Together, we work on our individual and collective freedom.
The Liberation Approach
We exist within systems of oppression that sell us the lie of not-enoughness, individualism and competition. We are trapped and burnt out from trying to prove ourselves. We turn away from suffering because we feel helpless; it is too much to bear. Happiness is elusive. Justice seems farfetched. What is freedom within systems that are meant to trap us and keep us striving?
Liberation is a state of mind. It is a process and a practice. Drawing from Buddhist frameworks, we tap back into knowledge, techniques and wisdom that has been available to humankind for over two millennia. Buddhism is a vast collection of teachings over 2600 years and encompasses the wisdom of many Asian peoples. We connect with the discipline and practice emphasis of the Theravada lineage, and lean into the collective liberation mindset of the Bodhisattva from the Mahayana, and we embody the audacity of the Vajrayana that liberation is possible in this lifetime.
This way of being inspires an expansive view of ourselves and the world. We are vast. The potential is limitless. Liberation is an ever-expanding experience. We do not have to strive or compete with others to get free. All our liberation is tied together.
In this approach, our self-healing is done in service of others. Our energy is sacred. We pour into the world with intention.
Meet your co-conspirator
Ekta Hattangady (they/she) is a psychotherapist and Buddhist practitioner cum facilitator based in the Greater Toronto Area.
Ekta’s mission is to empower people to find their magic and medicine rather than rely on gurus or a rigid prescribed path. They offer a light-hearted and humorous touch while relaying key Dharmic ideas in a practicable context. They inspire an openness in practice while still honoring and respecting tradition.
Ekta brings a powerful combination of familiarity with Buddhist concepts and techniques and their lived experience with them which creates space for authentic inquiry for participants. Their work as a therapist help the teachings have pertinence in every day life and toward lasting change/ultimate liberation for all.
They think of themselves as a Kalyānamitta, a spiritual friend/ally, rather than an expert. Whether individual coaching or group facilitation, Ekta creates a welcoming environment for people of various intersecting identities and histories.
The vision is to create safer and braver spaces where folks can show up as their true self, make mistakes, practice accountability, and give and receive support, aka foster “villages” and mentor “engaged villagers.”
Metta Sangha
Founded in 2020 by Ekta, the Metta Sangha is an inclusive and affirming community committed to the principles of radical love and collective liberation. We explore spiritual practices from the Buddhism to understand their application to our 21st century lives.
Weekly meetings on Sundays at 12PM ET. This group is a FREE offering.
Services
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Liberation Coaching
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Spiritual Care
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Groups/Workshops
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Training for Professionals
“Ekta is a generous and thoughtful facilitator, sharing years of wisdom gleaned from personal practice and inviting participants to weave in threads of their own experiences and interpretation. The result is a rich tapestry and a delightful community.”
— A.M., group and 1:1 coaching participant
“I just love everything Ekta brings - I love their no bullshit, authentically, genuine presence! I love that I have become more compassionate with myself (and my anger, my rage, my love) by seeing them hold this for themself. I am learning to show up better for myself and therefore others, thank you ♥️”
— Michelle, group and 1:1 coaching participant
“Ekta creates a space where you feel welcomed and their teachings have an uncanny way of tapping into your experience, such that you feel as though they are speaking directly to you. I especially appreciate their tenderness, informality and relatability, combined with a light-hearted and humorous touch to relaying key Dharmic ideas in a practicable context. Also, Ekta brings a much needed no-nonsense approach to the Dharma where it's more about experience than intellect.”
— Participant, “Awakening the Healing Heart”
