The idea that Gyulu is a form of "Vajrayāna psychotherapy," a contemplative technology that uses direct, experiential exercises—like the mirror practice—to dismantle our solid sense of self and realize the dream-like nature of reality.

In this episode, we explore Gyulu, or Illusory Body Yoga, an advanced practice from Tibetan Buddhism designed to help practitioners realize the dream-like nature of reality. This podcast begins by examining the profound philosophical principles that form the bedrock of Gyulu, including the concepts of Śūnyatā (Emptiness) and the Two Truths doctrine, explaining how they provide the rationale for the yoga's transformative methods. The episode then situates Gyulu within its traditional context as the "foundation of the path" in the renowned Six Yogas of Naropa system, detailing its relationship to other practices like Inner Heat (Tummo) and Clear Light (Ösal). We will discuss the core methodology of the practice, which involves a progression from deconstructing the "impure illusory body" of our ordinary experience to generating the "pure illusory body" of an enlightened being. This podcast also covers some of the specific techniques used, such as the powerful mirror practice. Finally, the episode addresses the indispensable prerequisites for undertaking such an advanced path and the psychological nuances practitioners must navigate, emphasizing the central role of compassion (bodhicitta) as a safeguard against potential pitfalls like nihilism.