For a limited time, we are granting viewers of Swamiji.tv on-demand streaming access to the Swamiji.tv archive. All videos are copyrighted by the International Sri Deep Madhavananda Ashram Fellowship. We invite you to support our social projects with a donation. With your support, the Fellowship carries out numerous social projects in India. To continue these activities, every donation is deeply appreciated. Please support us here: https://swamiji.tv/support
Gurupurnima Satsang I.
Guru Pūrṇimā is a celebration of wisdom and the guru principle.The celebration spans a full lunar month, similar to an extended season, not just a single day. We honor Vyāsa, the sage who first transcribed the Vedas from oral tradition into written form. He foresaw the … read more »
We know well why we are here. No therapy can be compared to the movement.
You are the king of your own inner kingdom.Our primary aim is health and balance. No nourishment or medicine compares to movement, like yoga and walking. Many physical problems can be addressed by adjusting your diet based on your own condition; you must become … read more »
Hungarian soil is good and Hungarian hospitality is famous. About the organic food.
True nourishment is measured by self-awareness, not consumption.We discuss organic food yet cannot verify its purity, as even personal gardens face pollution. True health requires eating according to your body's specific capacity—your intestine and tongue. Overfilling beyond this limit, like overinflating a balloon, … read more »
Only who does not have desire for the position, is suitable for the position
True leadership arises from integrity, not ambition.Today, many seek high office for personal gain, using any means to win. Yet history offers a different model. Some have refused power, knowing public service demands sacrifice. True leaders separate personal from public resources meticulously. … read more »
TulsidasJi said: your heart feels pain twice, when you see the enemy and when you see the dear one d
The heart experiences two fundamental sorrows.One sorrow arises from the presence of an adversary, causing inner pain. The other sorrow arises from the separation from a beloved, which also causes inner pain. These are the two primary afflictions of the heart … read more »
People think of God only in troubles
A blessing is found in troubles, especially for devotees.I experienced a terrible hot wind in Europe, a reminder of hardship. After the Mahābhārata, Kṛṣṇa visited Kuntī before departing. He offered her a blessing. She requested troubles for devotees and comfort for non-devotees. Kṛṣṇa questioned … read more »
Dream is another reality -- there can be dreams from prevous lives
Consciousness transcends bodily death, traveling with the astral body into future lives through the mechanisms of karma: Prārabdha, Sanchita, and Āgāmi.Action begets reaction in a perpetual cycle, yet human discernment allows navigation of this destined path. While signs may warn of fate, heeding wise counsel can alter its course, much as medicine prevents poison's harm. Past … read more »
What is changing is not reality, what is not changing is the reality
The human being is a tree of being, possessing intellect for discernment between the unchanging reality and the changing non-reality.The first practice is developing Viveka, the discerning faculty that separates truth from non-truth. The final judgment is that Brahman is truth and the world is illusory. Our senses gather information, storing all impressions within the … read more »
Atma is universal
The One has many expressions, but we are not separate from that unity.There are seven worlds above and below, understood differently. One view is philosophical, called vācārthī, built from books and intellect. The other is practical, called lakṣārthī, which aims beyond intellect to Turīya, a state beyond time … read more »
Forgetting is not the same as forgiving
The mind clings to rules while wisdom sees their essence.A master instructs two departing monks to avoid touching women. Years later, they encounter a woman needing to cross a river. One monk carries her across. As they near their return, the monk who did not … read more »
Cultural shock
Culture shock arises from encountering profoundly unfamiliar ways of life.Growing up in a small village without modern addresses creates a different reality. Arriving in a vast, cold city presents immediate practical challenges, from frozen hands to navigating apartment buzzers. Simple, ingrained routines like personal hygiene … read more »
In this world there are many possibilities of the destructive way and very rare opportunities of the
We must remember five things to cultivate our humanity and avoid a destructive path.First, remember "I am a human being" to protect against negative karma. Merely eating and sleeping is animal-like; our qualities make us human. We must contemplate which qualities are human and which are animal, and how … read more »
Introduction of Professor UpadhyayJi
The relationship between master and disciple is one of transmission from fullness to emptiness.A vessel full of oil represents the master, while an empty vessel represents the disciple. The disciple must be receptive and empty to receive the master's knowledge. The flow moves from the full vessel to the … read more »
Mental pollution and mental illness is worse than the physical illness, but good health can be reach
The first happiness is a healthy body, where mind, intellect, and emotions are balanced.The body is a house for disease, with mental pollution being most dangerous. The second is modest wealth to sustain your family and offer hospitality. The third is a mutually understanding partner. The fourth is having … read more »
Overweight is the cause of 30% of the illnesses. Health, diet, and fasting.
