1. First understand clearly what concentration is: “Concentration is taking your mind off many things and putting it on one thing at a time.”
2. Decide carefully what you want to concentrate on, for in many subtle and not-so-subtle ways, you become that which you focus on — that is, you take on the attributes of your chosen subject of concentration. Have you ever noticed how couples who have been married for many years start to look like each other, or how people often come to resemble their pets, their cars, their hobbies, or their work projects?
3. Generally speaking, everyone has had experiences in total concentration. Go to a good adventure film at a movie theater. In the middle of it, stop watching the movie (this might be hard, but do it anyway) and look around at the people in the theater. What are they doing? They are absolutely still, eyes barely blinking, and their breath is slower. It would take a really major distraction to break their attention stream. These physiological signs may give you a hint about ways to increase your own concentration abilities.
4. Some of the enemies of concentration skills are constant sensory input, multi-tasking, trying to do many things all a the same time, loud noises, and flashing light patterns. The human nervous system is a marvelous thing, but it is not built to function in the face of these things on a full-time basis. Attention deficit patterns come, at least to some extent, from the activities or situations which make concentration difficult to impossible. Then a habit of non-attention or inability to concentrate deeply is established and difficult to overcome.
5. Make it a point to put your full concentration on whatever you are doing. Don’t let anything distract you. It really helps to be in a quiet place, but you can learn to block out noise if necessary.
6. Understand the essential connection between concentration and energy. Deep concentration is a matter of increasing or directing your life-force or conscious, cosmic energy. The more of this kind of energy you have, the better. Scattered energy doesn’t help. It must be calm, focused energy. Learn to be calmly concentrated and be concentratedly calm.
7. Learn and practice some physical and mental energization techniques. This is an important first step toward the ability to concentrate deeply.
8. Take breaks. Go outside and breathe deeply or take a brisk walk. Make yourself do this often and you’ll be able to return to your task recharged and ready to focus more creatively.
9. Meditation is the most powerful of all concentration enhancement techniques. Learn a few simple meditation techniques and practice them at least five minutes daily.
10. A first step in the concentration aspect of meditation is to focus on watching your breath — not controlling it in any way, but just observing it. This helps to train yourself in taking your mind off of many things, and putting it on one thing at a time — in this case the breath. As you observe your breath, it will calm down, your brain will calm down also (this is a scientifically well-documented, mind-breath connective function), and you automatically move into a dynamic, peaceful (but not sleepy) state of being. Your mind becomes recharged and creatively receptive.
Take a few minutes and learn a simple meditation technique. You’ll be amazed at how this effects your concentration during your regular daily life.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Out-of-the-body Experience
The concept of astral projection has been around for a long time, but until today, it has been hidden from most of humanity. Now, with the aid of astral projection, new levels of knowledge and power enable us to discover the answer to Man's eternal question about life in the physical body. Death takes on a new meaning as we begin to realize that it is only a transition to another dimension, or place of existence. By learning to astral project, we can learn many things about ourselves, and unlearn many things that were previously thought to be true. This leads us to the realization that our physical bodies are only a part of our entire selves, and there is more to our existence than meets the eye!
In our limited awareness, the reality we live and breathe on earth, with its beautiful landscapes, mountains, rivers, streams, animals and insects, can be compared with the petals on a flower. What we see is not the whole flower, but only a part. This is because man has lost touch with the use of his own mind. He concludes, erroneously, that the physical world is the only reality there is. He believes that his life as an individual has only to do with the flesh body of himself, and concludes that the physical world is solid and real because his senses tell him it "feels" solid and real. The mind has abilities that go beyond the five senses of the physical world. The petal of the flower that we now experience is the material world or physical plane of existence. It has a specific vibration, just as all creatures on this level vibrate at the same rate. Because of this, regardless of where we go on this level, all things take on the appearance of being solid, material objects. Just as the colors of the rainbow show the effects of the different vibrations of light, and the melodies on the piano show the effect of the different notes, so, too, does the entire universe contain various octaves, or rates of vibration. These universal harmonics comprise the different levels of existence.
So the earth plane we live on is only one of many dimensions. There are other spheres that we describe as being above or below us. Actually, they are not really above or below us, but rather at all times around us, permeating all things. Astral projection allows us to discover that the people and objects existing on these other realms can be just as solid and real as any object on the earth terrain. And if we happened to be in another level, looking back "down" into this region, we would view an earth that was not solid. Right now, at every instant, we are living, coexisting with, and walking through people and objects of another dimension! When a person astral projects, he or she can see these other frontiers.
