Craig Hamilton-Parker’s What to Do When You’re Dead

Hello, everyone! I am thrilled to introduce a truly extraordinary conversation that delves into some of the most profound mysteries of life—what happens when we die, how consciousness shapes our reality, and the spiritual growth that continues beyond this life. Today, we’re joined by an incredible panel of spiritual leaders, teachers, and visionaries who have spent their lives exploring these topics.

First, we have Craig Hamilton-Parker, a renowned medium and author of What to Do When You're Dead. Craig has helped countless people understand the journey of the soul after death and the nature of spirit communication. Alongside him is Eckhart Tolle, author of The Power of Now, who teaches us how presence and awareness shape our experience both in life and in the afterlife.

We are also joined by Sadhguru, whose wisdom on karma and consciousness offers profound insights into the continuity of life and death, and Rumi, the beloved poet and mystic, whose timeless words on love and the soul's journey continue to inspire generations. Lastly, we have David Hawkins, the brilliant mind behind Power vs. Force, whose research on levels of consciousness gives us a roadmap to spiritual evolution and freedom.

Together, they’ll explore the afterlife, reincarnation, the role of spirit guides, and how forgiveness helps us transcend the limitations of both this world and the next. I guarantee you, this is going to be an imaginary conversation that expands your mind, touches your heart, and might even change the way you view your own life. Let’s get started!

The Soul’s Journey Beyond Death

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome, everyone, to today’s conversation on The Soul’s Journey Beyond Death. We're here to explore the nature of the afterlife, the transition of the soul, and the spiritual evolution that takes place after death. Let’s begin with you, Craig. You’ve written extensively on what happens when we die. What’s the most surprising aspect of the soul’s journey?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
Thank you, Nick. One of the most surprising things I’ve discovered is that death is far more gentle and natural than most people think. There’s a moment of separation, but it’s more like waking up from a dream rather than an abrupt ending. In my experiences with the spirit world, the transition is filled with a sense of familiarity. What surprises many is the presence of loved ones, both living and deceased, who welcome the soul. But what really stands out is the life review. It’s not about judgment—it’s about understanding. The soul sees their life from a higher perspective, witnessing not only their actions but the emotional impact on others. This is where real spiritual growth begins.

Nick Sasaki:
Dolores, your work with past-life regression touches on similar themes. How does your understanding of the soul’s journey align with Craig’s?

Dolores Cannon:
I completely agree with Craig. In my regression work, countless people have recounted their experiences of death and what follows. It’s always peaceful, often accompanied by the sensation of floating or being lifted away. There’s no fear, only curiosity and a sense of wonder. One recurring theme is the presence of guides or beings of light who assist the soul in transitioning. These guides help navigate the initial stages, offering support as the soul undergoes the life review. It’s not punitive at all—it's about learning and growth, like Craig mentioned. The soul reflects on lessons learned and those yet to be mastered, preparing for the next stage of existence.

Nick Sasaki:
Michael, your research into life between lives has given us a structured view of what happens after death. What insights can you share on this process?

Michael Newton:
My research, which focuses on the soul’s journey between incarnations, reveals a highly organized spiritual realm. After death, the soul passes through a transitional phase where it adjusts to the afterlife. This is often where the life review happens, in the presence of spiritual guides. Beyond this phase, souls enter a plane that corresponds to their level of spiritual development. It’s fascinating because these levels are not hierarchical in a material sense but represent the soul’s maturity in compassion, wisdom, and self-awareness. The most important insight from my work is that the afterlife is not static. It’s dynamic, filled with opportunities for learning, healing, and preparing for the next incarnation.

Nick Sasaki:
Yogananda, your teachings emphasize the continuity of the soul through many lives. How do your spiritual beliefs connect with what Craig, Dolores, and Michael are discussing?

Yogananda Paramahansa:
The soul’s journey is eternal. What we call death is simply the shedding of the physical form, much like changing clothes. In my teachings, I emphasize that the soul is always moving toward union with the divine, which is its true nature. Each lifetime is a stepping stone, an opportunity to refine our consciousness and grow closer to God. The afterlife is part of this progression. Once free from the body, the soul has the chance to reflect deeply, guided by divine forces. It is an opportunity to review the soul's purpose, to see clearly the progress it has made toward self-realization. Those who have lived lives of devotion and meditation experience great peace and joy, while others may find themselves continuing their inner work on subtler planes.