The path to health and weight loss is simple but requires discipline.The core method is a severe reduction in food intake, focusing on water, fruits, and vegetables. Initially, you may feel weak, but the body will consume its own fat. This is not a complete fast; medical … read more »
The result of pleasant and unpleasant experiences. The death is not the end of life.
Prayer should seek the immortal, not mortal things.Incarnation means birth, a manifestation. We decorate altars and make offerings for ourselves, not for a God who will not come to admire them. Even if a divine figure appeared, we might not recognize them. Scripture … read more »
You can defeat unhappiness with happiness
The grace of the true Guru liberates the soul from endless cycles of birth.The Guru's pure gaze sees beyond worldly emotions. His presence carries a fragrance that devotees long for. To cross the ocean of worldly illusion, he provides the boat of satsang. Those who avoid this fellowship fall … read more »
The same wind which fans up the live coals can blow out the candle flame
The divine light must be protected through life's storms.Samsara brings both good and bad situations, the turbulence of the world. You hold the flame of spirituality; one negative thought can extinguish it. You carry the pot of your heart's essence through waves without spilling … read more »
Nirguna -- Saguna. Meaning of the colors and the facial expressions
Color and expression shape our inner state and perception.The chosen uniform color appears in meditation before enlightenment, acting as spiritual color therapy. Every color deeply impresses the subconscious. A face reflects the inner individual self, the Jīvātmā, which changes with inner qualities. Seeing a … read more »
There is Only One God
There is only one supreme, formless reality called Brahman, present in every atom of the universe.To understand this is difficult, as it leads to questions like how a bullet containing God can kill. Vedānta states there is only one, non-dual Brahman; duality implies change, but the Divine within us never changes. … read more »
ANNA PURNE SADAPURNE
The Anna Mantra reveals the sacred nature of food as life itself.The sun's energy descends through the elements into seeds, which contain the animating life force. This grain is your sustenance; it is what keeps you alive. Where there is enough nourishment, there is completeness and happiness. … read more »
Fear
Fear is a deep-rooted human experience requiring understanding and remedy.Negative experiences create deep, subconscious fear, while fear itself is also a natural protection for life. It manifests in many forms, from existential worries to reactions to perceived anger. Modern media, especially violent content, implants deep … read more »
Whatever You are Doing will Come Back to You
The human vessel must be prepared to receive spiritual nourishment.An unfired clay pot cannot hold water, just as paper cannot hold mercury. Every action, thought, and feeling influences the body, mind, and soul and returns to its source. Your sincere prayers are always heard and … read more »
Follow the Ethic Principles
The true purpose of human life is to cultivate human qualities and fulfill a spiritual mission.We are not mere physical instructors; real yoga integrates ethics with practice. Humans possess intellect and heart, which must coordinate. An act like killing an animal for food creates a gap between feeling and thought, distancing … read more »
Never is Too Late!
