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Propitiating the Ancestors: Pitri Yagya

September 17, 2024, 4:02 am

Pitri yagya is one of the panch-mahayagyas prescribed for a human being. The other four yagyas include –brahm yagya (study of scriptures), dev-yagya (making offerings to devas by medium of fire), manushya-yagya (feeding fellow human beings) and bhuta-yagya (feeding all living creatures).

In earlier times, people would propitiate their deceased fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers by performing acts of charity in their name and chanting specific mantras. Our ancestors were well aware of the continuous nature of life and birth and what a soul goes through during the transition from one birth to the next. The Vedic Indians performed the rites of Shraadh, while the ancient Egyptians embalmed the bodies and stored food and supplies in the pyramids for their final journey. Ancient Greeks put coins under the tongue of the deceased and buried them from where they would be ferried to the underworld, the place where souls lived after death in their culture.

Life is a continuous journey of the soul, which changes form with every subsequent birth. The form could be that of a human, or an animal, or even a deva…Depending on karma, one gets the yoni (level of existence) and loka (dimension of existence). Pitri loka is a dimension between the swarg lok and prithvi loka where souls of ancestors (last three generations) reside in a body-less existence, if their karmas do not permit them to afford a body in the next birth. These ancestors then depend on their children and grandchildren to perform the tasks left unfinished by them to aid their release and approach them in several ways.

These are not myths or superstition, at Dhyan Ashram we have practically come cases where the ancestors have approached their kith and kin for their release. To quote a recent example, clairvoyants at the foundation traced the skeleton and presence of lady with a pearl necklace in the energy body of young girl suffering from chronic stomach illness upon scanning. When they described the lady’s appearance to the mother of the child, she revealed it was her own mother. At another occasion, a sadhak who was performing a havan for peace at the house of a lady, reported seeing a lady who kept distracting him.

When he asked the owner of the house for her identity, he was told she was a deceased kin. Subsequent havans were performed for the shanti of soul.

Shradhs are an important part of our culture and cater to needs of the ancestors who are stuck somewhere in the journey of the spirit. Starting from purnima of bhadrapad till amavasya of ashvin month, on these days the constellations are such that the gateways to the other dimensions open and they are allowed to visit the earth to meet their near and dear ones. Acts of charity done in the name of ancestors along with chanting of specific mantras and performing of yagyas, free the souls from bondages of these not-desired-yonis or levels of existences.

This Pitra Paksh, to avoid Pitra dosh and to get your ancestors blessings for, your healthy fruitful life, Dhyan Foundation is conducting daily yagyas and Gaubhoj from Sept 17 till Sarv Pitra Amavasya Oct 2 in special shakti kund. Guru ji will be guiding all yagyas
To participate in the yagya and to do gaudaan in the name of your pitris, visit www.dhyanfoundation.com

Crystals for Daily Life

September 17, 2024, 3:52 am

Crystals are natural minerals formed deep within the Earth, known for their unique energies and healing properties. Crystals have been used for centuries to boost well-being.
They are not just beautiful stones; they are tools that can help achieve our goals and enhance our well-being. Each crystal has its unique energy, own vibration and qualities and can help us to balance emotions, improve focus and enhance spiritual growth. They are believed to carry special vibrations & energies that can promote physical, emotional, spiritual well-being, bring positive energy and support various aspects of life.

Below are the some of the widely used best crystals, to help with health, financial abundance, career, relationships and spirituality.

Health : Promote physical and emotional well-being

1.Amethyst: A calming crystal that helps calm the mind, reduces stress and improves sleep.
2.Bloodstone: Supports circulation and detoxifies the body.
3.Clear Quartz: Known as the “master healer,” it helps with overall health and boosts energy.
4.Turquoise: A powerful stone great for the immune system and helps with general body healing.
5.Rose Quartz: Helps in emotional healing, encourages self-love & self-care, which is crucial for emotional well-being.
6.Carnelian: Boosts physical energy and helps in maintaining vitality.
7.Green Aventurine: Supports heart health and increases physical strength.

Financial Abundance : Attract wealth and prosperity with these crystals
1.Citrine: Known as the “merchant’s stone,” it attracts wealth and prosperity.
2.Pyrite: Also called “fool’s gold,” it helps to bring good luck and financial success.
3.Green Jade: Attracts prosperity and promotes a steady flow of money.
4.Tiger’s Eye: Promotes confidence and helps in achieving financial goals.
5.Garnet: Boosts motivation and keeps you on track toward financial goals.
6.Malachite: Assists in making smart financial decisions.
7.Emerald: Represents abundance and long-term wealth and encourages financial growth.

Career :Enhance your professional life with these crystals

1.Citrine: Boosts creativity and confidence in professional life.
2.Green Aventurine: Brings new opportunities and supports career growth.
3.Fluorite: Improves focus and sharpens decision-making skills at work.
4.Lapis Lazuli: Enhances communication and leadership qualities.
5.Carnelian: Increases motivation and helps to pursue career goals with passion.
6.Tiger’s Eye: Promotes confidence, courage and motivation for success in the workplace.
7.Amazonite: Helps to balance work-life and reduces career stress.
Relationships: Foster love and harmony with these crystals
1.Rose Quartz: The stone of love, brings compassion and harmony in relationships.
2.Rhodonite: Helps heal emotional wounds and brings forgiveness.
3.Moonstone: Supports new beginnings and emotional balance in relationships.
4.Lapis Lazuli: Encourages open & honest communication, strengthens trust.
5.Garnet: Deepens passion and emotional connection in relationships
6.Green Aventurine: Promotes harmony and love in relationships. Helps strengthen existing relationships
7.Pink Tourmaline: Helps heal from heartbreak, nurtures love & brings emotional comfort.

Spirituality: Deepen your spiritual connection with these crystals

1.Amethyst: A powerful spiritual stone for enhancing spiritual awareness and intuition.
2.Selenite: Clears negative energy and promotes spiritual growth.
3.Labradorite: Encourages self-discovery and deepens spiritual awakening.
4.Clear Quartz: Amplifies spiritual energy and helps in connecting to higher consciousness.
5.Angelite: Strengthens connection to angelic realms and spiritual guides.
6.Black Obsidian: Provides protection from negative energy and helps in spiritual healing.
7.Celestite: Brings peace and a sense of divine connection

By using crystals regularly in our daily routine, we can experience improved health, wealth, relationships, career and personal growth.

Using these crystals is simple. Carry them in your pocket, wear them as jewelry, meditate with them or place them in your home or workspace. Start your journey with the natural beauty and calming presence of crystals today and experience the benefits they can bring to your daily life.

Jyotsnaa G Bansal is a Reiki Grandmaster, Author, Numerologist, Researcher, Crystals & Spiritual Guide, Counselor, Switchwords Practitioner.

Why are we playing Russian Roulette?

September 17, 2024, 3:45 am

The maverick guru—Paglot Baba—heard the visitor brag and rant at the same time. It was apparent that the visitor was an achiever in corporate life, though extremely restless and paranoid, as a split personality. Despite his achievements, he had a string of complaints about life.

‘Let’s play a game,’ Baba spoke when the visitor stopped. He went inside the room and returned with a revolver as he announced, ‘This is a classic .38 Smith & Wesson.’ Everyone was intrigued as to what Baba was up to.
Putting a bullet in the cartridge cylinder, he twirled and closed it. ‘It’s ready now. Behind my back, I’m called Paglot, a madman. I need to maintain my reputation, right? Let’s play Russian roulette. Let me start. I’ll place the gun against my temple and pull the trigger. If it goes off, boom, I’m gone and the game is over. If not, it’ll be your turn.’

The room became heavy with indescribable dread. There were spiritual aspirants with a mystical bent of mind, and here was the guru behaving bizarrely instead of the sermon they expected. Agreed, he was called an eccentric guru for his unorthodox approach. However, this was stretching it too far.
‘Please, stop!’ The visitor shouted as Baba kept the muzzle of the revolver against his temple. The visitor was now sweating profusely. ‘This is sheer insanity,’ he put into words the thought that permeated every other mind in the room.

‘Why is this insane and not what you do, day in and day out?’ Baba asked as he placed the gun on the table. ‘You live your life on the edge, and I’m not using it as a positive term for being enterprising but what you do by risking your health, friends, family, and what you call mental peace. That’s what you are doing while chasing mirages that you feel constitute your life while disregarding and sacrificing everything of value. Despite that, you complain about life being unfair. Isn’t that similar to playing Russian roulette every day of your life? Your life borders on schizophrenia, yet I’m the one who’s dubbed a madman.’

It was the ashen-faced visitor’s uncontrollable sobs that broke the eerie silence as he kept repeating, ‘Oh god, now I understand…’

We are either one of the stupefied spectators or the visitor but there’s no denying that we too live our lives on the edge. Every single day is a dangerous game: living beyond our means, getting into meaningless relationships while putting important ones at stake, chucking our dreams by toeing the line and doing what others expect, taking decisions that we know could even jeopardise what we cherish. Each such decision is akin to pulling the trigger while playing Russian roulette. We’re simply lucky if the gun hasn’t fired so far.

Wonder how long we can continue to cling on to our luck? Ask yourself!

Hong Kong celebrates eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi with edible chocolate idols

September 17, 2024, 3:32 am

The Indian community in Hong Kong celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi in a truly innovative and environmentally conscious way this year. Under the leadership of the Amigos Millionaire Group, an eco-friendly Ganapati Puja was organized, placing a significant focus on sustainability. This year’s highlight was the use of edible chocolate Ganesh idols, symbolizing a unique step towards promoting eco-friendly practices during religious festivals.

Ganesh Chaturthi is traditionally celebrated by installing clay idols of Lord Ganesh, which are later immersed in water bodies as part of the Visarjan (idol immersion) ritual. However, in recent years, there has been growing concern over the environmental impact of these immersions, particularly with idols made of plaster of Paris and other non-biodegradable materials. These materials release harmful chemicals into water bodies, causing pollution and harming aquatic life.

To counter this environmental hazard, the Amigos Millionaire Group, led by its Chairman Raju Sabanani, spearheaded an innovative initiative with edible chocolate Ganesh idols. These idols are not only a step towards environmental sustainability but also enhance the meaning of the festival by incorporating community health and well-being into the celebrations.

Following the traditional installation of the Ganesh idol, the organizers carried out the Visarjan in an eco-friendly manner by dissolving the chocolate idol in milk. This symbolic yet profound act eliminated the need for immersing the idol in a water body. The milk in which the idol dissolved was then distributed as Prasad (holy offering) among the devotees, further promoting the sense of community and sharing that is central to the festival.

