Waking Up – The Spiritual Science
Steve Taylor PhD is the author of several best-selling books on psychology and spirituality and is a senior lecturer in psychology at Leeds Beckett University. In this episode, I discuss Steve’s work in the fields of psychology and spirituality and explore why spirituality is necessary for making sense of the world. Are we experiencing a global shift in consciousness?We discuss his two most recent books, Spiritual Science and The Leap. It’s a fascinating conversation that left me asking some deeper questions about my level of wakefulness and the journey I’m on. The conversation also challenges the ideals of the secular paradigm and the logic of science in which the world operates and how now we are indeed seeing a shift back towards spirituality. Enjoy!Guest Bio
His new book Spiritual Science: Why Science Needs Spirituality to Make Sense of the World
. His other books include Waking From Sleep, The Fall, Out of the Darkness, Back to Sanity, The Calm Center and The Leap. His books have been published in 19 languages, and Eckhart Tolle has described his work as ‘an important contribution to the shift in consciousness which is happening on our planet at present.’His articles and essays have been published in over 40 academic journals, magazines and newspapers, including Philosophy Now, The Psychologist, The Journal of Humanistic Psychology and The Journal of Transpersonal Psychology. He writes the popular blog ‘Out of the Darkness’ for Psychology Today magazine. Steve lives in Manchester, England with his wife and three young children.
Topics of discussion
- Having spiritual experiences – what are they?
- Spirituality defined – expanding awareness.
- What is wakefulness? Breaking free from our state of sleep.
- Nature, meditation and psychological turmoil, life trauma or suffering.
- Why we sleep our way through life and practices of waking up.
- Materialism to altruism – a journey beyond separateness.
Quick round questions
Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?
Meditation and exercise.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Stop smoking and drinking. And also to keep going and don’t be disheartened by who you are.
How would you define success? What does success look like to you?
No in financial terms. For me personally, it means creativity.
What is one tool, skill, resource, or technique that has helped improve your effectiveness and/or productivity?
Meditation
If I would serve you your last meal what would you request?
A nice Indican curry.
What activity gives you the greatest sense of joy?
Creativity. Playing with the kids. Being in nature.
If you could pick one book to pass down to your children or future generations what book would it be?
The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment
by Eckhart TolleSpiritual Science: Why Science Needs Spirituality to Make Sense of the World
by Steven TaylorThe Leap: The Psychology of Spiritual Awakening (An Eckhart Tolle Edition)
by Steven TaylorWhat quote, phrase or message would you text or tweet to everyone in the world?
“Accept whatever you cannot change”
Do we all have a Hidden Why, a purpose?
Yes. It’s about uncovering your purpose.
What does living with passion and purpose mean?
Contributing in some way. Being creative and allowing what is withing to express itself.
What do you believe is the underlying motivation behind everything you do?
Contribution.
How to connect with Steve
Jump onto his website here and connect with him on Social Media.
Further Reading and Resources
TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading
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Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.
The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.
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The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.
The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.
Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.
Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.
Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.
Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.”
Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.
The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.
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