Nick Sasaki:
Rev. Moon, your teachings on spiritual growth and the soul’s purpose align with this theme of eternal progression. How do you see the afterlife fitting into the broader journey of the soul?

Rev. Sun Myung Moon:
The afterlife is a continuation of our earthly mission. Life is the school where we learn to live in harmony with God’s will, and the afterlife is where we continue that process. The soul must learn to love and serve beyond its physical desires. In my view, the afterlife provides the opportunity for souls to realize their potential, to perfect their love for God and humanity. Those who have lived according to the principles of truth, love, and service will find themselves in a realm where they can advance rapidly. Those who have not must continue their education, so to speak, until they fully understand the heart of God. The life review Craig and others have mentioned is key to this growth—through it, the soul gains insight into its failures and successes and is given the chance to realign with its divine purpose.

Nick Sasaki:
This has been a profound discussion so far. We see that the soul’s journey beyond death is not an ending but an ongoing process of growth, reflection, and spiritual advancement. Each of you brings such rich perspectives to this, emphasizing the peace, learning, and divine connection that awaits us. Before we close, what final thoughts would you like to share?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
I’d say, don’t fear death. It’s a natural transition, and we are all welcomed by love on the other side. The journey is filled with opportunities for growth and understanding.

Dolores Cannon:
I agree. Death is just the beginning of a new chapter. Our purpose continues, and we’re always guided toward growth and healing.

Michael Newton:
The afterlife is a beautiful, structured place where souls are cared for. It’s not about judgment—it’s about learning and preparing for the next step in our spiritual journey.

Yogananda Paramahansa:
The soul is eternal, always moving toward the light of God. Remember that each life, each transition, brings us closer to the realization of our true divine nature.

Rev. Sun Myung Moon:
In life and in death, our mission is to perfect our love. Let us live with this understanding, knowing that the afterlife continues our journey toward the heart of God.

Nick Sasaki:
Thank you all for this illuminating conversation. It’s clear that the soul’s journey beyond death is one of transformation and growth, filled with divine guidance and love. We’ll continue exploring these deep spiritual themes in our next discussion.

Communication Between the Living and the Dead

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome back, everyone. Today’s conversation focuses on Communication Between the Living and the Dead. Craig, you’ve spent years communicating with the spirit world. What can you tell us about how the dead continue to influence the living?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
Thanks, Nick. Communication between the living and the dead is much more natural than people think. Spirits are often trying to reach out to their loved ones. They offer guidance, comfort, and sometimes warnings. I’ve seen it time and time again during readings where spirits come through with messages that provide closure or help those who are still alive make important life decisions. They communicate in various ways—through mediums, dreams, signs, and synchronicities. One of the most important things to understand is that the dead are still very much aware of what’s happening in the lives of their loved ones, and they often seek to offer reassurance and love from the other side.

Nick Sasaki:
Allison, you’ve had years of experience as a medium. What are some of the most powerful ways you’ve seen spirits communicate with the living?

Allison DuBois:
Craig’s absolutely right—spirits are always looking for ways to communicate. What I’ve found is that they use a range of subtle methods. Dreams are one of the most common; they provide a safe space for spirits to appear to their loved ones. Many people report feeling an overwhelming sense of peace after these dream visitations. Another way is through symbols or objects that meant something to the person who passed. For example, I’ve had clients who kept seeing the same type of bird or finding pennies in odd places—things that were meaningful to their loved one in life. These little nudges are their way of letting us know they’re still here, watching over us.

Nick Sasaki:
John, you’ve brought through messages from spirits for many years. How do you explain the process of spirit communication, and what should people expect when connecting with their loved ones?