Speaking about the initiative, Raju Sabanani expressed his vision for a more sustainable way of celebrating religious festivals. “We encourage all devotees to adopt edible chocolate idols for worship and immersion instead of the traditional plaster idols that contain harmful chemicals and non-biodegradable materials. The immersion of traditional idols in water bodies has disastrous environmental effects. Our approach ensures that we not only honor Lord Ganesh but also safeguard nature.”

Sabanani emphasized that adopting sustainable practices does not detract from the religious significance of the festival but instead adds a new dimension of responsibility and care for the environment. “By adopting edible idols, we reduce the environmental footprint that these celebrations leave behind. The chocolate Ganesh not only adds sweetness to our celebration but also symbolizes health and prosperity without causing harm to our ecosystem.”

The eco-friendly celebration is a bold attempt to raise awareness about the environmental damage caused by traditional festival practices and to promote sustainable alternatives. Sabanani and his team hope that this initiative will serve as a model for communities worldwide, inspiring a global movement toward eco-friendly celebrations that harmonize tradition with environmental consciousness.
The Amigos Millionaire Group is committed to fostering a balance between cultural heritage and environmental sustainability.

Under Sabanani’s leadership, the group actively engages in cultural and social activities that align with their goal of promoting green initiatives. This year’s eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi was a testament to their efforts to bring about positive change, ensuring that celebrations are not only spiritually enriching but also environmentally responsible.

Through this initiative, the group aims to spread the message that tradition and sustainability can coexist harmoniously, ultimately encouraging more communities to adopt similar practices in their celebrations.

The Mindset for Changing Times

September 14, 2024, 5:29 am

One way we can live life is to have everything happen according to our wishes. If that transpires, how do we feel? Peaceful, content, and happy. But how often does everything go according to our plan – there are no challenges, and everyone does exactly what they are told to do? Most people say they do not see a single day like that. And what happens when problems crop up? Do we get stressed, angry, depressed, or remain in control of ourselves and the situation?

Take this example: many people get irritated when they encounter heavy traffic on the roads. Is traffic inherently irritating or do we get annoyed by it? It is important to make the distinction, because situations all around us are changing, often unpredictably, and if we are hostage to them, then there will be little peace and happiness in our life.
The certainties we took for granted in an earlier age are fast vanishing. Not too long ago, people used to retire from the company they joined as a trainee. Once you got a job, it was more or less assured that you would work there until you retired. But now there is no such certitude. Even if you do well in your job, you may be laid off because the employer has decided to downsize and cut costs.

A cloud of uncertainty hangs over nearly every sphere of human life, including our health. Those in their twenties and thirties are being diagnosed with diseases that used to be seen only in senior citizens earlier.

Relationships are also taking unexpected turns all too often. In India, divorce used to be rare a few decades ago and was seen as a disaster in one’s life. The few cases that did occur, usually had major reasons behind them which were mitigating factors. But now couples decide to part ways simply because they find that they do not think alike. Can two people ever think exactly the same way?

These developments are often attributed to the increasing challenges and complexities of modern life. Going by the current trends, the problems will only increase in future. If I believe that I can be happy only when everything out there is to my liking, then what will be my mental and emotional state amidst the growing troubles?

Many people believe that it is natural to be stressed in difficult times – thoughts of fear and worry arise automatically, they say. Do thoughts emerge on their own in response to circumstances? If that were the case, every individual facing a particular situation would have the same kind of thoughts. But that does not happen, and we find different people reacting differently. That is because we choose what to think in every situation. The choice is made in a fraction of a second, and is determined by our perception, beliefs, and tendencies. If we want to be masters of our destiny, not its victims, this is the first thing we need to recognise: our thoughts are our choice and, in our control, not the result of what is happening around us. We can magnify a problem or shrink it with our perspective. As the nature of our thoughts, so are our feelings and vibrations. If I think that a challenge is no big deal, I can cope with it, it will be resolved, then I will feel confident and light. My vibes will reassure those around me and everyone will look at the matter with a positive frame of mind. On the other hand, if I panic and start thinking, “What will I do now”, “How can I deal with this”, “What will happen”, I can very well imagine how I am going to feel. Those around me will be similarly worried, everyone’s energy level will be low, and decisions made in that state of mind would not be the best. Fear and worry constrict our mental horizon and restrict our choices, often stopping us from taking steps that offer a way out of the problem.

The key to facing any challenge is a positive and strong mind. I cannot control other people or events in the world, but I can certainly choose how I respond. The practice of meditation helps a great deal in this. It improves our mental focus and clarity, allowing us to think better, see all the options before us, and take the best decision.
We may not have all the resources needed to deal with the issue at hand, and it may not be resolved entirely to our satisfaction, but a strong mind ensures that we are calm, stable, and even happy while dealing with it – we come away from it unscarred. And that is what matters, because problems come and go, but what remains for the rest of our lives are the memories, the experience, and the lessons from how we coped.

B.K. Shreya is a Brahma Kumaris Rajyoga teacher based in Mumbai.

The power of inner vision

September 14, 2024, 5:25 am

“We see things not as they are but as we are” – Immanuel Kant

What we see is shaped by our inner world. Our inner vision is like becoming aware of the lenses through which we perceive reality, and spirituality introduces a new dimension to that perception. Our beliefs, knowledge, experiences, current emotional state, and our personality are the basis of our interpretation of what we see and hear. If we become more aware of what our inner state of consciousness is, then we are able to perceive the deeper meaning of what lies beyond our physical sight. In the same way as specialists in their subject have a deeper understanding of what they see. A doctor understands patterns of physical conditions and can diagnose accurately. An engineer can see a blueprint and understand deeper structural issues. A lawyer looks at a document in a completely different way from a layman, and understands the nuances and interprets them with a deeper understanding of the law.

Many of us have come to understand that under the law of physics, a solid table is not really as solid as it seems. It is made up of atoms, and is in fact, 99.9 per cent vacuum, yet even having that understanding, we are unable to perceive that constantly, and treat the table as a solid piece of matter. Our physical world is so much more dynamic than we can perceive through our physical eyes. We go about our daily life locked into roles of parent, teacher, our place in society, our nationality, and behave accordingly. If we could hold our inner vision in the awareness of who we really are and what we are really doing, our lives would be so much richer. More than that, we would really see the deeper meaning in everything that is happening, especially what is happening directly around us.

The way to become free of our limited awareness is to understand that life is really just a theatre. All of us have roles to play, but we are not the roles. We do not even originate from the theatre. Just like all actors, we have a home to which we will return. We actors are higher beings, extremely subtle points of consciousness, light, similar to stars. We sparkling entities come onto the stage and adopt our costumes and masks, and initially experience it all to be a glorious and joyful game. However, just as those who like to experiment with virtual reality begin to experience that virtual reality as real, and the longer the headset is on and the game is playing, the more likely they are to ‘forget’ they are human beings, so too, over time we have also lost sense of what is ‘real’. On stage, actors know who they are. Some are very clever at observing themselves as actors while acting their parts – they do not buy into the story and the roller coaster of emotions they are being asked to play out. They keep themselves above and give a perfect performance while understanding what is happening and appreciating the other actors and their roles.
In the same way, the more we can hold on to the awareness of who we really are, the more we are free to play our parts with the full depth of experience and with love and compassion for others. Everyone is good, everyone’s truth is beautiful, whatever is happening, because it is all an immense and seemingly chaotic drama. But, as with all dramas, there is a plan and all is working exactly as it should. We are all on a journey and when we are ‘awake’ to what is really happening, the love we generate transcends all the limitations of the stage.

As with all good plays, there is One who remains beyond all the action. The One who is in a position to remind us that we are not of the stage, but on the stage, as actors. That is the One bright star of Supreme consciousness that cannot be seen with physical eyes. This Friend can be felt and perceived through meditation, and because He constantly sees us in our own perfection, we can define ourselves not through our roles, but through His vision.
Sarah Fitzgerald is an interior designer, English language teacher, and Rajyoga teacher with the Brahma Kumaris in Cambridge, UK.

Your life is right now!

September 14, 2024, 5:16 am

Your life is right now! It is not later! It is not in that time of retirement. It is not when you have moved into the new house, or when you get a better job. Your life is right now. It will always be right now. You might as well decide to start enjoying your life right now, because it is never going to get better than right now – that is, until it gets better right now!
When someone greets us, let us not ignore, nod, mumble or casually say ‘morning’.

Saying ‘Good Morning’ should not be difficult. Rather, be in the moment, experience the energy of the meeting, and the one who has greeted us gets our message plus our pure energy. No matter what mood the person is in, happy, sad, silent, but regardless of their response, in those two seconds we can make their experience of meeting us a good one. Let us not wait for others to greet us on the basis of hierarchies, of age, position, or power. We often overlook the power of simple gestures that add happiness, like making eye contact, smiling, paying a compliment, or waving a greeting. By helping others feel good about themselves, our own happiness significantly grows.

Everyone is looking to be acknowledged, that they matter, through our words and actions. Sometimes, this is all that people need from us. When we greet an old friend, hold the door open for a stranger, or thank a family member, how do we feel? Our kindness in action will let others know we understand their value and importance. Each day, we can have unconditional acceptance of others and give good wishes.

Our responses to situations determine our happiness, and the response begins with the thoughts our mind creates. We can take time early each morning to sit and experience the self as a soul, meditate, and count our blessings, and in this way program our mind with only positive thoughts for a perfect day. Feeding the mind with good thoughts first thing in the day is like planting healthy seeds in fertile ground.

Our inner mental preparation, done with care, creates beautiful outer realities for us. Situations and people may be imperfect, but our state of mind should remain perfectly calm, happy, and peaceful. The outer environment is a reflection of our thoughts. There is no point in trying to change the outer environment – it is only change ‘within’ that will produce the change ‘without’. There’s no time like the present, and the present is all we have. Let us be still and appreciate what is right in front of us, be present, pay attention, really be with the people we are with, because in a flash, it is gone and a new moment has taken its place. ‘In-joy’ each day, moment by moment, right now!

Chirya Risely is a Rajyoga meditation teacher based at the Brahma Kumaris Peace Village Retreat Center, USA.

The Magic of Intention

September 7, 2024, 2:58 am

Intention without action is simply daydreaming or wishful thinking …

Every act we perform, consciously or not, has behind it an intention. Intentions are words and feelings, and like a compass they guide our actions/behaviour to our goals for the day. Intentions are the ‘WHATs’: What should I do/eat/buy today? Motives are the ‘WHYs’ behind the intention. They drive and motivate us and give meaning and purpose to our choices. Having intentions is like going to a supermarket with a list so that we are less likely to be distracted, and can stay focussed and efficient. However, should we be distracted, then intentions work like a GPS that can reroute and guide us to our destination.

