Live Free with Selena Sage

Namaste dear one. Sending love from California, where I’m inspired to share reflections about the nature of stress, anger, and worry. When we recognize that these emotions are within us, we realize our own power to shift our experience. This episode also shares quotes from my books “Meditative Questions” and “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” available at zentaobooks.com // Additional quote from Paul Cézanne (1839 — 1906) is shared from “The Little Book of Zen” by David Schiller. May you let go, be free, and create greatness ;) Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Inspired by the Zen saying, “Chop wood, Carry water,” these reflections are all about meeting each moment as it arises and returning to the silence and stillness of our true nature as Brahman — the ultimate reality. Included in this episode is a chant you may wish to repeat to return to your true Infinite Self — the silent and stillness that underlies the I AM. // Episode note: I later noticed that I unconsciously fluctuated between using Brahma and Brahman. Perhaps this is because Brahman is no man ;) // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Guiding this meditation is this wisdom from Sri Mooji: “Nothing is wrong with anything. It is only the relationship that you have created with them: the meaning that you have given to things that is troubling you.” Together, we release all thoughts and things, remaining present in the moment of now in and as Love. We dissolve all in the shining light of our Love, reminded always by this wisdom of Sri Rumi: “If everything around you seems dark, look again. You may be the light.” May you continue to shine your loving light, which naturally dissolves anything that is not That. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. During the Lunar Eclipse of 5 May 2023, there is an inspiration to share this reflection with you. I invite you to use this magical time to focus earnestly on only that which you want. Embody THAT. Allow anything that is *not that* to fall away. May you feel as free as you truly are. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Deep love and thanks to the late, great artist Virgil Abloh for inspiring this exploration and reflection on creativity and freedom. This episode also includes two shares from my books: “Meditative Questions”: When you can do nothing, what can you do? // and “Finding Freedom Where You Are”: Life is simply happening. // I hope this talk inspires you to look within and let go of all you’re holding onto. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Today the inspiration was simply to read a passage from the Ashtavakra Gita (Thomas Byrom translation entitled, “The Heart of Awareness”). Every time I read the refrain, “Wherever you go, Be happy,” there was an awareness that my body smiled with extra feeling, so that is the chosen name of this episode. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Heartfelt gratitude to my sister Gigi for inspiring this message. This episode also includes an excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are”: Things are not as urgency as they seem. When we recognize that things are not as urgent as they seem, we are able to be still and calm, responding only to what the present moment requires. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Today the inspiration is here to share this question from Sri Ramana Maharshi: “To whom has this thought occurred?” By exploring the deeper levels of this inquiry, we shift to the recognition of the “Me” that is Consciousness — beyond the body-mind. With an excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” we explore a way this recognition can be harnessed to be free of stressful thoughts that may be difficult to let go. The ebook is available now at zentaobooks.com // Thank you so much for your ongoing support! Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. After recording and listening to the previous episode, the immediate inspiration arose to record a follow-up. This episode presents a more simplified meditation exercise and expands the discussion to include reflections and two of the questions from my first book, “Meditative Questions” — available at zentaobooks.com // Episode correction: In my excitement, I meant to say that “Meditative Question” combines questions with *colors* haha ;) // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Today, there is inspiration to explore with you this question: What color are your thoughts? Using visualization, we reflect on various experiences of happiness / beauty, love, and peace. We identify the color of the collective energy of those visualizations and harness the power of those colors to facilitate healing and calm in our own bodies and all that surrounds us. If multiple colors arise, you may want to experiment with sitting with, harnessing, and spreading each color. Notice which colors feel most wonderful and powerful. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. I’m encouraged to share a meditation with you guided by the idea: “Everything that you have now is something you once wished for.” As we explore all of the areas of our life, far beyond material possessions, we give thanks for our growth. We recognize our own expansive, infinite nature. We know that are we free and, indeed, freedom itself. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. The masters advise us to give up desires, but how to do so? What if we consider that desires are just thoughts? We explore this concept through wisdom from Sri Nisargadatta, a reading from “The Heart of Awareness — A translation of the Ashtavakra Gita by Thomas Byrom, and an excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are.” // Note: To confirm, the wisdom about desire and tea was from Sri Neem Karoli Baba. Here is the full quote: “If you want to see God, kill desires. Desires are in the mind. When you have a desire for something, don't act on it and it will go away. If you desire to drink this cup of tea, don't, and the desire for it will go away.” // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. In this episode, we explore uncertainty from the perspective of quantum mechanics and personal experience. Then, we explore Faith — with readings from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” wisdom from Stephen Hawking, and Matthew 17: 14-21 from the Bible. We are reminded that faith and fear cannot coexist. With full focus on faith and all that we have to be thankful for, we are free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Reflecting on the nature of attachments, I share wisdom from Sri Neem Karoli Baba, with a few quotes from the book, “Miracle of Love,” and a few stories about letting go from my own journey. When we decide that our freedom is most important, we can let go and be free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Starting with the idea, “Everything is Energy,” we explore what this means in our lives. I.e. BE THE ENERGY YOU WANT TO FEEL. Connecting it to the idea that everything is Consciousness, I share an excerpt of one of my favorite books, “Pointers from Nisargadatta Maharaj,” by Ramesh S. Balsekar. Further research on that reading led me to read more on the 3 Gunas—which are the primary qualities of energy (more here: www.yogabasics.com/learn/the-3-gunas-of-nature/ ). Interestingly, I skipped over the word “Prakriti” in Sri Maharaj’s book, but it appears again in the article. I’ll share that full sentence here: “I-am-ness, the sense of presence has been given various laudatory names like Māyā, Prakriti, Īshwara, etc., but nevertheless it is an illusion, pure ignorance.” Sri Maharaj says that there are no truer words than “I don’t know.” When we realize our true state to be that state in which we don’t even know our own existence, we are free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Sharing a reading from the “Wei Wu Wei Ching” by Brian Browne Walker, we are reminded that our freedom is in our hands. By letting go and recognizing our true Infinite nature, we are free. // Episode note: The first distortion of the One state, as referenced from Sri Nisargadatta, is meant to be referred to as the ‘personal self.’ // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. In this episode, we explore The Observer Effect in Quantum Mechanics (Physics) and apply the wisdom of this science to Thoughts. Recognizing the power of our Attention (The Observer), we can be free of thoughts simply by becoming disinterested in them. In the words of Zen master Bodhidharma: “A clear mind is the Buddha.” An excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” is also shared. // Quantum mechanics source: www.scienceabc.com/pure-sciences/observer-effect-quantum-mechanics.html // More about particles and waves here: theconversation.com/explainer-what-is-wave-particle-duality-7414 // Episode note: “So we could say, that objective reality is formless. Only when observed by a mind, there is form” from en.m.wikiversity.org/wiki/Does_objective_reality_exist%3F — I would change to say, “Reality is formless. Only when observed by Attention, there is form.” // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Just as seeing is not made from what is seen, experiencing is not made of experience. Know that you are pure Awareness — the seeing and experiencing at the source of all. In this way, you know that you were only bound by the limited idea of yourself as a body-mind. Recognize your true Self and be free. Excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” is included in the episode. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // books: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. This episode explores three verses from the book, “Hua Hu Ching: The Unknown Teachings of Lao Tzu,” by Brian Walker. From these verses, we recognize our unknowable Source, the natural laws that govern our experience in the manifest world, and the ultimate freedom of dissolving all ideas into the Tao. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. In this episode, we explore this quote from Sri J. Krishnamurti: “When the observer becomes the observed, know that you have arrived.” Additional excerpts from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” and “White Fire” by Sri Mooji are also shared. When we remain as our true, infinite nature we are free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Dipping into the quantum realm, this episode first explores infinity scientifically, with inspiration from the documentary “A Trip to Infinity.” We question whether the observable universe is infinite because it’s actually growing. This science is then connected to the underlying recognition of love as the ultimate creative force, as explored with an excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” is also shared. Love is no-thing and everything. May we abide in and as love and be free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Recognizing the Oneness of all mystical paths, wisdom from Advaita master Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, Sufi master Rumi, and Zen masters Bodhidharma and Bankei are explored to illustrate the fact that you are already what you seek. Additionally, a pointing and perspective from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” is also shared. Be the Buddha and be free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Reflecting on a teaching from Sri Ramana, we are more patient and calm in our current circumstances, trusting that all is unfolding for the highest good. With a brief meditation, we then recognize and share gratitude with our broader community. The message, “Gratitude is love,” along the broader perspective is shared from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are.” May you know that you are already free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste and special thanks to dear friends (and fellow nomads in Cabo Verde) Raquel and Julia, and my dear nephew Makoa for inspiring this talk. This episode explores the nature of creativity and inspiration with ideas from: “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert, a talk by Buddhist nun Pema Chödrön, and an excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” — available now at zentaobooks.com // Additionally, I share reflections from the recent process of creating a special creative collaboration with my nephew Makoa. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. In this episode, we explore the concept, “Your Life is Your Dream,” and use it to go beyond concepts with wisdom from enlightened masters Mooji, Rumi, Lao Tzu, and Nisargadatta Maharaj. An excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” — available now at zentaobooks.com — is also included. May you know your true nature as the Changeless and be free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Starting with a verse from the Ashtavakra Gita, we explore the transformation of elements through the lens of the Taoist elemental cycle and the Scientific confirmation that we are, in fact, made of stardust. I also share the introduction, entitled “Supernova,” of a yet unpublished novel I drafted a few years ago, before (fittingly) burning myself out in the project. The except can be found here: selenasage.com/supernova/ May you see the transformation of the elements and be free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Sharing wisdom from Sri Rumi, Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, and a reading from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” we explore Truth. As we recognize that it is the False that causes suffering, we are encouraged to Be Honest and live kindly and truthfully. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. This episode is dedicated to Turkey and Syria. The unfathomable aftermath of the recent earthquake in the region has reminded me of the importance of asking, “How can I be of service?” Taking a moment to become heart centered, we explore a verse + question from the Ashtavakra Gita and my first book, “Meditative Questions” — available at zentaobooks.com — we recognize our shared humanity and the value of taking even the smallest step, based on the belief that everything we do means everything. A powerful affirmation to accompany this episode is: “I am one with all beings.” // Note: Episode recorded at 4am, so thanks for forgiving and forgetting all lapses and leaps haha ;) Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // IG: Instagram.com/selena_sage_author