Our Astral Bodies
When we were born into this physical world, we were provided with a physical body to carry out our duties. Astral projection allows us to project "out of the body" and into the next plane of existence, which is the astral plane. When we do this, we are in another body, which is called the "astral body." We already possess this astral body, just as all other people, animals, creatures and everything on earth possess an astral body.
The astral body has some amazing properties. Unlike the physical body, which is held down by gravity, the astral body can overcome this limitation by the effort of thought alone. While out of the body, we can not only walk around as if in the physical, but also soar above the trees, or go out into space. Another property of the astral body is that it cannot be injured. One of the greatest fears while on earth is pain or injury. While out of the body, this normal human reaction can be unlearned, because there is absolutely nothing that will cause damage to the astral body! In the next dimension, fire, knives, guns, falling from great heights, electrical shocks, disease, wild animals or being run over by a steam roller can do no harm. Many people receive lessons about this in their dreams. Watch for them, because you'll discover that you always survive - don't you?
In this next level of existence, which all of us can visit, there are many familiar things, such as cars, trains, planes, and highways. Everything that is on this earth right now comes from the astral plane. Many people get this backwards. They think the astral dimension was molded from earth. The truth is, the earth was fashioned from the ideas and discoveries which originated on the astral.
When we are out of the body, communication is accomplished by thought. Another word for this is telepathy. In other words, it is not necessary to move our lips in order to be heard, although we can do this if we wish. Sometimes, when we hear what we think is just a thought, this could actually be someone communicating to us from the astral.
This next plane of existence has been sought after, researched, and argued about by philosophers and religious people from time immemorial. Until now, it has remained elusive and has evaded discovery to all but the most diligent. The individual who looks within instead of without, who looks to correct his own imperfections, and who treats others as he wishes to be treated will have the door of discovery swing wide open for him.
When we begin to explore this, we must first overcome the obstacle of fear, which will present itself in many forms. The fear of death, pain, injury, the unknown, evil, devils, hell and Satan may loom up before us. We must conquer our own fears head on, and they will rapidly disappear.
We are mental creators, and out of the ether of the next dimension, we can create that which we wish around us. If we are convinced a devil is out there to trick or deceive us, and if we have already pictured in our minds what this devil looks like and what he plans on doing, we should really not be surprised when our worst fears are confirmed. The devils we create become real and solid in the next dimension because we created them.
We are mental creators, and out of the ether of the next dimension, we can create that which we wish around us.
In the astral plane, we can meet those we love, or that which we fear. If we have no fear, we won't meet fear. It's as simple as that. So we can save ourselves trouble by putting nonsense like that out of our mind. Remember there is nothing that can harm us while we are out of our bodies. This teaching of fear has held people in mental bondage long enough! Its exposure is sure to cause a fury in those who have become trapped in the habit of their own thinking. We must release ourselves from the death grip of fear and set ourselves free.
In the astral plane, we can also visit our loved ones who have passed on before us. We can then ask them face-to-face how they like their new surroundings. We can see schools and universities, and may even find ourselves in a classroom, listening to a lecture.
This is also where we can discover the history of the world, and the history of our lives. The "Hall of Records" contains our present lives as well as our past. In it, are recorded our accomplishments and our failures. We can meet our spiritual teachers - which the churches have termed our "guardian angels" - and we can ask them for advice and guidance on our problems.
The astral plane is a vast dimension of existence, and contains life in abundance. It does not operate by the very same laws of the earth plane, and so many things that are quite impossible on earth, are quite commonplace in the astral. Mind over matter is common. Colors are more beautiful, and we may experience endless fascination with new and exciting things that there are to see and discover.
The astral plane is a vast dimension of existence, and contains life in abundance. It does not operate by the very same laws of the earth plane, and so many things that are quite impossible on earth, are quite commonplace in the astral.
For many centuries, the teachings of certain churches have been that some things are mysteries and are not to be questioned. Eve eating from the tree of knowledge and the subsequent expulsion from the Garden of Eden was sighted as proof. This erroneous interpretation was made by those who were ignorant, or by those who wanted to keep the masses of people in subjugation. Man's redemption in the final analysis will come from his knowledge of himself and his love of his neighbor, not from his ignorance.
Tapping the Subconscious
The astral plane contains many things that are not on earth at this time. Some of them may appear in the future on earth, and some are from the earth's past. Many different types of animals that have become extinct on earth exist in the astral. Remember, there is no death.
