Redesigning the Dharma

How Does The Erotic Impact Your Spiritual Practice? with Sarah Kokernot
Episode 24 with Redesigning The Dharma by Sahaja Soma features a conversation with fiction writer and essayist, Sarah Kokernot. Sarah, who has practiced Tibetan Buddhism for 20 years, shares insights from her writing on Dharma practice and the creative process. Their dialogue begins with an overview of Sarah's spiritual journey and the profound impact of Dzogchen on her life. They explore the themes of Eros, love, and devotion in contemplative practice, highlighting the intersection of the erotic and spiritual fulfillment. Sarah also recommends resources for those interested in deepening their understanding of Dharma, including her Substack, Your Wild and Radiant Mind, and various teachings from Lama Lina and Lama Justin von Bujdoss.
Episode Highlights:- 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Kokernot
- 03:54 Sarah’s Dharma Journey: Finding a Teacher and Deepening Practice
- 16:10 Exploring the Erotic in Dharma
- 24:01 Suffering In Life (Through A Buddhist Lens)
- 32:38 Eros and Intimate Presence in Mind
- 37:51 Compassion vs. Love
- 42:47 The Meaning of Devotion in Practice
- 47:46 Resources and Closing Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Sarah is a fiction writer and essayist who has practiced Tibetan Buddhism for 20 years. Her work has appeared in the Buddhist publication, Tricycle, The New York Times, The Best American Short Stories, EPOCH, Michigan Quarterly Review, Crazy Horse and other publications.
Raised in Kentucky in a queer family during the 80s and 90s, Sarah Kokernot found refuge in books, nature, chosen family, and the numinous. That early search for belonging continues to shape her work, and after fifteen years of publishing, she remains most devoted to creative authenticity and genuine connection.
Now based near Chicago with her husband and two children, she works as a grant writer and nonprofit consultant at StoryStudio, one of the nation’s leading creative writing centers.
With nearly two decades of teaching experience, Sarah mentors writers as a creative coach and manuscript consultant. She is currently completing her first novel and developing a book of essays, as well as sharing her insights on Dharma and creativity through her Substack, Your Wild and Radiant Mind.