Gayatri and Yagya1

This ancient tradition of Yagya incorporates the principles of theoretical knowledge and applied science and contains in it all the elements of material elements in seed form. It is a sacred process conducive to the welfare and happiness of the individual as well as the society.

The meaning or purport of the word Yagya is an act or celebration of self-giving which aims at the highest universal good, an act which is generous, magnificent, noble and magnanimous. Yagya is a Sanskrit word which has three meanings; divinity, organization and charity. These three virtues can be said to be triple divine currents of individual and social transformation. Divinity means refined personality, divine virtues. Organization implies unity, cooperation team-spirit. Charity implies generous sharing, devotion to society, and considering the entire universe as one's own family. All these three tendencies are thus combined in Yagya and it can be said to be the flaming torch of knowledge. It inspires man to translate higher sentiments and motives into righteous deeds. Coordination of knowledge and action created the ground for making progress. Righteous deeds, which is known as tap, and true knowledge, which is known as Yoga, are the basis of spiritual progress.

The philosophy underlying Jeevan (life) - Yagya is to make a man great by adopting the philosophy of self-sacrifice. It has been stated in the Geeta that a man who eats without giving to others is a thief, he commits sin. A man should eat the leftover of Yagya.

According to Geeta 3/31 Devtas (divine beings) attain divinity only by Yagya. This is nothing but propounding the fact that in individual life man should not be selfish or self-centered and in his actions and behavior, he should demonstrate sincere devotion for the welfare and upliftment of the society. This is a highway leading to all-round happiness, progress, peace and tranquility of the individual as well as society.

There is no other religious medium as powerful as Yagya to educate the public mind by explaining the subtle implications of sacrifice, generosity and benevolence for purifying the individual and making the society capable and competent. According to Rig-Veda, the fire of Yagya, although speechless, acts as Purohit (spiritual priest) and inspires people in achieving all-round progress, happiness and peace. If the philosophy of Yagya is fully understood and assimilated in practical life circumstances can be created for the emergence of divinity in man and descent of heaven on the earth. These ideals have to be lived for changing the present era and building a bright future.

It is said that Devtas performed Yagya and attained divinity. Emergence of Brahman elements in man is possible only by Yagya. Otherwise, devoid of it, man is no better than an animal. Performance of Yagya has been said to be the main function of a Brahman. The essence of Yagya is common good, universal peace and happiness. The chariot of human life runs smoothly so long as different parts of the body work in cooperation with each other. Every thing will be topsy-turvy if selfishness or non-cooperation pre-dominates in social life. Take, for instance, the example of the cycle of water. Clouds get water from the sea, earth gets water from the clouds, rivers get water from the earth, and sea gets it from the rivers and thus there is growth of vegetation and greenery everywhere and the thirst of all living beings is quenched. If there is any interruption anywhere in this cycle of unhindered giving or sacrifice this earth will become like a hot iron plate. Similarly, living beings thrive on different vegetations which get their nourishment nad diet from urine and feces (excrements) of the former. Living beings inhale oxygen emitted by the trees and the latter thrive on carbon-di-oxide exhaled by the former. There is also a similar mutual give and take between human beings and animals. This is the philosophy of Yagya, of give and take, around which the entire universe revolves. 

Fulfilling Married Life

Among all the streams of yoga, grahastha Yoga (yoga of married life) is also one. If one gives a serious thought to it, one would realize that raising a family is indeed a very important, and yet relatively simple yoga. Accomplishing this yoga renders enormous joy and illumines the path of worldly fulfillment and spiritual progress. Here we cite some tips for adept practice of this unique yoga.

Fundamental Tenets of Grahastha Yoga

A child learns several primary activities at home. More than half of the skills that are needed in life are also learnt at home. Our sadhana of inner-refinement must also begin at home. The best laboratory to train life to attain greatness, self control and selflessness and to become cultured and service oriented is home itself. It becomes very convenient to do all this at home because in family life there is natural love, sense of duty, mutual dependence and cooperation. Home is a stable place and is secure from the prying eyes of strangers.

A disciple of Grahastha yoga must always contemplate in the following way:

·         My family is my hermitage - the most holy place for my sadhana.

·         The rituals prescribed to me are - devote my energies and best efforts always to develop my home like a beautiful, fragrant, fertile garden.

·         My devotion to God is to fulfill the responsibility entrusted to me by God for watering, and maintaining this garden and help it flourish.

·         I do not consider any member of my family small and unworthy of deserving of my service, and I do not take undue pride in being the owner, master, leader or the breadwinner of my family.

·         My benevolence and selflessness is in devoting my service to the upbringing and personality development of each member of my family.

·         My self-surrender is to serve others with absolutely pure feeling of dutifulness, without expecting anything in return.

·         My penance is to provide happiness and comforts to my family members even at the expense of my personal happiness and comfort.

·         My yagya is to enhance peace and happiness in this world by making each and every member of my family a refined, truthful, honest and responsible individual.

·         My religious vow is to make my conduct and behavior so pure and idealistic that it would silently inspire everyone to follow me and become virtuous.

·         My self-restraint is to raise my family within the rightfully earned means of income.

·         My aradhana (service to society) is to be always filled with love, benevolence and compassion, and to enhance happiness, joy and unity in the family and my neighborhood.

·         My worship is to have complete devotion towards living idols of God in the temple of my home and to adorn them with ornaments of virtues, noble nature and good conduct.

·         My sadhana is true, my feelings towards my sadhana are genuine and sincere, and my soul knows that I am truthful.

·         Like a true unattached karmayogi I draw my happiness and satisfaction from the sincere efforts I put into my sadhana without worrying about their success or failure.

·         I have taken an oath to be truthful and righteous, and I would forever try to uphold it with all sincerity.

Gayatri Philosophy, the Basis for the Transformation of the Era

The great power necessary for the total uprooting and expelling of the undesirable beliefs and in their place to establish enlightened thinking, good thoughts, good deeds and humane sentiments, has manifested in this era in the form of Gayatri. The task of the incarnations in the past ages was comparatively easy because they had to fight individuals, but in this era when wickedness has taken dominance over men's minds and beliefs, that bright and profound power was required which can do the work by going into the depths of human sentiments.

To wash away the poison of immorality, dishonesty, lack of character, desires, avarice and mean arrogance which has spread in the society, widespread revolution will have to be created of Yagya (prayers over the holy fire) Gayatir's prayer and studies. This is the basic aim of the manifestation of 'Yug-Shakti Gayatri' (this era's spiritual power of Gayatri) and the alert souls must consider it their duty to fulfill this aim.

Gayatri worship has the outstanding power of replacing untruth with truth, darkness with light and ignorance with knowledge. Not only does it benefit the individual worshipper, but by collective worship of Gayatri, the entire society, nation and the era are influenced. No one can deny this solid truth.