Namaste. In this Guided Meditation, we recognize the power of our attention, experience its natural / neutral state, and the. recognize our true nature as its Source. Therein lies the Peace that passeth all understanding. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // ebooks: zentaobooks.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste and thank you for your continued support of my books! Today, I share a spontaneous reading from my first book, “Meditative Questions” and my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” — both are available now at zentaobooks.com // The question, “Is life happening in the past, future, or present?” is paired with the pointing, “The past, present, and future only exist as a thought in the now,” + accompanying perspective from “Finding Freedom Where You Are.” I hope that you enjoy this discussion of both. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Reflecting on the question, “When you worry, what changes?” from my first book, “Meditative Questions,” available at zentaobooks.com — we explore the nature of worry. Worry is a thief that comes for your joy, but by harnessing the power of your attention, you can overcome even the greatest worry in this moment with gratitude and love. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Be still and know. Sage advice from dear Oprah Winfrey and Lao Tzu is paired with a reflection on my trip last year to Switzerland as we explore uncertainty. “Can you remain unmoving till the right action arises by itself?” — Lao Tzu. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. In this episode, we explore the nature of Resistance using my recent experience of purchasing and installing a new washing machine here in Cabo Verde — Simple things are often much more complex on a remote island! By exploring the root of our anxiety, we are able to transcend and transform any discomfort we may be experiencing. I also share an excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” available now at zentaobooks.com // Thank you so much for your support of my books which helps to keep this podcast free for all. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing excerpts from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are,” available now at zentaobooks.com — we explore Love as the foundational element and root of all. Love is what you are! May you harness that realization and live free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namaste. Sharing wisdom from Zen and Advaita masters Bankei, Sri Mooji, and Sri Nisargadatta along with an excerpt from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” — available now at zentaobooks.com — we explore our true state which is free from all thought. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Particularly inspired by recent events in America and the 1619 Project, the inspiration arose (at 2am) to discuss the importance of Self-Actualization and Transcendence to build Community that supports freedom for all. Tribal communities have already given us the blueprint. Love to all actively participating in big and small ways to dismantle broken systems and lift up historically oppressed people. Thank you. We are One. // “Finding Freedom Where You Are” is available now at zentaobooks.com // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Sharing wisdom from Zen and Advaita masters, we explore the benefits of interrupting sources of stress in order to be free in the moment of now. // “Finding Freedom Where You Are” is available as an ebook at zentaobooks.com // Thank you for your kind support. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Happy Lunar New Year of the Rabbit (or Cat in Vietnam)! I send you blessings of peace, prosperity, and happiness in this new year and always. I also join in the remembrance of beloved Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh in the one year anniversary of his passing, and spent much of yesterday in silent meditation. Today’s episode is a meant to be a reminder that A Cloud Never dies, and includes wisdom from Thay and a reading from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are” — available in ebook format at zentaobooks.com // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. This morning, texts from Sri Mooji and Lao Tzu all pointed to the importance of being still. Coupled with a question from my first book, “Meditative Questions” (available at zentaobooks.com ), the invitation is to always return to the present of now and know that you are always, and already free. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. This episode was recorded on my balcony, so I hope that the sounds of the ocean, wind, and even cars on the road below only serve to support the message that you never stand alone. May we reach out and within to our community, the Source of all creation, and our ancestors to be free in the eternal moment of Now. // My love and thanks to my beautiful visiting friends Sara and Anika; and my dearest Kerra of Bliss Holistic for the awesome reminders and guidance always: blissholisticwellnessacademy.com // Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste dear one. Thank you so much for your support of my Art! It helps to keep this podcast free and commercial-free. All of my books are available at zentaobooks.com // This episode was created very spontaneously, without a central idea to build on. Instead, we discover the key idea together. With excerpts from “Finding Freedom Where You Are” and “I Am That” by Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, we find alignment and encouragement to release thoughts and Just Be. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing a beautiful meditation from beloved Thay, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. This meditation is from his book, “Mindfulness Meditation: Intimate Conversations with the Buddha.” // When we open our hearts to be as vast as the endless ocean, we embrace everyone and everything, and we no longer suffer. May we love ourselves, our inner child, and all around us with compassion, acceptance, and loving kindness. Namaste. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namaste. Reflecting today on wisdom from the great Sri Ramana Maharshi. He says, “Whatever burdens are thrown on God, He bears them.” When we release our burdens, we are free in the moment of now. By doing only what is needed in this moment, we get where we need to go. Wisdom from beloved Thay is also shared, aligned with a reflection I was fortune to have at a great workshop by Bliss Holistic Academy (You can join one of their sessions here: blissholisticwellnessacademy.com/online-meditation-classes/ ) to Just Be. Namaste. Love to all. Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namaste. The road to creating your own book, especially as an independent artist, is typically a long one. The process is also not without expense—in addition to your time and expertise. But it can also be very fulfilling and a lot of fun! I hope this 7-step guide provides a helpful framework for you. // For editing, I highly recommend the talented and wonderful Jordan Rosenfeld for both editing services and stellar books on the topic. Her website is: jordanrosenfeld.net // Here are links to the wonderful artists I mentioned: Cansu Bulgu www.cansuart.com // Chip Kidd graphic designer: chipkidd.com // Steve McCurry photographer: stevemccurry.com // Thank you also for checking out and supporting my art at zentaobooks.com // Namaste. Love to all. Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Hi beautiful! Happy 2023! And welcome to Season 6 of the podcast! I am so happy to begin the season back in Cabo Verde and also to introduce my new book: “Finding Freedom Where You Are: Zen reflections of a globe-trotting nomad”! The ebook is available now at zentaobooks.com // As always, thank you for your kind support of this project! I am thankful for you. // In this episode, I share a question from my first book, “Meditative Questions”: “What did the caterpillar have to give up to become a butterfly?” along with a brief discussion. This is followed by a pointing and perspective from my latest book, “Finding Freedom Where You Are”: “Direct your attention within.” // I hope you enjoy the discussion and reflections! You’re also welcome to visit selenasage.com for the latest blog post about the creative process. // Wishing you peace, love, and joy in this new year…and the ultimate freedom of knowing that you are already That. Namaste, love to all. Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Thank you for your continued support of me and this podcast. I appreciate you! The message for this episode is: Everything works out. Sharing a short story of a lesson I was reminded of today while driving, I hope that you will not be too quick to interpret the moment. Know that it all works out. I will look forward to keeping you updated here on the release of my latest book and the next season of the podcast. Thank you. So much love to you. Namaste, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sending gratitude and thanks to you for continuing to share good vibes and loving kindness. This episode is especially dedicated to my dear friend Johnathan—thank you for the special tribute you’ve made to words I was inspired to scribble to you many years ago: “The only peace you find at the top of the mountain is the peace you bring with you.” With a brief guided meditation from the beach, I hope that you might share in the realization that peace is what you are. Namaste and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