John Edward:
It’s all about energy. When a spirit comes through, they communicate by influencing the energy around us—whether that’s through a medium or directly through signs. In my readings, spirits often show me images, symbols, or feelings that help convey their message. It’s not like talking on the phone; it’s more like interpreting impressions. I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that people expect to have a direct conversation. It’s not that simple. Spirits use what they can—sometimes it’s a song, a familiar smell, or an object that’s important to the person they’re trying to reach. What I always tell people is that the communication may not always be what they expect, but it’s always meaningful.

Nick Sasaki:
James, your work has touched so many people. How do you think the living can become more receptive to messages from the dead?

James Van Praagh:
That’s a great question, Nick. I think one of the most important things people can do is to quiet their minds. We live in such a busy world that it can be hard to hear the subtle messages that spirits send. Meditation or simply taking a moment to be still can make a huge difference. Spirits are always around us, trying to connect, but it’s easy to miss the signs if we’re distracted. Another thing I often suggest is paying attention to intuition—those gut feelings or flashes of insight. Many times, that’s how spirits communicate, through that inner voice. Trusting your own intuitive guidance can open up a stronger connection with the spirit world.

Nick Sasaki:
Suzanne, your transition from a military career to mediumship is remarkable. What unique perspective do you bring to this process of communication between the living and the dead?

Suzanne Giesemann:
Thank you, Nick. My background has given me a very grounded approach to mediumship. When I first started, I needed proof—something solid. That’s why, when spirits communicate, I ask for specific evidence that validates their presence. This can be names, dates, or personal details that the living would recognize. One thing that stands out from my experience is that communication isn’t just a one-way street. Spirits respond to our thoughts and emotions, and they often appear to help the living navigate difficult moments. We may not realize it, but when we reach out with our thoughts, the spirits hear us. They communicate back in ways that can be subtle but powerful—whether it’s a soft voice, an impression, or a physical sign.

Nick Sasaki:
It seems that communication with the dead is always happening, whether we’re aware of it or not. How would you all describe the emotional impact on those who receive messages from the other side?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
It’s life-changing. People who come to me often carry so much grief, but when they hear from their loved ones, it’s like a weight lifts. The confirmation that their loved one is still there, still watching over them, provides immense comfort. It’s as if a part of their heart heals.

Allison DuBois:
Yes, it’s incredibly healing. For so many, unresolved issues or unspoken words haunt them, and when a spirit comes through to say, “I’m okay,” or “I forgive you,” it offers peace that nothing else can. It’s about closure and understanding that death isn’t an end, but a new beginning.

John Edward:
I’ve seen it bring people back to life, in a way. That connection gives them permission to move forward without guilt or sadness weighing them down. It doesn’t erase the pain of loss, but it offers a kind of reassurance that allows people to live fully again.

James Van Praagh:
Absolutely. Knowing that their loved one is still a part of their life—just in a different form—helps people find peace. They start to look at life differently, recognizing that love truly never dies.

Suzanne Giesemann:
It brings a deeper understanding of life itself. We’re reminded that we are spiritual beings having a human experience, and that our connection with those we love transcends this life. The messages from the other side are really about helping us live better lives now, knowing we are never alone.

Nick Sasaki:
This has been a deeply insightful conversation. It’s clear that communication between the living and the dead can bring healing, guidance, and a profound sense of connection. I want to thank each of you for sharing your experiences and perspectives. I look forward to continuing this discussion on spiritual evolution in the next topic.

Reincarnation and Karma’s Role in Spiritual Growth

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome back, everyone. Today’s discussion centers around Reincarnation and Karma’s Role in Spiritual Growth. Craig, you’ve touched on reincarnation and karma in your work, but what do you think is the most misunderstood aspect of reincarnation?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
Thanks, Nick. One of the most misunderstood aspects of reincarnation is that it’s purely linear. People often think of it as one life after another, but it’s much more complex than that. Souls don’t just reincarnate in a set order—they might choose specific lifetimes based on the lessons they need to learn. Karma plays a huge role in this. We create karma through our actions and intentions, and this shapes the circumstances of our future lives. But karma isn’t a punishment; it’s simply the result of the energy we put out. It gives us opportunities to grow, to correct imbalances, and to become more spiritually aware.

Nick Sasaki:
Ian, your research into reincarnation has brought scientific scrutiny to the subject. What insights can you share about how reincarnation works and its role in spiritual development?