Astral projection enables us to use the part of our mind that has been dormant or sleeping. We can wake up this part and put it to work. It is called the subconscious, and it can be used to give us the knowledge we need to find out more about ourselves, our purpose on earth, and our relationship with God. Most people think of their mind as only that portion they recognize as their conscious mind, or waking mind. It has been said that the mind is 10 percent conscious, and 90 percent subconscious. We can learn to expand this 10 percent.
Everyone goes to the astral plane at night while they are asleep. Think of this! Astral projection takes place without a person even being aware of it! As strange and hard to believe as this sounds, it is true. To begin exploring astral projection, pay attention to your dreams each night. Eventually, you will come to the realization that you were in the astral plane, but did not realize it.
When we take the first step, of allowing for the possibility of multiple dimensions and astral projection as realities, we can then focus on ways to understand, explore, and actually experience these things. In doing so, we can open the door to an amazing and expansive existence that was heretofore beyond our wildest imagination!
In our limited awareness, the reality we live and breathe on earth, with its beautiful landscapes, mountains, rivers, streams, animals and insects, can be compared with the petals on a flower. What we see is not the whole flower, but only a part. This is because man has lost touch with the use of his own mind. He concludes, erroneously, that the physical world is the only reality there is. He believes that his life as an individual has only to do with the flesh body of himself, and concludes that the physical world is solid and real because his senses tell him it "feels" solid and real. The mind has abilities that go beyond the five senses of the physical world. The petal of the flower that we now experience is the material world or physical plane of existence. It has a specific vibration, just as all creatures on this level vibrate at the same rate. Because of this, regardless of where we go on this level, all things take on the appearance of being solid, material objects. Just as the colors of the rainbow show the effects of the different vibrations of light, and the melodies on the piano show the effect of the different notes, so, too, does the entire universe contain various octaves, or rates of vibration. These universal harmonics comprise the different levels of existence.
So the earth plane we live on is only one of many dimensions. There are other spheres that we describe as being above or below us. Actually, they are not really above or below us, but rather at all times around us, permeating all things. Astral projection allows us to discover that the people and objects existing on these other realms can be just as solid and real as any object on the earth terrain. And if we happened to be in another level, looking back "down" into this region, we would view an earth that was not solid. Right now, at every instant, we are living, coexisting with, and walking through people and objects of another dimension! When a person astral projects, he or she can see these other frontiers.
Our Astral Bodies
When we were born into this physical world, we were provided with a physical body to carry out our duties. Astral projection allows us to project "out of the body" and into the next plane of existence, which is the astral plane. When we do this, we are in another body, which is called the "astral body." We already possess this astral body, just as all other people, animals, creatures and everything on earth possess an astral body.
The astral body has some amazing properties. Unlike the physical body, which is held down by gravity, the astral body can overcome this limitation by the effort of thought alone. While out of the body, we can not only walk around as if in the physical, but also soar above the trees, or go out into space. Another property of the astral body is that it cannot be injured. One of the greatest fears while on earth is pain or injury. While out of the body, this normal human reaction can be unlearned, because there is absolutely nothing that will cause damage to the astral body! In the next dimension, fire, knives, guns, falling from great heights, electrical shocks, disease, wild animals or being run over by a steam roller can do no harm. Many people receive lessons about this in their dreams. Watch for them, because you'll discover that you always survive - don't you?
In this next level of existence, which all of us can visit, there are many familiar things, such as cars, trains, planes, and highways. Everything that is on this earth right now comes from the astral plane. Many people get this backwards. They think the astral dimension was molded from earth. The truth is, the earth was fashioned from the ideas and discoveries which originated on the astral.
When we are out of the body, communication is accomplished by thought. Another word for this is telepathy. In other words, it is not necessary to move our lips in order to be heard, although we can do this if we wish. Sometimes, when we hear what we think is just a thought, this could actually be someone communicating to us from the astral.
This next plane of existence has been sought after, researched, and argued about by philosophers and religious people from time immemorial. Until now, it has remained elusive and has evaded discovery to all but the most diligent. The individual who looks within instead of without, who looks to correct his own imperfections, and who treats others as he wishes to be treated will have the door of discovery swing wide open for him.
When we begin to explore this, we must first overcome the obstacle of fear, which will present itself in many forms. The fear of death, pain, injury, the unknown, evil, devils, hell and Satan may loom up before us. We must conquer our own fears head on, and they will rapidly disappear.
We are mental creators, and out of the ether of the next dimension, we can create that which we wish around us. If we are convinced a devil is out there to trick or deceive us, and if we have already pictured in our minds what this devil looks like and what he plans on doing, we should really not be surprised when our worst fears are confirmed. The devils we create become real and solid in the next dimension because we created them.
