, and peace. You are beautiful and deserving of peace and freedom. I send my blessings, love and light. Namasté. // Note on recording: Unfortunately someone started playing loud music outside just after I started recording, but I continued on anyway haha I hope that you are still able to enjoy the episode. (The sound is noticeable on external speakers but seems okay on the phone. Thank you for your understanding.) // I welcome you to submit your spiritually based question for a future Saturday via email: selena@selenasage.com or social media via Facebook or Instagram: Selena Sage - Author // Thank you! SelenaSage.com

Get my fourth book, “HAIKU to be free” for *FREE!* when you subscribe at zentaobooks.com :)! (A coupon code will be automatically emailed to you for a free download of this ebook.) // In this episode, I share the inspiration behind the creation of the book; a reading from “The Heart of Awareness” — a translation of The Ashtavakra Gita by Thomas Byron; and a reading+discussion of three haiku from “HAIKU to be free” :)! // A couple of updates: I meant to mention that Basho is largely thought of as the most famous haiku poet. Also, the “Enlightenment is always free” subtitle of my the book was also meant to signify that awakening does not cost anything...it is only an understanding of what you truly are, found by dropping all ideas of what you think you are. :) // As always, thank you for your kind support of me and my books! All purchase prices are based on costs of producing and publishing and are kept as low as possible for all. Please feel free to contact me with your questions about my books and/or any spiritual question you’d like to hear me discuss. Namasté. // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Memories of my wonderful trip down under to Sydney and Katoomba in Australia! My most sincere thanks to my dear mate Lorraine for making the trip even more incredible! I have so much love for the country of Australia and all of the beautiful people! I highly recommend visiting Aus! :)! Namasté. SelenaSage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Since today, May 27th, is my birthday, I was emboldened to put myself in the holy company of the sages I usually feature on this day to share three pieces of wisdom, starting with loving yourself exactly as you are ;) This morning, I recorded from my balcony to try to limit the construction noises around me, so thank you for forgiving the wind and other background noises haha // Also, a minor correction: The story of the woodcutter was from Monday’s episode (Ask for help, Change your life). // Thanks to you for sharing in my birthday with the gift of your attention. I sincerely appreciate you! Love, Selena // email: selena@selenasage.com // selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In the wise words of the German mystic Meister Eckhart, “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.” This guided meditation begins with a Qi Gong breathing exercise before simply saying thank you. As we empty ourselves of all things, we become full. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Starting with a Taoist story called “A Point of View” (I realize I was a little too close to the mic and some of the “p’s” are plosive haha I will try to watch that next time ;) from “Tales from the Tao” by Solala Towler, we discuss the role perception plays in how we see the world. How might you shift your perception to recognize the areas in your life where you’re making adjustments to try to be comfortable? How might you ask for help to get assistance? We discuss how this can result in positive life changes. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Thank you so very much for your kind support for Season 1 on the show! I’m delighted to kick off a new season! In this episode, I share what I’ve been up-to—including building the new website for zentaobooks.com and releasing my fourth book, “HAIKU to be free” — available for FREE when you subscribe at zentaobooks.com :)! // I also share a bit of wisdom from “White Fire” by Mooji to center us in spiritual vibes for the new season! I will continue the daily format and welcome you to send me your thoughts and questions via email: selena@selenasage.com // You can also find me via Facebook+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author. // Namasté. selenasage.com