Ian Stevenson:
My research focused on children who recalled past lives with verifiable details. What I found fascinating is that these memories often emerge spontaneously and fade as the child grows older. These cases suggest that reincarnation is not only real but is also intricately tied to unresolved emotional or karmic patterns. I agree with Craig that reincarnation is not a linear progression. It seems that souls reincarnate with specific purposes—to resolve unfinished business, to experience different perspectives, or to heal karmic imbalances. From the cases I studied, it became clear that certain traits, phobias, or even physical conditions can carry over from one life to the next. This continuity underscores the importance of our actions and choices, as they ripple through multiple lifetimes.

Nick Sasaki:
Thich Nhat Hanh, in your teachings, karma and reincarnation are central to spiritual practice. How do you see the connection between them in the soul’s journey?

Thich Nhat Hanh:
Karma and reincarnation are deeply connected because they are both aspects of cause and effect. Every action we take, whether in thought, word, or deed, creates energy that will eventually return to us. In Buddhism, we say that we are our actions. We create our future through our choices, and when the conditions are right, we are reborn. But rebirth is not about the continuation of a fixed self. It is the continuation of our energy—our karma. Each lifetime is an opportunity to realize our true nature, which is interconnected with all beings. If we practice mindfulness, compassion, and understanding, we transform our karma and bring ourselves closer to enlightenment.

Nick Sasaki:
Brian, your work with past-life regression therapy has helped many people resolve karmic issues. How do you see reincarnation as a tool for healing and spiritual growth?

Brian Weiss:
In my work, reincarnation is a profound tool for healing because it allows people to confront unresolved issues from previous lifetimes. When people experience past-life regression, they often gain insight into patterns or relationships that have carried over into their current life. By understanding the origin of these patterns, whether it’s fear, anger, or a karmic debt, they can release it. This leads to tremendous emotional and spiritual healing. What’s interesting is that many people find their current life purpose through understanding their past lives. It gives them a sense of continuity and helps them see their struggles as part of a larger journey toward spiritual wholeness.

Nick Sasaki:
Dr. Goswami, your background in quantum physics offers a unique perspective on reincarnation and karma. How do you explain these concepts through the lens of quantum consciousness?

Dr. Amit Goswami:
In quantum physics, we talk about the idea of non-locality, which means that consciousness is not confined to the brain or the body. Consciousness is fundamental, and it exists beyond space and time. This aligns well with the concept of reincarnation. If consciousness transcends the physical body, then it makes sense that it can reincarnate across different lifetimes. Karma, from a quantum perspective, is about the energy we create with our intentions and actions. This energy becomes part of the cosmic field, and it affects our future incarnations. Reincarnation allows consciousness to experience different realities, grow, and evolve. It’s not just about learning lessons, but about expanding awareness. In this way, karma is not just a system of reward and punishment—it’s about alignment with the fundamental laws of the universe.

Nick Sasaki:
That’s a fascinating connection between quantum theory and spiritual concepts. How do you all see karma’s role in shaping the future lives of individuals?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
Karma is a key factor in the reincarnation process. It’s like a spiritual ledger that keeps track of our actions and intentions, not in a punitive sense but as a guide for future growth. When we reincarnate, we do so with the karmic baggage of past lives. This influences the challenges we face, the relationships we have, and the opportunities for growth that present themselves. But we’re not prisoners of our karma—we have free will, and each lifetime is an opportunity to resolve old karma and create new, positive energy.

Ian Stevenson:
In my research, karma often manifested in physical or emotional traits carried over from past lives. For instance, children who remembered past lives sometimes exhibited behaviors or phobias that were directly linked to how they died in a previous life. This suggests that unresolved karma can follow us into new incarnations, affecting our present circumstances until it is addressed. Understanding these connections helps us resolve them, which is a crucial part of spiritual growth.

Thich Nhat Hanh:
Karma is like the seeds we plant in a garden. Each action we take is a seed, and those seeds will eventually bear fruit. If we plant seeds of anger, hatred, or greed, we will harvest suffering. But if we plant seeds of love, compassion, and understanding, we will harvest peace and joy. Reincarnation gives us the opportunity to tend to our garden over many lifetimes. By practicing mindfulness and living ethically, we can transform our karma and bring about a better future—for ourselves and for others.