Studies in psychology show that intentions are powerful thoughts and feelings. Whatever clear intention we have, sooner or later we will verbalise it. Those words will reveal our attitude and impact our behaviour. For example: a simple intention – “I want to rest all day today” will reflect our attitude for the day and impact our behaviour.

We may try to cloak our intentions, but our words, attitude, and behaviour will reveal them. No matter how polite and logical a salesperson may be, if he is driven by a desperate intention to make a sale at any cost, that intention will be felt and his attitude will make us uncomfortable; we would defend ourselves, confront him, or walk away with a polite thank you.

The impact of intentions on our brain: Today science speaks of the neuro-plasticity of the brain; that is, its ability to adjust and adapt to new learning at any age. If we have an intention to learn to meditate to become more peaceful and less reactive, the brain will attract ‘natural attention’ and bring awareness to us in our situations. A new calm attitude will gradually impact our behaviour.

Setting powerful intentions: Journalling our thoughts and emotions daily without self-judgement can bring clarity and a sense of liberation. Vision boards in cut-out images bring a three-dimensional feeling to our intentions. Positive affirmations such as “I am beautiful…, healthy…, healed…”, with visualisations using our five senses can actualise our intentions.

The power of our mind can access unlimited resources. Whatever we visualise can be actualised. A positive or negative intention is a deliberate effort and the manifestation is simply the result. The question then arises, if I can actualise anything that I intend, then what is the role of fate or destiny?

Man proposes and God disposes, goes the saying. Although our mind has the power to attract and accomplish what we want, there are forces beyond our control that come into play and must be respected. For example, we want a perfect holiday, but a natural calamity such as an earthquake or flood may not allow it. Or, we build a dream home for our family, only to lose it months later due to a natural disaster. That is fate or destiny at play.

The next question that arises is, if we are that powerful and can realise our deepest intentions, then what is the role of God, the universe, and divine powers? Manifestation of our intentions through spiritual faith is to invite God or the universe to be the co-creator in our life. Faith and surrender to God influence the outcome. Therefore, there is more likely to be acceptance of the outcome, with the understanding that the universe is offering us something better. This mental state brings humility, the feeling of being blessed, and resilience in our efforts.

What then, is the art of meditation? Meditation follows the same principles as the above. It begins with a positive intention, followed by high-vibration words and affirmations with visualisation to transform the self into a better and calmer person than you are now.
Here is the magic recipe: Your intention is like a magic wand that you point at the universe to seek its assistance and blessings as a co-creator to realise your desires, while respecting and being in awe of the laws of nature.

Meelu G Wadhwani is a teacher of Rajyoga, based in Dubai, and the founder of www.abundance365.net

Going beyond the Limited Ego

September 7, 2024, 2:56 am

The lenses that we use to view the world and people around us, rose-tinted or not, are affected by factors that contribute to the colour and shape of those lenses. Our emotions, experiences, preferences, and habits pool together in what we call a limited ego, and this makes us believe that what we see and remember is exactly what happened. This ego, spinning around its own interests and associations, positions, colours, and shapes the lens of perception according to its whims. It is like looking at reality through a very tiny keyhole.

The first reducer of perspective are the physical senses. We perceive only about three per cent of the electromagnetic spectrum. We cannot see anything before red and after violet. Dogs can hear and smell better the we can. Bats guide themselves around using sonar. Many insects and birds navigate around due to a map-like spatial memory, better than many human beings. Imagine if, for example, we could “see” people’s vibrations. The advantages of that would be tremendous. In essence, the world that we see, hear, and touch is not all that exists.

Secondly, we are limited by the roles we have to play. A mother sees her children as a mother. A boss sees the team through the eyes of a ‘boss’. In other words, the tasks and responsibilities exert a pressure that means we only perceive things from the perspective of the role. This extends to cultural aspects as well – race, nationality, religion, and so on.
The third limiting factor is our own story. We carry the memory of everything we have gone through in childhood, adolescence, youth, and other stages of life. All the events and experiences that we took from them crowds into a small window of perception. Objectivity becomes impossible as we take most of our experiences personally. For all the above reasons, it is only by chance that we can perceive the same thing in the same way as someone else. When there is an unlimited sense of self, the door opens wide and we can see things as they really are.

To open the door wide and have a full perspective, we need to employ three powerful forms of consciousness.

First, I am the spiritual being, conscious energy, or soul, and I have a body. It is my instrument for expressing what is in me, and experiencing the result of that expression. This consciousness opens the door to be able to see others as souls, and even to perceive dimensions beyond this physical one. After all, if I am a spiritual energy, and not my material form, there are other questions to consider. If I am not matter, then I did not come from matter. The place we try to reach when we meditate or pray, and is remembered in all religious traditions – heaven or nirvana – is a dimension of light, the home of souls.

Secondly, I am the actor and I have many roles connected to my family, profession, social interactions, and even culture, religion, and nationality. I am one and the roles are many. If I have this consciousness, I can fulfil the roles in a better way. I can see that every single human being is an actor in this play of life. I cannot control anyone else’s roles. I have to pay attention to my own roles, to see how to harmonise them with those of others.
And thirdly, I am not my story. I am the protagonist of it. At a particular point in my mother’s pregnancy, I came into the womb, and started giving life to my tiny body. At another moment in the future, I will leave it. In this way, I can understand that I have been around before this life, and will exist after it. I, the soul, will continue to participate in a far bigger story. The story of this life is just one chapter of a book.

Using these three powerful forms of consciousness, I can really change the way I interact with the world. I do not need to kill the limited ego, but learn to operate better by applying these three powerful forms of consciousness.

Ken O’Donnell is an author and the director of Brahma Kumaris’ services in South America.

Who are we?

September 7, 2024, 2:48 am

Our natural inclination is to see the world from a materialistic point of view. But when consciousness is brought into the picture, we gain a new and enlightening perspective. Consciousness is usually sought to be understood as a physical phenomenon, in terms of its relation to the body and the brain. But this approach is illogical and cannot accurately explain the truth beyond a point because that which is non-physical or metaphysical cannot be correctly known from the physical point of view. Consciousness can be understood only through consciousness, or direct personal experience.

The entity having this personal experience is the soul, the sentient being which brings life to the body made up of inanimate matter. The atoms that constitute the body are fundamental components of matter, and while they interact with each other through physical and chemical processes, they lack the characteristics typically associated with living beings, such as awareness and intent.

The soul is a subtle, tiny, sentient point of light. Tiny here means smaller than the smallest particle – the soul cannot be seen or measured under a microscope, because it is a metaphysical entity. The soul is immortal and indivisible. Life begins when the soul enters a foetus in a mother’s womb. When the soul leaves, the body dies.

In the body, the soul resides in the brain, near the hypothalamus, which plays a key role in essential bodily functions, including temperature regulation, hormone regulation, and maintaining a stable internal environment despite external changes. It is from here that the soul controls the body and expresses itself through it.

The soul has three subtle faculties – the mind, which thinks; the intellect, which analyses, discerns, and makes decisions; and latent tendencies or habits, which are called ‘sanskars’ in some Indian languages. Each soul is unique in its capabilities, which may vary over time.
The first and foremost quality of the soul is that it is sentient. Apart from thinking, it can imagine, dream, and rewind recorded memories. Emotions are experienced by the soul, not the body.

The soul uses the body to perform various tasks, many of them consciously and deliberately, and others involuntarily. It is the soul who sees, hears, tastes, smells, and senses through the sense organs. Tiredness and sleepiness are experienced by the soul, which can then withdraw from physical sensations and rest in sleep. During sleep, the soul ‘sees’ dreams with the mind’s eye. The soul remembers or forgets facts and experiences.

Willpower, attitude, and intelligence are all attributes of the soul. Underlying these are the soul’s seven basic virtues: truth, peace, love, purity, strength, joy, and bliss. These traits foster other desirable qualities like compassion, generosity, and sweetness. A person is in a good frame of mind as long as the basic virtues are maintained. When the soul moves away from its natural qualities, vices such as lust, anger, and greed arise. They, in turn, breed negative traits like dishonesty, jealousy, and hatred.

It is to be noted that the above are all characteristics of a sentient being; none of them can be the attribute of a merely physical entity, be it the brain or any other part of the body. What does that tell us about who we are – a collection of atoms and cells, or something more?

B.K. Girish, an engineer by profession, has been a student of Rajyoga with the Brahma Kumaris for 40 years. After working in various IT companies, he now devotes his time to spiritual service, including scripting short films on spiritual subjects.

From the age of falsehood to the Age of Truth

August 31, 2024, 2:00 am

Truth is an essential ingredient of moral character and ethical behaviour. In personal relationships, truth fosters trust and credibility. On a larger scale, a commitment to truth promotes social harmony, as misunderstandings and conflicts often arise from wrong information. In legal systems, truth is the key to justice.

In nearly every sphere of life, knowing the truth is crucial for accurately evaluating our options and making the correct decisions. For self-improvement too we need to face and accept the truth about ourselves and our situation in order to bring about the necessary changes in the self.

There was a time when truth was the foundation of society. Satyug, or the Age of Truth, is the first of four epochs in the cycle of time. It was the golden age when people lived in harmony with natural and spiritual laws. Virtue and righteousness were the norm. There was no crime or violence, and consequently courts, prisons, and armies did not exist in Satyug.

In the following three epochs, called Tretayug, Dwaparyug, and Kaliyug, humans gradually drifted away from truth and virtue. As they interacted with the material world, they were influenced by it. Their spiritual awareness weakened, and a time came when they lost it altogether. Forgetting that they are souls, or immortal beings of light who are innately peaceful and loving, they started identifying with their mortal bodies and relating to others on that basis. Ignorant of the fundamental truth of their spiritual identity, they fell prey to vices such as ego, greed, lust, and anger. Over time, this spiritual decline accelerated, bringing us to where we are today.

Earlier, it was natural – not naïve – to take someone at their word. The Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem from the 16th century, extols the integrity of rulers in Tretayug, saying that it was their tradition to keep their word, even at the cost of their life. Today, a spoken word has no legal value unless it has been recorded in some manner and authenticated.

There are some communities around the world whose languages do not have a written script, and their knowledge, culture, and traditions are passed down orally through storytelling and songs. They still honour verbal agreements, with witnesses invited and specific rituals performed to ensure compliance. The trustworthiness of the individuals involved no doubt matters in this.

But in supposedly advanced societies, it is different – written agreements often do not have the credibility that a spoken word carried in an earlier age. Even formal deals are worthless unless they have been secured with legal safeguards.

