Our Arjuna Moments
Arjuna’s moment of doubt and confusion is not a moment from history, but a living moment. We all have the opportunity to grow in wisdom if we are willing to recognise ours.
Author: Shruti Bakshi
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
In the Name of Rama (Chanting Rama 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.
Understanding Rama and Ramayana
On the occasion of Rama Navami (birthday of Lord Rama), understanding what Rama signifies.
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.
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.
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!
Shiva Panchakshara Stotram
An ancient chant in praise of Lord Shiva – the Shiva Panchakshara Stotram composed by Adi Shankaracharya. Includes translation as well as a recitation by Shruti Bakshi.
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.
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.