We are mental creators, and out of the ether of the next dimension, we can create that which we wish around us.
In the astral plane, we can meet those we love, or that which we fear. If we have no fear, we won't meet fear. It's as simple as that. So we can save ourselves trouble by putting nonsense like that out of our mind. Remember there is nothing that can harm us while we are out of our bodies. This teaching of fear has held people in mental bondage long enough! Its exposure is sure to cause a fury in those who have become trapped in the habit of their own thinking. We must release ourselves from the death grip of fear and set ourselves free.
In the astral plane, we can also visit our loved ones who have passed on before us. We can then ask them face-to-face how they like their new surroundings. We can see schools and universities, and may even find ourselves in a classroom, listening to a lecture.
This is also where we can discover the history of the world, and the history of our lives. The "Hall of Records" contains our present lives as well as our past. In it, are recorded our accomplishments and our failures. We can meet our spiritual teachers - which the churches have termed our "guardian angels" - and we can ask them for advice and guidance on our problems.
The astral plane is a vast dimension of existence, and contains life in abundance. It does not operate by the very same laws of the earth plane, and so many things that are quite impossible on earth, are quite commonplace in the astral. Mind over matter is common. Colors are more beautiful, and we may experience endless fascination with new and exciting things that there are to see and discover.
The astral plane is a vast dimension of existence, and contains life in abundance. It does not operate by the very same laws of the earth plane, and so many things that are quite impossible on earth, are quite commonplace in the astral.
For many centuries, the teachings of certain churches have been that some things are mysteries and are not to be questioned. Eve eating from the tree of knowledge and the subsequent expulsion from the Garden of Eden was sighted as proof. This erroneous interpretation was made by those who were ignorant, or by those who wanted to keep the masses of people in subjugation. Man's redemption in the final analysis will come from his knowledge of himself and his love of his neighbor, not from his ignorance.
Tapping the Subconscious
The astral plane contains many things that are not on earth at this time. Some of them may appear in the future on earth, and some are from the earth's past. Many different types of animals that have become extinct on earth exist in the astral. Remember, there is no death.
Astral projection enables us to use the part of our mind that has been dormant or sleeping. We can wake up this part and put it to work. It is called the subconscious, and it can be used to give us the knowledge we need to find out more about ourselves, our purpose on earth, and our relationship with God. Most people think of their mind as only that portion they recognize as their conscious mind, or waking mind. It has been said that the mind is 10 percent conscious, and 90 percent subconscious. We can learn to expand this 10 percent.
Everyone goes to the astral plane at night while they are asleep. Think of this! Astral projection takes place without a person even being aware of it! As strange and hard to believe as this sounds, it is true. To begin exploring astral projection, pay attention to your dreams each night. Eventually, you will come to the realization that you were in the astral plane, but did not realize it.
When we take the first step, of allowing for the possibility of multiple dimensions and astral projection as realities, we can then focus on ways to understand, explore, and actually experience these things. In doing so, we can open the door to an amazing and expansive existence that was heretofore beyond our wildest imagination!
Inspiring Peace Quotes
Smile Empty Soul as you Fill Your Cup...
with Inspiring Peace Quotes
Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured. ~ B.K.S. Iyengar
~ Yoga is bodily gospel. ~ Reaven Fields
~ Yoga is the perfect opportunity to be curious about who you are. ~ Jason Crandell
~ Yoga is invigoration in relaxation. Freedom in routine. Confidence through self control. Energy within and energy without. ~ Ymber Delecto
~ The most important pieces of equipment you need for doing yoga are your body and your mind. ~ Rodney Yee
~ Yoga is the cessation of mind. ~ Patanjali
~ You cannot do yoga. Yoga is your natural state. What you can do are yoga exercises, which may reveal to you where you are resisting your natural state. ~ Sharon Gannon
~ Yoga is possible for anybody who really wants it. Yoga is universal.... But don't approach yoga with a business mind looking for worldly gain. ~ Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois
~ Yoga is the practice of quieting the mind. ~ Patanjali
~ This yoga should be practiced with firm determination and perseverance, without any mental reservation or doubts. ~ Bhagavad Gita
The meaning of our self is not to be found in its separateness from God and others, but in the ceaseless realisation of yoga, of union; not on the side of the canvas where it is blank, but on the side where the picture is being painted. ~ Rabindranath Tagore