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your wonderful support of Season 1 of Live Free with Selena Sage! Your kind notes, questions, and plays powered me to the incredible feat of recording 50 episodes in a matter of weeks! Wow! I am amazed that this podcast has reached you in over 15 countries and I’m thankful for the many hundreds of plays the episodes have received!! As a thank you gift, I am putting together a FREE ebook full of haiku poetry that I’ve written this year! Please visit zentaobooks.com and scroll down to the bottom of the home page to SUBSCRIBE. You only need to enter your name and email and you’ll be sent confirmation right away! When the eBook is ready, I will send you a code to download it for free!! Also, I will send an email to notify you when we pick back up with Season 2! :) I look forward to continuing this journey with you! // The readings from today’s episode were from, “Hua Hu Ching: The Unknown Teachings of Lao Tzu” by Brian Walker and “White Fire” by Mooji. // If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to email me at selena@selenasage.com or you’re welcome to leave a 5 star rating and review on your podcast platform of choice haha! ;) Thank you!! Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This episodes concludes the beautiful story as told in the Katha Upanishad. We are given the wisdom and encouragement needed to recognize our truest Self that is within us and all around. I hope that my commentary of this beautiful story encourages you to read and study it further! It contains all wisdom needed to discover and be the Self. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Encouragement to maintain your gratitude practice during these changing times, and use new free time to teach yourself a new skill! Learning, sharing, and perhaps even teaching others this new skill is a great way to make great use of additional time you might have in your life. Wishing you health, wellness, peace, and love. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Memories from travels in Shanghai, Kunshan, and Shenzhen areas in China. Every visit I’ve had to China has been memorable and educational! Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In the exploration of the beauty and magic of Zen, I am so happy to be able to share stories and koans directly from known female Zen masters! Taken from the book “Zen Echoes” by Beata Grant, the encounter of 12th Century nun Miaozhang with a male master who challenged her belonging is legendary! She immediately responded, “Is the Buddhadharma divided into male and female forms?” which, to me, closed the argument before it could begin! Five hundred years later (17th Century), two other nuns, Baochi and Zukui made their own splashes and were also recognized as enlightened. Their teachings are beautiful and inspiring! // The talk also features a Zen parable from “The Zen Book” by Daniel Levin. Oh and the quote I was trying to remember is, “Anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer.” So it’s best to avoid anger ;) // Though it is impossible to put the Self (or Buddha nature) or enlightenment (the recognition of that Self) into words, it’s still fun to try! ;) Please feel free to send me your favorite Zen stories! selena@selenasage.com Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Through our breath alone, we transform fear to love and darkness to light. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Especially in uncertain times, focusing our attention on gratitude is the best way to reshape our reality. Sri Mooji tells us our three powers are Belief, Attention, and Identification. When we turn our attention to the positive, believe it, and identify with it, we remake our entire world! I encourage you to have a daily gratitude practice and train yourself to think of something positive of a negative though tries to arise. Two thoughts cannot occupy the same space, so choose the higher! Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

A discussion of attachment, and the ability to trace one’s attachments to whatever is causing suffering. Release yourself from toxic thoughts, memories, and situations and recognize yourself as the unchanging, beyond even the Observer of all of that—which will automatically release you from a state of suffering. By “dying before you die” you can become united with the eternally real—your truest Self. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Continuing with reading and commentary of the Katha Upanishad—a beautiful story full of pointings of the eternal and unchanging. In this part, we go deeper into the discussion of Atman (Self). We learn the subtly of this position and what it takes to recognize it. From there, we recognize the Purusha (the Cosmic Soul) and ultimately the nothingness that is beyond even that state, which is the final goal. // Please feel free to send me your spiritually based questions for future weeks via email at: selena@selenasage.com or via social media. Thank you! :) // Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing poems from my second book, “unbreakable” along with commentary and discussion about some of the inspiration behind the poems. Embracing your power and free beauty of independence is a superpower. YOU are a Superhero ;) “unbreakable” is available at amazon.com/author/selenasage or as an ebook on zentaobooks.com/shop Namaste. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Recalling memories of my wonderful trip to Iceland, with special thanks to my dear friends, owners of Iceland Luxury Tours — icelandluxurytours.com — which is a fantastic way to see the country! I highly recommend their company for your visit to Iceland! (Their website also has beautiful pictures of the country!) With their Super Jeeps, we drove through rivers, up glaciers, and visited lakes in dormant volcanoes—so cool! Iceland is at the forefront of gender equality and I love that the country has passed laws for equal pay for equal work, which should be standard everywhere! Iceland is also green, and 100% of energy comes from renewable sources—wonderful! I’m thankful to Stella for also introducing me to Li-Fi, and you can learn more about this exciting technology here: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li-Fi // One small correction: I was totally off in my memory of the population of Iceland haha The population is actually around 365,000 with around 2 million tourists per year. Oh, and also, my friend camped in a tent that was on top of the car, she didn’t camp inside the car. haha :) // Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