A morning walk talk inspired by beloved Thay, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. May you take moments to rest and recharge and count your blessings. Attention focused on what you have will completely transform your experience. Special love and thanks to all who share love and support for this podcast and my writing, you inspire me. Thank you. Love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

On a beach somewhere, thinking about trust. Why are we so quick to focus on the negatives…even those stemming from our own minds? Bring love and kindness to the forefront of your Attention and that shall be your experience. Trust in the evidence of all that you have grown through and know that all is well and all will be well. You’ve got this! // Bible story reference is to Peter losing faith and falling through the water before Jesus. It was actually fear that caused Peter to fall. Matthew 14: 22-33. // Episode notes: I said “walk in Faith,” but I would add, “walk AS Faith.” / Also, for the movie example, consider that you are the actor in the movie playing (personal identity), the Watcher of the movie (Consciousness), and ultimately (and truly) the screen on which the movie appears (pure Awareness). / I had to let the waves play on at the end ;) // Namasté and love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Facebook + Instagram: Selena Sage - Author + Instantly Zen

Sharing an all-time favorite Zen story of the master, student, and overflowing tea to illustrate the beauty of emptiness. There are additional reflections on recognizing the infinite possibilities that emptiness provides, and the opportunity to use the body temple to energetically feel your way to expansive, open pathways that are bound to be filled with adventure and growth. May you recognize this Freedom as your own true nature. Namasté. Love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namasté dear one. Starting with a verse from the Ashtavakra Gita (from “Heart of Awareness” translation by Thomas Byrom), we explore the true nature of the Self as Pure Awareness. May you know this and be happy and free! Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

As we repeat, “I am the love of my life,” we feel the complete perfectness of our truest Self. May you know this love and be this love. // Special episode dedication to my dear friend Sara. // Namaste and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namasté dear one. A message of encouragement to watch all that arises come and go. May you remain as that which watches the comings and goings of all and be free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

So incredibly thankful to my Southern California community for reflecting the highest vibration of joy! (Which is love) Inspired to share this message on an early morning here in Redondo Beach to remind you of the power of your joy. Let your light shine and find that your way is always illuminated. This episode is especially dedicated to my beloved nephew Makoa — thank you for your joy! I love you, darling. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namasté dear one. Inspired to share encouragement that letting go is beautiful. Allow the flow to carry you. May you release and be free. Love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sending love from Munich, where I am sitting in deep gratitude for all of the unexpected help and kindness I continue to receive every moment, especially when I’m out adventuring. I hope that my life, and these small stories, help to fortify your faith. May you know that all is well and all will be well. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namasté dear one and love from Strasbourg, France. Inspired to share this 5am message and memory of the great Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. May you feel the truth of each of these small meditations, calm yourself, let go, and know that you are free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namasté dear one. Recording from here in Brussels, Belgium during my adventures around Europe. It’s been a full day so I hope this message is clear haha Inspired to share this idea that’s been arising today. If it is true that we are the ones holding our suffering, that also means that we have the power to let it go. May you let go and be free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author // New TikTok: @livefreewithselenasage

