The Power of Mantra: Science & Spirituality
"Of vibrations, I am the transcendental OM; Of sacrifices I am the chanting of the holy names." - Bhagavad Gita (10.25) Explore the deep science and understanding behind mantras.
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AUM Chanting Exercise for Peace, Well-Being and Joy
The benefits of chanting the cosmic sound AUM have been known for millennia. Try this simple exercise to experience the benefits yourself.
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Swami Vivekananda’s Message for India
"This is the land from whence, like the tidal waves, spirituality and philosophy have again and again rushed out and deluged the world, and this is the land from whence once more such tides must proceed in order to bring life and vigour into the decaying races of mankind. It is the same India which has withstood the shocks of centuries, of hundreds of foreign invasions, of hundreds of upheavals of manners and customs. It is the same land which stands firmer than any rock in the world, with its undying vigour, indestructible life. Its life is of the same nature as the soul, without beginning and without end, immortal; and we are the children of such a country." - Swami Vivekananda. Read more about his work and wisdom.
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An Enlightened Mother’s Lullaby (Reconciling with the Age of AI)
The story of Queen MadAlasA (Brahmanda Purana) is a lofty though inspirational example of a parent's role in the life of a child. Her enlightening lullaby to her children produced four sages. Such conscious parenting may seem like a story best left in books but even a casual observer of some of today's modern parenting can see that we are due for some changes. The age of technology and impending AI revolution calls for a different perspective on education. Can we figure out solutions in time that will avoid us becoming slaves to technology?
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3 Wonderful Guided Meditations
Whether you are completely new to meditation or not, if you are looking for inner silence and joy, here's 3 guided meditation picks that you should definitely check out. Each one is short and easy to follow in the comfort of your own home.
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Taittiriya Upanishad: Rishi Bhrigu’s Meditation
The Upanishads "are the production of the highest human wisdom” claimed German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer. The Bhrigu Valli, part of the Taittiriya Upanishad is an important text especially for yoga and meditation practitioners since it describes the transformation from the gross to the subtle and the experiential understanding reached in yoga, of the ultimate knowledge.
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Art Beyond Aesthetics: the Spiritual Dimension of Natyashastra
The Natyashastra is an ancient encyclopedic treatise on the performing arts, composed by sage Bharat Muni (somewhere between 500 BCE - 500 CE). The ancient Indian view of art as expressed in the text, was much broader than mere aesthetics. Art was profoundly explored as a way to experience the Divine. Read on for a personal experiential account.
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In the Name of Rama (Chanting Ram Naam)
Chanting Ram Naam (the name of Rama) has the power to elevate consciousness. The devotee poet and saint Tulsidas (16th century) claimed it to be the 'supreme secret'. Here are a few simple and popular Ram chants.
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Understanding Rama
On the occasion of Rama Navami (birthday of Lord Rama), understanding what Rama signifies.
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108 Names of Devi (Sri Devi Ashtottara Shata Namavalih)
The Sri Devi Ashtottara Shata Namavalih is a hymn reciting the 108 names of the Mother Goddess, Devi or Shakti. Shakti is the life force behind all Manifestation just as Shiva is the Unmanifest. Here's a truly sublime must-listen rendition of the 108 names of Devi.
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Make India Bharat Again
The ancient civilisation of India needs to be rediscovered by those who have inherited it. There is a need for Making India Great Again. Or, perhaps more aptly, Making India Bharat Again.
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Sirsasana – A Reflective Asana
Sirsasana (or headstand) is regarded as the King of Asanas in yoga. If one goes deeper into the asana one realises that it teaches us more than the ability to hold the body upside down - it teaches us about overcoming our fears and limitations.
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An Indian Paradigm of Coaching: ‘Yoga Sutras’ in Practical Action
A fascinating and insightful Q&A between Gayatri Iyer and Yogi coach Raghu Ananthanarayanan about how the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali can be applied to ‘coaching’ and ‘mentoring’. It is amazing to note how this ancient text provides an enlightened paradigm and methods to cultivate and manage a coach-coachee relationship. Read on to explore some timeless wisdom in practical action.
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Holi – Burn the Old, Celebrate Life
The festival of Holi is often dubbed the most 'fun' festival that is about playing with water and colours, singing, dancing and eating. But what really is the significance of this festival apart from 'having fun'? Or maybe that's just it. Some reflections on Holi, a festival that conveys the wisdom of joy and the joy of wisdom.
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The Wisdom of the Sages (Mooji)
"..we know in these times, the lives of Sri Ramana Maharshi or Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj or Papaji, they pointed out the truth in the most direct way, an ancient wisdom that had also sprouted here in India but remained dormant until the great sage Adi Shankara revived interest in the path of Advaita—the non-dual path to Self-realisation. These great masters continue to shine the light and grace of this perfect understanding, and many many beings have thus come into the light for themselves." Read more of the transcript of an excerpt of Mooji's talk at satsang in Rishikesh in March 2016.
