Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga: Inspiring Insights from Shlokas 6 to 10
Join us as we delve into Bhagavad Gita’s chapters 9.6 to 9.10, where ancient wisdom illuminates the divine orchestration of the universe. Understand karma’s role and discover how these timeless teachings offer guidance for navigating modern life with spiritual insight.
If you have not already done so, I would request you to review the Chapter 8, Akshara Brahma Yoga before studying chapter 9 as that would help set the right context.
You can find the explanation of the previous set of shlokas, 1 to 5 of chapter 9 here. Please go through that to get a better understand and maintain continuity in your learning.
You can also listen to all the episodes through my Spotify Portal.
Dive deep into the essence of the Raja Guhya Yoga with this episode, where we explore shlokas 9.6 to 9.10’s captivating teachings on Divine Orchestration and the Cosmic Order. This segment of the Bhagavad Gita offers profound insights into the intricate ways in which the divine orchestrates the creation, preservation, and dissolution of the universe, presenting a unique perspective on karma and our interconnectedness with the cosmos.
Understand the nuances of karma, and how it influences both the cosmic order and our individual lives. Discover the spiritual wisdom embedded in these ancient scriptures, shedding light on the divine orchestration of life’s events and our role within this grand cosmic design.
This episode not only delves into the philosophical depth of the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on divine orchestration and cosmic order but also connects this ancient wisdom to practical aspects of modern living. By interpreting karma through the lens of spiritual wisdom, listeners will gain insights into navigating life’s challenges with greater clarity and purpose.
Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the Raja Guhya Yoga, celebrating the divine orchestration of the universe and embracing the timeless spiritual wisdom it offers. Through understanding karma and the cosmic order, we invite you to explore how these ancient teachings can illuminate the path to personal growth and enlightenment in the context of today’s world.
Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, Verses 9.6 – 9.10
यथाकाशस्थितो नित्यं वायुः सर्वत्रगो महान् | तथा सर्वाणि भूतानि मत्स्थानि त्युपधारय || 9.6 ||
Yathākāśasthito nityaṃ vāyuḥ sarvatrago mahān Tathā sarvāṇi bhūtāni matsthāni tyupadhāraya
Yathā (यथा) – as; ākāśa-sthitaḥ (आकाशस्थितो) – situated in the sky; nityam (नित्यं) – always; vāyuḥ (वायुः) – wind; sarvatra-gaḥ (सर्वत्रगो) – moves everywhere; mahān (महान्) – great; tathā (तथा) – so; sarvāṇi (सर्वाणि) – all; bhūtāni (भूतानि) – beings; mat-sthāni (मत्स्थानि) – in Me; iti (इति) – thus; upadhāraya (उपधारय) – understand;
Understand that just as the mighty wind, moving everywhere, rests always in the sky, all beings rest in Me.
सर्वभूतानि कौन्तेय प्रकृतिं यान्ति मामिकाम् | कल्पक्षये पुनस्तानि कल्पादौ विसृजाम्यहम् || 9.7 ||
Sarvabhūtāni kaunteya prakṛtiṃ yānti māmikām Kalpakṣaye punastāni kalpādau visṛjāmyaham
Sarva-bhūtāni (सर्वभूतानि) – all beings; Kaunteya (कौन्तेय) – O son of Kunti (Arjuna); prakṛtim (प्रकृतिं) – to nature; yānti (यान्ति) – go; māmikām (मामिकाम्) – My; kalpa-kṣaye (कल्पक्षये) – at the end of a cycle; punaḥ (पुनः) – again; tāni (तानि) – those; kalpa-ādau (कल्पादौ) – at the beginning of a cycle; visṛjāmi (विसृजाम्य) – create; aham (अहम्) – I;
O son of Kunti, at the end of one kalpa, all beings merge into My primordial material energy. At the beginning of the next kalpa, I manifest them again.