~ The Self in you is the same as the Self Universal. Whatever powers are manifested throughout the world, those powers exist in germ, in latency, in you.... If you realize the unity of the Self amid the diversities of the Not-Self, then Yoga Will not seem an impossible thing to you. ~ Annie Wood Besant
~ You can enter yoga, or the path of yoga, only when you are totally frustrated with your own mind as it is. If you are still hoping that you can gain something through your mind, yoga is not for you. ~ Osho
~ Yoga is really trying to liberate us from ... shame about our bodies. To love your body is a very important thing -- I think the health of your mind depends on your being able to love your body. ~ Rodney Yee
~ Because there is a larger awareness that transcends time and space, an awareness is available after death. ~ Yoga, an ancient but perfect science, deals with the evolution of humanity. This evolution includes all aspects of one's being, from bodily health to self-realization. Yoga means union - the union of body with consciousness and consciousness with the soul. Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balanced attitude in day-to-day life and endows skill in the performance of one's actions. ~ B.K.S. Iyengar
~ Anyone who practices can obtain success in yoga but not one who is lazy. Constant practice alone is the secret of success. ~ Svatmarama
~ Yoga has a sly, clever way of short-circuiting the mental patterns that cause anxiety. ~ Baxter Bell
~ Yoga is difficult for the one whose mind is not subdued. ~ Bhagavad Gita
~ Karma-yoga is a supreme secret indeed. ~ Bhagavad Gita
~ In Karma-yoga no effort is ever lost, and there is no harm. Even a little practice of this discipline protects one from great fear [of birth and death]. ~ Bhagavad Gita
~ Yoga heals, nourishes, and challenges us. The practice infiltrates every corner of our lives. ~ Valerie Jeremijenko
~ Yoga is a science, and not a vague dreamy drifting or imagining. It is an applied science, a systematized collection of laws applied to bring about a definite end. It takes up the laws of psychology, applicable to the unfolding of the whole consciousness of man on every plane, in every world, and applies those rationally in a particular case. This rational application of the laws of unfolding consciousness acts exactly on the same rinciples that you see applied around you every day in other departments of science. ~
Annie Wood Besant
"The radiance of Buddha shines ceaselessly." - Dhammapada
"Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth." - Holy Koran
"I have come into the world as Light." - Holy Bible
"The Lord is my light; whom shall I fear?" - Psalms
"God is the sun beaming light everywhere." - Tribal African
"Following the Light, the sage takes care of all." - Lao Tsu
"In the effulgent lotus of the heart dwells Braham, the Light of lights." - Mundaka Upanishad
"The light of Divine Amaterasu shines forever." - Kurozumi Munetada
"God, being Truth, is the one Light of all." - Adi Granth
"The Light of Wakan-Tanka is upon my people." - song of Kablaya
"Truth is one, paths are many." - Sri Swami Satchidananda
with Inspiring Peace Quotes
Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured. ~ B.K.S. Iyengar
~ Yoga is bodily gospel. ~ Reaven Fields
~ Yoga is the perfect opportunity to be curious about who you are. ~ Jason Crandell
~ Yoga is invigoration in relaxation. Freedom in routine. Confidence through self control. Energy within and energy without. ~ Ymber Delecto
~ The most important pieces of equipment you need for doing yoga are your body and your mind. ~ Rodney Yee
~ Yoga is the cessation of mind. ~ Patanjali
~ You cannot do yoga. Yoga is your natural state. What you can do are yoga exercises, which may reveal to you where you are resisting your natural state. ~ Sharon Gannon
~ Yoga is possible for anybody who really wants it. Yoga is universal.... But don't approach yoga with a business mind looking for worldly gain. ~ Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois
~ Yoga is the practice of quieting the mind. ~ Patanjali
~ This yoga should be practiced with firm determination and perseverance, without any mental reservation or doubts. ~ Bhagavad Gita
The meaning of our self is not to be found in its separateness from God and others, but in the ceaseless realisation of yoga, of union; not on the side of the canvas where it is blank, but on the side where the picture is being painted. ~ Rabindranath Tagore
~ The Self in you is the same as the Self Universal. Whatever powers are manifested throughout the world, those powers exist in germ, in latency, in you.... If you realize the unity of the Self amid the diversities of the Not-Self, then Yoga Will not seem an impossible thing to you. ~ Annie Wood Besant
~ You can enter yoga, or the path of yoga, only when you are totally frustrated with your own mind as it is. If you are still hoping that you can gain something through your mind, yoga is not for you. ~ Osho
~ Yoga is really trying to liberate us from ... shame about our bodies. To love your body is a very important thing -- I think the health of your mind depends on your being able to love your body. ~ Rodney Yee
~ Because there is a larger awareness that transcends time and space, an awareness is available after death. ~ Yoga, an ancient but perfect science, deals with the evolution of humanity. This evolution includes all aspects of one's being, from bodily health to self-realization. Yoga means union - the union of body with consciousness and consciousness with the soul. Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balanced attitude in day-to-day life and endows skill in the performance of one's actions. ~ B.K.S. Iyengar