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The Spirit of Mahabharata Coursing Through the Ganga
Rafting over the Ganges, Gayatri Iyer reflects on how the river embodies the characteristics of the different Pandava princes of the Mahabharata epic. One can seek their reflections in this living river, as well as one's own.
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5 Reasons Why Yoga is Better than Gymming
Here's some reasons why you'd be better off replacing your gym work-out with a yoga class. This list of reasons excludes the simple fact that yoga has been recommended by wise sages and yogis for thousands of years, which in itself is a pretty hefty endorsement!
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Seeking Shiva
"The distinction between “with qualities” and "without qualities” does not exist in Him; He’s beyond both attachment and non-attachment; Stainless, He’s beyond all forms. He’s beyond both qualities and the absence of qualities; Though formless, He’s the substance of all forms. So how can I worship that Shiva, who exists everywhere, like space!" - Avadhuta Gita | Exploring the significance of Mahashivratri (the darkest night of the year), for seeking Shiva.
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How to Survive – and Thrive – in a Startup
The start-up world is the latest attraction for young professionals but once they're in, many struggle to cope with the heavy demands of long hours and tremendous agility and drive. Nora von Ingersleben-Seip gives an insider's account of what it's like to work at a start-up and ways to not only cope with its many challenges, but to also thrive in it.
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Stressed-Out? Here’s 3 Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita
The ancient text Bhagavad Gita offers some very valuable wisdom for our stressful times. Here’s 3 lessons from the Gita that could help transform your perspective about life, purpose and achievement.
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For the Love of God: Remembering the Mystic, Ravidas
On his jayanti/birth anniversary (31 January 2018, Magha Pournima), remembering the Bhakti saint and poet Ravidas whose beautiful poems live on through time, as fresh today as when they were written centuries ago.
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Osho on Sanskrit
"The Sanskrit language is called DEVAVANI – the divine language. And it certainly is divine in the sense because it is the most poetic and the most musical language. Each word has a music around it, a certain aroma". Read more of what spiritual master Osho had to say about the Sanskrit language.
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Basant Panchami: Honouring Saraswati, the Goddess of Wisdom and Light
Basant Panchami (the fifth day of spring) is dedicated to Saraswati, the mother of knowledge, the grace of music, the power of the word, the light of insight and the purity of Truth.
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What is Sivananda Yoga?
Sivananda yoga is a popular and well-recognised yoga offering globally. Here's an insight into Swami Sivananda and his teachings, namely the "5 Points of Yoga".
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On Swami Vivekananda and His Search for God
“The natural tendency of Vivekananda’s mind, like that of his Master, Ramakrishna, was to soar above the world and forget itself in contemplation of the Absolute. But another part of his personality bled at the sight of human suffering in East and West alike.” – Swami Nikhilananda Here's a brief account of the life of Swami Vivekananda and the incident of his meeting with his guru Sri Ramakrishna Parmahansa that proved to be the major turning point in Vivekananda's life.
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10 Quotes of Swami Vivekananda
10 truths by Swami Vivekananda to inspire your mind.
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Musings on Time and the Life of Man
Ganesh Varadharajan shares his musings on time. Man's life is trapped in past, present and future until the timeless Self is realised.
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The Face of Grace, Ramana Maharshi
"Let the world bother about its reality or falsehood. First find out about your own reality. Then all things become clear" - Sri Ramana Maharshi A small tribute to the sage of Arunachala on his 138th birth anniversary (jayanthi).
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LWP’s Best of 2017
A look at LWP's most popular posts of 2017.
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It’s Dangerous to Sit Around…Unless You’re a Yogi
Warning: excessive sitting can cause death, say scientists. But no need to panic, yoga can show the way out.
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The Yoga of Christ and the Message of Christmas
The true message of Christmas and the yoga of Christ are largely ignored today. This article takes a look at some of Christ's pointings and the true meaning of Christmas in the words of Swami Sivananda.
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Jackfruit (Kathal) Biryani – bursting with the flavours of India
Warm up your kitchen with the most delicious aromas and your stomach with this sumptuous jackfruit biryani. This recipe is as fragrant as it is lip-smacking.
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Why Science & Religion May Not be Adversaries
Are science and religion necessarily competitors or can they be complimentary? Author of 3 popular books on Indian mythology and a doctor by profession, Dr Vineet Aggarwal shares his thoughts on the topic. Indeed when one studies the ancient scriptures deeply, one is often astounded by the scientific knowledge one finds.
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A Quest Called Life
Guest contributor Ashay Gupta shares his existential musings about the meaning of life and the search for one's true self. All seekers can resonate with the questions about 'what really is true' and 'who am I'?
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Answering the Unanswered (Meditation Questions)!
Rahul Sharma answers some frequently asked questions about meditation, using his personal experience as a guide. Perhaps they can help clear up some of your own doubts about meditation?
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Yogic Technique to Beat the Cold and Pollution (Jal Neti)
Try this ancient yogic technique to keep away, colds, flus, blocked sinuses, migraines and pollutants this winter.