The wisdom of contemporary Indian Saint and Goddess Sri Anandamayi Ma (1896-1982–lovingly known as Sri Ma), a self-realized master of no particular path. She shared Truth and spread joy and love through her very presence. Her beauty shines through so clearly in every picture and it is clearly a reflection of her divine spirit. Her lessons of love, equality, and the importance of service to others are wonderful. May she be an example to us all! Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

A guided meditation to connect you with the prana (life force), free of thoughts, feelings, an emotion...a space of joy, light, and love. Freedom is recognizing yourself as this state and loving the manifold manifestations of that state. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Starting with a story called “The Man Who Wanted to Forget” (Lieh Tzu) from the book, “Tales from the Tao: The Wisdom of the Taoist Masters” by Solala Towler, we establish the peace that comes from being of no-mind, and from having nothing on your mind. I share encouragement to accomplish needed tasks in parts to reach completion. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

A discussion of how an earnest seeker like Nachiketas (from the Katha Upanishad story), with only the desire for Truth is ultimately rewarded with the gift of the ultimate (AUM). A discussion of the meaning of AUM is also included (website reference: www.ananda.org/yogapedia/aum/ ) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This episode is a reading, including my commentary, of the Katha Upanishad—my favorite! Since I do not speak Hindi (nor Sanskrit), please forgive any mispronunciations or stumbles haha However, the essence of the story is most important, as it illuminates true faith and commitment to discover the Truth, and the key to external life. In Advaita (“not two” or non-dual), Atman (One’s Soul or Self) is equal to Brahman (The Absolute, Ultimate Reality underlying all phenomena). Knowing that this ultimate reality exists within us all, and then operating from that position is the key to liberation. Young Nachiketas’ commitment to learning the Truth of existence so impressed Yama (God of Death) that Yama reveals that AUM is the secret to eternal life. (AUM is the cosmic power behind all creation, and it is the vibration by which God/The Absolute/The Ultimate brings all things into being.) Future episodes will continue this beautiful story. // You are welcome to send your spiritually based questions to me via email: selena@selenasage.com or Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author // Thank you. Namasté. selenasage.com

Discussion of three questions from my first book, “Meditative Questions: Zen+Tao Inspired” related to misery, focusing too much on others, and eradicating violence—even that which we may inflict on ourselves. I’m happy to know your thoughts on these questions too! “Meditative Questions” is available in full-color hardback at amazon.com/author/selenasage or in eBook form at zentaobooks.com/shop Thank you for your kind support! Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing memories of good times in Hong Kong—one of my favorite cities in the world! Sights in Kowloon, Lantau Island, and Lamma Island are also shared. My special thanks to Harbour Plaza Hotels (both in HK and Kowloon! I looked online and it seems that the hotels have now been renamed “Harbour Grand” since my last visit www.harbourgrand.com ) for always taking such good care of me :) Thankful also to Regal Printing and owner Maurice (and the team, including Juanita!) in HK for such a great partnership to bring my first book, “Meditative Questions” to life so beautifully! I am so lucky to have found them. Hong Kong will always have a special place in my heart. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

The Buddha (meaning The Enlightened or Awakened One) is a pivotal figure in history who achieved Enlightenment after dedicated search, and he ultimately reached Nirvana after meditating for 7 weeks straight (unmoving!) under a Bodhi tree. This talk explores a brief history of the man (Siddhartha Gautama 480-400BC) who became the Buddha; wisdom he shared, taken from the book “Teachings of The Buddha” by Jack Kornfield that I first bought at age ten(!); and a brief discussion of the disciplined path of the Buddha (that is meant to purify one to enable Awakening) and how that contrasts with Zen Buddhism (starting with the marriage of Buddhism and Taoism in China, which became “Chán” in China and “Zen” in Japan) and the mystical path of Zen which is a relaxed way that takes away all rules/formality and allows for instant enlightenment through direct pointing and experiencing of the Buddha nature. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