प्रकृतिं स्वामवष्टभ्य विसृजामि पुनः पुनः | भूतग्राममिमं कृत्स्नमवशं प्रकृतेर्वशात् || 9.8 ||
Prakṛtiṃ svāmavaṣṭabhya visṛjāmi punaḥ punaḥ Bhūtagrāmamimaṃ kṛtsnamavaśaṃ prakṛtervaśāt
Prakṛtim (प्रकृतिं) – nature; svām (स्वाम) – own; avaṣṭabhya (अवष्टभ्य) – controlling; visṛjāmi (विसृजामि) – I create; punaḥ (पुनः) – again; punaḥ (पुनः) – and again; bhūta-grāmam (भूतग्रामम्) – multitude of beings; imam (इमं) – this; kṛtsnam (कृत्स्नम्) – whole; avaśam (अवशं) – helplessly; prakṛteḥ (प्रकृतेः) – of nature; vaśāt (वशात्) – under control;
Controlled by My own Prakriti (nature), this multitude of beings are sent forth again and again, which are powerless owing to the influence of their own nature.
न च मां तानि कर्माणि निबध्नन्ति धनञ्जय | उदासीनवदासीनमसक्तं तेषु कर्मसु || 9.9 ||
Na ca māṃ tāni karmāṇi nibadhnanti dhanañjaya Udāsīnavadāsīnamasaktaṃ teṣu karmasu
Na (न) – not; ca (च) – and; mām (मां) – me; tāni (तानि) – those; karmāṇi (कर्माणि) – actions; nibadhnanti (निबध्नन्ति) – bind; Dhanañjaya (धनञ्जय) – O conqueror of wealth (Arjuna); udāsīnavat (उदासीनवत्) – as indifferent; āsīnam (आसीनम्) – seated; asaktaṃ (असक्तं) – unattached; teṣu (तेषु) – in those; karmasu (कर्मसु) – actions;
These actions do not bind Me, O conqueror of wealth, as I am like an observer who is indifferent and unattached to those actions.
मयाध्यक्षेण प्रकृतिः सूयते सचराचरम् | हेतुनानेन कौन्तेय जगद्विपरिवर्तते || 9.10 ||
Mayādhyakṣeṇa prakṛtiḥ sūyate sacarācaram Hetunānena kaunteya jagadviparivartate
Mayā (मया) – by me; adhyakṣeṇa (अध्यक्षेण) – supervision; prakṛtiḥ (प्रकृतिः) – nature; sūyate (सूयते) – manifests; sa-cara-ācaram (सचराचरम्) – the moving and non-moving; hetunā (हेतुना) – reason; anena (अनेन) – this; Kaunteya (कौन्तेय) – O son of Kunti; jagat (जगद्) – the world; viparivartate (विपरिवर्तते) – revolves;
Working under My direction, this material energy (Prakṛti) brings into being all animate and inanimate forms, O son of Kunti. This is the reason the material world undergoes the changes of creation, maintenance, and dissolution.
Krishna permeates everything but is not affected by anything
In the previous verses, Krishna shared something really profound with us. He said that although everything relies on Him, as He’s the one supporting, maintaining, and providing shelter for the entire universe, He also stands apart from it all. He’s not caught up in anything and remains uninvolved. Just like space holds all the planets without being affected by them, Krishna’s divine energy is in everything, yet He is separate. This concept, though it sounds contradictory, is actually central to understanding the divine process of creation.
Imagine the way planets float in space. This space, which we can’t even see, holds them up and keeps them in place. That’s a bit like how Krishna’s unseen support works for all of creation. Everything that exists, living or non-living, depends on Krishna’s will in the same invisible way. But even though He’s involved in this way, He remains detached, not directly influenced by the happenings of the universe.
This detachment isn’t about being distant or uncaring. It’s actually a form of divine kindness. By staying detached from the outcomes of creation, Krishna gives us the freedom and responsibility to make our own choices. He invites us to join in this vast cosmic play, showing us that true freedom comes not from trying to control everything, but from aligning our actions with His divine plan and His divine Will.
Everything is created by Shri Krishna and everything rests on Shri Krishna.