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Yoga Teachers Training at the Sivananda Ashram: Ashram Life
An overview of ashram life at the Sivananda ashram in Kerala, India while pursuing the Yoga Teachers Training Course. Read about the location, food, schedule at the ashram and more.
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At the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
A visit to the Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple in Trivandrum, Kerala, the abode of Lord Vishnu on the Anantha Shayana.
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The Gateway: A Visit to the Dwarkadhish Temple
Beloo Mehra describes her visit to the Dwarkadhish temple in Gujarat. Read more to experience the divinity of this ancient temple in the city of Krishna, through the eyes of a bhakta.
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What is Dharma?
Dharma is perhaps the most important term in the culture and spiritual philosophy of India but also perhaps the most difficult to understand. It is roughly understood as the law that upholds or the law of life. This explanation by Swami Krishnananda (Divine Life Society) illuminates its real meaning.
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Ayurvedic Oil Bath Benefits for Modern Lifestyles
The Abhyanga or oil bath/massage ritual has been intrinsic to the Indian tradition of physical well-being. Find out more about this natural, inexpensive and highly effective ritual that is especially beneficial for our hectic modern lifestyles.
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What really is Om?
Advaita master Sri HWL Poonja ji (1910-1997) explains the power and significance of Om, the primordial sound. He also recounts an incident when he was challenged by a French Cardinal who insisted that light came before sound.
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Pointings from the Kena Upanishad (Part 1)
The famous Danish physicist and Nobel Prize winner, Laureate Niels Bohr said, “I go into the Upanishads to ask questions.” Bohr as well as other physicists like Erwin Schrödinger and Werner Heisenberg were avid readers of the Vedic texts and observed that their experiments in quantum physics were consistent with what they had read in the Vedas. The 19th century German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer was so impressed by the Upanishads that he called them “the production of the highest human wisdom”. The Kena Upanishad begins with enquiry into the Self and contains the most profound wisdom and direct pointings towards Brahman, the Absolute.
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Legend of Govardhan: Shelter in the Divine
The day after Diwali is celebrated as Govardhan Puja. The legend of Mount Govardhan serves as an important reminder for seekers of Truth.
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Meaning of Diwali
The 'light' has always been associated in Indian culture with wisdom and joy, with our higher Self - such references can be found in the Upanishads, ancient mantras and Patanjali's Yoga Sutras to name a few. Shruti Bakshi delves into the meaning of Diwali - from the traditions associated with the five days of Diwali, to the deeper spiritual significance - in the very first LWP Digest released at this auspicious time of Diwali.
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Making a Mind and Body Connection
Blogger Ruchira Khanna shares some simple wisdom for restoring the connection between body and mind to enable us to deal with the stresses of life.
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Joining Nature’s Conversation
What if you could hear nature speak? If you are sufficiently silent, you just may be able to tune-in to nature's radio. But how often do we attempt to experience such a communion? Here are some gorgeous photos shared by LWP writer and blogger Rahul Sharma showcasing nature's art gallery. Captions added by Shruti Bakshi are a light-hearted guess at what nature may be trying to say in these photos. Feel free to share your own captions in the comments section, referencing the photo number!
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Mind & Meditation – A Saint’s Advice
Sri Sarada Devi (1853 - 1920) was the consort of the great saint Sri Ramakrishna Parmahansa and was considered as the Divine Mother incarnate herself. In this excerpt from her teachings, she explains the nature of mind and the importance of meditation in this Kali Yuga.
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Where Science and Metaphysics Fall Short
Sri Aurobindo's words on the limitations of science and metaphysics in explaining the world. As he writes, "Metaphysics seeks to tell us What the Universe is and Why it is; in other words to explain the Inexplicable; but the end of this process is inevitably a juggling with words which must repel all clear-minded thinkers". The approach of Hinduism is altogether different.
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7 Wonders of Neem (‘Sarva Roga Nivarini’)
What's in a neem? Here's 5 great things that have been known since Vedic times and that justify neem's reputation in India as "sarva roga nivarini" or one cure for all ailments and ills.
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3 Stress-Busting Pranayamas
Suffering from stress, tension and anxiety? Try these three pranayamas (breathing techniques) to restore calmness and peace of mind.
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What Does Ahimsa Really Mean?
How does ahimsa apply to conflict situations? Shruti Bakshi explains how it's only as we recognise our larger identity with the unity of life, that we can carry out even the most violent action if required of us, without a feeling of malice or intention of causing suffering to others.
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Saraswati, the Vedic Goddess and River
One of the earliest goddesses worshipped in India since Vedic times, Saraswati devi, goddess of speech, wisdom, and expression, was believed to have found physical expression on earth also in the form of the ancient river Saraswati. The Rig Veda adores and praises this goddess as the 'best of all mothers', 'best of all rivers' and 'best of all goddesses' as Shruti Bakshi notes.