This Zen story of the buffalo’s tail is an invitation to investigate what might be keeping us from freedom — It could be an idea, strongly held belief, or attachment to our own identity. When everything is truly dropped, only freedom remains. // Episode notes: I would change “what I came up with” to “this is what arose.” Also: Our greatest opportunity is to rest in and *as* Truth. // Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namasté dear one. This episode is outside of the usual format of this season however there was inspiration to share this message with you. By exploring what I like to call our “vacation vibe,” we tap into the energy we want to feel and align with that energy. By doing so, we release, transform, or transcend all of the energies that are not what we want to experience. Very small changes can lead to greater clarity about larger ones. What feels right for your journey today? ;) Remember that freedom is your birthright. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Starting with a Zen story about what happens after death, we explore the concept of rebirth. The Phoenix is discussed as a representation of rebirth and the Zen state of No-Mind is recognized as the Awareness of all rising states, and our true nature itself. // Episode note: A minor correction, around the 6 minute mark, I confusingly said, “How can you see something that’s not what you are?” I meant: “You CAN see what you’re not. You CANNOT see what you are.”Therefore, you are not the body and you are not your thoughts because that which you truly are can see both your body and your thoughts. // Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing two stories today that remind us to find happiness where we are and accept all that is with gratitude. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

A story to remind us that though good and bad experiences emerge, we are that which witnesses the change. Remain as that Witness and be free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing “The Villager and the Happy Man” story by Remez Sassoon to explore the nature of Peace. When we recognize that we are that which Observes the changing states of the body-mind ego and the phenomenal world around, we come to know our true, Infinite, Unchanging nature. This is Freedom. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

The story of the empty boat and wisdom from Chaung Tzu helps us to remember that anger can only arise from within us. That realization is also the answer. Wishing you peace and love always. Namasté, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

A story from Zen Master Bankei involving a student wanting to control their temper is paired with wisdom from Lao Tzu and Sri Mooji. We discover that no agitated effort is necessary to be what you are. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Namasté dear one. Sharing a favorite story of a man, a tiger, and a vine that could also be a story of peace. Combining wisdom from the great Lao Tzu (from “Hua hu Ching” by Brian Walker), we explore how we might experience be the peace that we seek. Namasté and love to all, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Pairing a story of a monk who says his nature is to save a scorpion with the great Sage Sri Ramana Maharshi’s profound conversation with a disciple points us in the direction of true freedom. To begin with this final stage wisdom also resolves day-to-day concerns. // Episode note: Kannon-Sama is the Goddess of Mercy in Japan. // Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

A Zen story about being correct is paired with wisdom from dear Byron Katie. Letting another be correct and questioning our own thoughts are two ways to live free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing “The Emperor and The Sage” story by Solala Towler from the book, “Tales from the Tao.” We explore what it means to know thyself, using relationships as mirrors (thanks to dear Kerra and Bliss Holistic Wellness Academy for a stellar coaching / meditation session that assisted with this insight! blissholisticwellnessacademy.com ) and journeying inward to discover our truest Self, free even from form. May you truly know your Self. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing a story of a Saint describing why love whispers and anger shouts. Added wisdom from Rumi and an excerpt from Sri Mooji’s book, “White Fire” is also included. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Through a story of a general pursuing archery and Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj’s teaching about the importance of earnestness, we explore the meaning of mastery, and life’s unexpected teachers. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Combining a children’s story and wisdom from Zen master Bankei, we explore the nature of truth and the beauty of honesty. May our lives be a reflection of truth. May we always choose to be honest. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing a few stories to encourage you to keep your attention focused on what you WANT. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage— Author

A Zen master describes every passing thought as birth and death, which invites us to explore the nature of thoughts, and what it means to be free of them. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing the butterfly story of Taoist master Chuang Tzu, which questions the nature of reality. This talk also includes the spiritual significance of the lunar eclipse happening at the time of this recording (3:33am). May you release all that no longer serves you. Namaste and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

A beautiful Sufi story reminds us that prayer is active. It is an invitation to *be* what we seek. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing the Parable of the Sower from the Bible, Matthew Chapter 13 and thoughts on my own feeling that Faith and fear cannot coexist. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

In this episode, we explore detachment and the Zen State of No Mind with a story from Osho’s “The Sun Rises in the Evening.” May you remain as your Infinite Self. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

The story shared today is an invitation to embody what we seek to be or experience. Being is an active principle that is born of Non-being. When we know that we are the Changeless, we are able to flow more seamlessly through the changing. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

In this episode, I share my favorite Bible story from John 8. May we embody the love and compassion we wish to receive. A quote from “White Fire” by Sri Mooji is also shared. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Using a story of a monkey and a gourd full of sweetened rice, we explore the way our emotional state can signal areas in our life where we need to let go. May you let go and be free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Happy Mother’s Day! Sharing a short story of Saint Kabir related to motherhood (on a one day delay haha). Full love and gratitude to my own mother and all of the wonderful lessons she continues to model. Thank you, Madre! I love you. Love to all. Namasté, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com

