Robin

As the title says. One of my Dzogchen teachers recently told me explicitly that Guru Yoga is essential for practising Trekcho. She also said that she suspects I am confused abut the meaning of Guru Yoga. She may well be right. What's the deal? It kind of gives me religious ick vibes, and I know there are modern interpretations (e.g. Candice Rinpoche, I think) who dispense with the cultural embellishments. How do you relate to Guru Yoga? What role does it play in your practice? (None, a pre-meditation ritual, something else?) If I can't swallow the Guru Yoga pill, should I look elsewhere for similar teaching relating to resting in open awareness (e.g. some Advaita stuff, or contemporary mindfulness methods)? Curious to hear your thoughts. Thanks in advance.