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Ramana Maharshi on Birthdays
Should we be happy to remember our birth day or sorry for it? These wise words of Sri Ramana Maharshi (or Bhagavan as he was called by his disciples), show a different perspective and make one think about whether being reborn into 'samsara' life should really be a celebration or rather be a reminder for us to enquire into our real nature.
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Grahas, Archetypes and Character Profiles
Does Gautam Buddha's personality reflect the influence of the planet Budha and Ved Vyas' that of Brihaspati? Ganesh Varadharajan explores the influence of planets on human characteristics and personalities.
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Rally for Rivers – Time’s Running Out | Newsletter No.16
A final call to support the Rally for Rivers campaign before the policy recommendation is submitted on 2 October 2017. Includes the weekly round-up of LWP's articles (18 - 24 September 2017).
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YoseMIGHTY: A Storehouse of Natural Wonder
Supriya Tandon shares her experience of a trip to the Yosemite National Park in California. The park is a treasure trove of the wonders of Mother Nature and Supriya even spots a rare 'rainbow in water'! Amidst the awesome natural beauty, one finds a deep contentment.
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Navdurga: the 9 Forms of Durga
The Navratri festival in India is a celebration of the nine nights of the Divine Mother. The Mother Goddess manifests in many different forms. In Hindu culture, each of the nine nights is associated with a particular form of the Mother Goddess, Durga or Shakti (Navdurga). Read more.
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Making the Most of the Navratri
Shruti Bakshi explains the significance of Navratri and the best way to make use of this period dedicated to the Mother Goddess.
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Ingredients of Myth-Making
Ganesh Varadharajan explores what makes a work an 'epic'. Using as examples, Tolkien's 'Legendarium' and Martin's 'A Song of Ice & Fire', Ganesh brings out the different textures of the fantasy worlds created by the novelists. Referencing back to the great epics of Ramayana, Mahabharata, Sri Aurobindo's 'Savitri' as well as the Greek epics and the works of Shakespeare, gives an insight into the world of legend, myth and fantasy.
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From the Immortals of Meluha to Immortal India – in conversation with Amish
Shruti Bakshi speaks to bestselling author Amish Tripathi about a wide range of topics from his books to his writing process, to atheism in ancient India and current issues in India relating to religion, society and politics. As someone with vast knowledge about India's past and ancient wisdom and who refuses to be pigeonholed as 'left' or 'right', Amish's views are refreshing, insightful and enlightening.
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Brahma’s Lie and the Delusion of Certainty
"Brahma’s lie marks the first act of fundamentalism on the planet. The flower is punished for bearing witness and offering tacit support to the fundamentalist impulse. To claim a limited end to a limitless process, to reduce the infinite to the finite, to draw borders across the borderless, to make measurements of the unfathomable – this is the beginning of the human impulse to create certainty where none exists. It is the birth of pain, of suffering, of delusion." - Read more of the excerpt from the book Adiyogi: The Source of Yoga by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev.
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Primal Divergence : A Contrast of Cultures (Part-4)
The final part in this four-part series in which Ganesh Varadharajan contrasts Eastern and Western thought with a focus on pop-culture portrayals of the evolution and future of humanity. In this part, Ganesh explains The Mother's vision of the future of humanity and the role of the Supramental towards achieving it - something that appears to have inspired many Hollywood movie makers in recent times.
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Guru’s Words on ‘Guruvada’ – Part II
In Part 2 of the 'Guru's Words on Guruvada', Beloo Mehra brings to light Sri Aurobindo's wisdom on questions like: 'What is the true relationship between a Guru and a disciple?' and 'Why so many Gurus?'
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Vivekananda’s Message to the West and the Historic September 11 Speech
In 1893, Swami Vivekananda gave some of the most powerful speeches in history at the Parliament of World Religions. The speeches were an instant hit in America and still remembered the world over today. The article includes the text of his September 11 opening address at the conference.
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Enlighten Yourself | Newsletter No.14
The weekly round-up of LWP's articles (4 - 10 September 2017).
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When Vivekananda Met Tesla: Modern Physics’ Earliest Trysts with Vedanta
What's the connection between Vivekananda, Tesla and 'akasha'? Professor Subhash Kak explains, describing some of the earliest attempts at searching for a scientific basis for Vedantic concepts.
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Primal Divergence : A Contrast of Cultures (Part-3)
In Part 3 of this four-part series, Ganesh Varadharajan notes how the Western mind has long misunderstood the meaning of Brahmacharya and how modern psychology operates from a limited understanding (often misunderstanding) of the human mind and life.
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Guru’s Words on ‘Guruvada’ – Part I
"I had the same kind of violent objection to Gurugiri, but you see I was obliged by the irony of things or rather by the inexorable truth behind them to become a Guru and preach the Guruvada.” - Sri Aurobindo What is a Guru? In light of current events, it appears Indians desperately need to dig deeper into their spiritual traditions to understand this. Beloo Mehra's insightful exposition drawing on the insights and wisdom of Sri Aurobindo makes for a must-read in this regard.