Ordinarily Gayatri-mantra is looked upon as a prayer in routine worship, in which the Supreme has been requested to grant Sadbuddhi (good intelligence) but people knowledgeable about the power of the word know that the 24 letters of this great mantra are seeds of 24 great powers which are capable of creating an upheaval in the entire universe. People have faith in Gayatri because they are familiar with it. Gayatri worship has been giving power and strength to the people of this country from time immemorial, and for this era it is like "Sanjeevani Booti" (resuscitating miraculous herb). Therefore its manifestation must be vigorously welcomed. If once the atmosphere is purified (with Gayatri Mantra's vibrations) then the nation and the world will automatically get the dynamism of restrained, healthy and capable divine sentiments. This responsibility lies on those alert souls whose discretionary intelligence is capable of understanding a situation and who have the determination to fight traditions and orthodoxy. Once a person is released from that prison, then the all- powerful Mother goes on showering her blessings. All the elements that go to make the country prosperous, happy and progressive are all present in Gayatri. The only necessity is to carry the message to every person in each and every home and vigorously inspire people to come into contact with this great power. That itself is to be done these days.

A part of this special knowledge is present in crippled form. Its aspect of special knowledge is very very powerful and capable. This manifestation of Gayatri will be successful and meaningful if the light of this knowledge is taken to every home and the atmosphere all over the world make Gayatrimaya (immersed in the vibrations of Gayatri mantra). Then the energy will evolve which will be capable of keeping this country and the world clean, healthy and capable for a long long time. Every person in close proximity with Gayatri-power should consider it his virtuous duty to commit himself whole-heartedly to spread the knowledge of Gayatri mantra to others. If this is done, then the manifestation of this great power will certainly be successful and meaningful.

Gayatri Mantra is the Divine Culture

Every human being can refine his character, thoughts, talents and actions and transform himself into a great personality, become a world leader like George Washington, an intrepid warrior like Napoleon, a sage like Vivekananda and reach still higher realms of self-evolution. God has bestowed divine potentials in everybody, one only needs to realize, recognize and raise these by spiritual enlightenment. Gayatri sadhana can make it possible in this very life. I have researched and experimented myself on the philosophy and science of this mantra and found that all that is stated in the scriptures about its supreme spiritual force and cosmic radiance and divine power of evolution of consciousness is absolutely true. This is why I can tell you so confidently about it. I want you all, the whole world, to benefit by the divine grace of Gayatri. It will accelerate both your worldly progress as well as spiritual ascent. It is important for us. We need neither renounce the worldly life nor should we neglect our spiritual growth and wellbeing. The support of Gayatri Mantra guides our intellect and orients our capabilities for righteous progress on both the fronts.

I have been explaining and guiding you in different kinds of upasana-sadhana of Gayatri Mantra. Regular sessions for practice in this spiritually vibrant ambience of Shantikunj are also run here throughout the year. Everybody is welcome here. Now, let me tell you something about the siddhis (supramental achievements) bestowed by Gayatri. When and what does the Mother Gayatri bestow upon us?

Well, a mother loves every child but she gives only small toys and toffees and things like that to the tiny kids. She does not give precious gift or valuables to them unless they mature and she is convinced that they can take proper care of those things. What if a five-year old Ramesh asks his mother to give him the key of the lockers! Will she give it to him? No, instead, she would hide it carefully so that the kid won't see it. Yes, but once Ramesh is grown up and starts sharing the responsibilities of the household and is wise and capable enough to transact his duties, the mother would one day herself hand over the keys to him and his wife. When Ramesh was a child he would cry for sweet and expensive toys, and break them in no time. As a teenager he was wayward and would like to imitate whatever good or bad his friends were doing. Show-off, mischief making, quarreling were his interests then, but now things are different. He has matured not only in age but also in wisdom. Earlier he would compel his parents to purchase milk-care of 20 Rupees and eat half and throw away the remaining. But now he himself earns. He knows the value of hard earned money. He would even drink tea without milk if there is some scarcity at him, as he understands that the little children and the elderly need it more. He earns respect in the society because of his good nature and dutiful conduct. What if he were a drunkard, a hoodlum, or a lethargic chap who would do nothing except watching cinema and day dreaming? Then? Even his near and dear ones would not have believed him. No one would like to lend money or extend support to him. One earns his status in worldly life in the society as per his qualities and deeds.

Spiritual attainments are more precious than anything else in this universe. They can't be bestowed upon just anyone. Gods bless only the deserving devotees. What you achieve depends upon your purity, sincerity, and devotion in the sadhana. Siddhis will gradually emerge from within as you progress in the sadhana. A guru (spiritual master) helps you march along the path of spirituality only if you deserve it and only if you are dedicated towards this noble cause. He certainly guides you on how to become a deserving disciple and also initiates you in the sadhana and commences the journey on the path of knowledge. But your success will depend upon your own endeavors. He shows the path but it is you who has to step ahead. There is nothing like a magic wand in spiritual practices, as many of you might think. You may wish that the guru, or a great yogi, will put his hand on your head and you will attain some siddhis. But this is all your delusion.

Freedom from fear and identification of "I"

Not only does the exercise of visualization elevate the status of the soul above the body, it further creates an awareness that the former is beyond the reach even of those five primary elements (Panch Mahabhoot), which constrain its (body's) activities and existence. The embodied Being thus becomes aware that, besides having far greater potentialities than the body, the soul also transcends all five primary elements, which constitute the physiology of all animate forms. On entering into this state of transcendental consciousness, one feels as though one has had a rebirth. There is a perception of revitalization with a supernormal inrush of energy. At this stage the Sadhak feels freed from the fears of disease, decay and even death. Nothing, not even the most tragic of events, can frighten him any more.

(According to psychology, fear is only a distress signal of and impending danger to the "body". Thus, fear is exclusively a phenomenon concerning the body. In the supernatural soul, there is nothing subject to harm. Hence the question of fear does not arise).

Identification of "I" as soul is the key to unalloyed and eternal bliss

Remind yourself repeatedly that the key Mantra of Sadhana towards Self-Realization is identification of "I" is generally referred to. Only after developing full conviction of this Truth, can the seeker progress on the path of Self-Realization. The seeker will have to develop a perception that the Inner-Self has an immortal existence of its own, independent of the mortal body and that the soul is an effulgent Star around which life and events related to the seeker's world are revolving like planets around the Sun. Such a perception will fill the seeker with a higher order of vitality and vibrancy, which will also be reflected in reactions and activities of the people around him. In addition, the Sadhak will develop an inner unshakable poise and peace which cannot be disturbed by the trials, tribulations, tests and storms of the world. With progress in Self-Evolution (Atma Vikash) (i.e. with enlargement of concept "I" to include all beings), the seeker will acquire such a capability, an enlightened person (Atma Gyan) continues to be steadfastly calm in moments of great calamities in life. Waiving his hand he bids farewell to worldly problems saying, "Good Bye! Go away! Go and get lost in that darkness of illusion which had created you." Blessed is one who has mastered the key Mantra of immortality of his "I-ness" - one with the Supreme Source. Seekers! Now start putting into practice with faith and enthusiasm, the primary lesson towards Self-Realization. If your progress is slow, be not over-anxious for quick results. While moving forward, if sometimes you slip backwards, do not be disappointed. Later you will make up for the loss. If you are serious, sincere, single-pointed and steadfast, you are sure to be crowned with ultimate success - Self-Realization. Remember: A journey of hundred miles begins with a step.

