Dating, Ghosted and Opening after 60 (S5 | E197)
[Tessa]
This episode features an enlightening conversation with
Shakti Sundari, who shares her transformative experiences as a single mother and her journey into self-discovery and conscious dating. Living in Glastonbury, UK, Shakti brings a unique perspective on parenting, relationships, and personal growth after dedicating over twenty years to teaching sexual and spiritual awakening for women. As her children have grown into young adults, she embraces her transition into a new phase of life, emphasizing that the empty nest is not a void but a space of endless possibilities.
TIME CODE
1:12 Embracing Unconventional Motherhood
8:27 Navigating Heartache and Ghosting
14:43 Vulnerability in Dating
21:38 Dating as Devotion
Shakti and I delve into the intricacies of relationships between parents and adult children. She refers to her children as her "soulmates," highlighting their deep bond formed through conscious communication and radical honesty. This dynamic has fostered an environment where both her son and daughter feel comfortable giving and receiving advice. Shakti describes their relationship as unconventional yet fulfilling, asserting that open dialogue has helped them navigate the complexities of life, including the challenges she faces in the dating world.
Throughout our discussion, Shakti opens up about experiencing disappointment in dating, specifically her recent encounter with ghosting. She shares the emotional rollercoaster that ensued after an encouraging date turned into silence, leading her through a process of examining her feelings and allowing herself to experience heartache without judgment. By integrating somatic practices and self-inquiry techniques, Shakti emphasizes the importance of being present with our emotions, allowing them to flow rather than suppressing them.
Our conversation also addresses the prevalence of ghosting in modern dating and the need for greater honesty and communication. Shakti emphasizes the importance of understanding one's feelings, processing them with compassion, and striving for emotional transparency in relationships. This approach not only benefits personal growth but enhances the overall quality of connections we forge with others.
The episode culminates in Shakti's passionate plea for cultivating more love and awareness in the world. She offers insight into her writing journey and the resources available through her blog, where she shares personal experiences and reflections on intimacy and relationships. Shakti envisions a community of individuals willing to redefine their narratives around love and connection, ultimately contributing to a kinder, more understanding world.
Listeners are invited to explore Shakti's work through her website a...