Just as weak eyes need glasses to see properly and frail knees require the support of a walker, when souls lose the power of truth, elaborate legal systems have to be created to uphold it. Numerous rules, procedures, and laws now govern nearly every aspect of our lives and almost all spheres of human activity. To enforce these laws, each country has a vast law and order machinery, including the police, investigative agencies, prosecuting authorities, and the judiciary. But when souls are in breach of spiritual laws, they fail to abide by temporal ones too. It is no wonder, then, that more than 40 million cases are pending in Indian courts.

Away from the field of law, where truth is sought to be defended and justice served by official mechanisms, public discourse, which shapes policy decisions and societal norms, has been corrupted by misinformation and disinformation, which often overshadow the truth. Conflicting sets of ‘facts’ are held as true by different groups of people simply because they resonate with their emotions and prejudices, even if such ‘facts’ are bereft of evidence and logical reasoning. Social media and digital platforms have exacerbated this phenomenon by amplifying false and misleading information. Social media users are more likely to share fake news than real news. The proliferation of misinformation negatively impacts public perceptions and behaviour, polarising society and fuelling discord.

Why is this happening? When individuals are far removed from spiritual truths and values, their commitment to any kind of truth is likely to be weak. If our thinking is distorted by fear, hatred, or mistrust, then narratives that conform to our perspective will look more appealing than the inconvenient truth. Many people now simply ignore or reject the truth if it contradicts their viewpoint and hinders their agenda.

From this post-truth age, we can return to the Age of Truth only when we start living the truth. The first step is to recognise that we are all souls, children of the Supreme Soul, and part of one spiritual family. Accepting this fact and reflecting on it begins to awaken the latent original qualities of the soul: peace, love, purity, and truth. As we experience these qualities more by practising soul consciousness and seeing others as brother souls, we realise that all that brings us true fulfilment, such as lasting peace and pure love, can be found by looking within. Living by our innate virtues brings emotional stability and happiness. And when we connect, through remembrance, with the Supreme Father, who is the eternal and infinite source of these qualities, the soul feels cleansed, empowered, and blessed. Truth then becomes our natural choice, as we find that it is the easiest way to lasting peace and happiness.

B.K. Brij Mohan is Additional Secretary General of Brahma Kumaris.

In the stillness

August 31, 2024, 1:55 am

“Strength for living necessitates finding a point of stillness from which I begin, and to which I return, every day: an oasis of inner peace.”
– Anthony Strano

We were always meant to integrate movement and stillness, and silence and sound, as we live our lives. Yet many of us spend most of our time only in movement and sound – no wonder we sometimes feel out of balance, exhausted, and unable to respond well to the situations we find ourselves in.

Stillness brings us back to self-mastery and harnesses the human potential from the very core. Going into a place of calm and quiet gives access to the greatness of the human spirit. When we look into a body of water that is choppy, full of ebb and flow and turbulence, we cannot see into the depths. When the water is completely still, we can then see what has been there all along. We can see into the deepest parts. In stillness we can see into the depths of the self, the soul.

Spiritual endeavour is about self-transformation. It is very important, when managing self-transformation, to flood the self with stillness to be able to profoundly see what is happening with thoughts, feelings, attitudes, perspectives – the powerful inner depths of the self. The single deepest longing of the human spirit, deep in the heart, is to return to our highest potential.

However, we cannot go directly to the new from the old. We cannot just glue wings on a caterpillar and call it a butterfly – the caterpillar needs the stillness of the chrysalis. This is a critical step. To move in a new direction, I need stillness for that movement.
“In the introspective space – I reflect. I recollect what has been forgotten for a long time.”
– Anthony Strano

In the still mirror inside, I see who I really am. All I have to do is close the gap between that which I really am and where I am now. For this to happen, stillness is the chrysalis that will activate a completely different operating system. We need a reset. Just as when a defibrillator shocks a heart that is out of synch – it will restart and function normally. We emerge from the times of stillness with a different way of being, which means we do things differently, we do things in a new way, the ‘normal’ way of being. We return to responding with clarity to our life’s story, and not reacting in the same old way with the same old outcomes.

What is it that we are connecting with in the stillness? With the long-forgotten true self, in a state where silence heals. Sometimes, physical stillness and physical silence are confused with spiritual stillness and silence. But they are very different. What we aim to do is maintain an inner stillness and silence while in physical action. However, there is something more going on as we return to the self. We are able, in that stillness, to not only return to the roots but also to the Seed. A return to God – a separate entity from I, the soul. That Being exists to remind us of who we really are, and our most intimate and eternal relationship is with that Being. In silence, in that reunion with the self, I have communion with the Divine. Then, when I come back into the field of expression, I am operating at my highest, most gracious potential.

Judi Rich is a graphic designer and fitness instructor. She is the Brahma Kumaris Centre Coordinator in Calgary, Canada.

Chaos Theory Resolved

August 31, 2024, 1:50 am

A visitor from a distant galaxy would probably be mystified by this planet’s utter turmoil, seeing the incredible juxtaposition of luxury lifestyles and rapid technological innovation, with numerous wars and disputes, hunger, poverty, and ecological destruction.

This is a world of complex chaos, related to one root cause: abandoning spiritual acceptance and respect for each one’s part. A global amnesia, where all have forgotten who and what they are. We are like children freed from the classroom, running amok without guidance and structure, concerned only with satisfying some basic personal needs. We find overlapping resentments and anger when needs mix and clash, resulting in the familiar repercussions.

So, are we doomed to be just survivors in a maze of difficult situations and issues? I believe using the analogy of a play will help us gain clarity and formulate a positive response to the dysfunctional turmoil of the present time.

A play comprises actors, in specific scenarios, with specific roles and lines to deliver at the appropriate time. When each one forgets these or loses awareness of when and where they should interact, things go wrong for themselves and others in the play. Does that sound familiar?

At present, circumstances are such that many have become disillusioned with the scenarios they are in, and frustrated by the part they have to play. They have become distracted by wishing they could play another’s part, or make their own part like another’s; their lines, exits and entrances, identities and interactions, are forgotten or entangled. Abandoning their original role, many try to create a new role, and by doing so step out of sync with the overall harmony of life’s unlimited drama. Chaos ensues, and the play loses all meaning and direction.

It is through the teachings of spirituality that order can be restored. The teaching of self–realization provides the avenue to bring order to this rampant confusion. The mind that lives in the awareness of the soul, a soul-centred mind, has the strength to hold this awareness as it continues to play the part destined for them. In this way, order is reestablished and the soul becomes full of enthusiasm and courage to move forward. It moves into a state of contentment with the role and part it has to play. Out of chaos and havoc come harmony and order. Life takes on a new meaning and each one becomes the hero of their own story.

Jim Ryan has a background in education. He is an author and a Brahma Kumaris Rajyoga teacher, based at the Global Retreat Centre, Oxford, UK.

A Look at the Diggi Kalyan Ji Lakkhi Padayatra: The Journey of Faith

August 12, 2024, 6:43 am

The Diggi Kalyan Ji Lakkhi Padayatra is a major religious and cultural event in Rajasthan. Starting from Jaipur, this annual pilgrimage honors the deity Diggi Kalyan Ji. Participants, including devotees from various regions, join the procession covering around 200 kilometers to the town of Diggi. The Diggi Kalyan Ji Lakkhi Padayatra, a significant pilgrimage and cultural event, commenced from Jaipur, marking the start of a historic journey dedicated to the revered deity, Diggi Kalyan Ji. This grand procession, which combines devotion with community celebration, has become a central cultural event in the region, drawing thousands of participants each year.

Throughout the padayatra, participants engage in religious rituals, cultural performances, and community activities. Local folklore, music, and dance add vibrancy to the procession, which also serves to strengthen community bonds and promote local culture.

The event faces logistical challenges, including managing large crowds and ensuring safety, but these are addressed by the organizing committee with support from local authorities.
The Diggi Kalyan Ji Lakkhi Padayatra not only fosters religious devotion but also provides economic benefits to towns and villages along the route. Its continued success highlights its significance in preserving and celebrating Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage.

The Lakkhi Padayatra is a deeply rooted tradition in Rajasthan, celebrating the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. The journey begins from Jaipur, where the flag worship ceremony was held to mark the official start of the padayatra. This ceremony, a blend of religious rituals and community involvement, sets the tone for the journey ahead.
The primary objective of the padayatra is to honor Diggi Kalyan Ji, a revered local deity, and to reinforce community bonds through shared devotion and cultural activities. The event typically attracts devotees from various parts of Rajasthan and neighboring states, who join the procession to pay their respects and participate in the festivities.

The padayatra covers a distance of approximately 200 kilometers, traversing several towns and villages between Jaipur and the final destination in Diggi. The route is carefully planned to include key religious and cultural sites, allowing participants to engage in local traditions and rituals along the way.

Throughout the journey, the procession is accompanied by various cultural performances, including traditional music and dance. These performances not only entertain but also highlight the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The inclusion of local folklore and music adds a vibrant touch to the padayatra, making it a truly immersive experience for participants.

Flag Worship Ceremony

The journey began with a solemn flag worship ceremony in Jaipur. This traditional ritual involved the hoisting of a sacred flag, symbolizing the start of the padayatra and seeking divine blessings for a successful journey.

Cultural Performances

Participants enjoyed a series of cultural performances, including folk dances and music. These performances showcased Rajasthan’s traditional art forms and provided a platform for local artists to display their talents.

Religious Rituals: Along the route, various religious rituals were conducted, including offerings and prayers at local temples and sacred sites. These rituals are an integral part of the padayatra, reinforcing the spiritual significance of the journey.

Community Engagement

The padayatra also serves as a platform for community engagement. Local residents, along with participants, come together to celebrate, share stories, and strengthen their communal ties. This aspect of the event highlights the importance of collective participation in preserving and promoting cultural traditions.

The Diggi Kalyan Ji Lakkhi Padayatra has a significant impact on local communities. The event provides an economic boost to the towns and villages along the route, as participants and visitors spend money on accommodation, food, and local crafts. This influx of visitors also helps promote local tourism and showcases the cultural richness of the region.

Moreover, the padayatra fosters a sense of unity and collective identity among participants. The shared experience of walking together, performing rituals, and celebrating cultural traditions strengthens community bonds and reinforces regional pride.

Looking ahead, the Diggi Kalyan Ji Lakkhi Padayatra is expected to continue growing in scale and significance. The event’s popularity and the positive response from participants and local communities indicate that it will remain a key cultural and religious event in Rajasthan.

Efforts to enhance the experience for participants, such as the inclusion of additional cultural activities and improved logistical arrangements, will contribute to the continued success of the padayatra. Additionally, the ongoing support from the government and local authorities will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth conduct of future events.

The Diggi Kalyan Ji Lakkhi Padayatra, with its rich blend of religious devotion, cultural celebration, and community engagement, stands as a testament to Rajasthan’s vibrant heritage. This year’s event, marked by the lifting of the DJ ban and the continued dedication of participants and organizers, exemplifies the enduring appeal and significance of this grand tradition.

