As we move through the Lotus Method, we embark on an unfolding process of 4 Stages through the mind-body-spirit. These stages are couched inside 3 larger phases involving the evolution of information into knowledge into wisdom. Along the way we will be ever so mindful of the 8 Worldly Concerns classically laid out in Buddhist philosophy. These are the ego's tendency to chase after gain, pleasure, praise, and fame - and avoid pain, shame, loss, and blame. 

Stage one is Awareness - here we work mostly with the mind, moving through conversations, revelations, and information in order to access an objective place to understand ourselves, core wounding, and how wounds, false beliefs, and narratives are leading us into suffering and limitations. Ultimately, a place that is out of alignment for our Highest Self. We work with this information and let it seep into our awareness. Self-expression and astro-drama is very emphasized in this stage. 

The second stage is Alchemy - once this newfound awareness is really recognized, acknowledged, and deeply accepted, then and only then, does the alchemy within actually begin. Fortunate change, new habit patterns, positive self-talk, and transformation will start to intuitively manifest in one’s physical body & mind. This stage can feel messy, a little chaotic, but is generally quite fun & rewarding! Everyone's alchemy stage has it's own timeline, and should not be rushed. 

The third stage is Alignment - IF these positive changes are truly embodied and worked with, Spirit is more able to come online and your intuition becomes more activated. Working from this place of spiritual truth and clarity, your life begins to shift into a felt sense alignment. Something you will be able to feel AND see in your world around you. Synchronicities, symbols, and opportunities will become apparent. The life you dream of that's filled with purpose, connection, and freedom is unfolding!

Last, but certainly not least, is Enlightenment - I think it's easy to fall into the single definition of Enlightenment that we often think of in a Buddhist or yogic context; this idea that we are fully awakened and spiritual beings after some amount of "work" is attained. I am not using that notion here, but rather the concept that you become enlightened to certain parts of yourself that were once in the dark or dormant. It's not about becoming an all knowing being, but rather developing a knowing of all parts of your being. Once this level of your sense of Self is attained, your spiritual enlightenment can accelerate, turning your embodied knowledge into spiritual wisdom.

There is an elasticity that is required for enlightenment. Being able to be flexible, to stretch, and adapt to what surrounds you, as life is innately unpredictable. Mental Wisdom, Physical Wisdom, Emotional Wisdom, and Spiritual Wisdom is the driving force. It's here that you begin to get out of your own way and hear with clarity the Truth State. Your Truth, other’s truths, the world's truth. Enlightenment is where we will come together as individuals into a collective that is awakened and healed enough to make real, positive change in the world for the betterment of every single living being involved. 

The Lotus Method //