I'm thrilled to share with you the latest interview in my project "1000 Reasons for Feeling Awe" featuring Dr. Stephen Fulder, the founder and senior teacher of Tovana - the largest Buddhist and meditation organization in Israel. In our interview, "Reason No. 3: Encounters with the Unknown", we embark on an enlightening journey to the frontiers of consciousness, exploring the awe-inspiring realms that lie beyond our ordinary perceptions. Dr. Fulder shares his deeply profound insights into the 'meeting with the unknown', the transcendence of the 'ordinary mind', and the delicate dance between the limited and the limitless. Whether it’s encountering a school of dolphins in the Ganges, or observing the intricate web-spinning of a spider, he beautifully elucidates how these moments of awe are powerful signposts that guide us towards a more universal state of being. Tune in to witness this remarkable exploration of consciousness and the awe-inspiring experiences that lie just beyond the realm of the known. Your perspective on life, self, and the world might just be forever transformed. About Dr. Stephen Fulder Stephen was born in 1946 in North London and nurtured his academic prowess at Oxford University, subsequently acquiring a Ph.D. from the National Institute for Medical Research. A transformative year in India in 1976 marked a turning point in his life, sparking an enduring interest in alternative and complementary medicine, and a profound commitment to spiritual life. Over the span of four decades, Stephen has written 14 books on these subjects, his expertise honed through immersive research and practice. India also introduced Stephen to the world of meditation and dharma, primarily within the Theravada Buddhist framework, supplemented by insights from Dzogchen and Advaita teachings. Since 1976, he has steadfastly followed this spiritual path, turning his insights into a lifetime's work of teaching, primarily in Israel. Over the last 25 years, Stephen has conducted over 15 retreats annually, alongside regular classes and courses, touching countless lives. His work in Israel culminated in founding the Israel Insight Society, the country's leading Buddhist practice organization. Ever the visionary, Stephen's commitment extends beyond spirituality into the realms of peace-making and ecological activism, particularly in the Middle East. He co-founded an ecological community, demonstrating sustainable living by growing his own food and medicinal plants, while delighting in his role as an involved grandparent. Stephen's written work has achieved remarkable recognition, with 'What's Beyond Mindfulness: Waking Up to This Precious Life' becoming a #1 bestseller in Israel. His most recent contribution to dharma literature is 'The Five Powers', published by Aster. A dedicated teacher, Stephen integrates early Buddhist texts and the Insight lineage into his teachings, offering varied meditation techniques while aiming for profound personal transformation. He leverages multiple platforms to reach his audience, including one-on-one meetings, group discussions, online classes, and even unique 'Buddha at the Bar' sessions in pubs.