~ Anyone who practices can obtain success in yoga but not one who is lazy. Constant practice alone is the secret of success. ~ Svatmarama
~ Yoga has a sly, clever way of short-circuiting the mental patterns that cause anxiety. ~ Baxter Bell
~ Yoga is difficult for the one whose mind is not subdued. ~ Bhagavad Gita
~ Karma-yoga is a supreme secret indeed. ~ Bhagavad Gita
~ In Karma-yoga no effort is ever lost, and there is no harm. Even a little practice of this discipline protects one from great fear [of birth and death]. ~ Bhagavad Gita
~ Yoga heals, nourishes, and challenges us. The practice infiltrates every corner of our lives. ~ Valerie Jeremijenko
~ Yoga is a science, and not a vague dreamy drifting or imagining. It is an applied science, a systematized collection of laws applied to bring about a definite end. It takes up the laws of psychology, applicable to the unfolding of the whole consciousness of man on every plane, in every world, and applies those rationally in a particular case. This rational application of the laws of unfolding consciousness acts exactly on the same rinciples that you see applied around you every day in other departments of science. ~
Annie Wood Besant
"The radiance of Buddha shines ceaselessly." - Dhammapada
"Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth." - Holy Koran
"I have come into the world as Light." - Holy Bible
"The Lord is my light; whom shall I fear?" - Psalms
"God is the sun beaming light everywhere." - Tribal African
"Following the Light, the sage takes care of all." - Lao Tsu
"In the effulgent lotus of the heart dwells Braham, the Light of lights." - Mundaka Upanishad
"The light of Divine Amaterasu shines forever." - Kurozumi Munetada
"God, being Truth, is the one Light of all." - Adi Granth
"The Light of Wakan-Tanka is upon my people." - song of Kablaya
"Truth is one, paths are many." - Sri Swami Satchidananda
Thursday, May 20, 2010
FROM SELF TO SELF-REALISATION
Come here every now and then. A brass pot must be polished every day: otherwise it gets stained. One should constantly live in the company of holiness."
-Sri Ramakrishna
"
The word Yoga comes from the “joining” or “union” from the Sanskrit root yuj. Which means joining” or “union”
Union with the Supreme Being, or any practice that makes for such union. Meditation that unites the individual spirit with God, the Supreme Spirit
. Yoga is restraint of the activities of the mind, and is the union of the individual soul with the Supreme Soul.
It is a unitive discipline.
In this sense it is an exercise in moral and mental cultivation that generates good health (arogya),
contributes to longevity (chirayu), and the total intrinsic discipline culminates into positive and perennial happiness and peace.
Therefore, yoga is the said to be indispensable of the ultimate accomplishment in life.
It is a science that affects not only the conscious self but the subconscious as well.
It is a practical physiological training (kriya yoga), which if practiced can exalt man to the 'supra mundane level'
-Sri Ramakrishna
"
The word Yoga comes from the “joining” or “union” from the Sanskrit root yuj. Which means joining” or “union”
Union with the Supreme Being, or any practice that makes for such union. Meditation that unites the individual spirit with God, the Supreme Spirit
. Yoga is restraint of the activities of the mind, and is the union of the individual soul with the Supreme Soul.
It is a unitive discipline.
In this sense it is an exercise in moral and mental cultivation that generates good health (arogya),
contributes to longevity (chirayu), and the total intrinsic discipline culminates into positive and perennial happiness and peace.
Therefore, yoga is the said to be indispensable of the ultimate accomplishment in life.
It is a science that affects not only the conscious self but the subconscious as well.
It is a practical physiological training (kriya yoga), which if practiced can exalt man to the 'supra mundane level'
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Salutation to Guru, A Spiritual Master
Guru devotion is not cooking, cleaning, washing and giving money to the Gurus. Guru devotion is not just about crying, feeling sad or getting emotional when you talk about your Guru. Those are small, small parts of it, an extension of Guru devotion.
When you think about your Guru, you think about a person who is extraordinary. Therefore, you cry because you have never met such a person who has had such an impact on you. You cry because you are connected to him as a disciple, and therefore you should push yourself towards your commitments.
Real Guru devotion is about developing and keeping your spiritual qualities. You do not let go of your commitments, you develop the qualities that you see your Guru embodies, that make you cry. Guru devotion is about keeping your promises and doing your sadhanas at all cost. Guru devotion is about not harming another person, being very kind to others and becoming better and better. Real Guru devotion is about destroying the self-cherishing mind. All that is Guru devotion because that devotion leads to your inner Guru, your natural state of mind - kindness, commitment and clarity.