Affirmations of this article:

"I" am the powerhouse of talents and energy.

"I" am the inexhaustible source of divine thought and visions.

My world (people, events and things related to my person) are revolving around (working under the influence of) "ME" i.e. My Inner-Self, a spark of the Divine Effulgence)

"I" have an immortal self-identity of my own - independent of this mortal body.

"I" am indestructible.

"I" am indivisible. None can harm "ME"

Formula for Good Health

Appropriate physical Activity

If a machine is kept idle for a long time, its parts get rusted and the dirt is deposited on it, and if it is run excessively, its parts wear our fast and become useless. The same rule applies to the human body. Lying idle in laziness, shrinking physical work in the grab of dignity drains out the life force of the body. In order to retain the power and flexibility of muscles, it is essential to give appropriate physical work to all parts of the body. Thus in order to maintain health it is absolutely necessary to undertake daily some physical activity/exercise that involves nearly all body parts. However, this physical labor should not be so much that it exhausts all the vital energy. If a person works more than one's capacity, it increases heat within his body which, in turn, destroys vital elements. Such people do not live longer. If a person spends more than his income, he is bound to become bankrupt. Therefore, one should surely work enthusiastically, do physical labor and give work to all the body parts, but should work within the limits of his capacity. This is appropriate physical activity and only this is beneficial.

Many people earn money by mental endeavor. Such people think why they should take the trouble of doing manual work when it can be done by the servant. This is their mistake. Servant's stomach cannot digest the food consumed by the master. If a person feels thirsty, hungry or getting relieved (of excrement or urine), he cannot get such tasks done by the servant. Even eminent persons, who are extremely busy, take up some or the other physical activity to keep themselves fit. Tasks like gardening, carpentry, laundry work, cleaning of home, etc, should form part of the daily routine. Games like tennis, football, volleyball, cricket, etc can be chosen. To enrich our respiratory system with fresh air, it is essential to go for a morning walk of at least 3-4 miles. Practice of yoga (Aasan/pranayam) daily is also good. Every part of the body should get appropriate physical work, without which fat starts accumulating and the body is attacked by diseases like constipation, piles, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. Physical activity is a must for every human being whether he is rich or poor, educated or uneducated eminent or a lay person.

Proper Management of Daily Routine

Apart from proper food and physical activity, in order to maintain good health, discipline and orderliness must form part of the daily routine. There should be timeslot for each and every task, e.g. getting up, taking bath, exercise, sleeping, eating, office/social work, entertainment, etc. Married people should observe self-restraint as far as sex is concerned. Frequency of sex must not exceed once in a month or so. A wrong notion has been spread amongst the younger male generation that more sex is required to keep wife satisfied. The truth is that most women do not desire sex like sensual men. They need a spouse who is hard working honest, jovial, loving, faithful and upright in character. There are many couples where husbands are invalid, but their married life is full of pleasure and peace. Excessive sex lowers the attraction between husband and wife. It also gives rise to venereal disease. Therefore, in this matter the couples must make healthy norms and follow it rigidly. Unrestrained sex drains the energy of both the partners and eventually leads to ill health.

All the day's tasks should be properly scheduled. Regular and disciplined life saves a person from the clutches of disease. Simplicity and neutrality should always be kept in mind. Plenty of clothes are not required to cover the body; in the Nepalese context dhoti kurta and chappal are enough. Of course in order to protect oneself from excessive cold or heat some arrangement can be done. But loading oneself with heavy clothes prevents the sun rays and fresh air from reaching the skin. Its ill-effect is akin to keeping the plants away from sunlight and air. One should not always try to protect oneself from the effect of seasons. The summer, winter and rainy seasons energize the body and make it strong. They also improve the immune system of the body. People who use coolers or air conditioners during summer and heaters during winter and who never allow even a drop of rain to fall on the body, normally are seen to get affected easily by the change of weather. Their bodies become weak and they easily fall prey to viral infections and disease. Therefore, while protecting oneself from the severity of seasons, normally one should bear the effects of seasons.

Formation of the Society

For an individual to be happy, a developed society is essential. This developed society does not automatically get formed. It has to develop a group of good leaders. When the number of better men reduces and the creative efforts of maintaining excellence in the society become lax, then the level of the society comes down and when this happens then people in that phase of time also become fallen and weak and helpless. A good society created good individuals who in turn create a good society. Both are mutually dependent.

If the society is full of immoral, undesirable and criminal elements, then their activities will not allow the goodness, the excellence of any saint and gentleman to be unaffected. A perverted society creates unlimited perversities and innumerable types of conflicts. And no ethical person can remain untouched by the effects of these perversities and conflicts. He will become a victim of direct and indirect attacks. In a society full of bad social customs and traditions, a reformer with ordinary morale will hardly utter a word before he is swept away by the masses. The corner stone of social reformation is "Vichar Kranti" or revolution in thinking without which social reformation can not be achieved. Without Gyan Yagya ( a campaign for the spread of knowledge) we cannot usher in an era with the possibilities of peace, happiness and progress everywhere.

Man has become highly selfish and individualistic. What should be our contribution to people's welfare and social uplift? In a way this matter has been forgotten. Spiritualism is trapped in trying to achieve miracles, going to heaven, liberation and fulfillment of desires. Nobody now remembers that spiritualism is in fact for people's welfare. For social reformation we will have to become crusading soldiers on the fronts of organization, propaganda, creativity for resurgence of goodness and struggle. For this man must make maximum contribution of his time and means. Only such courageous men can undertake the great and extensive project of social reformation

Formation of a Family

The second step of Gyan Yagya is -formation of the family. By and large every man creates a family. Those who do not marry, they live with their parents, brothers, sisters etc. This also is their family.

A unit consisting of wife and children is not the only family. Those who have renounced the world and become saints, they also form their groups, sects, ashrams (hermitages) etc. A tradition of Guru-Shishya parampara (the Guru handing down the chief position to one of his disciples in succession) starts and a family of followers is created. If an industry is created and run with high ideals, the workers and associates become family-members. The relationship between students and teachers is in reality a family -relationship. If one develops a little more generous outlook, then this periphery crossing the bounds of country, religion etc - encompasses the whole world. A t that time the idea of "vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (i.e. this whole world is a family) does not remain merely an imagination, but becomes a practical reality. It is a different question as to who earns how much, who is called great and whose personality is great. It is very easy to become great - but very difficult to become an excellent gentleman. Not status but greatness is required to live peacefully and to keep one's associated happy and satisfied. Maintaining greatness is the biggest achievement of human life. The worthiness of any family is in proportion to its progress in the above direction.

If undesirableness and perversities exist in the family's atmosphere, the only reason for them is the absence of an atmosphere which creates goodwill and promotes good actions. Only on creation of such favorable atmosphere will the puzzles get solved. This only is the spiritual reason for clashes within the family. Seen at a physical level other reasons can also exist for malice and quarrels and they can be tackled also, but even then when the intelligence itself has been corrupted, some reason or the other for malice and clashes will crop up and create the stench of rot. Living in such a family the individual can neither remain happy and prosperous nor can he develop the proper qualities and nature for practicing good deeds for significant progress in life. Unfortunate are those who think of money as everything and die for it. People with discretion know that there is no better joy giving material in this world than goodwill with a clean heart. Therefore they pay attention to its nurture and maintenance, even though they may have to remain financially poor.