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Life Advice from One of India’s Great Teachers
"Religion is what we do with ourselves when we are alone. In every one of us is a secret shrine where no one could intrude, to which we must retire as often as possible and discover what our true self is as distinct from the appearance we present to the world outside. Most of us are self-deceivers and constant examination alone can save us...." 5 September has been celebrated as Teacher's Day in India since 1962 in honour of the great scholar and philosopher Dr S. Radhakrishnan who became President of India in 1962. In this excerpt from this essay 'My Search for Truth', Dr Radhakrishnan gives valuable advice not only for teachers but all people in general.
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Rally For Rivers – Your Time to Act!
A democracy means actively participating not only once every 5 years but also during the 5 years between elections. Find out more about the Rally for Rivers campaign to save India's depleting rivers that kicks off 3 September 2017.
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A Journey to the Top of the World (Well Almost…)
In this series, Rohit Kumar describes his experiences of scaling the treacherous terrain to Everest Base Camp. A good foothold on the rocks requires a good foothold in one's inner being that provides the resilience and humility to journey on. And as with life, it is not about the destination but the journey on which one often meets people that inspire us.
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Ram Rahim Case and Lack of Understanding About Gurus
Shruti Bakshi discusses how the Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh scandal in India shows that you can't talk spirituality to an empty stomach and also that most Indians don't understand the role of a guru.
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Primal Divergence : A Contrast of Cultures (Part-2)
Part 2 of the series in which Ganesh Varadharajan explores the limitations of modern science that follows in the footsteps of the ancient Greeks and is not able to grasp the evolution of successive conditions of energy as expounded in Indian thought systems like the Sankhya philosophy. Western pop culture portrays the next stage in the evolution of man as a brutish being, with the idea of beauty of form as emphasised by Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, being completely disregarded.
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The Importance of Being Idle | Newsletter No. 12
Special Newsletter No. 12 in which Shruti Bakshi shares her thoughts on the underrated nature of 'idleness' in our modern society. Weekly digest 21-27 August is also included.
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What is Surrender?
Surrender is a much misunderstood term today. Beloo Mehra explains what surrender really means for a spiritual seeker.
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Vedic Chanting: An Amazing World at the Intersection of Tones and Letters
Vedic chants are considered to be the oldest unbroken oral tradition in the world. They are incredibly sophisticated arrangements of tones and letters that have a profound impact on the consciousness of the listener. Here we have the fortune of having a trained practitioner and teacher of Vedic chants, Dr Sivaram Hariharan aka Sydney Kishore, who describes his experience of learning Vedic chanting and some of the technicalities involved.
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Primal Divergence : A Contrast of Cultures (Part-1)
Ganesh Varadharajan explores the divergence between the East and West, essentially between Vedanta and Greek thought in the understanding of man and his relationship with the Divine. Setting side-by-side, examples from modern pop culture like Hollywood and the deep spiritual insights as articulated by Sri Aurobindo, makes for an interesting analysis of the diverging world and life views.
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Getting to Know Ganesha on Ganesha Chaturthi
Shruti Bakshi delves into the significance of Sri Ganesha, one of the most enigmatic and lovable deities in Hindu culture.
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How Many of These Ganesha Symbolisms Do You Know?
The Hindu deity Ganesha is an enigmatic figure full of symbolisms. How many do you know?
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Lost in Translation: the Need to Revive Sanskrit
Professor Subhash Kak explains how Sanskrit is a language that not only represents the culture of India from north to south, but that also influenced the cultures of Southeast Asia, Middle East and Europe. Unfortunately, this language of yoga is much neglected today, making the revival of living Sanskrit, the need of the hour.
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Case for a Chyawanprash Comeback
Get to know this ancient 'herbal jam' that is a wonderful health tonic to deal with the stresses and strains of modern life.
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5 Things Beginners Should Know About Meditation
Beginner at meditation and not sure if you're going in the right direction? Rahul Sharma shares some advice regarding common questions and expectations about meditation.
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What Do You Really “Know”? (And Why Post-Truth is an Arrogance)
Shruti Bakshi discusses the difference between information, knowledge and knowing and when knowledge becomes overrated and divisive. The highest Truth does not reveal itself unless we abandon everything we believe we know as the truth.
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What You Should Do During the Solar Eclipse 2017 (Indian/Yogic Perspective)
With a solar eclipse due on 21 August, learn about the yogic perspective on what to do during this time.
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The Yogic Meaning of Hanuman
"Hanuman is the great hero of the Ramayana, the wonderful story’s most fascinating character. Though having the form of a monkey, he is said to be the greatest sage, yogi and devotee. What is the inner meaning of this magical figure?" David Frawley explains.
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The Importance of Namaste
Of all the ways of greeting, the hugs and kisses and handshakes, the Namaste is the most profound, explains Ambika Gupta. Read about what the Namaste really represents and it's yogic meaning.
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Let it R.A.I.N.