Let us take the wind as an example. We can feel the breeze on our face, but we can’t quite grab it. It blows wherever it wants, strong and free.. It moves really fast, changing direction effortlessly. But it’s always connected to the vast sky above us. Its freedom depends on the sky being there. Without the sky, the wind wouldn’t have anywhere to blow. The sky doesn’t tell the wind what to do, but it gives the wind room to move.
In a similar way, we can think about ourselves and Krishna. We’re like the wind, free to make choices and have our own experiences. But just like the wind needs the sky, we all depend on Krishna for our existence. Every person, with their own thoughts and life path, is part of Krishna’s grand plan, kind of like a giant play. Krishna, like the sky, isn’t affected by what we do. He provides the space for everything to happen, but doesn’t control it.
This helps us understand that even though we seem independent, we’re all connected to something bigger. When we realize this, we can see our lives as part of something beautiful, created by Krishna. It reminds us that we’re all one big family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam), connected to each other and to Krishna. Each soul has its own unique journey, thoughts, and actions, and all of this exists only by Shri Krishna’s grace.
As discussed in the previous chapter, everything is manifested by Shri Krishna’s yogamaya, everything rests in Krishna while they are manifested and when the lifetime of the Universe ends, they become unmanifest again, only to be manifested again when a new Universe is created. Just like us, even the Universe along with all the stars, planets, galaxies, etc are born, die and reborn.
He is always present throughout the creation, maintenance and dissolution of the Universe, but He isn’t affected by what we do. He gives us the space to exist and grow, without interfering with our actions and choices.
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
The term “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” translates to “the world is one family.” This profound concept originates from the ancient texts of the Maha Upanishad. Despite its antiquity, the principle encapsulated in this phrase is timeless and speaks volumes about the ethos of universal brotherhood and shared human values. It is a philosophical approach that underlines the interconnectedness of all beings, not just humans, but extending to animals, plants, and the entire cosmos.
At its core, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” is a spiritual and philosophical declaration that every individual, regardless of their geographic, ethnic, or cultural differences, is part of a larger, global family. This perspective encourages an attitude of compassion, empathy, and respect towards all forms of life. It challenges us to transcend our narrow self-interests, prejudices, and boundaries constructed by societal constructs, and to embrace a more inclusive and holistic view of our existence on Earth.
In practical terms, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” serves as a guiding principle for promoting peace, harmony, and environmental stewardship. It urges us to consider the welfare of others as intimately connected to our own and to work collectively for the well-being of our planet. This principle becomes especially relevant in today’s context, where global challenges such as climate change, social injustice, and political conflicts call for unified and compassionate responses.
By adopting the vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” individuals and communities are encouraged to act with a sense of responsibility towards each other and the environment. It fosters a sense of global citizenship, where actions are informed by a consciousness of their impact on the global family.
Dissolution and re-evolution
As explained by Shri Krishna, during the process of dissolution (pralaya), souls who have turned away from Shri Krishna, known as vimukh souls, remain in a state of suspended animation within the body of Maha Vishnu, the Supreme Lord. This state of suspended animation implies that these souls are dormant and inactive, awaiting the next cycle of creation.
Simultaneously, the material energy, known as prakṛiti, also lies unmanifest and dormant during this period of dissolution. Prakṛiti is the energy that constitutes the material universe and is responsible for the creation, maintenance, and dissolution of the cosmic manifestation. It is the foundation for all material elements, both gross and subtle.
When Maha Vishnu desires to re-activate the process of creation, He glances at prakṛiti, and this glance serves as the trigger for the beginning of the unwinding of prakṛiti. The unwinding process unfolds sequentially, giving rise to various entities and elements of the material creation.
The first entity to be created is mahān, which refers to the atma or the higher self. This is the individual consciousness that exists within all living beings. Ahankār, which can be understood as the false ego or the sense of individual identity, is then created. It is the sense of “I” or “me” that gives rise to the illusion of separateness from the Supreme.