To create a clean atmosphere and make family-members cultured is only one facet of creating a good family. The second facet of creating a good family is even more important, and that is - controlling or disciplining personal habits, beliefs and activities. This action is possible only in the laboratory that is called a family. The excellence of one's qualities, deeds and nature can be cultivated only by contacts with others. Only mental satisfaction is achieved through lonely reflection, study and lectures, but good actions become ripe only through practice. For this purpose there can be no better medium than the family. Since, we have to live with some people, to change their nature, in reality means changing one's own nature. The requirement of increase in goodness and goodwill in the family must be fulfilled. The mental horizons of the family members must be widened so that they do not become the proverbial frogs in the well i.e. narrow minded. A man many a time suffers damage and stumbles in life because of indifference or ignorance about life's and society's problems. There should be an atmosphere of belief in God and respect for God. Each member must have the habit of remembering God and bowing down to Him. It may take a minute or two, but those two minutes should be utilized.

We must understand that the family is a complete society, a complete nation. Even though its size is small, but all the problems which are faced by a society and a nation, also exist for the family. For a comprehensive development of our personality and for purifying our qualities, nature and deeds, the effort for creating an ideal family should be considered an important experiment in our life. It is a kind of service to the country, society and the whole world in a mini-form. The salvation of self and family-members lies in this only. Needless to say that to achieve success in this experiment, first we have to reform ourselves. This desired second step of forming a decent, integrated family will prove a very important link towards the formation of a new era.

Extraordinary Potentials of Our Brains

The tiny 'bag' the human brain contains an eternal treasure, which if used cautiously, can offer the accomplishments and bliss of a divine life. However, no valuables would be of any use, unless one recognizes their worth and mode of application. For example, if a tribal who has never seen or heard of any jewel finds a precious diamond on a street, he will not be able to make any fortune from it. Similarly, for a child a pearl would be no better than a shining stone and he would throw the pearl away after playing with it for a short while.

That, conscious mind in the brain can think - is well known. The tasks of reading, writing, learning and teaching are also performed by it; this way its potentials are normally used for sustenance of livelihood and worldly success. If one seeks deeper insight and thoroughly links one's thought process with the eminence of truth and purity of knowledge, one might acquire some day, the honored status of a saintly scholar or a revered erudite. This could be accomplished even if he or she does not possess any material wealth or higher social status.

The root of inspiration is also contained in the core of the brain. The direction of thinking is guided by this inner power which in turn governs one's behavior and deeds. Looking at one's lifestyle, mannerism and activities, we can easily infer the level and direction of his thinking. In short, one's character and life is largely shaped by his thoughts, by the inspirations of his mind.

Unraveling still deeper layer in the core og the brain show a greater reservoir of the 'gems and pearls 'gems and pearls' of astonishing powers. Realizations of this source of immense potential and cautious attempts to channelize and make use of the associated streams of mental and spiritual currents can elevate one's life from an ordinary to an extraordinary, glorious level.

In terms of structure, physiology and biochemistry, the human brain appears to be a living reservoir of electrical power instead of an organ made up of flesh and bones. Its millisecond-to-millisecond activities compare with that of a huge (electrical) power station. It seems as if God has kept a magical box in the compact basket of the skull. The sensitivity, creativity and level of consciousness of the brain is so high as compared to the other organs of human body that one could consider it as the core of the very existence of a human being.

At functional level a human brain has two parts. One, that encompasses the activities of the mind and the intellect,. The faculties of thinking logic, analysis and decision making etc are governed by this part. The other part stores the memories, habits and inherent tendencies, this part also controls the motor and sensory functions of the body. Blood flow through the veins and arteries, consistent pumping of the heart, maintenance of the respiratory cycle, compression and expansion of the muscles, automatic twinkling of eyelids, regularization of metabolism, sleep, hunger, urination, motions etc - are all activated and controlled continuously be the unconscious mind existing in the latter half of the brain. This could be termed as the latent mind.

Each organ of the body is like an instrument, which is well equipped with sophisticated components. But none of these can function automatically without the supply of energy and regulatory instructions from the unconscious mind. Despite extensive research on human brain, much of it, especially the unconscious mind still remains un-deciphered.

The conscious mind sleeps during the night. It faints due to intoxication or anesthesia. In an instance of local anesthesia - when a particular portion of the body is temporarily made unconscious, the nerves connecting this organ with the conscious portion of the brain are inactivated. Thus, the signals of pain induced by a surgical operation of that particular organ do not reach the conscious mind and so the operation is performed painlessly. It is the conscious mind that gets agitated or excited and suffers from mental disorders.

Treatments in the mental hospital are focused at the patient's conscious mind only. Medications of psychiatric disease comprise of targeting and controlling this conscious faculty of the brain with respect to specific damage or abnormality. Though substantial progress has been made in understanding regulating and refining the conscious mind, the researchers of psychology and neurosciences have so far analyzed only negligible fraction of the unconscious (including the subconscious and super conscious) mind. The auto regulation, physiological and other bodily functions are found to be normal in an insane person who is otherwise healthy. Such observation shows that insanity or disorders of the conscious mind have negligible effects on the auto regulatory activities of the unconscious mind.

Extraordinary Potentials of Our Brains -I

The brain processes its functions with the help of a complex network of nerve cells - neurons. There are about 10¹⁰ (thousand billion) - which is almost double the total human population on the earth! - Neurons in this network. The connecting nerve fibers and insulating materials are also filled within the skull. The neurons are scattered in the brain like a galaxy of billion-trillion stars (sources of energy), which instead of gravitational attraction, are connected by synaptic fibers. The diameter of a neuron is lesser than one thousandth part of an inch and its weight is of the order of six thousand billionth parts (6x10¹⁰) of an ounce. The bio-electrical currents flowing between the neurons via the nerve fibers carry the information in the form of signals (impulses) from the sense organs to the axon of a neuron is a tiny fiber like structure, which is connected with the other neurons. The functional brain is a complex network of the synaptic connections between the neurons.

The gigantic collection and networking of the thousand billion neurons posses astonishing powers of a divine giant……. The tiny neurons despite their negligible size and weight contain the potentials of a complete human being. Humans could be dull, careless or inactive but, the neurons are not - they are never waned or weakened in their normal lifetime, nor do they leave their efficient processing. Some portions of the neuronal network store - like microfilm, the memories of the ages. Even, what might appear to be a forgotten matter at the superficial level of our active memory, is actually not lost from the registers of the brain.., its inscriptions remain stored in growth of grass, the flashes of the forgotten matters or events are revived in the active memory as and when an opportunity arrives by the stimulation of the  associated portion of the neuronal network. Dr. Penfield - neurologist of Canada had activated some memory cells of a patient by transmitting electrical impulses. To his surprise, the patient narrated the story and songs of a film as if he has just seen it, though in fact, he had watched that movie about twenty years ago.

