863 – A time of rejoicing and repentance

Chaitra Navaratri – 9th April till 17th April – is considered an auspicious time for spiritual renewal, cleansing and seeking the blessings of the divine. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. It is devoted to goddess Durga, whose nine forms are worshipped on nine days. The nine-day celebration observes Goddess Durga’s universe birth and all living things inside it. It is believed that Durga Ma visits her devotees during this period. Continue reading

823 – Blessings to Yoga

Like the rays of the moon the light of Yoga is expanding
All religions, beliefs and sects
Are receiving shelter
Under the kalpataru (wish fulfilling tree) of Yoga.
Towards the evolution of consciousness
Yoga has done unforgettable work.
Yoga will become tomorrow’s culture
And will show
A new way of life for mankind.
Dear ones, ask yourself this question. –

Swami Satyananda Saraswati. 1981.

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343 – How can I discipline myself?

We all want to be self-disciplined, and we wish to remain like that. It is not easy, because our understanding of the word discipline is often a misunderstanding. We think by following a pattern, we are engaged in a joyless life. Indisciplined kids, has been used to describe many of us as children and it meant that we should be punished. Continue reading

274 – The Garden Of Love

Take a walk in a garden and look about you. The most wonderful thing is that one can take a walk anytime of the year, anywhere and appreciate nature. It can be very hot or very cold but it is possible to be appreciative of the greenery or the different shades of brown. Step out on the beach, in the park, forest or even playground. Become aware of everything around you. Of course switch off the phone. Once you are in a space, take a few breaths, normal, spontaneous ones and become comfortable with yourself. Focus on what you are observing. Continue reading

081 – Burn Out

Burn out is a word used by all of us. Many of us have been burnt out. It is a very frightening word as burnt down means destroyed, wrecked. It is used much more now than in the 20th century. Have we paused to consider why this is happening to us, and why we are not able to prevent it? Is it not our thoughts which have occupied the centre stage of our mind? Our fears, anxieties, frustrations, and miseries have become the actors. They are getting better and better and are ready for an Oscar. The question is what can we do? How should we recognize them and be rid of them? Continue reading