Following ahankār, the pañch-tanmātrās, or the five subtle senses of perception, are created. These subtle senses are associated with the five elements: sound, touch, form, taste, and smell. They serve as the instruments through which living beings perceive the external world.
Finally, the pañch-mahābhūta, or the five gross elements, are created. These elements are earth, water, fire, air, and ether. They constitute the physical universe and are the building blocks of all material forms.
It is important to note that while Maha Vishnu initiates the creation process, the actual manifestation of various life forms and the allocation of appropriate bodies to individual souls are accomplished with the assistance of the secondary creator, Brahma. Brahma is entrusted with the task of creating and organizing the diverse species and forms of life within the material universe.
The allocation of bodies to individual souls is determined by their past karma. Additionally, the individual souls’ own inner nature, or svabhāva, recorded through their sanskaras, also plays a role in determining the type of body they receive. This ensures that each soul is placed in a suitable environment and body that aligns with their specific needs and evolutionary journey.
Although Krishna creates, maintains and destroys the material worlds, He is not bound by any of his creations and He is not directly responsible for any good or evil that happens in the world.
Shri Krishna says prakrtim sväm avaştabhya visrjami.
prakrtim: – “primordial matter,” “nature,” or “material cause.” svām: – “my own,” “mine.” avaştabhya: – “having seized,” “taking hold of,” or “grasping.” visrjami: – “I emit,” “I project,” or “I create.”
Thus, taking hold of My Prakriti, I bring forth this universe again and again
Within My essence lies Prakriti, the very material of existence. Like a master artist wielding their brush, I take hold of Prakriti, and with each stroke, a universe explodes into being. This is not a singular act, but a ceaseless dance of creation, a cosmic rhythm echoing through eternity.
Imagine a canvas stretching infinitely across space and time, upon which countless universes bloom and fade. Innumerable universes have unfolded before this very moment, each a vibrant embroidery woven from the threads of Prakriti. And just as countless stars ignite in the night sky, so too will countless universes blossom in the ever-unfolding expanse of existence.
This cycle of creation is not a mere repetition, but a constant evolution. Each universe becomes a stage for the grand play of life, a crucible where souls are shaped and consciousness awakens. As one universe reaches its culmination, its essence folds back into Prakriti, ready to be reborn in a new and magnificent form.
Avatars of Vishnu and the Multiverse
The Vedas speak of the limitless incarnations (avatāras) of the Supreme Lord Shri Krishna. Among these, a special category exists: the purusha-avatāras. These divine avatāras play a key role in the grand orchestration of creation, bringing forth the material worlds.
Maha-Vishnu, the Cause of All: The first among the purusha-avatāras is Mahā-viṣṇu, also known as Kāraṇodakshayi Vishnu. The Sanskrit word “kāraṇa” translates to “cause,” signifying His role as the root from which everything originates. He resides within the Causal Ocean (Kāraṇodakṣāya), a realm beyond our material existence. From his very being, He breathes out countless universes, each a vibrant bubble teeming with possibility.
Garbhodakshayi Vishnu, Seed of each Universe: Within each of these universes, the Lord manifests again as Garbhodakshayi Viṣhnu – the name translates to “Vishnu dwelling in the Garbha Ocean” (Garbhodakṣāya). This Garbha Ocean represents the potential energy that holds the blueprint for the specific universe. Garbhodakshayi Vishnu acts as the seed from which the entire cosmos will sprout.
Kṣirodakshayi Vishnu, The All-Pervading Divine: Taking the manifestation a step further, the Lord assumes the form of Kṣirodakshayi Vishnu. “Kṣiroda” translates to “milk ocean,” symbolizing the vast expanse of material existence within the universe. Kṣirodakshayi Vishnu pervades everything, from the grandest galaxies to the tiniest subatomic particles. He is the essence that sustains and animates all creation.