Examples of extraordinary memory of some people often illustrate the immense power of the human brain. The sharp intellect and spontaneous decision making in some people is so remarkable that they appear like "super humans". People having extraordinary talents are not some exceptional beings who are endowed with such divine gifts. In fact, the seed of such faculties lies in the brain of every human being. In some people it is inherently sprouted and grown significantly to manifest supernatural talents. However, it might blossom in the others too if cultivated by dedicated efforts.

Dr. Penfield's research on human brain has shown that it has the normal capacity of storing (memorizing) as many bytes of knowledge as could be contained in over 20,000 printed pages of a journal. On an average, a person views about hundred thousands scenes of visual objects. Along with the visual perceptions, his brain also helps in the recording and recognition of the shape, color, pattern, sound, smell and tangible features of the corresponding objects and transpires associated feelings in the mind. Whatever we observe or read in a day, most of it appears to have been forgotten by us the next day although, all of it remains stored in back of the brain. This is because of the lack of our concentration and the dirt of our abrupt or malign thinking that we insulate our conscious mind from the deeper layers of the brain.

We often do not pay much attention to cleanup and fine-tune this divine machinery by purifying and controlling our thoughts and emotions and protecting our brains from excitations at the level of sensory and motor activities. Sincere and disciplined practices of Swadhaya - aiming at the uplifting of the self and the society as an integral part of progress, offers adept guidance and support for proper conditioning of the mind. Practices of Yoga and meditation are also used in training the brain and refining its intellectual faculties. Our careless attitude towards Swadhaya and mediation, irregularities in our life, ignorance about our internal world is largely responsible for waning the awaken potentials of our brain and dumping its inherent talents in a dormant state forever.

If we model the 'on' (excited) and 'off' (inactive) states of a neuron as the 0 and 1 bits of a computer memory, the basic storage in the memory of the human brain would be analogous to so many bytes that even a magnetic tape of area equal to that of the earth's surface would be insufficient to record this huge amount of information. Specific pieces of this grand stock of information are processed by the functional coding sequences of DNA and RNA. Dr Holgar Hyden of Sweden has shown that the structural state of human brain is not rigid. Its capacity and potentials can be varied with the help of specific (bio) chemicals.

The human brain has much more complex and developed structure as compared to that of any other creature. Its resistance against external treatments also is high. However, the experiments of above kind have made a section of scientific community believe in principle that the tendencies and behavior of humans could also be controlled with the help of electrical and chemical treatments. If this becomes possible then one day a dictator or whimsical ruler would virtually convert the people of his kingdom as his slaves by forcing them to drink a chemical which would change their mind as per his will …! What will be the use of intellectual activities of reading, writing, thinking, etc. if a handful of scientists would be able to uplift the mental faculties of people by certain electrical or chemical treatment? Then the generations of warriors, scholars, farmers, artists etc will be produced by appropriate treatment of the brains of the offspring's in the laboratory!

Whether we are awaken or asleep, the brain continues to regulate various functions of our body with the help of its neurons and the nerves connected with the other components of the body through the spinal column. This bulk of the brain, weighing only about three pounds, needs about 20 watts of electrical power for performing the routine nonstop tasks, this energy is obtained  from the stock of glucose and oxygen available in the body. According to modern scientific understanding, each thought, desire, emotion, every kind of experience or perception corresponds to specific electrical impulses and biochemical processing inside the brain. The techniques like EEG (electroencephalograms) help visualize the electrical activities inside the brain.

Most of the investigations in neuroscience are at present aimed at medical treatment of the physical and mental abnormalities due to the imbalance or damage in the harmonious functioning of the brain. Deeper understanding of the brain - especially the unconscious and subtler mind might help the researchers to find the methods of improving one's mental faculties and elevating the level of thoughts and emotions.

Nor only the exceptional memory, the strong willpower of some people also sets live examples of the internal strength of the human brain. Dr. Ralf Alexander had demonstrated this power publicly in Mexico City several years ago. The viewers of this show included the representatives of leading newspapers and magazines, groups of scientists, intellectuals and elite of the society along with the general public. Dr Ralf had planned to demonstrate how the clusters of clouds could be formed in a desired shape and moved in the sky at one's will.

The show began as per schedule. The sky was clear at that time. After a short while, the demonstrator - Dr. Ralf 'brought' clouds there on public demand. With the help of his strong willpower, he could change the shapes, scattering patterns and movements of the clouds as per the demand of the viewers. The news of this exciting exhibition of the remote influence of willpower had then appeared under bold headlines in almost all newspapers of America.

Renowned scientist Allen Epragate had written a detailed article in the magazine 'Psychology' with reference to Dr Ralf's demonstrations. He had commented that - the willpower of a human is a special kind of (electrical) energy current by which one can influence the activities of nature in the targeted space. This is a scientific method of triggering high energy aura; such demonstrations should not be regarded as magical shows.

The above discussed are few illustrations of the extraordinary capabilities of the human brain. In the deeper depths of this ocean of consciousness there lie more amazing potentials which are still beyond the reach of modern (material based) sciences. The science of spirituality is much advanced in this regard. It offers the methods of internal evolution, realization and control of the brain without using any external means. It also contains the key of sublime transformation of the physical, mental and spiritual levels of all human beings. 

Enhancing Immunity and Vitality

Immunity and Vitality together are referred as ojas in the ancient text of Ayurbeda and ojas is regarded of paramount importance as crucial expression of life-energy. The importance of immunity and vitality in vigorous health is well recognized in the recent times by the modern medical science as well. This is why the reductionism's approach of Allopathy, which in its nascent stage focused mainly on killing the germs of diseases and later on widened its scope to diagnosis and cure of the malfunctioning organs or components of the body, is now going for deeper analysis at the cellular and biochemical levels.

Vitality is a collective indicator of stamina or vigor and verve of the body and strength, alertness and zeal of the mind. Adequate breathing in of fresh air, consumption of pure drinking water, and balanced intakes of nourishing food intakes, substantial physical exercise and rest are considered most important factors in maintaining the physical stamina. However, for vitality, the calmness of mind and emotional balance and hence righteous attitude and holistic self-management are also important.

Thus directly or indirectly one's intrinsic tendencies and surrounding environment (both atmospheric and social) influence one's vitality. Spiritual attitude and holistic approach to health ad prescribed in Ayurveda appear to be best solutions to augment and maintain vitality. Doing Yagya every day is a practical remedy in this regard. But this preventive measure alone would not work unless one checks out the causes of loss of vitality. The most severe and frequent cause of drainage of vital energy is uncontrolled sexual excitement and erotic thinking. Those desirous of vibrant and vigorous health and mental stability must observe chastity of thoughts and conduct. It is also important for protection of vitality that the resistance against the hazardous effects of air-water pollutions and adulterated or chemically treated or preserved vegetables, fruits, food grains and cooked food is increased. This requires healthy functioning of the immune system. In case of lack of stamina or resistance against infections it is the immune system, which protects its further loss and helps in regaining it.