A story of Sage Sadat leads to wisdom from Sri Mooji (from his book, “White Fire”) to encourage us to investigate the nature of problems and that which is higher than our problems. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing personal stories and one from Buddhist Monk Arjahn Brahm, we explore the quest for perfection and the beauty, peace, and freedom that can result from embracing what we perceive to be imperfection…knowing that we are that which witnesses both in the play of life. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Autonomy (a sense of free will), connection, and competence are identified as the three innate innate and universal psychological needs in self-determination theory. Using the story of a butterfly, we explore the importance of autonomy in our growth and development as children and adults seeking liberation. Ultimately, we all must find our own way. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasags.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Equanimity is calm and composure, especially in a difficult situation. Through the Taoist story of the farmer, we explore what this looks like in action and consider the wisdom of Greek philosopher Epictetus, “People are not disturbed by things, but by the views they take of them.” Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

The great Madiba, President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the father of the South African nation, is a shining example of freedom. This beautiful story touches on overcoming hate and anger to be free. Let go and be free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Sharing a favorite Zen story with reflections inspired by a profound quote from Sri Ramana Maharshi, “Find out whether there is such a thing as mind. If there is, describe it.” The talk notes that presence is the state of existing or being present, and encourages you to discover if you are living in the present moment experience or carrying over experiences due to thought / imagination. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This story of happiness is told from a Zen perspective to show that happiness is within. May you view your life with eyes of gratitude as it is now and live free. // Note: I actually read verse 44 (not verse 22) from the Tao te Ching, Stephen Mitchell translation. Reading also from verse 9 of the Hua Hu Ching, Brian Walker translation. // Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In this story, a young man seeks out the wisest woman in the world to learn the secret of happiness. The secret that’s shared is practical in nature and related to maintaining balance in life. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing a story I wrote last year, we explore the nature of contentment and how that differs from comparison. May you dwell in gratitude, content with your life as it is right now. For truly, this moment of now is your entire life. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

The story of the stonecutter, shared on my website nine years ago, inspired reflections about my own journey and its transformations. As you sit with your story, I hope that you are able to appreciate the present-moment gifts of your experience and flow more easily through all of life’s various transformations. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com (if you scroll to the bottom of any page, you’ll find a button with three lines that reveals a hidden menu—you may click this to more easily view old content by date or tag) // You are welcome to send stories for this season to me, thank you: selena@selenasage.com // Fb + IG: Selena Sage — Author

Through a game of chess with a monk, a Zen master teaches a prince vital lessons about life and how we might learn from those situations or people who seem to be opposing us. The prince and monk can be substituted by a business master and intern, parent and child, two lovers, or two friends. When we recognize the lessons, we grow. Sometimes it also means that those connections come to a close after we have learned the intended lessons. As you meditate on this story, you might consider placing yourself in the position of the prince, the monk, and the master in three separate meditations. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // You are welcome to share a short story for this season to selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namasté dear one! I’m so happy to be back with you here to share a new season of the show! Since I love an epic saga, this season will be dedicated to sharing stories :) The first, in this episode, is a Sufi Story of a girl named Fatima from the book, “Tales of the Dervishes” by Idries Shah. Following the story, I also share a few thoughts. I’m excited to share more stories with you, and I welcome you to email me short stories to read on the show this season, too! Thank you. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Thank you for your kind support of the podcast! Delighted to have recorded this message as the 200th episode after the wonderful experience of road-tripping around the USA and Canada for 10 months. The body is still resting, but I hope you choose to enjoy your experiencing, whatever it might be, even when it feels challenging. May your victory add to your body of evidence to remind you that there is nothing that you cannot do, and there is nothing that you cannot overcome. Full love to you. Namasté, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

“All sorrow comes from fear.” — Ashtavakra Gita (*minor correction from the word “suffering” used in the episode). In this episode, the nature of fear is explored and a Zen story is shared to recognize that it is we who hold onto our suffering, not the other way around. In this way, we have the ability to release it, too, and remain as the freedom that we are. You are not your story, and you are not even your body. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

On this special day of 22222, it is my pleasure to remind you that you are already the Buddha. Your true nature, beyond desires and doubts, and before thoughts and words, is the Buddha-nature itself—which is you. Drop all to realize this and BE the peace that you are. // Episode features quotes from “Remember Be Here Now” by Ram Dass and a selected verse from the “Yoga Vasishta Sara” // Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

With full love and gratitude to beloved Thay, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, as he transitions from one form to another. A cloud never dies. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

With wisdom from Sri Siddharameshwar Maharaj and the Ashtavakra Gita, I wish you a beautiful and wonderful New Year…with the freedom to play or withdraw into a cave, free from the mind and any agitating thoughts. This is our great opportunity at every moment, but especially in a year signifying new beginnings. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In a world of teachers and Gurus (meaning one who dispels darkness), how might you find the right teacher for you? This talk explores that topic and shares a reading from “White Fire,” by Sri Mooji — a beloved teacher of mine. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Immense gratitude to you for being part of this Underground Zen podcast family! I appreciate you so much. This episode sends you love and is also an open letter to one of my nieces (in college now!) that shares some ideas to overcome demotivating thoughts and dream instead of the experience desired + a discussion of the method I use to overcome stressful thoughts. Though I recorded with her in mind, it is a universal message that I share with much love. Hoping light touches your heart wherever you are. Love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