These three purusha-avatāras represent a magnificent, multi-layered process. Maha-Vishnu breathes out the spark of existence, Garbhodakshayi Vishnu nurtures the potential for a new universe, and Kṣirodakshayi Vishnu infuses the entire creation with his divine presence. This intricate dance of the divine ensures the ongoing manifestation, sustenance, and ultimately, the dissolution of countless universes within the grand cosmic cycle.
Categories of avatars
Here are some commonly mentioned categories of avataras:
Lila Avatars: These avatars manifest to perform divine pastimes (lila) and engage in specific activities to guide and inspire humanity. Examples include Lord Rama and Lord Narasimha.
Manvantara Avatars: These avatars appear during the different periods (manvantaras) within a cosmic cycle (kalpa). They aid in the governance and preservation of the universe during their respective eras. The fourteen Manus and their corresponding avatars are considered Manvantara Avatars.
Guna Avatars: These avatars represent different qualities (gunas) of the Supreme Lord and are associated with the maintenance of the universal balance. The three primary guna avatars are Brahma (representing the mode of passion or rajas), Vishnu (representing the mode of goodness or sattva), and Shiva (representing the mode of ignorance or tamas).
Yuga Avatars: These avatars appear during different ages or epochs (yugas) to restore righteousness and guide humanity. For instance, Lord Buddha is considered a yuga avatar who appeared during the Kali Yuga.
Shaktyavesa Avatars: These avatars are empowered with specific divine energies (shaktis) to fulfill particular missions. They possess extraordinary abilities and manifest to accomplish specific tasks. For example, Lord Parashurama, empowered with the energy of Lord Vishnu, appeared to eradicate evil forces.
Desha Avatars: These avatars manifest in different regions or places to fulfill specific purposes. For example, Lord Badrinarayan is considered a Desha Avatar, appearing in the Badrinath region.
It’s important to note that these categories are not mutually exclusive, and some avatars may belong to multiple classifications. The specific descriptions and categorizations may vary across different texts, but they collectively illustrate the diverse manifestations of the Supreme Lord to guide, protect, and uplift humanity and the universe.
Understanding Avasam and Sva-tantrata
Lord Krishna’s profound use of the word avasam resonates deeply. It highlights our seemingly limited control over our life. We are born into specific circumstances, to particular parents – choices we did not consciously make. This initial state of existence is undoubtedly prakṛter vasāt, “under the dominion of Prakriti,” the material energy that governs the physical world.
No Choice at Birth, No Choice at Death?
This concept extends beyond our birth. Just as we had no say in entering this world, we won’t have a say in leaving it either. Our existence is undeniably intertwined with Prakriti, which itself is ultimately dependent on the divine will of Shri Krishna. This interdependence forms the very basis of creation and the universe.
A Spark of Choice in the Present
However, amidst this seeming helplessness, a glimmer of hope exists. We do possess a limited degree of freedom in the present moment – a small window of choice known as sva-tantrata. Imagine a cow tethered to a pole with a long rope. While the cow can’t wander freely, it does have some limited movement within the confines of the rope. Similarly, we humans possess a degree of free will, allowing us to navigate within the boundaries set by Prakriti.
Beyond Animal Instinct: The Power of Choice
Animals, driven purely by their inherent nature (svabhavam), lack this freedom. A hungry lion must hunt; a frightened bird must take flight. Their actions are instinctive responses programmed by Prakriti. Humans, however, have the unique ability to rise above such base instincts. For example, we can choose between anger and compassion, between indulgence and discipline. This ability, though limited, sets us apart from the animal kingdom.
Acknowledging Our Limitations
It’s crucial to recognize the limitations of this freedom. We can’t defy the basic laws of nature or escape the ultimate influence of Prakriti. Yet, within this framework, lies the potential for our spiritual evolution leading to liberation. By cultivating self-awareness and understanding the interplay between Avasam and Sva-tantrata, we can make conscious choices that shape our destiny.
