What's in mind?

Yoga is very popular in the Western world. You’ll be able to find a yoga studio in most cities. Classes are packed. Instagram is flooded with yoga influencers in impossible poses. Yoga pants are a multi-billion-dollar industry. But how many of them understand the roots of yoga? How many of them heard about the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, or the philosophical roots of yoga? Yoga, in its traditional Indian form, is not merely a set of physical postures (asanas). It is a holistic system of personal and spiritual development. Classical texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outline a comprehensive eightfold path (Ashtanga Yoga), which includes: Yama – ethical restraints Niyama – self-discipline Asana – physical posture Pranayama – breath control Pratyahara – withdrawal of the senses Dharana – concentration Dhyana – meditation Samadhi – spiritual liberation These practices are deeply embedded in Indian philosophical systems, which explore questions of consciousness, self, re...

In a world obsessed with ownership, boundaries, and individuality, it's easy to forget that life itself only exists because of sharing. Beneath every living cell, within every breath, and throughout every relationship in nature, sharing is not just an act of kindness. Sharing is a biological and spiritual necessity. The electrons in an atom to a vast interconnected web of ecosystems, nature teaches us one clear truth. Nothing exists in isolation. At every level of life, sharing is not optional. It is essential. Atoms are the building blocks of everything in the universe, including stars, rivers, skin, bones, and breath. But a single atom, on its own, is limited. When atoms share electrons through chemical bonds to form molecules. Water (H₂O), which sustains all life, exists because hydrogen and oxygen share electrons. DNA, the molecule that stores life’s genetic code, is a complex result of countless atoms sharing electrons in intricate patterns. Every structure in your body, fr...

Synchronicity is the occurrence of unrelated events that align meaningfully without a causal connection. These "meaningful coincidences" carry a sense of purpose or a deeper connection to the universe. Synchronicity has found applications in psychology and spirituality. It explores the interplay between the human psyche and the mysteries of existence. Swiss psychiatrist Carl Gustav Jung introduced the concept of synchronicity. Jung described it as a phenomenon where two or more events occur in a way that is not causally linked but holds profound meaning for the observer. For example, thinking of a long-lost friend and then unexpectedly receiving a call from them could be considered a synchronistic event. Jung proposed that synchronicity is distinct from the linear cause-and-effect relationships that govern physical reality. He suggested that these events are linked by meaning, facilitated by the collective unconscious that shapes human experience. Synchronicity challenges ...

The journey of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and return to the earth or sea offers a profound metaphor for the life cycle of birth, growth, transformation, and death. Both processes are natural and inevitable. It invites a philosophical inquiry into continuity, impermanence, interconnectedness, and the tension between individuality and unity. By exploring these cycles, we can uncover insights into the human condition, the nature of existence, and our place in the cosmos. Evaporation transforms water to vapor by the warmth of the Sun, leaving behind the familiarity of rivers, lakes, or oceans. This ascent is a departure, a transformation from the grounded to the ethereal. Similarly, birth launches a human life into being, a singular entity emerging from the collective potential of existence. Both processes are acts of individuation. Water becomes vapor, distinct yet invisible. A person becomes a self, unique yet fragile. It raises questions of identity and pu...

"Let it go" means to release or relinquish attachment to negative emotions, past experiences, regrets, or anything that no longer serves you. In a world filled with constant pressures, expectations, and the fast-paced demands of modern life, letting go has become increasingly important. It might sound simple, but it is a profound practice that can transform how we approach life, relationships, and even ourselves. It is a tool for emotional release, healing, and growth. The phrase "let it go" is interpreted in many ways. For some, it refers to releasing grudges or past hurts; for others, it may mean detaching from unnecessary stress or control. At its core, letting go is about surrendering to life’s unpredictability, recognizing that we cannot control everything, and accepting that some things are beyond our influence. Letting go is about finding peace in the present rather than clinging to the past or anxiously worrying about the future. It involves freeing ourse...

The "Circle of Life" is a concept that appears in many cultures and philosophies. It often refers to the continuous cycle of birth, growth, death, and rebirth. In nature, we see this cycle clearly in the life and death of plants and animals. Seeds germinate, grow into plants, produce seeds, and eventually die, with their remains nourishing the soil for new growth. Animals are born, mature, reproduce, and eventually die, their bodies becoming food for other organisms. Human life also follows a cycle. We are born, grow, mature, reproduce, and eventually die. Our actions and the legacy we leave behind can influence future generations, continuing the cycle of human existence. Many spiritual and religious traditions incorporate the idea of the Circle of Life. Some believe in reincarnation, where the soul is reborn into a new body after death. Others believe in an afterlife where the soul continues to exist in a different form.   All living things depend on their environment t...