People think that when they submit themselves to the Guru, they become a slave. No way! If you were an indentured servant in the olden days, you may have been made into a slave. But this is not the olden days! And you have to ask yourself who you are "indenturing" yourself to. A wealthy land owner? Some noble who owns 500 acres and makes you work in the fields every day? Or are you "indenturing" yourself to a spiritual person who is training you like a spiritual athlete, to put you in the ultimate competition so you do not lose out at the time of death?
We thought that going to school every day was a prison but we gained freedom from that - we gained education so we can do what we want now. Submitting to a qualified Guru or a Guru who cares about us, who is sincere and who has love, is like everything else in life - by submitting and listening to someone who can give us knowledge and show us the methods to benefit and develop ourselves, we will advance in anything we want to do.
If we need to be told the same thing again and again, it reflects our selfishness. If the Guru gives us instructions to do something and we say no, then we have not submitted. If we show anger to our teachers, we fight back, we ignore our teachers; if we always turn around the instructions they give us, forget, and have to be reminded, won't that be the same with everything else that we do in our lives?
If these people choose to be purely selfish, and they come up against a Guru who challenges that selfishness, they either submit or they run. Some students are smart and they do a little at a time. It starts off as little but they push themselves to do it all the way eventually. There is no student who comes in and is immediately perfect in all his actions but his aspiration, and working towards it, makes a very big difference.
When you think about your Guru, you think about a person who is extraordinary. Therefore, you cry because you have never met such a person who has had such an impact on you. You cry because you are connected to him as a disciple, and therefore you should push yourself towards your commitments.
Real Guru devotion is about developing and keeping your spiritual qualities. You do not let go of your commitments, you develop the qualities that you see your Guru embodies, that make you cry. Guru devotion is about keeping your promises and doing your sadhanas at all cost. Guru devotion is about not harming another person, being very kind to others and becoming better and better. Real Guru devotion is about destroying the self-cherishing mind. All that is Guru devotion because that devotion leads to your inner Guru, your natural state of mind - kindness, commitment and clarity.
People think that when they submit themselves to the Guru, they become a slave. No way! If you were an indentured servant in the olden days, you may have been made into a slave. But this is not the olden days! And you have to ask yourself who you are "indenturing" yourself to. A wealthy land owner? Some noble who owns 500 acres and makes you work in the fields every day? Or are you "indenturing" yourself to a spiritual person who is training you like a spiritual athlete, to put you in the ultimate competition so you do not lose out at the time of death?
We thought that going to school every day was a prison but we gained freedom from that - we gained education so we can do what we want now. Submitting to a qualified Guru or a Guru who cares about us, who is sincere and who has love, is like everything else in life - by submitting and listening to someone who can give us knowledge and show us the methods to benefit and develop ourselves, we will advance in anything we want to do.
If we need to be told the same thing again and again, it reflects our selfishness. If the Guru gives us instructions to do something and we say no, then we have not submitted. If we show anger to our teachers, we fight back, we ignore our teachers; if we always turn around the instructions they give us, forget, and have to be reminded, won't that be the same with everything else that we do in our lives?
If these people choose to be purely selfish, and they come up against a Guru who challenges that selfishness, they either submit or they run. Some students are smart and they do a little at a time. It starts off as little but they push themselves to do it all the way eventually. There is no student who comes in and is immediately perfect in all his actions but his aspiration, and working towards it, makes a very big difference.
Do meditation daily
So many people are under the impression that daily meditation is only for those who are seeking spiritual enlightenment, it is true that through meditation comes enlightenment, but there are numerous other benefits to using this practice on a daily basis.
It is a proven fact that people who meditate regularly tend to be more focused, energized and healthy which automatically enables them to be more effective at reaching goals which they have set themselves and also more productive in the work environment. So in other words, meditation is not only a spiritual journey, but a journey which is likely to be of great benefit to you in all of the seven areas of your life including your vocation.
Obviously the better you are in your vocation, the more chance you have of being successful in life and being able to lead a life of abundance and harmony. What many of us tend to forget is that the half hour which you will take out of your day in order to meditate will reward you over and over and help you to be the best that you possibly can be.
The moment you begin to use meditation on a regular basis you will become aware of a harmony and focus which you did not have before and you will be able to discipline your subconscious mind to the level that you are able to concentrate solely on the things which are important and have the ability to block out other time wasting thoughts from your subconscious mind.
