Sadhana
The discipline of yoga doesn’t begin—or end—with asanas. Just as a tree can bear flowers only with its roots deep in the earth, the yoga aspirant must carefully cultivate certain foundational values without which the flower of meditativeness won’t bloom. Sage Patanjali has grouped them into five yamas (restraints) and niyamas (observances), which purify the mind and prepare the ground for sadhana. In this article, revered Gurudev Anandmurti Gurumaa’s profound insights guide us...
Modern life offers many comforts and technological advances, but often overlooks the most essential dimension—the human being. True joy doesn’t come from wealth or achievements but is naturally present in one who possesses clarity, peace of mind, and a healthy body. To acquire these qualities, uttering certain sacred sounds is a simple yet powerful method—the science of mantra yoga. In this article, revered Gurudev Anandmurti Gurumaa sheds light on the mind, mantra meditation, and the...
Most people have experienced ordinary love in their lives, whether between a mother and child or a boyfriend and girlfriend. However, this kind of love is physical and self-centred—it lasts only as long as needs and demands are met. You haven’t yet known that true and unconditional love. I say, if you haven’t tasted Divine love even for a moment, you haven’t really lived yet.
During a 2018 meditation retreat for NRIs, a participant asked Gurumaa, “What should I do if sleep takes over during sadhana?” Besides giving practical advice, such as taking a cold bath, Gurudev went straight to the heart of the issue. On the spiritual path, it is the fire of vairagya and love for the Master that enables the seeker to surpass all such obstacles. In this intimate sharing, Gurumaa urges us to set our priorities and maintain focus, even...
The practice of mantra japa has been one of the most enduring spiritual disciplines since ancient times. When done with faith and vigour, it quietens the mind and turns it inward. A point may come when japa ripens into effortless remembrance – or the mind may dissolve altogether into stillness and bliss. What follows are valuable pointers to deepen your sadhana and avail the true joy of mantra japa.
Many people say they are bhaktas, devotees of Krishna. But if they do not understand or follow Krishna’s teachings, how can they be called devotees? It is like a lady saying she loves her husband but never listens to him! Love is not in empty words. You do not become a devotee by merely performing arati or singing His name. You truly become a bhakta when you have joined your heart to Krishna in love and devotion, and...