As the padayatra progresses towards its final destination, the spirit of devotion and celebration continues to inspire and unite people from all walks of life. The success of this year’s event reinforces the importance of preserving and promoting cultural traditions, ensuring that they remain a vital part of the region’s identity for generations to come.

Saawan: A Month of Spiritual Renewal and Cultural Significance

August 12, 2024, 6:38 am

Saawan, also known as Shraavan or Shravan Maas, is one of the most auspicious months in the Hindu calendar. It is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and typically falls in July and August. This period is marked by an extraordinary display of devotion, fasting, and religious activities, as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The significance of Saawan extends beyond mere religious practices; it encompasses a deep cultural heritage, a connection to nature, and a period of spiritual renewal.

The Mythological and Religious Significance of Saawan

The month of Saawan is steeped in mythology, with numerous stories highlighting its importance. According to Hindu tradition, this month is especially sacred to Lord Shiva, as it is believed that during this time, the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) took place. During this cosmic event, the poison (Halahal) emerged from the ocean, which Lord Shiva consumed to save the world. The poison was so potent that it turned his throat blue, earning him the title Neelkanth. Devotees fast, pray, and offer special prayers to Lord Shiva during Saawan, seeking his blessings for health, prosperity, and the removal of sins.
Another significant event associated with Saawan is the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Parvati performed intense penance during this month to win Lord Shiva as her husband. This aspect of Saawan underscores the themes of devotion, love, and perseverance.

Rituals and Practices During Saawan

Saawan is marked by a series of rituals and practices that vary across regions but share a common thread of devotion to Lord Shiva. One of the most prominent practices is the Kanwar Yatra, where millions of devotees, known as Kanwariyas, undertake a pilgrimage to fetch holy water from the Ganges River and offer it to Shiva temples, particularly the Jyotirlingas. The journey is seen as an act of purification and devotion.

Fasting during Saawan, especially on Mondays (known as Sawan Somvar), is another widespread practice. Devotees observe a strict fast, consuming only fruits, milk, and other light foods, and abstaining from grains and pulses. The fast is believed to purify the mind and body, and devotees often recite or listen to the Shiva Purana or other sacred texts during this time.

The ritual of Rudrabhishek, the ceremonial bathing of the Shiva Linga with water, milk, honey, and other sacred substances, is also performed extensively during Saawan. This ritual is considered highly meritorious, bringing peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

Saawan and Its Cultural Significance

Beyond its religious connotations, Saawan holds a special place in the cultural fabric of India. It is a time when the monsoon rains rejuvenate the earth, filling rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. The landscape turns lush and green, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and the cycle of life. This connection to nature is reflected in the many festivals and customs observed during this month.

In rural India, Saawan is a time for folk songs, dances, and fairs. Women, in particular, celebrate the month with great enthusiasm, participating in swings, adorning themselves with green bangles, and applying mehndi (henna) on their hands. These traditions, passed down through generations, reinforce the sense of community and continuity with the past.
The festival of Teej, celebrated during Saawan, is particularly significant for married women. It is a celebration of marital bliss, the well-being of spouses, and the joy of monsoon. Women observe fasts, dress in bright clothes, and perform rituals dedicated to Goddess Parvati, praying for the longevity and health of their husbands.

Saawan in the Context of Environmental Awareness

The month of Saawan coincides with the monsoon season in India, a time when the country receives the majority of its annual rainfall. This natural phenomenon is not only crucial for agriculture but also serves as a reminder of the importance of water conservation and environmental stewardship.

In many ways, the religious practices of Saawan align with the principles of environmental awareness. The Kanwar Yatra, for instance, emphasizes the sanctity of rivers, particularly the Ganges, which is revered as a goddess in Hinduism. The practice of offering water to Shiva during this time can be seen as a symbolic act of respecting and preserving natural resources.

Moreover, the themes of renewal and purification that permeate Saawan rituals resonate with the idea of sustainable living. The fasting and abstinence observed during this month can be viewed as a form of ecological mindfulness, reducing consumption and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

Spiritual Renewal During Saawan

Saawan is not just a time for external rituals; it is also a period for inner reflection and spiritual renewal. The practices observed during this month encourage devotees to step back from the hustle and bustle of daily life and focus on their spiritual growth. The fasting, prayers, and pilgrimages are all means to cultivate discipline, humility, and a sense of detachment from material pursuits.

The spiritual significance of Saawan is further enhanced by the belief that the veil between the material and spiritual worlds is thinner during this time. As such, devotees feel a closer connection to the divine, and their prayers and meditations are believed to be more potent.
The concept of *Shiva as the Adiyogi* or the first yogi also comes to the forefront during Saawan. Lord Shiva is revered not only as a god but also as the ultimate teacher of yoga and meditation. Devotees often engage in meditation, chanting, and other spiritual practices to align themselves with the energy of Shiva and to seek inner transformation.

Saawan in Modern Times

In contemporary India, the celebration of Saawan continues to thrive, even as society modernizes. Urban centers witness a surge in religious activities, with temples organizing special events, and the media playing a significant role in broadcasting these rituals to a wider audience. The essence of Saawan, however, remains unchanged—a time for devotion, community bonding, and spiritual growth.

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the environmental aspects of Saawan. Campaigns promoting the protection of rivers, reforestation, and sustainable practices have gained momentum, often drawing inspiration from the traditions associated with this month.

The youth, too, are finding new ways to engage with Saawan, blending traditional practices with contemporary sensibilities. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions on the significance of Saawan, with many young people participating in challenges like the Saawan Somvar fast or sharing their experiences of the Kanwar Yatra.

Conclusion

Saawan is a month that encapsulates the rich tapestry of Hindu culture, blending mythology, religion, nature, and community. It is a time when the divine and the earthly realms seem to come closer, offering devotees an opportunity for spiritual renewal and growth. The rituals and practices of Saawan, deeply rooted in tradition, continue to resonate with millions, reminding us of the timeless values of devotion, respect for nature, and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom.

As the monsoon rains cleanse the earth, so too does Saawan cleanse the soul, preparing devotees for the challenges and blessings that lie ahead. In a world that is increasingly disconnected from nature and spirituality, Saawan serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of these connections, offering a moment of pause and reflection in the ever-accelerating pace of modern life.

Overcoming Rejection

August 3, 2024, 4:04 am

The pain of rejection is a deeply held emotional disturbance. It is the profound sorrow that comes from feeling excluded, pushed out, sidelined, and not accepted. So, what is the best way to cope with those emotions invoked by rejection? What tools can we use?
Most people have experienced some form of rejection in their life. And how much of that feeling was real or imagined, due to some expectation and attachment of our own? Even if it was imagined, that does not take the pain away. No matter how insignificant, it still hurts and it niggles away in the mind and heart. Gradually that feeling starts to wear away trust and hope.

Over a lifetime we develop patterns of behaviour and belief systems. These become our programme for life, unless we choose to consciously rewrite the programme and overcome our fears of failure, hurt feelings, social rejection, and of not belonging. For this we need to find tools to help us deal with emotional pain. If we do not then we will fall victim to our own patterns of behaviour and our belief systems.

We are social beings and deep down we know we can only survive when we pull together. Therefore, it is very dangerous to see a breakdown in our social bonds, in our compassion and our humanity. Where there is no sense of social connection, ultimately this will lead to the downfall of all of us, because we have to live in community and co-operate with one another, to learn how to thrive and survive. As citizens of this planet, we have to learn to live and share together. History tells us that people who live as isolationists have only a limited future.

Spiritual practices can help us to overcome rejection
Self-acceptance and self-love are so important… Let me give these to myself even if others are not giving to me.

We need to work more on our self-respect… Knowing that I am wonderful, no matter what others think of me… that I am enough just as I am. In the eyes of God, the soul as a child of the Divine is perfect, even if the choices I make in life may not be so perfect.
Have a strong sense of personal purpose… When I am not invited to something, I am very often quite happy because it frees up my time and energy. What I do with me is just as important than what I do with others.

Understand that the universe is conspiring to help you… If I am not being picked for that team (yet), or for that role, or am not privy to some information, then the universe has my best interests at heart.
Positive self-talk… Others may reject me due to their own fears. That does not mean that I am any less. So let me not take that to heart or make it personal.

Being honest with the self, this is key… By remaining balanced and anchored in the true awareness of my spiritual nature, I am able to know my strengths and weaknesses.
Is there any truth in what people are showing me? Maybe I do have something that needs to change in me. After I have done some internal checking, to see if there is anything behind that specific rejection, then I can move on.

Having spiritual values in your life… This is of great help for me to alleviate the emotional pain and pressure of social rejection. Because spiritual values will help me to stand in my own power, not from a place of ego but from wisdom.

When we come to know ourselves really well, where we are not trapped in any temporary or physical identity, then we can go beyond rejection. If we can work with personal self-acceptance and not become upset by rejection, whether real or imagined, we are going to create a happy life. When we take things in the right way, we can see it as a free lesson in humility from the universe.

Aruna Ladva is an author and Rajyoga meditation teacher based at the Global Retreat Centre, Oxford, UK.

The Power of Silence

August 3, 2024, 4:01 am

Silence is the doorway to a state of mental stillness which is essential for experiencing inner peace. When we are away from noise, the break from the constant influx of auditory stimuli and distractions allows the mind to rest, focus better, think more clearly, and find solutions to problems. Just as sleep is necessary for physical healing and recovery, silence promotes mental and emotional recuperation by providing a break from incessant cerebral activity and external pressures.

The body too benefits. The calming environment created by silence lowers the heart rate and the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, leading to a more relaxed state.
Silence offers the opportunity to reflect, and tune into our inner thoughts and feelings without external interruptions. This aids emotional healing and the development of self-awareness, which contributes to our overall well-being.

Paradoxically, silence enhances the value of verbal communication. In conversation, silence helps in listening more attentively, allows for thoughtful responses, and gives space for others to express their thoughts. In addition, it fosters patience and a sense of respect in relationships.

Silence is generally defined as the complete lack of noise or sound. It is much more than that – it is a source of power, and the womb in which wisdom is nurtured.
But in a world where we are surrounded by sounds of all kinds, and where more and more people seem to be addicted to sound (they wear headphones or earphones most of the time), how do we find silence and reap its benefits?

The way to accumulate the power of silence is to be introverted and to stay in solitude. When we regularly look within to examine our thoughts and feelings and identify the attitudes, beliefs, and biases that influence our thinking, we can recognise where we are going wrong in our understanding of people and situations. We can then correct our perspective, see the larger picture, and take considered decisions.