Meditation helps you to tap into the power of universal laws and principles which once you understand them, you will be able to use them in your favor to create the life of abundance and harmony which all of us are seeking, even if sometimes it is just deep down inside of us.
Being able to tap into this consciousness gives us new confidence and knowing that what we are doing is going to make a difference, not only for us, but for all of those around us and for the greater good. So taking the half an hour a day to center yourself and focus on your intent is probably the most productive half hour of your entire day as it opens up a whole new consciousness and world of opportunity and focused thought to you for the rest of the day.
It is a proven fact that people who meditate regularly tend to be more focused, energized and healthy which automatically enables them to be more effective at reaching goals which they have set themselves and also more productive in the work environment. So in other words, meditation is not only a spiritual journey, but a journey which is likely to be of great benefit to you in all of the seven areas of your life including your vocation.
Obviously the better you are in your vocation, the more chance you have of being successful in life and being able to lead a life of abundance and harmony. What many of us tend to forget is that the half hour which you will take out of your day in order to meditate will reward you over and over and help you to be the best that you possibly can be.
The moment you begin to use meditation on a regular basis you will become aware of a harmony and focus which you did not have before and you will be able to discipline your subconscious mind to the level that you are able to concentrate solely on the things which are important and have the ability to block out other time wasting thoughts from your subconscious mind.
Meditation helps you to tap into the power of universal laws and principles which once you understand them, you will be able to use them in your favor to create the life of abundance and harmony which all of us are seeking, even if sometimes it is just deep down inside of us.
Being able to tap into this consciousness gives us new confidence and knowing that what we are doing is going to make a difference, not only for us, but for all of those around us and for the greater good. So taking the half an hour a day to center yourself and focus on your intent is probably the most productive half hour of your entire day as it opens up a whole new consciousness and world of opportunity and focused thought to you for the rest of the day.
Simple Meditation Technique For Beginners
Meditation has been practiced for centuries by all different kinds of people and cultures. It can either be used as a means of relaxation or to prepare the mind for a challenge. It is also well known for its ability to promote a feeling of well being. Because of this there are people who would like to learn how to meditate. Here then is a few methods to start on your road of meditation.
The first thing you will want to do is find somewhere that is quiet so that you don't have any distractions. This is very important in order to meditate you need peace and quiet. You may find a nice place in your garden or in your house.
Set down, or adopt a comfortable posture. Make a concerted effort that you will relax. Some find it beneficial to lie down when they meditate but others find that they sleep if they try this. So be open to what will work best for you. Pay special attention to your limbs, trunk and head as you start to meditate. You will become more stress free as you do this.
Slow down your breathing as much as possible as you do this. Do not hold your breathe as you do this. Become aware of how long each breath takes by counting each one up to or seven. Become aware of how much it is relaxing and notice with each breath you relax more and more.
Once you've became relaxed enough to need to try to sharpen your focus. You may want to tune into something that you can hear, or maybe just think about the space you are in. But don't try to focus on anything that is distracting or will take your mind off of what you are doing too much. Or your meditation won't work properly.
Now that you have found the meditation practice you will most likely want to try it out to see what you have learned. Do not be discouraged if you are not successful in your first attempts. Be aware that it might take awhile to feel real relaxation. But, the more you practice the more you will find it beneficial for you. Then allow yourself to drift off and now that you know the beginners method try it for yourself.
The first thing you will want to do is find somewhere that is quiet so that you don't have any distractions. This is very important in order to meditate you need peace and quiet. You may find a nice place in your garden or in your house.
Set down, or adopt a comfortable posture. Make a concerted effort that you will relax. Some find it beneficial to lie down when they meditate but others find that they sleep if they try this. So be open to what will work best for you. Pay special attention to your limbs, trunk and head as you start to meditate. You will become more stress free as you do this.
Slow down your breathing as much as possible as you do this. Do not hold your breathe as you do this. Become aware of how long each breath takes by counting each one up to or seven. Become aware of how much it is relaxing and notice with each breath you relax more and more.
Once you've became relaxed enough to need to try to sharpen your focus. You may want to tune into something that you can hear, or maybe just think about the space you are in. But don't try to focus on anything that is distracting or will take your mind off of what you are doing too much. Or your meditation won't work properly.
Now that you have found the meditation practice you will most likely want to try it out to see what you have learned. Do not be discouraged if you are not successful in your first attempts. Be aware that it might take awhile to feel real relaxation. But, the more you practice the more you will find it beneficial for you. Then allow yourself to drift off and now that you know the beginners method try it for yourself.
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