An in-depth audio program on staying conscious in an unconscious world.
How can we live mindfully in a culture that constantly demands our energy and attention? According to Eckhart Tolle, this is the task of a lifetime - but it’s also one that you can begin in any moment.
Recorded before a live audience in London, The Next Step in Human Evolution presents a warm, funny, and insightful evening with Eckhart and his teaching partner, Kim Eng. Just as the London Underground famously asks visitors to “mind the gap”, Eckhart reminds you to cultivate awareness of the gaps in your daily life - whether it’s in moments of necessary waiting or the space between thoughts. Through this awareness of the liminal spaces of life, you can come into a richer appreciation of the eternal now. As Eckhart says, “When you are present in this moment, you break the continuity of your story, of your sense of past and future. Then, true intelligence arises - and also love.”
Here, you will
Why most people are completely identified with the thoughts and emotions of object consciousness An exploration of the concept of “space” and its relationship with manifestation Why transcendent consciousness cannot be defined through mere language The liberating sense of interconnection available through nonconceptual perception A 30-minute guided meditation sequence designed to probe the inner body and the “Deep I” beyond ego Why moments of dissatisfaction or annoyance are potent gateways to presence How to discern the ways egoic thinking filters your perception of the present moment On-the-spot practices for sidestepping knee-jerk reactions and rising above egoic thought With all this in mind, Eckhart presents a hopeful view of the trajectory of human evolution - a gradual awakening to the truth of our innate interconnectedness. With The Next Step in Human Evolution, you’ll discover that when you lean into the wisdom of the gaps, your horizons open and become boundless.
Eckhart Tolle is a German-born spiritual teacher and internationally bestselling author whose work has profoundly influenced the contemporary spiritual landscape. Born Ulrich Leonard Tölle in 1948 in Lünen, Germany, he experienced a transformative spiritual awakening at the age of 29 after years of depression and anxiety. This profound shift in consciousness marked the beginning of his journey as a spiritual guide and thinker. Tolle abandoned his doctoral studies at the University of Cambridge to explore and embody the stillness and presence he had discovered, eventually becoming a spiritual teacher based in London and later in Vancouver, Canada. Tolle rose to prominence with the publication of The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment in 1997. The book, which emphasizes mindfulness and present-moment awareness, resonated with a global audience and was later championed by Oprah Winfrey, catapulting it to international bestseller status. In 2005, Tolle released A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose, which expanded on his earlier teachings and explored the role of ego in personal and societal dysfunction. The book also achieved massive commercial success, further solidifying Tolle’s reputation as one of the most influential spiritual authors of his time. His teachings draw from a variety of traditions, including Zen Buddhism, Christian mysticism, Sufism, and Hindu philosophy, though he remains unaffiliated with any formal religion. Tolle emphasizes a non-dualistic approach to spirituality, focusing on the importance of presence, inner stillness, and the disidentification from ego-based thinking. His accessible language and calm demeanor have helped millions integrate spiritual practice into daily life. In addition to writing, Tolle has delivered talks, retreats, and webinars to audiences around the world. In 2008, he partnered with Oprah Winfrey to produce a groundbreaking webinar series based on A New Earth, attracting millions of viewers. He also co-authored the illustrated book Guardians of Being in 2009, further exploring his core themes through the lens of animals and nature. Tolle currently lives in Vancouver with his partner, spiritual teacher Kim Eng. Together, they continue to teach and support global audiences through online content, publications, and events. Widely regarded as one of the most spiritually influential figures of the 21st century, Tolle’s message of inner peace and awakening remains as timely as ever.
This is so close to 5 stars. Eckhart is clear, concise, passionate, and speaks more swiftly at the end than many of his appearances. First time I've heard a raucous applause and audible cheers after his closing statement. A few minor quibbles -- and the guided meditation by Kim Eng was, ironically, rather full of mind talk and distracting commentary. She has a wonderful calming voice, however. Regardless I enjoyed this one immensely, and will listen again next year.