In other words, it is in silence that we can develop our powers of concentration, discernment, and judgment. On the path of self-improvement, these powers are vital for progress as they help us bring about positive changes in our thought processes, personality, and behaviour.

Silence also cools down the fire of anger. By providing space for introspection, it enables us to see the futility of anger and the harm it does. In moments of quiet, the mind is able to see better ways of engaging with people and situations.

Not just anger, silence can end any kind of mental upheaval caused by waste or negative thoughts. And no matter what someone’s attitude or habits are like, silence, coupled with sincerity and dedication, has the power to transform them.

B.K. Atam Prakash is a Rajyoga teacher at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.

The Eye of the Storm

August 3, 2024, 3:57 am

If the weather forecast is for rain, it would be sensible to leave the house with an umbrella or a raincoat. If the forecast is stormy, then we can adjust our plans accordingly. On the other hand, if we have a warning of a typhoon, tornado, or hurricane, then serious preparation is needed. When the mind is in turmoil, it feels as though it is spinning out of control; with thoughts racing that initiate violent emotions that seem frightening, and all-consuming. We need to be able to predict what kind of emotional weather may be on the horizon, and make our preparations. Ideally, we need to find a way to stay in the safest place, in the eye of the storm.

Spirituality is all about learning how to think, especially for the times when circumstances become difficult to navigate. In those times, the mind can get caught up in anger, fear, doubt, anxiety, exhaustion, and it is then that we can leave devastation in our wake, just as a hurricane does. The wrong word, the wrong look, can instigate a huge fight or misunderstanding that can bring about the end of a relationship, or the loss of a position, or pain that lasts for years. It is spirituality that teaches us how to navigate through intense situations, and keeps us safe in the eye of the storm.

The first thing to recognise is that what is happening is not really the problem. The storm is raging inside. No matter what is happening, there is always a choice. I can spin and suffer or I can regain equilibrium by mentally re-centring the self. There is nothing that happens that is too strong or powerful to overcome the strength of the spirit. We are human beings, and that means we are beings, spirits; a soul living in a human body, to experience and express the self, through the senses. There are two forces working together.

The soul, and the being. The soul only suffers when it is out of balance and dominated by the human energy. When we burn in anger, suffocate with ego or greed, drown in attachment, or are buried in lust or desire, then we are in the full force of the storm. These are the five major weaknesses of the soul. They are the main ingredients of all the other emotions that can cause tempests of one kind or another; jealousy, fear, worry, anxiety, hatred, impatience, intolerance, are all combinations, in different ratios, of the five main defects in the soul. Each soul will have a different mix, and different storms.

However, the soul only requires three essential ingredients – peace, love, and happiness. From the emptiness of anger we can find peace, from attachment we can be lovingly detached, from greed find contentment, from ego we can have true self-respect, and from lust we can move to being the master of the sense organs. How do we do that? With the deep awareness that we are souls, sparks of consciousness, incarnated in the body. This human form will disintegrate one day but I, the soul, am eternal and never die.

Being in the eye of the storm is reconnecting with this true inner self. The most beautiful pages of the stories of our lives are those when we are in the eye of the storm.
It is through spending time contemplating the true inner being, in meditation, that we learn how to move into the eye of the storm. We learn to stop leaving a trail of devastation behind us and leave scenes of beauty, love, and compassion. Any impending storm then becomes something we no longer fear, as we have all the power we need to stay in the eye of the storm until it has passed.

Eric Le Reste was a producer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation for more than 35 years. He coordinates the activities of the Brahma Kumaris centres in Canada, and is based in Montreal.

Releasing the habit of passing judgement

June 1, 2024, 4:15 am

Each of us has two realities. One reality is based on what we see in the world around us, and the other reality is the internal reality of our thoughts and values. This inner reality is accumulated through many experiences, and some believe, through many lifetimes. We have become so accustomed to that reality that many of us feel that it is the only, the correct reality. Therefore, internally, we think ‘I am right – they are wrong’, and we judge our whole external world based on that. That means we are constantly maintaining an inner monologue of judgemental, critical comments on what others are doing.

Very often the motivation for this monologue is simply to feel secure. If I believe I am right then I have to nullify all other different opinions and behaviour, because otherwise I will have to question my own beliefs and values, and that is uncomfortable and destabilising. However, if I continue in this way, my world becomes smaller and smaller.

I become disconnected from others. The way to real security is to take the journey of discovery and connecting with my real self. In other words, we start to understand the inner core of the self. Not the outer layer which judges others from the standpoint of the ego, but the real inner self which holds no judgement, no criticism of the self or others because the true inner self is full of power.

The power that comes from real peace, love, happiness, wisdom, and strength – spiritual powers. Each one of us has a different story and that story forms our outer layer, but each one of us is intrinsically a being of peace, a spiritual being, a soul.

This inner self needs nurturing because the acquired thoughts and beliefs of living through our story are just that – acquired. They do not serve us well when we judge others, criticise others, label others. When we nurture this inner self, the core of our being, then we are able to see clearly and have the awareness that if I am powerful and peaceful, then everyone else is also a being of peace. I can stop criticising myself, I can stop judging others, I can stop being afraid. We become able to watch the self and see how we are behaving, and sometimes we will smile at how very unimportant our observations really are.

So, we turn our face inwards. The most powerful way of doing this is to practise meditation. It is the easiest way to experience these core qualities. However, when we stop meditating and return to our outer world, we return to the way we were thinking before. So not only do we need to practise meditation, but in our meditation we need to connect to a higher power, the highest power, the Supreme Being, God. This connection with the Divine helps us to see and experience the depth of the soul. It becomes real understanding rather than an intellectual exercise. It just requires attention and awareness and a pure desire to return to our true self. It is all down to just three steps; become introverted, connect to the Divine, and watch the transformation.

Samantha Fraser teaches Rajyoga with the Brahma Kumaris and is based at the Global Retreat Centre, Oxford, UK.

A beautiful mind

June 1, 2024, 4:13 am

‘The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.’
— John Milton, ‘Paradise Lost’

It is only when we create a beautiful mind, from fully accessing our inner qualities, attributes, and resources, that we begin to experience life as more beautiful, not just for ourselves but we also help others to do the same. We can make a heaven out of any hell.
Aristotle said that there are three transcendental values – the true, the good, and the beautiful. Edgar Allan Poe said that the experience of beauty is something that actually touches the level of the soul; that beauty can transport us, it can uplift the soul. So, a mind that is beautiful will touch the soul. The intellect will deal with truth, and it is the heart that deals with what is good.

At a talk held at Cambridge University, with Dadi Janki, the late administrative head of the Brahma Kumaris, someone asked a very academic question, in a very complicated and convoluted way, and I waited with interest to see what Dadi Janki’s response would be. Her response was very simple, and caused much laughter, though delivered kindly. She said, ‘The trouble with you westerners is that you think too much.’ What she was pointing out was that the mind is very deep, the inner world of the self is very deep, and it requires a depth of silence of the mind to access that deep inner world. The kind of thinking that is done more often in the west, is that we have ended up in a situation where unless we can come up with some theory and we can demonstrate it scientifically, then we deny that something is real. Yet, there are many things in life, like falling in love, that cannot really be analysed scientifically, but those who have had that experience would certainly know it to be a truth, irrespective of scientific proof.

We start to access the capacity to cultivate a beautiful mind, at the level of soul. This is one of the core teachings of the Brahma Kumaris, to know oneself as a soul, occupying the body as a costume, in order to play a part and experience life. As Shakespeare said in ‘As You Like It’, ‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players…’.

When we explore the inner world of the self, of the soul, then we access the core qualities of the soul. A mind that is beautiful, experiences and expresses the intrinsic values of peace, love, wisdom, joy, purity, and power. The question is, how do we really cultivate those qualities, and bring the identity of being a soul to the forefront, rather than it being somehow hidden away in the background of our state of being? For this, one thing becomes really important, and that is the recognition and understanding of the nature of God.

At a further meeting in Cambridge University, Dad Janki spent a great deal of her address talking of God. I felt a little uneasy as most westerners do not really feel that comfortable, or even like, talking about God. When Dadi asked if anyone had any questions, I put up my hand and asked: ‘Dadi, what would you say to people who are less happy about the word God, and find it difficult to relate to that word?’ She looked across at me, and said, in a loving yet powerful way, ‘That is because your meditation is not good!’.

There are many concepts of God. Yet if we put aside the word ‘God’ and consider what it would be like to encounter a being who is an ocean of the qualities of peace, joy, wisdom, and purity, and of unending silence, unending stillness, and an ocean of love, that would be the way to tap into and connect with The Supreme Soul. This connection is one of the most powerful meditations we can do – and encounter through thought this perfectly benevolent Being. This encounter will enable us to be more loving, caring, and joyful in our interactions with others, and there is nothing that will do more to create a beautiful mind.

Geoff Marlow is an organisational consultant and Rajyoga practitioner based in Cambridge, UK.

The journey of life

June 1, 2024, 4:10 am

When we visit a temple or any other place of worship, we find that the energy of the place is different from other places. Then if we go to a mall or a restaurant, the vibrations of those places are of a different variety. This is because the thoughts people have when they visit these places are different. When we go to a place of worship, our thoughts are mostly pure, peaceful, charitable. Day after day, year after year, when people create such thoughts in that place, the vibrations there are imbued with those qualities. Those vibrations then influence the minds of those who go there.

If someone who is troubled visits a temple and sits down for a while, the vibrations of the place calm them down. Many have experienced that in that relaxed state of mind, possible solutions to their problems occur to them. What made it possible? The vibrations. The vibes were created by others, but they benefit everyone. The same can happen in our families. We need not expect or wait for others to change in order for us to feel better. We can change our way of thinking and behaviour. The resulting vibrations will sooner or later touch others and they will change.

We all want to live in a better world and hope that such a world will come about. Will our mere hope make it happen? If we want a better world, we have to create it, starting with a better me. When enough numbers of people do this, the world will become better. The first step is to become soul conscious – have the awareness that I am a soul, a sentient point of light dwelling in the body and giving it life. I am the one who thinks, speaks, and acts through the physical medium of the body. Like me, other too are souls playing their part in this world. This spiritual perspective brings equality in our vision, and also empathy. We can make efforts to play our role to the best of our ability. When we do that, we learn, grow, and progress, which brings satisfaction and happiness.