Brian Weiss:
What’s interesting in past-life regression therapy is how karma plays out in relationships. I’ve seen cases where people are drawn to one another lifetime after lifetime to resolve unresolved karma. These could be difficult relationships, but they offer opportunities for healing and forgiveness. When we understand the karmic connections, it helps us resolve the issues with compassion, rather than repeating the same patterns.

Nick Sasaki:
This has been a profound discussion on reincarnation and karma. Each of you has offered a unique perspective, whether from scientific research, spiritual practice, or therapeutic experience. It’s clear that reincarnation is not just about returning to live another life but is deeply tied to karma, spiritual evolution, and healing. Thank you all for sharing your wisdom. I look forward to continuing this journey into deeper spiritual themes in our next topic.

The Role of Spirit Guides and the Power of Forgiveness

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome to our conversation on The Role of Spirit Guides and the Power of Forgiveness. Craig, let’s start with you. How do spirit guides play a role in the soul’s journey, and why is forgiveness such a key part of spiritual growth?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
Thank you, Nick. Spirit guides are essential companions on our spiritual journey, both in life and in the afterlife. They’re with us from the moment we’re born, and they help steer us toward the lessons we need to learn. Guides don’t interfere with free will, but they provide nudges—through intuition, dreams, and synchronicities. They help us navigate our karmic challenges, reminding us of our true purpose and encouraging us to grow spiritually. Forgiveness is crucial because it’s one of the most powerful ways we can release negative karma and heal. It’s not just about forgiving others—it’s also about forgiving ourselves. Without forgiveness, we carry heavy emotional and spiritual baggage that can hold us back, lifetime after lifetime.

Nick Sasaki:
Edgar, you’ve given countless readings on spiritual matters, including the role of guides. What insights do you have on their influence in our lives and after death?

Edgar Cayce:
In the readings I provided, it became clear that spirit guides are like messengers of the divine. They act as intermediaries between us and the higher realms, often providing guidance in times of difficulty or uncertainty. They work on a higher vibrational level, and their purpose is always aligned with the soul’s spiritual development. Guides often help souls during the life review after death, showing them not only their actions but also the intentions behind them. This is where forgiveness comes in. When the soul sees the impact of its actions, it has the opportunity to seek forgiveness—both from others and from itself. Forgiveness allows the soul to release attachments to the material world and ascend to higher levels of spiritual understanding.

Nick Sasaki:
Neale, your Conversations with God series emphasizes the importance of divine guidance and forgiveness. How do you see spirit guides fitting into this framework, and what role does forgiveness play in our connection to the divine?

Neale Donald Walsch:
Spirit guides are manifestations of divine love. They are here to remind us that we are never alone, that we are always connected to God, to the Source. They serve as gentle reminders of our inherent divinity and the love that surrounds us. The role of forgiveness is vital because, in essence, forgiveness is about remembering who we truly are. When we forgive, we let go of the illusion of separation from others and from God. Forgiveness heals the false belief that we are somehow unworthy of love. It’s a process of coming back to wholeness. When we forgive ourselves and others, we step back into alignment with the divine. Spirit guides help us see this truth, especially when we are lost in fear or judgment.

Nick Sasaki:
Louise, you’ve spoken about the power of healing through forgiveness and self-love. How do you see spirit guides assisting people in their healing journey?

Louise Hay:
Spirit guides are wonderful partners in the healing process. They guide us gently toward the areas where we need to heal, often bringing our attention to the places where we’ve been holding on to resentment, guilt, or shame. In my work, I always stress that healing begins with self-love, and forgiveness is a huge part of that. When we forgive, we’re not saying that what happened was okay, but we’re releasing the emotional charge it has over us. Spirit guides help us recognize where we need to let go, and they support us in finding peace. Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or simply being still and asking for guidance, they’re always there, ready to assist in our healing journey. Forgiveness, I’ve found, is the key to freeing ourselves from past pain and allowing new possibilities to come in.