The Observer Consciousness is explored through a guided meditation featuring coin and bird analogies. Our ultimate place as the Awareness behind which the Doer and Observer is ultimately seen is revealed. These observations alone bring immediate peace as we understand our true position. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspiration to start on the path of creativity and/or freedom without waiting for others. Know that help will come. My special thanks to awesome designer Chip Kidd for providing me with great wisdom five years ago that helped me design my first book cover (and other covers after that!); and to Sri Mooji who continues to light my spiritual path. (Minor correction: When I discussed the Katha Upanishads, the key figure of the story is Nachiketas. I accidentally swapped the “k” and “t” in my excitement haha) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

A discussion of the unpredictability of creativity jumps to the spontaneous nature of life and our freedom as the observer of it all. This talk was heavily inspired by a quote of Sri Ramana and this talk by Sri Mooji: https://youtu.be/8p8113stahY // Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

While addressing a beautiful question from Julie (of North Carolina, USA), we explore the idea of what life can be like beyond concepts. Thanks Julie! :) Please feel free to send your spiritually based question via email: selena@selenasage.com or social media: Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author to be featured on a future episode. Your question can also be discussed anonymously if you prefer. Thank you! Namasté. selenasage.com

After reviewing a page from my third book, “Get Free: 7 Simple Steps to Free Your Mind & Live Your Dreams” I discuss the importance of letting go of (physical) stuff to give you *space* to breathe and to explore the path to ultimate freedom. // “Get Free” is available in paperback at amazon.com/author/selenasage and also as an ebook at zentaobooks.com/shop Thank you for your support! Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

This talk explores a bit of Portugal’s history and connection with Cabo Verde, along with my experiences in the regions of Lisbon (including Cascais), Sintra (castles), and Alentejo (the location of Mooji’s ashram, Monte Sahaja). I also include some travel tips/tricks I’ve learned the hard way related to going through airport security. Happy travels! :) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Excited to share wisdom from the great Persian poet and Sufi Saint, Rumi! His poetry is timeless, beautiful, and inspired by both his Muslim faith and his great teacher, Shams (coincidently, or not, the Arabic word for “Sun”). Shams lit up Rumi’s life and inspired so much beautiful poetry that speaks of the unification with God and the Supreme Source beyond existence. Seekers on all paths can benefit from the beauty of his poetry and I hope that you do, too! Namasté. selenaasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Dear ones, it is the week of Carnaval here in Cabo Verde. Despite my best efforts at sound-proofing, background noise is unavoidable during this time as music and partying continues around the clock. Please embrace this spirit of celebration as you can, and perhaps add background music to this meditation as you listen. Thank you. // This guided meditation is on the I Am Consciousness. // Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

I was so moved by a Satsang shared by Sri Mooji today from India (link: https://youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=bNIHeigZgcw ) that I discuss the deep urge to be free that surpasses all else, and ways that freedom can be obtained. Sharing a quote from Sri Papaji, the meaning of “presence” is also discussed. (In my excitement, I forgot to close my windows, so thank you for forgiving a little road noise and children at play outside :) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

This talk explores the process of “becoming” in relation to the state of “being.” The beautiful quote from St. Francis of Assisi, “The place you are looking for is already the place you are looking from” is discussed as we recognize the difference in perception when we operate from the place of the person and the place of the observer—while recognizing that we are both. Freedom is our nature, and the process of becoming free is simultaneously observed from that place of freedom—all within the Self. Namasté. selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

My response to a very thoughtful letter exploring different religious paths and addressing the ultimate question of how one can become empty. Thank you to John (of Michigan, USA) for your kind letter and lovely support! :)! // If you have a spiritually based question for a future episode, please send to me directly via email: selena@selenasage.com or through social media: Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author // Thank you. Namasté. selenasage.com