Spiritual laws are principles often drawn from ancient wisdom, religious teachings, or philosophical concepts that guide individuals toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life. These principles may vary across different traditions. But they emphasize the importance of inner peace, positive thinking, and ethical behavior. While the specific interpretations and practices may vary across different traditions, some common themes in spiritual laws include: The Law of Attraction : Our thoughts and beliefs can attract corresponding experiences into our lives. The Law of Karma : Our actions have consequences that can influence our future experiences. The Law of Giving : Giving freely, whether it be time, money, or kindness, can lead to abundance and fulfillment in our own lives. The Law of Detachment : By detaching from material possessions, outcomes, and people, we can find inner peace and freedom. The Law of Abundance : The universe is believed to be abundant, and by adopting an at...

Zen Buddhism identifies three poisons as the root causes of suffering. Greed : An intense desire for things, experiences, or people. Greed leads to a constant state of wanting rather than appreciating what one already has. This creates a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction, as no amount of acquisition can truly fulfill the emptiness created by greed. It can blind us to the true value of things. We may become fixated on acquiring possessions or achieving external validation, neglecting the importance of inner qualities and genuine connections. This distorted perception can lead to poor decision-making and harmful actions. Greed often manifests in harmful ways, such as exploitation, manipulation, and even violence. As individuals and societies become consumed by greed, suffering increases for both the pursuer and the pursued. When consumed by greed, we prioritize our own desires over the needs of others. This can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness. Hatred : Anger or disli...

Happiness is a complex emotion that can be defined as: A state of well-being and contentment. A feeling of joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment. A positive evaluation of one's life. A sense of meaning and purpose in life. Happiness is often thought of as a goal in life, something that we all strive for. However, happiness is not something that we can achieve once and for all. There will be times when we experience sadness, anger, and other negative emotions. Happiness is a sustained state of well-being that is not dependent on any specific external factors. It is not same as pleasure, which is a fleeting feeling that is often associated with something specific like eating a delicious meal or getting a massage. Happiness is not something that happens to us. It is something that we create. It is not a destination. It is a journey. We will never reach a point where we are completely happy. However, we can always strive to be happier than we are today. There is...

In general, spirituality is concerned with the search for meaning and purpose in life, and with the relationship between the individual and the larger universe. It can involve a belief in a higher power, but it does not necessarily have to. There are many different aspects of spirituality, and what is considered spiritual can vary from person to person. Some people find spirituality in religious practices, such as prayer, meditation, or ritual. Others find it in nature, art, or music. Still others find it in their relationships with others, or in their own personal experiences. Some people believe that spirituality is a necessary condition for human happiness and well-being. They argue that spirituality provides us with a sense of purpose and meaning in life, as well as a connection to something greater than ourselves. This connection can help us to cope with stress, adversity, and loss. It can also motivate us to be kind, compassionate, and generous to others. Others believe that ...

Yes, yoga brings positive changes to humanity. Here are some of the ways in which yoga can benefit individuals and society as a whole: Improved physical health : Yoga can help to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. It can also help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Increased mental clarity : Yoga can help to improve focus, concentration, and memory. It can also help to reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Enhanced emotional well-being : Yoga can help to increase self-awareness, self-acceptance, and compassion. It can also help to reduce anger, fear, and other negative emotions. Improved relationships : Yoga can help to increase communication skills, empathy, and patience. It can also help to reduce conflict and stress in relationships. Increased mindfulness : Yoga can help to increase awareness of the present moment and reduce attachment to thoughts and emotions. This can lead to a more peaceful and fulfilling life. In addition to these individual ...

Sawmi Vivekananda born in Kolkata , India on January 12, 1863.He studied at Presidency College and Scottish Church College in Kolkata where he studied western logic, western philosophy and history of European nations. Even at his young age he questioned the validity of superstitious customs and discrimination based on caste and religion. He worked with Brahmo Samaj, and important religious movement of that time. Later became a disciple of Sri Ramakrisha. Five years of training under Ramakrishna transformed him from a restless, puzzled and impatient youth to a mature man. After the death of Ramakrishna, Vivekananda renounced the world and started a journey that took him all over Indian Subcontinent. During his journey he stayed on King’s places as well as the huts of the poor. He came in close contact with the culture of different regions of India and various classes of people in India . He observed the imbalances in the society and problems his mother land faces. V...

Shri Adi Shankaracharya is a famous eighth century Hindu philosopher who had a profound influence on the growth of Hinduism. He was a great thinker, leader and a missionary. He consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta. His teachings can be summed up in the following words: Brahma Satyam Jagat Mithya, Jeevo Brahmaiva Na Aparah( Brahman alone is real, this world is unreal; the Life is identical with Brahman). An illusionary power of Brahman called Maya causes the world to arise. Ignorance of this reality is the cause of all suffering in the world and only upon true knowledge of Brahman can liberation be attained. When a person tries to know Brahman through his mind, due to the influence of Maya, Brahman appears as God, separate from the world and from the individual. In reality, there is no difference between the individual soul and Brahman. Liberation lies in knowing the reality of this non-difference. Thus, the path to liberation is finally only through knowledge. Advaita Vedan...