Nick Sasaki:
Ram Dass, your teachings often emphasize the importance of being present and releasing attachment. How do spirit guides and forgiveness fit into this approach to spiritual growth?

Ram Dass:
I’ve always believed that spirit guides are here to help us awaken to the present moment. They’re not necessarily external beings, but rather reflections of our higher self. They guide us toward compassion, love, and understanding, helping us transcend our ego-driven tendencies. When it comes to forgiveness, it’s about releasing the attachments we hold—whether it’s anger, resentment, or judgment. Holding on to these emotions keeps us trapped in the past. Forgiveness allows us to be fully present and to live from a place of love rather than fear. When we forgive, we let go of the stories we tell ourselves about what happened, and we come back to the truth of who we are. In that sense, spirit guides are here to help us move beyond the stories, beyond the drama, and into the simplicity of being.

Nick Sasaki:
That’s a powerful perspective, Ram Dass. It seems that forgiveness is a gateway to a more peaceful existence, and spirit guides are there to help us walk through it. How do each of you think people can become more aware of their spirit guides and the need for forgiveness in their lives?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
Awareness of spirit guides often comes when we quiet the mind and open ourselves to their presence. Meditation, prayer, or simply asking for their help can make us more receptive to their guidance. Forgiveness, on the other hand, is something we need to practice daily—both with ourselves and with others. The more we forgive, the lighter we feel, and that makes it easier to hear the guidance that’s always there.

Edgar Cayce:
I agree with Craig. Becoming more attuned to our guides requires stillness and receptivity. They are always with us, but we often miss their guidance because we’re too focused on the material world. As for forgiveness, it’s a process that begins with humility. When we let go of pride and ego, we open the door to forgiveness, and this in turn opens the door to higher spiritual experiences.

Neale Donald Walsch:
One way to become more aware of spirit guides is to recognize that they communicate in subtle ways. It might be through a sudden insight, a coincidence, or even a stranger’s kind words. As for forgiveness, it’s about recognizing that we are all doing the best we can from our level of consciousness. When we realize this, it becomes easier to forgive others and ourselves. Spirit guides are there to remind us of this truth—they gently guide us back to love when we forget.

Louise Hay:
I believe that everyone has the ability to connect with their guides, but it starts with self-love. When we love and forgive ourselves, we raise our vibration, and this makes it easier to connect with our guides. Forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves. It releases us from the past and allows us to move forward with grace. The more we practice it, the more we create space for our guides to help us heal and grow.

Ram Dass:
For me, it’s about letting go of the idea that spirit guides are “out there” somewhere. They are within us, part of our higher consciousness. When we sit in stillness and drop our attachments to the past and future, we naturally become more aware of their presence. Forgiveness is one of the greatest tools for liberation because it allows us to let go of the ego’s need to be right or to hold onto pain. When we forgive, we free ourselves to experience the beauty of the present moment.

Nick Sasaki:
It’s clear from this discussion that spirit guides and forgiveness are powerful forces for healing and growth. Spirit guides help us navigate our spiritual journeys, while forgiveness frees us from the burdens of the past, allowing us to move forward with greater clarity and love. Thank you all for your profound insights. I look forward to continuing this conversation in our final topic.

The Afterlife as a Reflection of Consciousness

Nick Sasaki (Moderator):
Welcome, everyone, to our final discussion on The Afterlife as a Reflection of Consciousness. Craig, let’s start with you. You’ve spoken extensively about how the afterlife mirrors our state of consciousness at the time of death. Could you explain what you mean by that?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
Thanks, Nick. In my experience as a medium, I’ve found that the afterlife is not a fixed place but rather a reflection of our state of consciousness. When we die, we carry our mental, emotional, and spiritual state with us. If we are filled with love, peace, and understanding, we experience an afterlife that reflects those qualities—what many might call heaven. However, if we die with unresolved fears, guilt, or attachment to material things, we may find ourselves in a realm that reflects those inner conflicts. It’s not a punishment; it’s an opportunity for the soul to confront and heal those unresolved issues. The afterlife is a continuation of our spiritual journey, and our consciousness shapes the reality we experience there.