The Path to Liberation
While Prakriti exerts a powerful influence, it doesn’t dictate our every move. By exercising our free will wisely, we can gradually break free from the cycle of conditioned responses and desires. Spiritual practices like meditation and selfless service can help us refine our choices and ultimately transcend the limitations of Prakriti. This journey towards liberation (moksha) is the true purpose of human existence, a journey that begins with acknowledging both our inherent limitations and the spark of divine potential within us.
Krishna’s teachings remind us that our existence is a dance between destiny and choice. Understanding the nature of our freedom and its limitations can help us navigate the intricacies of life with wisdom and humility. As we learn to navigate the interplay between Avasam and Sva-tantrata, we embark on a transformative journey towards liberation and a deeper connection with the divine.
To reiterate, we human beings can become free. That is the reason why Shri Krishna has imparted the confidential knowledge through the Bhagavad Gita.
Spiritually we can be free
Physically, at the bodily level, we can never become free from the control of Prakriti. However, spiritually we can be absolutely free. That is our true nature. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.
This possibility exists exclusively for human beings. Swami Vivekananda used to proclaim, “I am free, I am free,” emphasizing the importance of realizing this truth. It is crucial to recognize that we are not mere puppets under the control of nature. Nature commands us to weep, and we weep; nature commands us to smile, and we smile. But why is this so? Can we not determine our own responses? The answer is that we can indeed determine our responses, provided we make the effort to manifest our divine nature.
The word “avasam” holds profound significance. It reflects a truth that is experienced in our everyday lives, yet this experience can be transcended. When we liberate ourselves from the illusions of Māyā (the material world), we attain true freedom.
Shri Krishna has given us all the required knowledge through the Bhagavad Gita, using which, we can become pure devotees, get liberated and become free in the true sense.
A key point to note is that bondage arises from desire and attachment to the results of our actions. Because all of Krishna’s desires are automatically fulfilled, He need not act or be attached to the results of His actions, thus He is not subject to any bondage.
Another key point to note is that Shri Krishna is reiterating that we all get manifested helplessly, based on our inner nature, just like we are helpless when we get unmanifest again. We are totally under the control of Prakriti. However, we can make the most of our human life and learn to transcend the control of Prakriti and attain liberation.
Ways to transcend the control of Prakriti over us
Here are some ways on how we can transcend the control of Prakriti and manifest our spiritual essence:
- Meditation: Meditation is a powerful practice that allows us to quiet the mind, detach from the external world, and turn our focus inward. By regularly engaging in meditation, we can experience moments of deep stillness and connection with our spiritual essence. In these moments, we transcend the influence of material nature and tap into our true, higher nature.
- Cultivating Virtuous Qualities: The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of cultivating virtuous qualities such as love, compassion, patience, and selflessness. By actively practicing these virtues in our daily lives, we rise above the material desires and attachments that bind us. These qualities help us align with the divine nature.
- Service to Others: Engaging in selfless service (nishkama karma yoga), is another way to transcend the control of material nature. By dedicating our actions and efforts to the well-being of others, without seeking personal gain or recognition, we move beyond the ego-driven desires and attachments that keep us entangled in the material world.
- Detachment from the Fruits of Actions: Shri Krishna has taught the principle of performing actions without attachment to the outcomes (2.47). When we detach ourselves from the desire for specific results and instead focus on doing our best in the present moment, we transcend the control of material nature. This attitude of detachment frees us from the fluctuations of success and failure and helps us realize our spiritual nature.
- Devotional Practices: Engaging in devotional practices, such as chanting mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and always being in a mindset of devotion and surrender helps us connect with the divine and transcend the lower material nature.
- Inner Reflection and Self-Inquiry: Engaging in introspection and self-inquiry is a powerful way to explore our true nature beyond the influence of material nature. By questioning our beliefs, habits, and identities, we can uncover the deeper layers of our being. Through sincere self-reflection, we can discover the aspects of ourselves that are unchanging and eternal, reflecting our spiritual essence. A great example is the technique proposed by Ramana Maharishi in his work ‘Naan Yaar’.