Advancement of the modern research has made it clear that it is the individual's immune system which plays a key role in body's defense mechanism and the response to drug regimen. The reason why some people are so susceptible to the change of weather, viral infections, etc is because of their weak or deficient immune system. The success of well established techniques of anesthesia, surgery, artificial organ transplant, etc also depends upon how the patient's immune system responds to these. The futuristic therapies based on genetic engineering would not become a reality unless the compatibility with natural immune system is thoroughly tested. The immune system defends the body against all harmful invaders - including viruses, other microorganisms, proteins, and other chemicals. Its 'soldiers' in the form of B-lymphocytes and T-cells are spread all along the body and produce specific antibodies to counter the antigens (foreign molecules).

Nature's intelligence is imbibed in this system so wonderfully that it not only recognizes the difference between the 'self' (i.e. natural elements of one's body) and the 'non-self' but also has memory of the antigens it has been ever attacked in the past. It is more efficient in destroying the invaders if the latter enters the body for the second or more time. It is this learning and decision-making capacity of the immune system which gives rise to 'acquired immunity'. It is because of this capacity that vaccination prevents the occurrence of diseases. Lack of this capacity or deficiency is what we know as the most dreaded, killer disease AIDS (acquire immune deficiency syndrome). It is nothing but what the Ayurvedic scriptures refer as "uparjita oja-ksaya sanlaksana". This loss of ojas means lack of vigor and inability of the defense mechanism of the body to resist the attack of toxic, infectious, harmful molecules, pathogens or bacteria and viruses of any kind.

While in the womb, vital elements in mother's blood nurture the fetus. However, learning of its immune system and hence the acquisition of immunity begins from the moments the infant is born and exposed to the outer atmosphere. In normal state it continues to grow in the youth. Its efficiency reduces in old age but can be maintained at substantial levels if, from the young age one takes balanced healthy food and follows disciplined routine with yoga exercises of asans and pranayams which enhance ojas. However, in case of reduced vitality and deficiency of immunity that is a common scenario these days; therapeutic yagya offers excellent remedy and healing support.

According to modern medical science ojaksaya (low immunity disorder) is not disease, instead, it is a syndrome, a group of several diseases that lessen the vitality and resistance; it is also caused by the infection of a retrovirus. The antigens of this virus first attack the white blood corpuscles (W.B.C.), which are like frontline warriors of immune system. Consequently, varieties of other bacteria, viruses, fungi, other parasites, etc get chance to enter the body without any opposition and give rise to hoards of diseases. The most frequent disease thus occurring are diarrhea, high fever, pneumonia, tuberculosis, C-sarcoma (tumor of blood vessels) etc. The immediate symptoms of low immunity disorder are loss of weight, excessive fatigues, and drowsiness, loss of appetite, skin infection, chronic cough, ulcers or boils in the mouth, acute headache, swelling of lymph nodes, unusual viral fever, etc.

Concentration of Mantra

The mantra is like a rocket engine that propels the mind beyond the "gravitational fields" of the lower levels of consciousness, through all the turbulence of the subconscious mind, to the super-conscious - and beyond. Thus, a correct process of meditation involves the generation of immense psychic energy through intense concentration of the mantra.

Some system of meditation which involve internal repetition of certain sounds, advise the mediators not to concentrate on them. Such techniques are quite relaxing and refreshing, but for spiritual elevation, concentration is essential - the intense effort to focus the mind on the mantra. Like the farmer whose mind was concentrated on his sick son, or the chemist concentrated on his research, or the medium concentrated on her crystal ball - the fixed attention of the mind on any object of thought subtler levels. Experiments on Ananda Marga mediators whose process begins with concentration have shown that, rather than being asleep or passively relaxed, their bodies and minds are in a state of intense physiological activation; more energy, rather than less, is flowing through them.

Three qualities of Mantra: One-Pulsative

What is th especial effect of the mantra, that by focusing the mind on it, one can transcend the ignorance and illusions of the lower mind.

A mantra must have three qualities to hold the restless mind steady, to energies it and to transport it to subtler realms. It must be pulsative, incantative and ideative.

First, it must be pulsative. It must be of two syllables so that it can flow rhythmically with the breathing, for the breathing has a profound effect upon the state of one's consciousness. You may have noticed that whenever you are angry or upset, your breathing is fast and short; but when you are absorbed in any task, you naturally breathe slowly and deeply.

The functioning of breathing is closely associated with the flow of vital energy in the body, called Prana which is turn greatly affects the mind. If the breathing is fast and irregular, the Prana becomes unsteady and agitated; the mind becomes disturbed and perception and thinking are unclear. Thus control of breathing (Pranayam) is an important part of yoga training. The more the breathing is slowed and regulated, the greater the composure in the Prana, and the greater the concentration and control of the mind.

Once there was a minister who had greatly displeased his king. As punishment, the king ordered him imprisoned in the top of a very high tower, and the minister was left there to perish. That night, the minister's faithful wife came to the tower, crying to see if there was any way she could help him escape. He told her to return to the tower the following night, bringing with her a long rope, some string, some silken thread, a beetle, and a pot of honey. Wondering at this strange command, the wife obeyed, and the next night brought him the desired articles. The minister directed her to tie the silken thread firmly around the beetle's leg, then to smear its feelers with a drop of honey and place it on the tower wall, with its head pointing upward. Attracted by the scent of the honey, the beetle crawled slowly up the wall, drawing th silken thread behind it. Hours later, it reached the top, and the minister caught it and untied the silken thread. Then he told his wife to tie the other end of the thread, dangling on the ground, to the long string. The minister then pulled up the thread until he could grasp the end of the string. Next he instructed her to tie the rope to the other end of the string, and pulling up the string; he grabbed the rope and tied it to the tower window - and slide down to freedom.

The silken thread is the motion of breathing; the string is the Prana or vital energy, and the rope is the mind. By controlling the motion of breathing, we can gain control over the Prana; by controlling the Prana, we can control the mind. Then we attaing liberation from all bondages.

Thus the mantra must be of two syllables so that its slow and rhythmic internal chanting will serve to slow the breathing, steady the Prana, and calm and control the restless wandering of the mind.

Dignity of Human Brain

Regulation of other bodily activities, the right side brain - also called the "philosophical or religious brain, conducts the sensory functions and the sensitive mental processes pertaining to - thinking, imagination, artistic creativity and the soft sentiments like compassion and devotion, intrinsic faith and emotional inclination etc.

If there were sensitive instruments to measure and project the millisecond to millisecond activities of this majestic network then it would have become possible for the scientists to unravel the complete history of one's present and previous lives. It would then have been possible to see in what kinds of Yonis (forms of life) an individual soul had appeared and what were its sinful (papa) actions and what were its morally ecstatic, serene altruist deep (Punya) in the past or the present life. The Sahastrara is like a 'crystal' through which one can get a glimpse of the journey of the soul and retrieve detailed knowledge about the past and the present life. This is the reason why the scriptures of Hindu religion call the Sahastrara as Sutratma - the eternal linkage of the soul.

