Brief Summary
In this episode of "Under It All," Steve Vai explores the concept of spiritual shift, human defects, overthinking, managing anger and political spectrum. He discusses the evolution of consciousness, the mistaken identity of humans, and the importance of presence and mindfulness. He also touches on the value of challenges and the potential for a new species to emerge through technology.
- Spiritual shift as a paradigm shift in human consciousness.
- Mistaken identity as a core human issue, leading to suffering.
- Importance of presence and mindfulness to overcome egoic thinking.
Introduction
Steve Vai welcomes viewers to another episode of "Under It All" from his Harmony Hut in Encino, California. He expresses gratitude for the positive feedback on his recent acoustic performance and singing. He explains that "Under It All" focuses on sharing insights gained from his 40 years of touring and experiences in the music business, as well as his studies of esoteric principles and spiritual practices.
Spiritual Shift and Evolution of Consciousness
In response to a question about the spiritual shift happening on the planet, Steve discusses the evolution of species and consciousness. He references scientific theories about the origins of life, mentioning the Big Bang and the formation of Earth. He notes that the evolution of species in the physical world reflects the evolution of consciousness on a deeper level. Each new species seems to have additional facilities or a different addition to its consciousness.
The Role of Instinct and Thinking
Steve explains that early life forms relied on instinct for survival, a creative impulse driving their actions. Humans, however, developed the capacity for thinking, which initially manifested as pictorial thoughts. He presents a theory that the invention of gods may have originated when humans began experiencing thoughts and mistook them for external voices. Thinking became a powerful tool for creation, but it also introduced the concept of psychological time, leading to a departure from the present moment.
The Garden of Eden and the Ego
Drawing an analogy from the Bible, Steve equates the Garden of Eden to the state of man before thinking. The "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" symbolizes the beginning of thinking, which allowed humans to understand these concepts. As thinking evolved, it led to the creation of technology, but also to the development of the ego, a protective shell that has become overblown, causing humans to lose touch with their instinctual impulses.
The Paradigm Shift and Oneness of Consciousness
Steve asserts that the spiritual shift happening now involves the cracking of the ego's shell, a paradigm shift similar to previous evolutionary leaps. This shift is occurring dynamically in every field because it is driven by consciousness. He emphasizes that there is only one awareness, experiencing itself through different individuals. The limitations of the ego cause people to see themselves as separate, leading to fear and damaging actions.
The Future of Human Evolution and Technology
Steve speculates about the potential for a new species to emerge, possibly through technology. He notes that humans have been intensely focused on technology, feeding information into the "cloud," which could be seen as a growing entity. He suggests that this could lead to the evolution of artificial intelligence or even a merging of human consciousness with technology. He also warns that humanity may need to destroy itself for this new species to emerge, as has happened in the past.
The Importance of Inner Transformation
Steve stresses that the spiritual shift must happen within each individual. By recognizing and rising above egoic thoughts, people can create a different world for themselves. He defines spirituality as the study of the self, turning inward to examine the quality of one's thoughts and choosing different ones. He also suggests becoming present with no thought as a way to connect with the evolutionary impulse of the universe.
The Mistaken Identity of Humans
In response to a question about the greatest defect of human beings, Steve argues that humans are suffering from a mistaken identity. People identify with their names, vocations, experiences, and bodies, but these are not their true selves. He identifies the belief that one is their body as a major obstacle, leading to vulnerability and insecurity. He asserts that true identity lies in awareness, which is beyond thinking, form, and time.
Overcoming Overthinking
Addressing a question about overthinking, Steve emphasizes the importance of recognizing it as the first step. He advises having a desire for more peace and observing the obstacles within, which are the thoughts in one's mind. He recommends meditation to see mind activity and bring attention more into reality. He also notes that blaming others attacks oneself and hinders happiness.
Happiness and Depression
Steve clarifies a past interview, stating that he was never happy in depression. He distinguishes between being "bummed out" and true depression, which involves helplessness, hopelessness, and dread. He shares that he experienced moments of euphoria during his depression, but these were not happiness. The true happiness came when he realized the value that the depression brought to his life, giving him the tools to overcome it.
Managing Anger
Steve admits that he used to get angry but now experiences frustration and impatience. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of how one feels, as this indicates what one is thinking. He notes that frustration and impatience are forms of suffering caused by egoic perspectives. He explains that anger feels good to the ego because it allows it to show its false superiority, but true strength comes in non-defensiveness.
Political Spectrum
Steve describes himself as an observer rather than a political person. He supports the president, regardless of who it is, to support the country. He looks for things within any administration that he can support, creating an opening from his ego. He notes that the further left or right one goes, the more insane one becomes. He advises finding commonality in differences and taking effective action within one's capacity.
Closing Remarks and Facebook Monetization
Steve concludes the episode, thanking viewers for their support. He mentions a new Facebook feature that allows monetization of live streams through "stars," which viewers can purchase as donations. He encourages viewers to donate to his Make a Noise Foundation, which supports various causes. He announces that he will be doing "Alien Guitar Secrets" on Tuesday and needs to start working on his record soon.