- Associating with a Satsang: Surrounding ourselves with like-minded devotees on the spiritual path can be immensely supportive in our journey of transcending material nature. Being part of a spiritual community provides opportunities for shared learning, inspiration, and support. It allows us to share insights, and receive guidance from others who are also spiritually evolving
- Practicing Gratitude and Contentment: Cultivating an attitude of gratitude and contentment helps us shift our focus from external desires and attachments to appreciating the blessings and abundance in our lives. By acknowledging and expressing gratitude for the present moment and what we already have, we develop a sense of contentment that transcends the constant pursuit of material desires. Gratitude and contentment connect us to the innate joy and fulfillment of our spiritual essence.
- Cultivating Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness involves being fully present and aware in the present moment, without judgment or attachment. By cultivating mindfulness, we become observers of our thoughts, emotions, and sensations, rather than being completely identified with them. This practice allows us to detach from the fluctuations of the mind and connect with the eternal aspect of our being, our spiritual essence.
Mindfulness is in itself a very powerful practice which could help us succeed in all the other practices. Here are some examples of how to cultivate mindfulness in your daily life:
Mindful Breathing: Take a few moments throughout the day to focus on your breath. Close your eyes, or simply soften your gaze, and bring your attention to the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. Notice the rhythm, depth, and quality of your breath without trying to change it. This practice helps anchor you in the present moment and cultivates a sense of calm and awareness.
Mindful Eating: During meals, bring your full attention to the experience of eating. Engage your senses by noticing the colors, smells, textures, and flavors of the food. Chew slowly and savor each bite, being fully present with the act of nourishing your body. Avoid distractions such as screens or multitasking. By eating mindfully, you can cultivate a deeper connection with your food and enhance the enjoyment of the meal.
Mindful Walking: Take a mindful walk, whether it’s a short stroll or a longer hike. Pay attention to the sensation of your feet touching the ground, the movement of your body, and the surrounding environment. Notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you without getting caught up in thoughts or judgments. Walking mindfully allows you to connect with nature, your body, and the present moment.
Mindful Listening: When engaging in conversations or simply listening to others, practice mindful listening. Instead of planning your response or getting lost in your thoughts, give your full attention to the person speaking. Be present, listen deeply, and observe their words, tone, and body language. Notice any judgments or reactions that arise within you, and choose to respond consciously and with empathy.
Mindful Pause: Throughout the day, take intentional pauses to check in with yourself. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and bring your awareness to the present moment. Notice any physical sensations, emotions, or thoughts that are present. Allow yourself to fully experience and accept whatever arises, without judgment or the need to change it. These mindful pauses can help you reconnect with the present moment and bring clarity to your actions.
Mindful Technology Use: In our digitally connected world, it’s important to be mindful of our technology use. Set boundaries and allocate specific times for checking emails, social media, or other online activities. When using technology, do so with intention and awareness, rather than mindlessly scrolling or getting lost in a virtual world. Be conscious of how technology affects your thoughts, emotions, and overall well-being.
Remember, cultivating mindfulness is about bringing a non-judgmental awareness to the present moment, whatever you may be doing. Start with small steps and gradually integrate mindfulness into various aspects of your day. With consistent practice, you’ll develop a greater sense of presence, clarity, and peace in your daily life.
It’s important to note that these examples are not mutually exclusive, and different paths may resonate with different individuals. The key is to find practices that resonate with our heart and consistently engage in them with sincerity and dedication. By doing so, we can gradually transcend the influence of material nature and align with our higher, divine nature.
Remember, the process of transcending the control of material nature and realizing our higher divine nature is a personal and continuous journey. It requires patience, self-discipline, and a genuine commitment to self-discovery and growth. By exploring and incorporating these practices into our lives, we can gradually awaken to our true nature and experience the profound freedom and peace that comes from living in alignment with our spiritual essence.
You can find the explanations for the next set of shlokas 9.11 to 9.15 over here.
Hare Krishna.
kṛṣṇadaasa
Servant of Krishna
Aka +Vinayak Raghuvamshi