Have you heard of the R.A.I.N. practice? Isabella Convertini describes this practice that is helpful in times when tumultuous emotions take over and it seems difficult to hold on to our inner peace. This practice is an easy way to navigate through the flood of emotions and stay centred.
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8 Miracle Ingredients Every Kitchen Must Have
These 8 ingredients are considered to be health treasures in Ayurveda. Do you have them in your kitchen and know about all their goodness?
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Introducing Sri Aurobindo
Beloo Mehra takes on the difficult challenge of introducing us to one of the greatest men in India's history - the great yogi, sage, poet, philosopher, visionary, patriot, politician and intellectual, Sri Aurobindo.
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Tiger Stripes of Virtue and Sin
Is shunning sin and clinging to virtue a sure way to reach the Divine or is that way too simplistic thinking? IS it possible that virtue can be more binding than vice? Ganesh Varadharajan explores, drawing inspiration from Sri Aurobindo.
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A Safari Story: Life on the Wild Side at Jim Corbett
Rahul Sharma shares his experience of undertaking a safari with his family at the Jim Corbett national park in India.
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Who is Krishna?
How can we understand this most colourful and attractive incarnation of the Divine? His exhalation is the Gita and his inhalation is the Leela, as Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev puts it. If we want to understand the nature of life, we must study the Gita but if we want to know the essence of Krishna, we must become his inhalation. We must approach with the devotion of Radha and Meera writes Shruti Bakshi.
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From Vedanta to Plato & More | Weekly Newsletter No. 10
The weekly round-up of LWP's articles (7 - 13 August).
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India’s Struggle for Freedom and the Voice of God – Sri Aurobindo’s Speech
Sri Aurobindo played a crucial role in India's freedom movement by raising the national consciousness. In this speech at Uttarpara in West Bengal, he talked about his communion with God during a jail sentence he served during the freedom struggle. The speech describes his realisation that nationalism had a spiritual purpose in India. It provides the context for Sri Aurobindo's vision of raising India to raise Sanatana Dharma.
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Indian Monk Says to Rise Above Thought and Reason (Swami Vivekananda)
Are there limits to our reason or is reason all we must rely on? Swami Vivekanda said: "The really difficult part to understand is that this state, the Absolute, which has been called the highest, is not, as some fear, that of the zoophite, or of the stone. That would be a dangerous thing to think. According to these thinkers there are only two states of existence, one of the stone, and the other of thought. What right have they to limit existence to these two? Is there not something infinitely superior to thought?" Read more in the article.
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A Most Touching Tribute to Devi
This unconventional musical tribute to Devi, Shakti or the Mother Goddess by Krishna Das is likely to bring a tear to your eye.
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From Vedanta to Plato: the Deep Links between India and Europe (Part 2)
Part 2 in this two-part series in which Professor Subhash Kak explores the deep historical connections between India and Europe in art, astronomy, civilisational ideas, language, literature and mythology. Here Professor Kak looks at some examples from Graeco-Roman art wherein Indic elements appear prominent.
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Why the Meatless Impossible Burger Does Little for Humanity
Is the adoption of fake-meat a desirable new vegetarian trend? Shruti Bakshi argues that it's a call not to our humanity, but to our senses. Authentic vegetarianism is a reflection of a satvik mind that is life-sensitive and feels a respect for Nature. It must not be a feel-good fad.
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Perception: The Wayfinder
Ganesh Varadharajan explores how perception is our tool for understanding the world and ourselves but that clarity of perception depends on our connectedness with our true selves and not with the ego-personality.
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From Vedanta to Plato: the Deep Links between India and Europe (Part 1)
Vedanta and Plato. Mahabharata and Homeric poems. Venus and Vena. Kupros and Shukra. What's behind the fascinating parallels? Professor Subhash Kak delves into the deep connections between India and the Graeco-Roman world which show up not only in language, but civilizational ideas, philosophy, mythology, astronomy and art. This is Part 1 in a two-part series.
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When Everest Called
In this exclusive series for LWP, Rohit Kumar describes his experiences of scaling not only the treacherous external terrain, but also the inner, slippery one. A good foothold on the rocks requires a good foothold in one's inner being that provides the resilience and humility to journey on. And as with life, it is not about the destination but the journey on which one often meets people that inspire and humble us.
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Be Simple
“One must be spontaneous in order to be divine. One must be perfectly simple in order to be spontaneous. One must be absolutely sincere in order to be perfectly simple. To be absolutely sincere is not to have any division, any contradiction in one’s being.”
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Don’t Hallucinate, Just Meditate!
Rahul Sharma discusses why focusing on 'experiences' during meditation is not what it should be about.
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Musings on the Population Problem
Newsletter No.9. There are too many bodies in the world but also too much person 'within' us. The population problem needs to be dealt not only on social and economic fronts, but also spiritual.
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#RallyforRivers – What You Need to Know
If you live in India and consume water, you need to get involved! Find out why.