I share stories of how my second book, “unbreakable” was created in 2016; and I cite sources sources of inspiration for the book: the poetry of Rumi, Hafiz, and Rupi Kaur; and the bold artistry and messaging of the Beyoncé Lemonade album/visual album. Art inspires artists. I also read and discuss several of the published poems from “unbreakable” and include an unpublished poem I discovered today in the original notebook I wrote the poems in back in 2016! “unbreakable” is available in full-color paperback at amazon.com/author/selenasage or as an eBook on zentaobooks.com/shop Thank you. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Bali is one of my favorite places in the world! In this brief chat, I touch on some of my favorite places and memories, including the resort I love there called Jamahal: https://jamahal.net. I stumbled onto this beautiful 12 villa resort during an internet search and loved it so much that it’s the only place I’ve stayed during my visits to Bali! It’s hidden, quiet, and peaceful and though it’s not near the water, I personally found many of the beaches in Bali to be underwhelming. Though I did enjoy my private surfing lesson on one of the beaches, I love the temples, rice terraces and nature in Bali the most. Wishing you happy travels! Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This episode features the profound wisdom of Jesus, The Anointed One (Christ). Through direct Bible quotes and parables from the Bible, Jesus is clear in his message of embodying the Light of God through total devotion, and then using that light to love and forgive others. To honor the teachings, I share readings from the Bible and then add some supporting commentary. I also describe parallels to the Advaita Zen and Taoist wisdom shared on previous Wisdom Wednesdays. I go a little beyond my normal time limits because there is no rushing lessons of such great import! :) The Kingdom of Heaven is within. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Today, we take time to release ourselves from toxic thoughts, worries, and anxieties. This guided meditation is to re-center us and bring us into peace—which is our birthright. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Full motivation and encouragement to envision your dream life and take steps to do the things you love to bring more joy into your life! :) You are the creator of your own reality...I hope that you make it great ;) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

An exploration of the concept of existence and how our families play a part in our conditioning. Overcoming all experiences through understanding our true position as the witnessing presence is a direct path to peace. Perhaps it is appropriate that one part of the recording picked up the sound of children playing outside! haha Hopefully we, too, will be inspired to enjoy this phenomenal experience, despite any challenging situations we have faced. Life is but a dream ;) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

It may surprise you to learn that I was raised in the Catholic Church! On this episode, I discuss how my study of different religions influenced my path and ultimately led me to Advaita Zen. // You are welcome to send me your spiritually based questions for future Satsang Saturday’s at selena@selenasage.com or via social media. Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author // Namasté. :) selenasage.com

I share three questions from my first book, “Meditative Questions: Zen + Tao Inspired.” Included is the Zen story that inspired one question and my personal perspectives on the other two questions. There are no wrong answers and attempting to describe the indescribable is always risky! But I hope you enjoy the talk and share your thoughts too! :) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

I love Japan! On this episode, I talk about my time in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama—-along with tips and tricks for the journey. The best tool I discovered for getting around the country is the Japan Transit Planner! It is phenomenal and available in many different languages, including English. Here is the link: https://world.jorudan.co.jp // Also, I have a couple of corrections to make from this episode haha So the fastest bullet train is called the Nozomi, but the temple in Kyoto I was trying to remember is called Kiyomizu Temple. Additionally, from Mt. Inari, where the thousands of torii go up the mountain at Fushimi Inari, I said there were great views of Tokyo, but I meant Kyoto. Haha I don’t know if it’s possible to see Tokyo from Kyoto as they are hours away from each other. // In Kyoto, I rented my bike from the “Rental Bicycle Fuune” shop and I highly recommend it! https://yelp.to/qTKq/5LHkIFQ603 // My travels to Japan are always inspiring and I highly recommend visiting this beautiful country!! :) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

The wisdom of Lao Tzu is timeless. I share some of his wisdom from the “Tao te Ching” (Stephen Mitchell translation) and “Hua Hu Ching: The Unknown Teachings of Lao Tzu” by Brian Walker. Also, I would like to make one small correction from the recording: I characterized Lao Tzu’s teachings as parables and stories which I would revise to say that they are “simple lessons.” I had been reading Taoist parables before taping the podcast, so I accidentally mixed the two (slight blush). The Tao means “The Way” and Lao Tzu’s wisdom is such wonderful, direct guidance to the absolute. Lao Tzu’s way was silence, but I hope this brief talk still guides you to him ;) Namasté. This episode is dedicated in loving memory to my Marilyn. I see her dancing in the Tao right now :) selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