Nick Sasaki:
Eckhart, your teachings focus on the power of presence and awareness. How do you see consciousness influencing what we experience after death?

Eckhart Tolle:
Consciousness is the essence of who we are, both in life and in death. When we are deeply present in the now, we connect with the timeless aspect of our being. In life, most people are trapped in the mind, in their egoic identity, which creates suffering. When we die, the degree to which we have freed ourselves from the ego determines our experience in the afterlife. If we have cultivated presence and awareness, we will experience the afterlife as a state of peace and unity. However, if we are still identified with the mind and its fears, that mental noise will continue to shape our experience. The afterlife, like life, is a reflection of our inner state—our consciousness creates our reality.

Nick Sasaki:
Sadhguru, your teachings often emphasize the idea of karma and consciousness as driving forces in life and beyond. How do you see the afterlife reflecting our state of consciousness?

Sadhguru:
What we call life and death are two sides of the same coin. Consciousness is the fundamental fabric of existence, and it is what shapes both our life and the afterlife. Karma is the residual memory of our actions, thoughts, and emotions, and this memory influences how we experience life and death. If a person has lived in unconscious patterns—driven by desires, attachments, and unresolved emotions—that will color their experience after death. But if one has lived with awareness, cultivating an inner stillness and clarity, the afterlife will be a reflection of that pure state of being. Ultimately, the afterlife is not a different dimension—it’s simply an extension of the consciousness we carry.

Nick Sasaki:
Rumi, your poetry often explores the mystical union between the soul and the divine. How do you see the afterlife as a reflection of our consciousness and connection with the divine?

Rumi:
The afterlife is but a mirror of the heart’s longing. If we are connected to the Beloved—the divine—then the afterlife is a place of union, of eternal love. But if we are still entangled in the illusions of the world, we may find ourselves wandering in the desert of separation. The key to a beautiful afterlife is to live with an open heart, to cultivate love and surrender in every moment. Consciousness is the thread that connects us to the divine. When we die, the veil is lifted, and we see clearly that what we have sought all our lives is within us. The afterlife is not a place—it is a reflection of our consciousness, a journey toward the Beloved.

Nick Sasaki:
David, your work on consciousness levels has given us a framework to understand the spectrum of human experience. How does your understanding of consciousness apply to the afterlife?

David Hawkins:
Consciousness operates on a spectrum, and each level reflects a different experience of reality, both in life and in the afterlife. In my research, I’ve found that individuals who operate at higher levels of consciousness—such as love, joy, peace, and enlightenment—experience life in a more harmonious and expansive way. This doesn’t change when we die. Our level of consciousness continues to define our experience, shaping the afterlife just as it shapes our earthly existence. Those who are trapped in lower levels, such as fear, anger, or pride, will continue to experience limitation in the afterlife until they evolve beyond those patterns. The afterlife, like life, is a classroom for growth, and consciousness is the key to transcending limitations and experiencing true freedom.

Nick Sasaki:
It’s fascinating to hear how consciousness seems to be the common thread between life and death. How do each of you think people can cultivate the kind of consciousness that will lead to a more peaceful and expansive afterlife?

Craig Hamilton-Parker:
It starts with self-awareness. In life, we need to become aware of our thoughts, emotions, and actions and how they create our reality. Meditation, mindfulness, and forgiveness are powerful tools for raising our consciousness. The more we clear out emotional baggage and unresolved conflicts, the lighter our energy becomes. This not only makes for a better life but also creates a smoother transition into the afterlife.

Eckhart Tolle:
Presence is the key. If we live our lives identified with the mind and its endless chatter, we will carry that into the afterlife. But if we learn to be present, to detach from the mind and live in the now, we transcend the limitations of the ego. Presence allows us to enter into a state of peace and stillness, both in life and in death.

Sadhguru:
Consciousness is not something to be achieved; it is already within us. What we need to do is remove the layers of ignorance that cloud it. This is done through inner work—whether through meditation, yoga, or self-reflection. The more we align with the true nature of our being, the less we are bound by the limitations of karma, and the more we experience life and death as a seamless flow of consciousness.

