Did you know that it is impossible to wipe data from your hard drive?

Someone with the technical know-how can still access all your files. There is only one way to remove your data and that is to overwrite it - completely fill the drive with new files.

Computers have limited memory capacity, but human beings have unlimited capacity. Every memory is recorded and because the capacity is unlimited, it is impossible (though we do our best to try) to obscure old memories with new.

In yoga these are known as samskaras. Samskaras are only problematic if they have an emotional charge attached to them. It is these emotional charges that are triggered by new similar experiences. It is also these charges that stand in the way of meditation.

Spiritual practices often advocate detachment as a way to find some degree of peace. However, this is just a temporary measure because detachment does not eliminate memory of past experiences. Memories are often suppressed and remain in the unconscious and continue to influence the way the mind operates, even though one may have a degree of emotional equanimity.

Detachment does not uproot the causes of affliction, it temporarily helps to avoid confrontation with those deep-seated pains that continue to inform the way the mind functions and stand in the way of true happiness, peace or deeper spiritual realization.

Where are these memories stored? How can we access them and remove the negative charge associated with them? This is the subject of my research and the techniques I have developed and been writing about in a forthcoming book: “Meditations on Pain.” There is only one way to be free, and that is to find access to those deep scars and release their grip.

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I will be offering a first reading of my research and some practical exercises via zoom on:

Saturday July 16 at 2 PM UK time or 9 AM EDT

A recording will be available in case the timing does not work for you. To get a zoom link, and to support this ongoing research, please make a donation here: https://gofund.me/1c781de2
or here: https://www.integralashtanga.com/pay-online/support-my-writing