History has witnessed rare incidents of supernatural memory, depth of knowledge and exceptional talents of humans since the time of yore. Many of these live examples also highlight the eternal connection of the soul with the conscious, unconscious and super-conscious faculties of the mind. Observance of extraordinary potentials of farsightedness, clairvoyance, telepathy and other kinds of supernatural perceptions also gives evidential support to this aspect. Many such cases observed in the past few centuries have been recorded and compiled with authentic reports in some western countries. In his book 'New Frontiers of Mind', Mr. J.B. Rine has sighted many examples of clairvoyance which were analyzed and tested by the neuroscientists and psychologists. Over fifty percent of the partly reported cases were proved to be true. Hundred percent of the cases pertaining to supernatural 'vision' during dreams or in a trancelike state of the mind were found to be true. One such case reported by Mr. Rine is described below.

Mr. Rine's neighbor's wife had once dreamt that her brother, who lived in a distant village, is going to his granary in a horse cart. There he opened his cart and all of a sudden climbed up the scaffold and committed suicide by shooting himself by a revolver. He had then fallen on a heap of chaff nearby. The lady was so frightened by this dream that she got up and asked her husband to immediately start for her brother's village. Her husband went to Mr. Rine's father to borrow his horse cart. The couple reached the village next day early morning. The lady was shocked to find her brother's dead body lying in his granary in exactly the same position as she had seen in the dream.

Another incident of similar kind was published in the above book. This was reported to Mr. Rine by one of his friends, who were a professor. This had happened when the professor's wife was playing a game of bridge in a friend's house. She suddenly felt as if her daughter, whom she had left at home, is in some serious trouble. She wanted to inquire about her little daughter over telephone but had to continue playing cards on her friend's request. But, after a while, she felt so uneasy and mentally disturbed that she left the game and rushed to the phone. A maidservant received the phone…. When the lady asked about her daughter's well being the servant paused for a while and replied 'she is all right'. As her friend insisted to complete the game, she then played for some more time and reached home in the evening. There she learnt that her daughter had had a narrow escape from serious injuries in a car accident.

When the girl (daughter) was going in a car with her father Professor, she was on the back seat peeping through open window…., she lost her balance and was kicked out due to a sudden jerk… Somehow, she got hold of the window glass and was almost hanging outside the speedy car. She was so scared that she could not even scream…! Before her father could realize the mis-happening, the traffic police noticed her and stopped the car within a few minutes. Had there been slight delay, the girl would have slipped down and got crushed in the running traffic. The tragic movements of this accident were exactly those when her mother felt uneasy and panicked about her. The daughter had reached home safely by the time her mother had phoned there. As the child was all right, the maidservant did not tell anything over phone about the incident.

The above mentioned Professor has also reported in Rine's book about his receiving subtle signals from the cosmos when he was a graduate student living a top the hills of Pennsylvania. Such experiences cited in the book reflect the potentials of the subconscious and the unconscious mind.

In the state of dream all the activities of our body are internalized under the control of the ever- active unconscious mind. The truths of the events seen in a dream or experienced subconsciously signify the linkage of brain (mind) with the eternal consciousness of the soul which is inspired by the omnipresent supreme consciousness and is beyond the reach of any sentience. The supernatural experiences associated with different faculties of mind indicate the existence of a supreme source which is absolute and which can never be pound within the limits of time and space. Einstein had accepted the existence of the absolute power of consciousness. He had even attempted proving its eternity through his theory of relativity.

Modern science has not yet been able to elucidate and analyze the activities of the unconscious mind in human brain. As the research in this direction advances in collaboration with that in the fields of subtle sciences, the role of Sahastrara would become clear and recognized as the source of the eternal expression of the soul.

Scientific experiments on rats and monkeys have helped understanding the neurophysiology of their motor control. In human beings, the complexities are so high even at the level of simple physiological activities that much of these auto regulatory mechanisms of the brain still remain the topics of research. Its automatic control of the sensory perception is more complicated. The brain experiences (as pain) the injuries of a leg or any other organ. The eyes weep but the sorrow is felt by the brain (mind). The body moves but it is the brain which worries about the hindrances along the path. The hands use tools but it is the brain which enables them to do so …. Whatever one thinks, does, believe and feels is because of the brain (mind). In essence, the existence of an individual is there because of his brain.

The approach of the Rishis - the perfect scientists of ancient times, had been comprehensive in understanding and using the majestic potentials of human brain. They had focused their research on its subtle faculties - the Mana ( mind) , Buddhi (intellect), Citta (the inherent memory and source of mental tendencies) and Ahamkar (the sense of being - the manifestation of the existence of the soul) . They were able to study all the spiritual and mental aspects of the   brain by realizing the existence, functions and eternal linkage of its subtle entities with the soul. Acquisition of the knowledge of its activities at the physical, physiological, neurological and biochemical levels was an offshoot of their realizations of its subtle activities. They were able to attain supernatural talents and make use of the body beyond the barriers of time and space. These accomplishments remain unparalleled in human history.

Controlling the Physical Body: Asans

"Asans" or "easy postures" are a scientific system of exercises developed thousands of years ago by Yogis. They not only maintain the health of the body by stimulating circulation, limbering the joints, toning the muscles, and massaging the internal organs, but they also help to calm and control the mind.

Yoga asans are totally different from vigorous or strenuous exercise; in Asans, glow, gentle movements accompanied by deep breathing is alternated with periods of complete immobility which creates a deep relaxation in the muscles and nerves. During Asans, vital energy is increased rather than spent; and thus, by regular practice, the yogi accumulates a storehouse of internal energy to be used by the mind for the attainment of higher consciousness. By learning to quiet the nerves and bring the body to a total standstill for extended periods of time, one develops control over the muscular and nervous systems, and attains the physical equipoise necessary for long meditation.

But the most important effect of Asans is on the endocrine glands. As we have seen, the endocrine glands have a profound influence on our emotions and on the state of our consciousness. The subtle pressures of yoga Asans on the various endocrine glands affect the hormonal secretions and bring about emotional balance and mental peace. For instance, in the Hare Pose (Sha'shaurga'Sana), the crown of the head is repeatedly pressed against the ground, which exerts a delicate pressure on the pineal gland. By the repeated practice of this Asan, one develops patience and tranquility of mind.

Thus, yoga Asans are not simply physical exercises for health, beauty and long life, as is popularly believed; they are an important part of an integrated physical and psychic practice to refine the body and prepare the mind for higher consciousness.

What we Eat?

 The physical body is not something different and separate from the mind- it is the mind's outermost layer and the base for meditation. In yoga, it is called the "arnnamaya Kosa" or "food layer" because it is composed of the food we eat. As the mind becomes more subtle through meditation, the body must also become more subtle as well otherwise the parallelism between the psychic and physical layers of our being will be lost and our progress will be retarded. Thus, yogis have always emphasized the importance of the vegetarian diet to maintain the purity of the cells of the body, just as the practice of meditation is purifying the layers of the mind.

More and more doctors and nutrition experts are coming to realize that compared to vegetables, meat is a highly toxic source of protein - "50% impure" according to the Encyclopedia Britannica - and may ultimately cause many diseases including gastric and kidney trouble, high blood pressure and even cancer. Societies which consume primarily vegetarian diets, like the Hunzas of Pakistan, Peruvian Indian tribes, or Seventh Day Adventish lower inence of disease and a longer life span than meat-eating populations. Vegetable proteins have been proven to be as nourishing as meat protein, and without any of its harmful effects on the body.