The problem starts when we begin to compare ourselves with others and compete with them. This competition to get ahead of someone else makes the journey of life stressful. We forget to enjoy life’s small blessings as our entire attention is focused on surpassing the other person. When this desire becomes overriding, we may even ignore our conscience and cut corners in order to achieve our objective. In the meantime if the other person meets with a tragedy, will we help them? We might have, had we not been competing with them. But now, we might well rejoice at their fate as we leave them behind. In other words, the competition robs us of our decency and humanity. The prevailing culture of competition in society is creating such individuals, whose sole concern is achieving their personal goals, at any cost. Such single-minded focus can take us far, financially and professionally. But is life all about that? We may rack up enviable successes, but in the process if our mind is filled with ego, anger, and jealousy, what will be the quality of our consciousness? Material achievements may bring us financial security, comforts, and even fame, but not necessarily peace and happiness – certainly not if we have hurt others in our pursuit of power and profit.

External attainments do not enrich us within. It is actually the other way round – the higher the quality of our awareness, so will be our actions, and the happier we will be. We will earn the goodwill and blessings of others, and success will come more easily. The journey of life itself will be enjoyable and we will arrive at our destination safe, happy, and content. It is up to us to decide how we want to make this journey.

B.K. Shivani is a well-known motivational speaker and Rajyoga teacher.

Poornima: A Lunar Celebration of Light, Spirituality, and Renewal

May 27, 2024, 5:46 am

Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, is a significant observance in the Buddhist calendar, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death (Parinirvana) of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha. This article explores the profound significance of Buddha Purnima and the diverse ways it is celebrated within Buddhist communities worldwide.

Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, is celebrated to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and death (Parinirvana) of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha. The significance of Buddha Purnima lies in its commemoration of these pivotal events in the life of the Buddha and the profound impact his teachings have had on the world.

Birth of Buddha: Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Buddha, was born in Lumbini, Nepal, on a full moon day in the month of Vaisakha (April-May) according to Buddhist tradition. His birth symbolizes the advent of a spiritual leader who would illuminate the path to enlightenment for countless beings.

Enlightenment (Bodhi): Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, on another full moon day in the month of Vaisakha. After years of intense meditation and spiritual practice, he realized the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, becoming the Buddha, the “Enlightened One.” His enlightenment marked the culmination of his quest for truth and the beginning of his mission to teach others the path to liberation from suffering.

Parinirvana (Death): Buddha Purnima also commemorates the death of the Buddha, which occurred on yet another full moon day in the month of Vaisakha. The Buddha’s passing into Parinirvana represents his final liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the ultimate goal of spiritual realization.

By celebrating Buddha Purnima, Buddhists honor the life, teachings, and legacy of the Buddha. It is a time for reflection, meditation, and renewal of commitment to the path of awakening. Through rituals, prayers, acts of generosity, and cultural festivities, devotees express their reverence for the Buddha and strive to embody his teachings of compassion, wisdom, and liberation. Buddha Purnima serves as a sacred occasion for Buddhists to deepen their understanding of the Dharma (the Buddha’s teachings) and to cultivate inner peace, compassion, and mindfulness in their lives.

Gautama Buddha’s birth chart consisted of these astrological placements – Cancer Ascendant, Moon in Libra and Sun placed in the fierce Mars. The noteworthy fact in his Kundli is that there are 5 planets aspecting the Moon – Sun, Saturn, Jupiter, Venus, and Mars – that actually played a role in making His mind strong.

To have the benefits of great health, and bring true joy, and peace into your life, you must first harmonise your own mind. If you can attain liberation from the mind, all the goodness of life will naturally flow to you, which would lead you to the path of Enlightenment. And in order to balance your mind, you must strengthen the Moon in your birth chart.

Similar to Buddha, if you were born during the Full Moon, you might be a natural idealist. You may invest your time mostly seeking the truth. You may also find it tough to be involved in the pleasures offered by relationships of the earthly realm. And at one point in life, you may as well go on the path of spirituality or dedicate your life for the good of others.

Benefits Of Observing Buddha Purnima

If you wish to attain the state of bliss or mental peace, Gautam Buddha is your true guide. He showed the world how luxury and simplicity are so different from one another. We suffer because we get tied to the materialistic pleasures more than anything else. This Vesak, try to walk the “Eightfold Path” if you wish to welcome peace in life. Maintaining the Eightfold Path is extremely important to truly celebrate Buddha Purnima.
Right View or Awareness – Knowing the truth
Right Intention – Freeing your mind of ill thoughts
Right Speech – Avoid hurting others
Right Action – Work for the benefit of others
Right Livelihood – Maintaining ethics in life
Right Efforts – Abstain from evil
Right Mindfulness – Practicing meditation
Right Concentration – Balance your thoughts

Overall, while Buddha Purnima is primarily a Buddhist festival, its observance in Hinduism underscores the interconnectedness of religious traditions and the mutual respect for enlightened beings and spiritual principles across diverse faiths. In this way, Buddha Purnima serves as a reminder of the universal quest for truth, compassion, and enlightenment that transcends religious boundaries.

The Evolution and Sacredness of the Swastika: A Symbol of Prosperity and Well-being

May 27, 2024, 5:43 am

In our Indian culture, Swastik is considered very auspicious. Swastik is considered a symbol of good wishes. Whenever we do any auspicious work or start any work, we make the symbol of Swastik. We also worship the symbol of Swastik after making it so that our work is full of happiness and prosperity. The literal meaning of Swastik is good or auspicious. Swastik symbol is considered sacred not only in Hinduism but in all religions.

Swastik, a symbol used in almost all religions, gives momentum to life energy. This is its scientific basis. This symbol gives peace to the human mind and removes negative thoughts and gives happiness. There are 3 main religions in our country. This symbol has been given the most importance in all three – Sanatan, Buddha and Jain. Just as Om changed to Om Amin in Islam and Christianity and Omkar in Sikhism, the Swastika also changed and its form kept changing.

4 Swastik marks were also found on the utensils found during excavation in the famous Turkish city of Troy (Truva or Troya or Troy). 5 America’s famous brand Coca Cola also used Swastik on its products. 6 Tajikistan, where the majority of the population is Muslim, Swastik is considered one of the national symbols in this country. Swastik brings happiness and prosperity. Ancient sages of Hindu culture created some special symbols on the basis of spiritual experiences of their religion, these symbols express auspicious feelings, one such symbol is Swastik. Swastik is considered a source of positive energy. In the house where the auspicious symbol of Swastik is made during worship, happiness and prosperity resides in that house and happiness comes in the family. This is the reason why Swastik is made before starting any work. Meaning of Swastik Since Swastik is used at the beginning of work and in auspicious work, it is also considered as a form of Lord Ganesha. Swastik is also considered very auspicious in Vastu Shastra, in whichever house Swastik is applied, there is happiness and prosperity and there is an increase in wealth. Putting Swastik on the main door of the house is considered very auspicious. Making Swastik in religious works is considered very good. By making Swastik, Gods and Goddesses enter the house and happiness and prosperity resides. Swastik made in Guru Pushya Yoga gives you peace. If you do not get sleep at night, then before sleeping, make Swastik with your index finger and go to sleep, you will get very good sleep and bad dreams will also stop. It is also seen as a symbol of the Sun, which is seen as the source of life and energy. Swastik has many positive effects. It is said that it attracts good luck, protects from evil spirits and promotes prosperity.

How to make Swastik

It is said in astrology that while making Swastik, one should keep in mind that it should not be made by crossing it. Most people do not know this. They first make a plus sign and then the other arms of Swastik. But Swastik made in this way is not considered auspicious. The right part of Swastik should always be made first and then the left. Only Swastik made in this way is considered auspicious. Red color quickly affects the physical and mental level of a person. This color is considered a symbol of power. It is advisable to use only red color while making Swastik. According to the rules, Swastik is to be made 9 inches. First of all two straight lines are drawn in Swastik, which bend further and their edges are also slightly bent. The swastika in which these lines turn to the right is called clockwise and the one in which they turn to the left is called anticlockwise swastika. The initial shape of the swastika is a vertical line from east to west and another horizontal line is drawn from south to north above this line and then one line is added from east to the ends of the four arms of the swastika. After this, one dot is placed in the middle of each of the four lines. The left part of the swastika is also considered to be the seed mantra of Lord Ganesha, Gam, and the four dots contained in it are considered to be the abode of many gods including Gauri, Prithvi, Kachhapa.

Description of Swastika symbol:
• Vedic sages had created some special symbols from their supernatural experiences which were a symbol of good luck, yoga and other mysterious secrets of life. Among them, Om and Swastika are considered to be the most popular symbols in today’s time.
• The word Swastik is mainly a combination of (Su+Asti+Ka) which means:-

Su=beautiful/good, Asti=existence, Ka=doer
• It is clear from this that Swastik is a symbol of good luck, beauty, happiness, prosperity and well-being.

In the middle of Swastik is Brahma, the four arms coming out of the middle are called Dharma, Moksha, Artha and Kama. The straight line after the bending of the arms is called Sarupya, Salokya, Samipya and Sayujya. The ends of the arms of the Swastik symbol are called ego, mind, consciousness and intellect. The empty space of the arms of Swastik is called dedication, love or faith, trust and devotion.
1) The following four types of Purushaths – Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha.
2) Four types of Mukti – Sarupya, Salokya, Samipya and Sayujya.
3) Conscience – Four types of inner self – Ego, Mind, Chitta and Intellect.
4) Devotion – Four types of inner self – Dedication, Love, Faith and Devotion.
The Swastik symbol has been described in many ways in Hinduism. For example, the four arms of Swastik describe the four directions, four Vedas and their harmonious whole.

Religious significance of Swastik symbol:

In Hinduism, Swastik symbol is considered to be the symbol of Ganapati. Lord Ganesha removes all obstacles and gives the boon of happiness and prosperity. In Hinduism, Swastik symbol is used to complete any work without any obstacles and to get success in it. Apart from Hinduism, Swastik has special significance in Jainism and Buddhism as well. In both these religions, Swastik symbol is specially used for wishing good luck. It also has special significance in Vastu Shastra. It is a symbol of positive energy. Scientist Hartment Unsert measured the energy of Swastik made of red Kumkum in 100000 bosic units with the help of an instrument called Aventina and in the same research, the energy present in Om is known to be 70000 bosic units.

Dr. Amit Vyas, Astrologer and Vastu Vidit

The sacred importance of Swastik in Hinduism
The importance of its four arms is found in Rigveda
In our Indian culture, Swastik is considered very auspicious. Swastik is considered a symbol of good wishes. Whenever we do any auspicious work or start any work, we make the symbol of Swastik. We also worship the symbol of Swastik after making it so that our work is full of happiness and prosperity. Swastik literally means one who does good or auspicious. Swastik symbol is considered sacred not only in Hinduism but in all religions. Swastik, a symbol used in almost all religions, gives momentum to life energy. This is its scientific basis. This symbol gives peace to the human mind and removes negative thoughts and gives happiness. There are 3 main religions in our country. This symbol has been given the most importance in all three – Sanatan, Buddha and Jain. Just like Om changed to Om Amin in Islam and Christianity and Omkar in Sikhism, Swastika also changed and its form kept changing.