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Don’t Try to Love Yourself! Indian Yogi vs. New-Age Spirituality
Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev tears apart new-age spiritual ideas like 'loving yourself' and 'being compassionate to yourself'.
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Recipe: Pumpkin & Chickpea Curry (South Indian Style)
Coconut milk, peppercorns and curry leaves give this wholesome curry a bagful of flavour.
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Visiting the Isha Yoga Centre – a spiritual travelogue
Rahul Sharma describes his first ever spiritual travel - to the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, India, set up by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev. Having heard so much about the ashram's consecrated spaces of mystic energy Rahul shares his outsider's views based on his experiences at the ashram, the Dhyanalinga, Linga Bhairavi temple and at the Adiyogi statue.
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Message From a Himalayan Yogi – Watch Your Karma
There are 3 kinds of Karma. Only one is liberating. Ishaputra Kaulantaknath explains the law of karma and how it applies to relationships.
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Soldiers & Spirituality – Part 3
Part 3 of the interview in which GD Bakshi tells us what it takes for a soldier facing death on the frontline, to overcome his fears and do his duty.
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Living in a Faithless World
Dr Vineet Aggarwal discusses how perhaps what we need most in the world is to 'keep the faith'.
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What is the Significance of Idol Worship?
What lies behind the worship of idols and images that rational and scientific minds miss? Read on and watch this insightful video.
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How to Be Happy? Try These 5 Things
Some quick tips for a happier life!
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From Dior to Dharma – Meet the Author
Join Shruti Bakshi for a live chat session!
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Pura Tirtha Empul
Subhash Kak's poem on the great Vishnu pilgrimage temple in Bali, Indonesia which illuminates through a confluence of the five elements.
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Ayurveda & Yoga: Introduction & Tips
Joe Nazar, a yoga and Ayurveda practitioner, gives an overview of the sister sciences and provides some tips on how to implement them in daily life.
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Shravan, Month of Shiva
Some quick facts about this auspicious 5th month of the calendar in the Indian tradition.
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From Darkness to Light – Guru Purnima Blessings
Newsletter #6. Guru Purnima blessings and understanding what or who a Guru is.
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Guru Purnima: Full Moon of the Universal Guru
David Frawley explains the significance of Guru Purnima - from Ved Vyasa to modern day gurus.
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Meatless in Korea: Vegan Survival Guide
Danielle Oakes shares 9 tips for surviving as a vegan in a meat obsessed society.
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Remembering Annapurna
Beloo Mehra reminisces about her late mother who loved to cook and whose cooking fed not only the stomach but also the soul.
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Rath Jatra 2017 in pictures
The Rath Jatra (Chariot Festival) is one of the most colourful, enigmatic and important festivals in India and one of the oldest of its kind. Here are a few glimpses from the 2017 festival that took place from 25 June to 3 July.
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Coming Soon: Maj Gen GD Bakshi Interview & #RALLYFORRIVERS
Newsletter #5. Two important updates: 1) Exclusive interview with Maj Gen GD Bakshi like you've never seen him before! and 2) LWP joins the #RallyforRivers cause.
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What is the Amarnath Yatra?
Ever wondered why the Amarnath Yatra is considered so significant and what it's all about? If you're Indian, then here's what your grandparents knew.
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“Yoga is Beyond Religion” – Interview at Parmarth Niketan
What really is yoga? Parmarth Niketan ashram's Swami Chidanand Saraswati explains in this video interview.
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Tech & Start-up World Hack Spirituality to Boost Performance
From the only book that Steve Jobs famously had on his iPad to the latest spiritual hacks attracting start-ups, the tech world seems to have an unceasing fascination for spirituality!
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Can a Banker be a Yogi?
Meet an undercover yogi working in investment banking. Scott Robinson 'Yogibanker' talks about balancing the two roles.
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Attention! You’re Better than a Goldfish (Busting the Attention Span Myth)
Newsletter #4. Are our attention spans really deteriorating or is there just too much content on the internet and an incentive for the internet giants to promote marketing activity? From a spiritual perspective, one might ask, who watches attention? How do we know that our attention is wandering? Obviously because something within us watches/witnesses attention and inattention. What is that? Are we not identifying with the wrong thing when we feel that we’re drifting when really it’s our attention that’s drifting? If we can observe our attention, then we’re not the attention but attention is just a tool we possess – a very intimate and powerful tool.
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A Sanctuary of Peace Atop a Bangkok Hill
Nora von Ingersleben goes off the beaten track in Bangkok, soaking in the serenity at an old hilltop temple.
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Yoga Day Countdown: Day #1, Yoga Day!
Continuing our countdown to Yoga Day 2017 with Hatha Yoga teacher Ambika Gupta's yoga postcards from the gorgeous banks of Lac Léman, Switzerland! The asanas follow the progression of a yoga practice. Day #1, Yoga Day: Shavasana
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Happy Yoga Day & Yoga for a Happy Day!