According to yoga, meat-eating has an ill effect on the mind and personality as well, for our minds are subtly agitated by the ingestion of animal flesh. As Albert Einstein - himself a vegetarian - said, "it is my view that the vegetarian manner of living, by its purely physical effect on the human temperament, would most beneficially influence the lot of mankind."

Control of body and mind are different

Now let us endeavor to enter the domain of mind, examine the reality of soul and experience its existence with the help of paranormal powers inherent in the depths of the mind. All seekers throughout the world have been adopting the same methodology. For understanding elementary facts about any subject, there is no alternative to application of penetrating intelligence inherent in the discovery of the reality of self world also require the aid of illumined intelligence. The science of spirituality calls this process as Yoga.

There are many disciplines of Yoga. Some amongst these are meant for health and physical fitness. Others are for spiritual Sadhana. However, good health is an essential prerequisite for entering the path of this Sadhana. The higher disciplines of Yoga comprise Pratyahar (Inward withdrawal of mind and senses from their objects), Dharana (concentration), Dhyan (meditation) and Samadhi (state of Trance) successively. Spiritual seekers also follow many other disciplines - like, Yam, Niyam, Asan, Pranayama etc. The Hath Yogis carry out procedures of Neti, Dhoti, Vasti, Vajroli and other exercise for physical fitness and control. Other have their own specific methods for physical fitness. All of these are basically meant to keep the body healthy so that problems of the body do not create obstacles in course of mind control exercises. The seekers are advised to maintain good health with simple exercises. In today's environment, it is neither advisable nor necessary to follow the traditional ancient physical exercises of Yoga, involving intricate postures.

It would be unfair to ask a person living in a polluted environment of a city to carry out intense Pranayama practices. Such difficult exercises were prescribed for those seekers of yore who lived in the unpolluted environment of the hills, took only fresh fruits for meals, and used unpolluted water from the mountain springs or streams and observed continence. There is no logic in asking a frog to wear a horseshoe. It would kill the frog. Today there is general awareness about the norms for healthy living and these should be strictly adhered to. If there is some disease, an expert medical practitioner of the discipline may be consulted. For our present objective, however, no such physical standards of health are necessary for which one may require prolonged treatment or prior training. Normal health and a relaxed, happy attitude are the only two prerequisites.

Preparation for meditation

 Choose a quite place. It is advisable to find a place from of things which may provoke fear or distraction. Since it is not always possible to find an ideal, totally noiseless place, as far as possible, a place having least noise may be chosen. It is preferable to have a fixed place for daily meditation. If it is not possible to find an ideal place, that is, in a forest, on a hill or bank of a river, select a small chamber, where mind is not likely to be distracted. Be seated comfortably, keeping the back straight. It is not necessary to stiffen the neck and chest or to cross the legs, since it might induce discomfort in parts of the body, which will repeatedly send signals to the mind, disturbing its equanimity. Let the body be totally loosened, so that all muscles become relaxed. Let each part of the body feel tension-free, peaceful and at complete rest. A comfortable chair is best suited for this posture. Lying flat on the bed, face upwards, would also serve the purpose, but the head has to be raised a little. Alternatively, one may sit with the back resting against a wall, with a cushion behind the back. Whatever be the sitting posture, the bodu should be loosened like a ball of cotton, so that there does not arise any need for changing positions or adjusting the support for comfort. However, care should be taken to adopt a posture in which, on reaching the state of deep meditation, there is no likelihood of topping.

Keep sitting in this way for some time. Let the body feel restful and mind at peace. In the initial stages, it would require somewhat greater effort but later, with practice, the seeker finds it easy to relax irrespective of the place and environment. A word of caution! This exercise is not meant for simply creating a state of relaxation, in which one generally reaches a state of drowsiness, begins to daydream or flies high on the wings of imagination. Remember! This preparation for meditation has a specific purpose. It is required to be practiced as directed, since it has been created deliberately for a specific objective.

Later, with practice, this state of mind in meditation would become a state of natural awareness (consciousness) and would not require any conscious effort to attain. In difficult situations, of life giving rise to fear, misery, pain, apprehension or stress, such as equanimity of mind would become activated without any conscious effort and the seeker would pass through the crisis in an attitude of calm confidence and peace.

Soul is the nucleus of your world

Now in the above state of meditation collect all your thoughts on the nature of "I". Think absolutely nothing about any external person, place, thing or event. Conceptualize, that factually your soul (the real self, 'I') is an independent entity; that it is infinitely powerful, indestructible and indivisible. That it is the central star around which your personal world, ie. Everything related to you, is continuously revolving (is in perpetual cyclic motion) like the planets of the solar system orbiting around the sun. Conceptualize the inner-self as the nucleus of your world, brightly illuminated like The Sun. Resolutely creative such imagery in your mind with the help of the creative nature of your mind. In your mental horizon, establish your soul as a centrally located stationary central star, around which everything related to you is perpetually revolving. Assure yourself that these things around you are dependent on you but that you are not dependent on them and that, though you are providing them energy for their movement; nevertheless they have their separate existence and in no way belong to you. After persistently practicing in this way, in a few days, such awareness will become deep-rooted.

Do not think the picture you are conceptualizing is fallacious or fanciful. It is an exercise to let you appreciate that laws of motion in nature are universally applicabl3e, as much to the living beings as to inert matter. As a matter of fact, each cell/particle, living as well non-living is perpetually in a state of rotation around some nucleus. In the solar system, there are planets revolving around the sun, and the latter too is circumambulating some other invisible nucleus of energy in the universe. The nucleus of energy in our heart makes the blood circulate around the body. It is the natural property of everything tangible or intangible to follow its particular law of cyclic motion. Sound, natural forces, ideologies and atoms of various elements are always moving forward following their particular rotational trajectories. The natural law of motion governing periodical cyclic changes is working everywhere - all around us. (life and activities of followers of particular ideologies revolve around the protagonists of these ideologies) As mentioned above, the soul of an individual being is a nucleus of energy and elements of all natural systems living or non-living, which are related to the individual, move around this central force. In other words, their actions and reactions are indirectly influenced by this nucleus (soul) within a time-space paradigm. On becoming thoroughly convinced about the reality and universality of these natural phenomena, you will notice an unusual transformation in your outlook. You will clearly perceive yourself existing as a nucleus of energy acting on everything related to you. You will find that your world and all material objects related to you such as your house, your car, garment, ornaments, money and property are not an integral part of you; that these have separate existence of their own; that though you are living amongst these, these are alien to you.

(Note: This concept may be further understood in this way. Whatever be the dynamism of interactions between the various animate and inanimate systems related to a person, the driving force behind it is his mind. It is the mind of the individual which created and shapes his world. Further, the mind, as we have discussed earlier is only a tool of the Inner-Self i.e. soul. Hence the soul has been referred to as the central star of the personal world. Besides, as, in spite of being the source of energy to the entire solar system, the sun itself remains unaffected by the dynamics in its system, the soul of a person (not his body) remains an independent entity, uninfluenced by the activities in one's personal world. In this way, the real Self and the associated world, though related, exist independently. An off-quoted classic analogy is the lotus leaf floating on water being in water yet not submerged in it).