Rumi:
Live with love. When we surrender to love, we dissolve the illusions of separation. In life, this brings us joy and connection. In death, it brings us union with the divine. Consciousness is the river, and love is the current that carries us toward the ocean of the Beloved. Cultivate love in every breath, and the afterlife will be a reflection of that love.

David Hawkins:
Raising our level of consciousness is the most important work we can do. This means transcending the lower states of fear, anger, and pride, and moving toward love, compassion, and joy. Spiritual practices, acts of kindness, and inner reflection all contribute to this. The higher our consciousness, the more we align with truth, and the more expansive our experience of life and the afterlife becomes.

Nick Sasaki:
It seems that the path to a peaceful and expansive afterlife is rooted in cultivating consciousness—whether through presence, love, or spiritual practice. The afterlife, as you’ve all shared, is not a fixed destination but a reflection of our inner state. Thank you all for your profound insights. This has been an enlightening journey through these five topics, and I hope our audience leaves with a deeper understanding of life, death, and the consciousness that binds them.

Short Bios:

Craig Hamilton-Parker is a medium and author known for his exploration of the afterlife, spirit communication, and spiritual growth. His book What to Do When You’re Dead provides insights into life after death and the soul’s journey.

Dolores Cannon was a past-life regressionist and hypnotherapist, recognized for her work on reincarnation, the afterlife, and spiritual evolution. She authored Between Death and Life.

Michael Newton was a pioneering hypnotherapist and author of Journey of Souls, where he explored the soul’s experience between lifetimes through his groundbreaking research.

Yogananda Paramahansa was an Indian yogi and spiritual teacher who introduced millions to meditation and Kriya Yoga. His teachings focus on the soul’s journey toward self-realization.

Rev. Sun Myung Moon was the founder of the Unification Movement and a spiritual leader who emphasized love, service, and the journey of the soul toward unity with God.

Allison DuBois is a psychic medium whose life inspired the TV series Medium. She has helped many connect with loved ones who have passed and shared insights from the spirit world.

John Edward is a renowned medium and author known for his work in spirit communication, offering healing and closure to those seeking messages from the afterlife.

James Van Praagh is a spiritual medium and bestselling author of Talking to Heaven. He has devoted his career to teaching about the afterlife and the continuation of the soul’s journey.

Suzanne Giesemann is a former U.S. Navy Commander turned evidential medium, whose work focuses on helping people connect with the spirit world and find peace after loss.

Ian Stevenson was a psychiatrist known for his scientific research into reincarnation. His studies on children’s memories of past lives brought significant attention to the topic.

Thich Nhat Hanh was a Zen Buddhist monk and teacher whose mindfulness practices emphasized compassion, karma, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Brian Weiss is a psychiatrist and past-life regression therapist, best known for his book Many Lives, Many Masters, which explores healing through the discovery of past lives.

Dr. Amit Goswami is a quantum physicist and spiritual thinker who blends science with spirituality, exploring how consciousness and quantum physics explain reincarnation and karma.

Edgar Cayce was an American clairvoyant who gave readings on topics including the afterlife, reincarnation, and the influence of spirit guides on the soul’s journey.

Neale Donald Walsch is the author of the bestselling Conversations with God series, which explores divine guidance, the role of forgiveness, and spiritual growth.

Louise Hay was a spiritual teacher and author of You Can Heal Your Life, known for her work on healing through self-love, forgiveness, and positive thinking.

Ram Dass was a spiritual teacher and author of Be Here Now. His teachings emphasized presence, spiritual awakening, and the liberation of the soul from ego.

Eckhart Tolle is a spiritual teacher and author of The Power of Now, focusing on the importance of presence and awareness for inner peace and spiritual awakening.

Sadhguru is a yogi and spiritual leader who teaches about the connection between consciousness, karma, and spiritual growth, aiming to help individuals transcend limitations.

Rumi was a 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic whose poetry reflects the soul’s longing for union with the divine, love, and the journey toward spiritual enlightenment.

David Hawkins was a psychiatrist and spiritual teacher who developed a map of consciousness, outlining the levels of human awareness and their impact on life and the afterlife.