7 TONGUES OF THE FIRE - ADVAITA: Non Dual Awareness
Tantra understands both the dual and non-dual aspects of our existence. It acknowledges the interplay between polarity while also pointing toward the ultimate non-dual reality. In contrast, Advaita focuses primarily on the non-dual, transcendent aspect of our being, suggesting that at some point in our spiritual journey—whether at the end of life or after realising the householder path no longer serves us—our goal should be to meditate on the crown chakra and immerse ourselves in the state of highest Samadhi, also known as Nirbija Samadhi or Asamprajnata Samadhi.
This journey diverges from the path of Vinyasa Krama, which emphasises navigating the pairs of opposites and cultivating a practical, skillful dualism. With Advaita, the aim is to progressively detach from the world of Prakriti—beyond mind, time, matter, and energy—and to rest in the non-dual awareness that transcends these aspects of existence. Once we have developed a foundation in practices like Fire Practice, engaging in 40-day sadhanas with an Advaita focus (such as Mantra Laya) can be valuable. These practices allow us to experience moments of transcendent stillness and non-attachment, preparing us to move beyond the mind’s constant chatter.
Through this process, we strengthen our capacity for vairagya—the ability to detach and surrender when challenges arise. However, for practitioners of Sri Vidya, the goal is not to retreat into complete non-dual absorption. Instead, we are encouraged to live fully engaged human lives, rich with beauty, purpose, and soul-aligned achievements. Therefore, spending too much time meditating solely on the crown chakra is not advised. It is more beneficial to meditate at the centre of the forehead or the heart, integrating the non-dual while maintaining a connection to the world.
The teachings of Advaita were fully articulated by the great philosopher Shankara, who emphasised their practical application in the Upanishads. The essence of Advaita points us toward ultimate realisation, where individual awareness merges with the non-dual Absolute. However, before embracing this state as our permanent reality, it’s important to assess its practicality. If we cannot distinguish between the dualities in life, how effective can we truly be in manifesting our goals and dreams?
Advaita is typically recommended for the later stages of life, after we have fulfilled our worldly responsibilities. In the meantime, our aim should be to access non-dual awareness occasionally and gradually increase its presence as we age—through practices like meditation and Yoga Nidra. As we progress, Vedanta encourages cultivating the “six-fold spiritual treasures,” which include:
1. Self-Restraint 2. mental Clarity 3. Patience 4. Non-attachment to Pleasure 5. Inner harmony 6. Burning Passion for Liberation.
There is no rush to transcend this beautiful world. It is far better to tap into our inner power, connect with the higher wisdom of the Ajna Chakra, and live an extraordinary life now.