1 American author Steven Heller has written a complete book on Swastika and its importance. Its name is The Swastika (the swastika symbol beyond redemption).

2 Adolf Hitler also used the Swastika symbol on his flag. Swastika symbol, which was a symbol of love and good luck, was used by Adolf Hitler for evil deeds. That is why this symbol is banned in Germany today.

3 The use of Swastika symbol can also be seen in the remains of the famous Mississippian culture between 900 AD and 1000 AD.

4 Swastik marks were also found on the utensils found during excavation in the famous Turkish city of Troy (Truva or Troya or Troy).

5 America’s famous brand Coca Cola also used Swastik on its products.

6 Tajikistan, where the majority of the population is Muslim, Swastik is considered one of the national symbols in this country. Swastik brings happiness and prosperity. Ancient sages of Hindu culture created some special symbols on the basis of spiritual experiences of their religion, these symbols express auspicious feelings, one such symbol is Swastik. Swastik is considered a source of positive energy. In the house where the auspicious symbol of Swastik is made during worship, happiness and prosperity resides in that house and happiness comes in the family. This is the reason why Swastika is made before starting any work. Since Swastika is kept at the beginning of work and auspicious work, hence it is also considered as a form of Lord Ganesha.

The healing power of mantras: Nurturing mind, body, and spirit

May 20, 2024, 5:37 am

Mantras and meditation hold significant importance in various spiritual and religious traditions, as well as in modern practices for mental and emotional well-being. Here’s why they’re considered important:

Focus and Concentration: Mantras provide a focal point for the mind, helping to channel thoughts and cultivate concentration.

Vibration and Sound: The repetition of specific sounds or phrases in mantras creates vibrations that are believed to resonate with the body and mind, promoting relaxation and inner harmony.

Spiritual Connection: Many mantras have sacred or spiritual significance, invoking divine qualities or deities. Chanting them is believed to establish a connection with the divine realm or higher consciousness.

Transformation and Healing: Mantras are often used for personal transformation and healing, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual imbalances.

Affirmation and Intention: Mantras can be used as affirmations or intentions, reinforcing positive beliefs and goals.

Meditation:

Stress Reduction: Meditation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, have been scientifically proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.

Clarity and Insight: Regular meditation practice cultivates mental clarity and insight, allowing individuals to observe their thoughts and emotions without attachment or judgment.

Emotional Regulation: Meditation helps regulate emotions by promoting awareness of one’s inner experiences and developing skills for responding to them skillfully.

Self-Discovery: Meditation facilitates self-discovery and introspection, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s place in the world.

Spiritual Growth: For many spiritual seekers, meditation is a central practice for spiritual growth, leading to experiences of transcendence, oneness, and enlightenment.

Overall, both mantras and meditation serve as powerful tools for personal growth, spiritual development, and mental well-being, offering pathways to inner peace, clarity, and self-realization.

Mantras can have a positive impact on health, both physically and mentally. While they are not a substitute for medical treatment, they can complement conventional therapies and promote overall well-being. Here’s how mantras can contribute to health:

Mental Health:

Stress Reduction: Chanting mantras induces a state of relaxation, reducing levels of stress hormones like cortisol and promoting a sense of calmness.

Anxiety and Depression: Mantras can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by calming the mind and fostering a more positive outlook on life.

Mindfulness and Awareness: Reciting mantras encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness, which can help individuals manage negative thoughts and emotions.

Emotional Healing: Certain mantras are believed to have healing properties for emotional wounds, promoting forgiveness, compassion, and self-love.

Physical Health:

Relaxation Response: Chanting mantras activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering the body’s relaxation response and reducing physiological stress. Immune

System Boost: Some studies suggest that regular mantra practice can enhance immune function by reducing stress and promoting a state of well-being.

Pain Management: Mantras may help individuals cope with chronic pain by shifting their focus away from discomfort and promoting relaxation and acceptance.

Improved Sleep: Reciting mantras before bedtime can promote better sleep quality by calming the mind and reducing bedtime stress and anxiety.

Spiritual Health: Inner Peace: Mantras are often associated with spiritual practices that cultivate inner peace, contentment, and harmony with oneself and the universe.

Connection to Higher Consciousness: Chanting sacred mantras is believed to establish a connection with higher realms of consciousness, providing solace and guidance during challenging times.

Sense of Purpose: Mantras can instill a sense of purpose and meaning in life, helping individuals align with their values and pursue personal growth and self-realization.

While the benefits of mantras on health are subjective and may vary from person to person, incorporating them into daily practice can be a valuable tool for promoting holistic well-being.

The Power of Om: Understanding Its Profound Impact on Spiritual Practice

May 20, 2024, 5:33 am

Whenever we are surrounded by any trouble in life, the first thing we remember is God. Everyone worships the Lord in their own way. Whenever we worship, we chant many mantras. Actually, chanting mantras has a special significance in Hinduism and the chanting of all mantras begins with Om. According to the traditions of Sanatan Dharma, Om is not just a word but the whole world is pervaded by it.

Origin and meaning

Om () or Omkar is synonymous with Pranava. The etymological foundation of Om is repeatedly discussed in the Vedanta texts (early Upanishads). Aitreya Brahman of the Rigveda in section 5.32, for example, explains the three phonetic components of Om (pronounced Aum) as corresponding to the three stages of creation of the world, that is, the creative forces of the universe. The Brahma layer of the Vedic texts equates Om with Bhura-Bhava-Sava, which symbolize the “whole Veda”.

Puranic significance of Om

According to the belief of Sanatan Dharma, the knowledge of the entire universe is hidden in the pronunciation of Om. Only by chanting Om, the Supreme Lord becomes pleased and removes every pain of life. According to mythological significance, Om is the combined form of all forms of God. The entire universe is sustained by the word Om. The pronunciation of Om starts transmitting positive energy. This sound is far above the hearing ability of a human being. It is believed that the natural sound that resonated before the world came into existence was that of Om. This is why it is also called the voice of the universe.

Importance of Om from Scientific Point of View

Scientists were searching for a way to record the sound coming from the Sun for years, and finally they got success. Everyone knows very well that the Sun is a star, which is 93,000,000 miles away from the Earth, and keeps rotating rapidly on its axis, the Sun is always burning, the flames of which rise thousands of kilometers high, life exists on Earth only due to the heat of the Sun, because there is no atmosphere in the space around the Sun, so till date scientists used to completely deny the possibility of any kind of sound coming from the Sun, but when NASA (Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA)) converted the magnetic waves coming from the Sun into sound through Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) on 11 February 2011, they were stunned to hear the sound coming from the Sun, because the sound of Om was continuously coming out from the Sun, which was clearly audible. Scientists have investigated this fact many times and after 4 years of various tests, they confirmed this truth on 23rd October 2014 that the sound of Om really keeps on emanating from the Sun, that is why the word Om is considered holy in all the religions of India. Many theories have been presented about the Om Mantra.

Om being a cosmic sound, the world was created from it, this is the most popular theory among them; however, in Indian (Hindu) culture, this is not the only reason behind the regular chanting of Om, rather other traditional religious acts of Hindu culture are behind it, however, there are some scriptural and practical reasons too which give long term benefits to human beings. (These reasons are based on the science related to sound, vibration and resonance. The letters of the mantra produce sound (vibration). Pronunciation of different letters produces different vibrations and they have an effect on different parts of the body.

Since the sound of each letter is related to specific parts of the body, that sound resonates at the place of that part. Combining these three letters A, U and M, the Om mantra is formed. The result of pronouncing those letters is given below.

1 Pronunciation of A. A
A A A… by pronouncing this, sensation is felt in the marrow systems related to chest and stomach and it resonates in that place.

2 Pronunciation of A. U
2. Pronunciation of Aa U
U U U… This pronunciation resonates in the throat and chest parts when sensation is created there.

3. Pronunciation of I

M M M… This pronunciation resonates in both the nostrils and the skull. Due to this continuous pronunciation of Om, the stomach, back (spine), throat, nose and brain part get activated. Energy flows from the stomach to the upper direction.

Keep these things in mind while pronouncing Om
You should always pronounce Om in a clean and open environment. Pronouncing Om makes the breathing faster, so pronouncing it in an open place gives positivity. Om can be pronounced while sitting in Sukhasan, Padmasana, Vajrasana etc. Apart from this, pronouncing Om 5,7,11 or 21 times is considered useful.

Whenever any trouble surrounds us in life, we first remember God. Everyone worships the Lord in their own way. Whenever we worship, we chant many mantras. Actually, chanting mantras has a special significance in Hinduism and the chanting of all mantras begins with Om. According to the traditions of Sanatan Dharma, Om is not just a word but the whole world is pervaded by it. For centuries, our sages and saints used to see the Lord by doing difficult penance, yoga and meditation only by chanting Om.

Benefits of chanting Om

1. An infallible weapon for meditation
Generally, the word Om is associated with religion, but this word is much bigger than the bondage of religions. Chanting the word Om or increases meditation. Its chanting is considered an easy way of meditation. Let us know what are the benefits of chanting Om and what are the health benefits of chanting Om.

2. Mind becomes calm

It has been scientifically proven that the sound of the word Om is the rare sound that can calm both parts of the brain. This is the reason that listening to or pronouncing the word Om gives a feeling of emotional peace and spirituality. In such a situation, if negative thoughts come, then chanting the word Om is considered very beneficial.

3. Helpful in getting rid of sinus migraine

Pronouncing the word Om can help in getting rid of diseases like sinus migraine. Experts believe that the vibration of the letter E or U after A in Om is felt on the forehead, which is helpful in the treatment of migraine.

4. Helpful in the treatment of thyroid

When we end the word Om with the letter M, the vibration of its sound is felt in the throat. Many experts believe that the vibration in the throat due to pronouncing Om activates the thyroid gland and it also helps in getting rid of thyroid.

5. Improves coordination between body and mind

The word Om affects our brain’s supplementary motor area, superior temporal gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus and dorso lateral pre frontal cortex, which increases coordination between our body and mind, brings coherence and increases our hearing power.

6. Increases concentration

It is believed that if the word Om is chanted with a calm mind, concentration increases. The resonance of the word Om calms the mind and prevents it from wandering and this is the reason why it affects concentration. Apart from these benefits, experts claim that chanting the word Om helps any person to pronounce clearly. Apart from this, it is infallible for concentration and meditation. For centuries, our sages and saints could see God by only chanting Om and performing rigorous meditation and penance. Om is no less than a miraculous word which has many kinds of powers. It is believed that God can be found only by chanting Om.

Dr. Amit Vyas is an Astrologer and Vastu Expert.