When we think too much, we live in a world of illusion. Shifting to watching thoughts instead of analyzing them brings immediate freedom. Wisdom from the “Hua Hu Ching: The Unknown Teachings of Lao Tzu” by Brian Walker is also shared in this episode. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

As you freely receive, may you also freely give. In the subtle operation of the universe, this is the way to be a blessing but also to be blessed. Wishing you a beautiful holiday! Namasté. Love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired to share this message after seeing a woman attempting to hold back tears in a car next to me here in California. As we send others light and love, we must do the same to ourselves. Release and be free. Namasté dear one. Love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

After a glorious sunrise in a hot air balloon in Temecula, California with a beautiful crew of people, the inspiration arose to record this message of freedom and love, quoting from Galatians 5 in the Bible. May we love and serve one another, and know that there is no other. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namasté dear one, and love from California! This episode is a reading of the Zen text Hsin-Hsin Ming, often translated as “Verses on the Perfect Mind,” and by the Third Patriarch of Zen, Seng’tsan (known as Sosan in Japan). This version is an interpretation by Eric Putkonen. // The text is an invitation to release distinctions, discriminations, and desires, and find that our true nature — Oneness, peace — exists beyond duality. The realization is simple when all is released. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Thankful to be in communion with truly grounded, beautiful, and powerful tribal elders here in Ottawa, Canada. The lessons from our encounter are direct reminders of lessons from Sri Neem Karoli Baba, Sri Mooji, and Zen masters. Love everyone and tell the truth is the message. The protection of the highest is the promise. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

4 Lessons and reflections from my 10,000 mile (so far!) roadtrip around the USA and Canada. Happy trails! Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

It’s easy to be happy when everything goes right. But what about when it is perceived that it’s all going wrong? Shift to that very Perceiver and know that you’re already, and always, free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired to record a brief message from beautiful Halifax Public Gardens in Nova Scotia, Canada. Give up thoughts and find that the Infinite will naturally direct your steps. Being in flow is the greatest freedom. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Live recording from Savage Mill Trail to explore the nature of Self, and that of the Mind. Realization of Oneness is freedom; Heaven is a silent and empty mind. Namasté, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

A reading from The Ashtavakra Gita, translation by Thomas Byrom (book: “The Heart of Awareness”). I encourage you to sit with this wisdom and recognize that The Master is beyond all duality (“Advaita” means “not two”), and thus truly free. This freedom exists for all, for it is indeed our true nature. Namasté, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Zen Master Bodhidharma said, “Once you stop clinging and let things be, you’ll be free, even of birth and death.” Remaining unattached to arising thoughts is to remain as your true nature — Peace itself. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

This episode is dedicated to MM, with my thanks for your kind and loving support of this podcast! May this exploration further aid your discovery of the nature of thought, and your true nature as that which witnesses even thought. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author // episode recorded live at Wincopin Trail, MD

An encounter with a snake on a hike in the USA served as a powerful reminder that thoughts are not what we are. Welcome the snake (or lion!) in your path and remain as Presence and Peace — your true nature. Namasté, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sri Baba said, “When I’ve left, I’ve left.” When you’ve left a place, situation, or person, are you still carrying it around? It is like trying to drive forward by constantly looking in the rearview mirror. Quoting a couple of questions from my first book, “Meditative Questions,” ( available at zentaobooks.com ) we explore these ideas and the way to know that your true nature is Awareness itself. Namasté, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Cease being interested and you are free. Message inspired by Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, recorded on the road at Indian River Park in Chesapeake, Virginia USA. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Lembre-se: você faz seu mundo com seus pensamentos. (Remember: You make your world with your thoughts.) After spending a lovely week with my beautiful Cabo Verdeana sister, the inspiration arose to create this short episode in my own version of Cape Verdean Kriolu. The language differs by island, and my mix of Kriolu and Portuguese is like it’s own island haha I share it with love to my Cape Verdean friends and family. I love you all and hope that you experience a beautiful life full of love, and empty of thoughts and stress. I am with you. Love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

How can we describe that which is beyond description? Though words and examples may help, they are not *it*. By examining a new age Zen story, we bring clarity to this concept as we move beyond practices and concepts. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namasté dear one. In this 3am recording, feeling overwhelming gratitude and love that I was inspired to share with you. Quotes from “Miracle of Love” by Ram Dass and my second book, “unbreakable” (at zentaobooks.com); with a remembered story from “I Am That” by Nisargadatta Maharaj. // May you release all, find that emptiness to be full of love, and know that to be your true nature. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // recorded in Orlando, FL

Release all attachments and desires gracefully, and gratefully, and know that you are Freedom itself. // “unbreakable” is available at Zentaobooks.com //Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage Author

