#35 Ian Baker on Explorations in the Himalayas, Tantra, and Psychoactive Plant Medicine
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I don’t know by what criteria National Geographic Society selects its six “Explorers for the Millennium”, but I imagine standards are fairly stringent. My guest in this episode, Ian Baker, earned a spot on that list for his extraordinary explorations in Asia, in particular through the Tsangpo gorges of Tibet. He also earned the trust and friendship of the Dalai Lama, from whom he has gained much wisdom and clarity.
Always the adventurer, Ian takes us on a profound journey that covers topics such as Tantric Buddhism, the Tibetan art of healing, psychoactive plant medicine, and his team’s discovery of a Himalayan waterfall that had been the source of myth for more than a century, the daring details of which he recounts in his incredible book The Heart of the World. Ian also discusses his forthcoming book that will detail his journeys with the alchemist wizards of Burma and their intimate relationship with mercury.
In what I found to be extremely fascinating, Ian also takes us inside numerous Himalayan caves where he has collectively spent many months in isolated meditation, including one three-month stint doing an esoteric practice prescribed by the Dalai Lama himself. In a world where most people turn outward for distraction every few seconds, Ian turns inward for months at a time for deep introspection and growth.
Ian is the author of seven critically acclaimed books on Himalayan and Tibetan cultural history, environment, art, and medicine, including his most recent release, Tibetan Yoga: Secrets from the Source. Ian also leads private expeditions in India, Tibet, and Bhutan.
This episode is deeply profound and enriching and has left me wanting more exposure to the teachings and wisdom of this remarkable man.
Please enjoy this episode of Salish Wolf with Ian Baker.
Episode Links:
Books by Ian Baker
Anchor Point Links:
Men’s Retreats at Anchor Point Expeditions