Did you know that yoga can change your genes and make you happier? And that's not just for 'Hindus'. LWP Founder shares the latest scientific information and reflects on yoga and its connection with religion.
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Want to be a Laughing Buddha? Try Laughter Yoga
Too lazy to do yoga-asanas? Why not try Laughter Yoga? Read more to find out what's so funny.
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And Now, Yoga (Yoga Day Special)
Newsletter #3 discusses the significance of Yoga Day being held at the summer solstice and also the importance of yoga in the world today. It is indeed time for yoga.
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The Alchemy of Suffering and Freedom
In this artful piece, Shruti Bakshi and Subhash Kak contemplate the alchemy programmed into the game of life where suffering must be turned into freedom. The story of the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) is used as a metaphor to understand the existential meaning of the suffering inherent life.
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Shiva, the Grand Master of Yoga
David Frawley reminds us of Shiva as the consciousness inextricably linked with yoga and explains the many symbolisms of Shiva.
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Mindfulness in Business
Yes MBAs and business leaders do meditate! Isabella Convertini, career coach, business strategy expert and mindfulness teacher at Google gives us an insight into what mindfulness is all about and her personal journey into it.
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How to Manage Your Mind
If you're an over-thinker, this short clip might help. LWP gives you 4 easy ways of dealing with stress and anxiety. Anyone can do it! Why not check it out?
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De-mystifying Kali
Nithin Sridhar helps us understand the meaning and significance of Goddess Kali who is often misunderstood and her symbolisms often misinterpreted.
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A Song for the Neuroscientists (Avadhuta Gita)
Newsletter #2 with thoughts on the desultory attempts by scientists to understand and interpret mystical/spiritual experiences (e.g. Arun Shourie's attempt in his recent book Two Saints). Includes a weekly round-up and other LWP updates.
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The Most Important Question
A short clip in which spiritual teacher Mooji explains why you need to question who you think you are.
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Sanskrit, Science and Ecology
Can Sanskrit show us the way forward? Kiran Varanasi reminds us of the vital role Sanskrit played in the brilliance and endurance of the ancient Indian civilisation and how it can help transform civilisation once again.
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“We Won’t Always Have Paris”
This first weekly newsletter (4 Jun 2017) by LWP discusses the global concern over environmental issues with the US pulling out of the Paris Agreement. A weekly round-up of LWP articles is also included in case you missed them during the week.
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Yoga and the Environment
David Frawley reflects on the crucial role of Yoga in restoring our lost connection with nature. Concerned with the balance of the body and mind, Yoga and Ayurveda can also help us restore ecological balance and respect for other life on the planet- an urgent need of the hour.
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4 Bad Food Habits You Probably Didn’t Know You Had
We guarantee you're guilty of at least one of these! Find out which one(s).
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Amazing Shiva Chants/Songs
Here's LWP's recommendations for chants, mantras and songs of Lord Shiva curated by us from YouTube. Each one is different in style and mesmerizingly wonderful in its own way.
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Recipe: Summer Chickpea and Mint Salad
A wholesome chickpea and mint salad with a honey-yogurt-lime dressing to give you that boost of nutrition while leaving you feeling light on hot summer days.
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Yoga and Pranayama to Keep You Cool Through Summer
As the summer heat rises and air-conditioning gets a disapproving look from doctors (for being dehydrating among other things), it's simple yoga and pranayama to the rescue. Restore your calm and cool with these easy exercises recommended by LWP.
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Art, Cosmology and the Divine | Part V
In Part V: Krishna's Dance, Subhash Kak explains how the stories of Krishna, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, reflect a harmony between materiality and spirit.
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India’s Intellectuals Vs. Vedanta – a gap that needs bridging
David Frawley writes about the aching need for India's intellectuals to come to an understanding of Vedanta.
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Understanding the Ayurvedic principles of Panchamahabhuta and Tridosha
Vata, Pitta, Kapha. Sounds like Greek? Ayurveda entrepreneur Nidhi Bansal breaks it down for us on LWP.
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The Bhagavad Gita – the essence of India and its profound message for the world
Eminent Vedic teacher David Frawley explains how the Bhagavad Gita reflects India's ethos and offers solutions for the human condition.
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The Infinite is Here (Purnamidam)
Let's take a look at one of the most ancient Sanskrit shlokas (verses) that is also one of the most profound and fundamental.
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The Living Ganga
Recently back from a trip to the Himalayas, the birthplace of the river Ganga and on the occasion of World Water Day, I take the opportunity to write about the river Ganga, the life-giving Mother of India.
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From Paris with ‘AUM’: my experience of the globalisation of yoga
After 3 years in Paris, one is generally expected to be dripping with the smugness that comes from being able to correctly pronounce ‘Champs Elysees’, to rattle off a dozen…
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Japa and Kirtan – the Ways of Devotion
All paths of yoga are essentially about being in constant remembrance of and thus communion with the Divine. A relatively easy tool for this is japa. Still the practice of japa requires discipline and effort. A still easier and softer way is kirtan or bhajan.