“The Invitation” by Sri Mooji is like a sword that cuts through the distraction of the mind to have a direct experience of the Absolute—what you truly are. This guided meditation is my own interpretation of The Invitation, and I highly recommend experiencing it directly from Sri Mooji here: https://youtu.be/wa5IF7x-ziA // Please let me know of your experience :) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

This episode is for YOU! Starting with an informal meditation, I guide you through some simple questions to unlock your inspired passions and interests. From there, I introduce the concept of “Passion Projects” and discuss how you can use them to make your dream a reality! ;) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

A discussion of my amazing experiences with Sound Healing, Reiki, and Acupuncture, and the way in which each of these sessions was unexpectedly spiritual. What is your favorite type of energy healing? :) Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Satsang simply means a spiritual discourse, and these Saturday episodes are dedicated to discussing deep spiritual principles. Satsang sessions are usually facilitated by an enlightened master and I am *not* claiming that distinction! I am merely a student of The Way and I will use these sessions to simply explore deep principles. You are welcome to share your spiritually based questions with me via email: selena@selenasage.com or via social media: Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author. I will select a new question each week and answer on-air! Thanks to Nick from Gibraltar for the excellent question featured this week! ;) Namasté.

Brief discussion of the creation process for my third book, “Get Free: 7 Simple Steps to Free Your Mind and Live Your Dreams” followed by encouragement to question your limiting thoughts and move forward with what you feel really inspired to do...or to be (e.g. free!) ;) “Get Free” is currently available in paperback on Amazon at: amazon.com/author/selenasage or in eBook form at ZENTAO books.com/shop // zentaobooks.com uses PayPal checkout with a download link sent via email...and all eBooks are currently on sale at a discounted price in honor of this podcast! ;) Namasté. selenasage.com // Facebook + Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

Discussion of my decision and journey to move abroad to Cabo Verde, answering the Why/How/When/Where questions of the choice. Special thanks and gratitude to Joli and A Vontade Tours (avontade-tours.com) for the incredible assistance with my first visit and relocation to the island of Santo Antão! :)! Also: In my off-the-cuff overview of the islands, I somehow forgot to mention the beautiful island of Maio and said “São Luzia” instead of “Santa Luzia”...please blame my head not my heart! Haha While doing this uncut-live show, this kind of thing will probably happen again, so I will endeavor to use the episode description for corrections. Thank you for your understanding. Namasté. selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sri Mooji has had a profound impact on my own spiritual journey and this episode is dedicated to him, with tremendous gratitude for his teachings. In this episode, I provide insight into how I came to meet Mooji and I share 3 quotes from him, along with my take on the profound wisdom. (Keyword here is profound! Haha) The contains quotes from the books, “White Fire” and “Writing on Water” by Mooji. I encourage you to learn more about Sri Mooji at his website: Mooji.org or on his YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/user/Moojiji :) I also welcome your comments and questions! Thank you. Namasté. selenasage.com // Facebook + Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

Your mind is simply a collection of thoughts. During this guided meditation, we start with a simple Qigong breathing exercise and then move into the fullness of our being by recognizing our power to simply observe our thoughts. Namasté. selenasage.com // Facebook + Instagram: Selena Sage - Author

In our pursuit of purpose, sometimes we get stuck in our own passion projects. It is especially during these times that it is important to look beyond ourselves and find ways to help others—especially those that are most vulnerable. Though it is possible to contribute to worthy causes around the world, how might you start locally? I share my story of working with the wonderful School on Wheels Organization (schoolonwheels.org) in California—as a volunteer tutor to homeless children—and how it had a profoundly positive impact on my life. How might you serve others in need for a small amount of time every week? What philanthropic need speaks to you most? I’d love to hear from you on this! :) This episode is dedicated to My Sky ;) Namasté. selenasage.com // Facebook + IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namasté. This episode features a brief introduction to me and the podcast Live Free with Selena Sage. Thank you for joining the discussion as we explore life, freedom, and adventure! ;) selenasage.com // Facebook + Instagram: Selena Sage - Author