With thanks to a beloved brother for the question that inspired this episode, I humbly provide thoughts about enduring chronic pain and/or incurable illness, with my love to all who suffer. The masters say, “You are not the body; You are not the mind” to give us a key. We must unlock this meaning and become free of any attachment to body or mind. Sri Mooji reminds us that the Self doesn’t need healing and doesn’t need prayer (book: “Writing on Water”). // Rupert Spira shared the wisdom that, “Deep sleep is not the absence of awareness; it is awareness of absence.” Contemplate this and question if there is any suffering in deep sleep, a state reflective of our true nature. // By knowing the Self to be what you are, you are able to be free now and always. Of course that is what I always wish for you. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing wisdom from Advaita Master Sri Nisargsdatta, Sufi Saint Rumi, and Ch’an / Zen Master Huang Po, we explore the idea that it is the false that makes you suffer…and then go beyond all ideas. Freedom is what you are. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

“You don’t become happy, you become aware that that you already are.” — Frode // This lovely quote inspired this episode. Remember, Zen is not art or science…it is simply a realization. Know this and know that you are happiness itself. Namasté. Love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage — Author

Inspired to share messages of freedom and peace from Zen Master Bodhidharma, Sri Papaji, and Sri Neem Karoli Baba. Remain unattached in the eternal now and flow like a moving river to be truly free. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author and Instantly Zen

Reading from the Ashtavakra Gita (“Heart of Awareness” by Thomas Byrom), the message is to recognize the nature of things and be still. When you know that all sorrow comes from fear, you become free of it, and desire melts away. Flow freely and ask, “What would I do if I felt most secure?” Drop your fear and know that Grace will carry you. So much love to you always, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

In the Ramayana, Sri Hanuman said to Lord Rama, “Faith is the highest blessing,” and requested faith as his boon. Lao Tzu encouraged us to recognize the ego as a monkey catapulting through the jungle and to remain in the center watching, then forget you’re there. Ramakrishna advised that if one can’t release the ego, one should let it remain as a servant of God. // While Faith is most aligned with the path of devotion; recognizing that all is arising allows one to release the sense of doer-ship and remain as Peace. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Gratitude and love flood my being as I record this first podcast episode from my travels around America! Honored to share my adventures with you and thankful for your love and support. Zen IS the Awareness that is described so beautifully in the Ashtavakra Gita (“Heart of Awareness” by Thomas Byrom). Peace is your true nature. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

“You are not the mind, you are not the body.” What does this mean? Meditating on the question, “Who Am I?” Is meant to guide you to your changeless, true nature. Discover this and be free! Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

“Otherness” can only be from the state of the person. Awareness is Oneness. Also inspired to share a verse from “Hua Hu Ching” by Brian Walker as my original message was only two minutes haha ;) Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired by washing my own dishes, sharing a reminder from a Zen story and real life examples of transformation to remind that you have to release the lower to reach the higher. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Inspired by a remembered dream, this short talk simply exposes our true nature as Silence....which is just another name for Peace. May you continue to rest in and as Silence. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Namasté. Inspired to record this episode at 1:30am as I reflected on my beautiful conversation with Corrine and Sean on their Turning Points podcast (will share link when available). Recognizing your true nature as the driver, and the body-mind as the vehicle is total liberation. I hope this analogy might prove helpful to you. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

As I prepare to re-home my sweet dog, Naoya, the inspiration arose to share additional messages of non-attachment from “Miracle of Love” inspired by Sri Neem Karoli Baba. Letting go is only hard for the person. You are what sees that. // P.S. Happy Birthday, Mom! I love you! // Namasté and love, selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

Sharing Taoist wisdom from the great Lao Tzu (from the book, “Hua Hu Ching: The Unknown Teachings of Lao Tzu” by Brian Walker), and recognizing Zen roots in Taoism. The verses shared encourage us to remain as The One. Doing so is the way to save the world. Thank you for all of your love and support! Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author

The great Taoist master Lao-Tzu said, “If you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold onto.” This episode explores how these wise words are the key to transcending suffering. Namasté. Selena Sage // recording note: Thanks for overlooking my imperfect backup mic. Hope to travel again to replace it soon! Love to all. // selenasage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author and Instantly Zen

Recognizing our connectedness with all things, and as the Source of all things is ultimate liberation. Stay tuned for future Instantly Zen donation-based events at instantlyzen.com Namasté and love, Selena Sage selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author and Instantly Zen

Namasté dear one! The inspiration arose to share wisdom from Zen Master Bankei and Advaita Master Mooji this morning. Hopefully, their guidance will help you to recognize if you are moving from the person, or as the true Unborn Self. The Unborn is the Source of all, and there is no suffering here. More on Instantly Zen events at instantlyzen.com // Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author and Instantly Zen

You are love itself! Happy Day of love today and everyday. Namasté and love, Selena Sage // selenasage.com // selena@selenasage.com // Fb+ IG: Selena Sage - Author + Instantly Zen

Namasté. “New Growth with Nikki Walton” is a beautiful podcast I feel blessed to have found. Knowing now that Nikki is just as wonderful in real life is an added blessing! This morning, I listened to her episode with the great Byron Katie (https://beherenownetwork.com/nikki-walton-new-growth-ep-5-the-four-questions-with-byron-katie/) and was reminded that what we believe to be true creates our entire experience. Zen masters point to being of no-mind to shatter the whole illusion and that, too, is explored in this episode. Namasté. SelenaSage.com // email: selena@selenasage.com // Fb+IG: Selena Sage - Author and Instantly Zen

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