Western Bauls are characterized by their practice of dharma (spiritual teaching), which involves developing awareness of our inner states through self-observation, recognizing the basic assumption we make about being separate from God or All that exists, and nurturing an innate longing for spiritual freedom. They recognize that, in essence, all spiritual traditions have examples of those who have realized that there is no separate self to substantiate—though one will always exist in form—and that “There is only God” or oneness with the creation. Practice is not a matter of philosophy but is expressed in ordinary, everyday affairs, and often in music and song about devotion to Life and to the Guru who shows the way through the world of suffering and illusion. It is also conveyed in service to all of humanity. As named by Lee Lozowick, Western Bauls are kin to the Bauls of Bengal, India, with whom he shared an essential resonance and friendship. The Eastern Baul tradition, which arose in around the 14th century, is known to adapt and utilize principles of other spiritual traditions in expressing the living teaching.

Lee Lozowick was an American spiritual Master, author, poet, and lyricist, who traveled and taught extensively in the U.S., Europe, and India. He was known for his radical dharma, humor, and integrity, and for his advocacy of conscious child raising. His spiritual community has ashrams in the U.S., France, and India. Lee recognized his Master, Yogi Ramsuratkumar, after his own “shift in context” or awakening to already-present enlightenment (the tacit knowing that the Divine Reality and ordinary life are one and the same in every moment) in 1975. His life was consumed in service to Yogi Ramsuratkumar and all those with spiritual need. Lee maintained relationship with many teachers and practitioners of different traditions. His spiritual lineage includes Swami Papa Ramdas, the Master of his teacher, Yogi Ramsuratkumar.

• To offer something of educational, inspirational, and practical value to anyone drawn to the spiritual path

• To consider the essence of spiritual practice regardless of tradition

• To present discussions on traditional spiritual teaching and its application in the world today, through the regular posting of talks

• To offer information on Western Baul practice and programs available to the public

Talks by those on the Western Baul path, which consider the application of traditional spiritual teaching in our lives in the 21st century, can be accessed on the Podcast page. New topics are considered regularly and are posted by the first of each month. Other activities, including study groups and music and theater performances by Western Bauls, can be viewed on the Activities page.