Yoga is the practice of achieving balance and harmony for ultimate union.It is an ancient discipline for maintaining equilibrium throughout the universe, among all elements and celestial bodies. This balance must exist within the individual's body, mind, and consciousness, as well as in family and social life, … read more »
Today is a Special Day
Today's numerology reveals the elements within and the immutable Self beyond them.The date's digits reduce to five, symbolizing the five material elements composing the body. The zero present represents śūnya, the void, which is akin to the Ātmā. This Self is like space itself. It is indestructible … read more »
How to Lose Weight
The Phalahārī diet is a vegetable-based regimen for health and weight loss.First, obtain a full blood diagnosis. If diabetic, include a little rice or bread; otherwise, eat only vegetables, doubling your usual intake. Cook mixed vegetables, excluding potatoes, with water, salt, spices, and a tablespoon of oil … read more »
Do it Yourself
The path of selfless action purifies inner karma through simple service.Removing a thorn or stone from a road is seva, clearing your own karmic obstacles. Creating bad karma is equally simple, like discarding glass that harms animals who cannot seek aid. Pain, whether from a nail … read more »
Family Situations
The harmony of the home is broken by unkindness, often stemming from a failure to adapt roles with love and respect.Many relationships deteriorate after the initial years, frequently due to harsh communication where one partner, often portrayed as the wife, adopts a dictatorial attitude. This creates unhappiness and stress. A cited example is a high-ranking professional … read more »
The Five Points
The human mission is self-realization, not worldly pursuits.A story illustrates a saint's blessing: a childless man received three sons after taking three sweets. This shows the power of a saint's word, yet worldly blessings are not the ultimate goal. Constantly remember you are … read more »
Do not Neglect Your Sadhana
Do not neglect your spiritual practice.Bodily capacity decreases daily, especially after thirty. Modern nourishment lacks vital energy, affecting the body. Respect your body's mobility but do not neglect physical exercise. As one ages, understanding of life deepens, often turning attention to … read more »
Sola Kala
The Sixteen Kalas are the complete set of divine abilities, with their possessor being a Pūrṇa Puruṣa.These sixteen principles are compared to the lunar cycle, which exerts a changing influence upon our body's elements, hormones, and consciousness over its phases. The awakening of the Viśuddhi cakra, corresponding to the space element, signifies … read more »
What happens when you see the Self-Realized Saint?
The power of self-realization transcends all other attainments.A master of black magic commands spirits but cannot summon them in the presence of his self-realized disciple. The spirits, upon seeing the disciple, attain liberation. The master, confronted with this higher truth, abandons his practices. … read more »
What is the Greatest Dan?
The greatest dāna is the gift of the divine name.Dāna is a spiritual donation, given without personal relation, directed toward temples, the needy, or noble causes. The highest form is nāma dāna, giving the name of God, a mantra, or prayers. This is the greatest … read more »
The Science of Jyotiṣ and the Law of Karma
Destiny is the result of past karma, but present action shapes the future.The ancient seers discovered astrology, a science mapping planetary energies that influence life. Destiny, or pralabdha, is set for this lifetime, but one has freedom now to create new karma through four means: body, mind, speech, … read more »
Gurupurnima Sankalpa
On Guru Pūrṇimā, our resolution is to remain faithful to our spiritual lineage.Our sa kalpa must be unwavering, more steadfast than the sun, moon, or Himalayas. We place this resolution at the holy feet, praying for the gift of devotion in every life. This devotion is crucial for … read more »
Wish of the Parents
Raising children is a profound responsibility and joy.The world presents dangers like drugs and unhealthy lifestyles. A parent's mission is fulfilled when their child is well-educated, lives healthily, and establishes a good family. Every parent wishes for their child's happiness, security, and comfort. … read more »
Kriya Anusthana
To practice Kriyānuṣṭhāna successfully, you must first purify the fourfold inner instrument.Anuṣṭhāna requires a specific aim and a mental offering, beginning with renunciation. The mind must be purified so no negative thoughts or words arise. The intellect must protect you from negativity. The inner space of citta … read more »
Mantra Initiation
A mantra is a spiritual initiation requiring complete understanding and lifelong commitment.A mantra is a divine name and spiritual energy. Before receiving one, study the master's biography thoroughly to comprehend the guru's eternal role. The disciple-master bond transcends physical death. True initiation is a spiritual marriage merging … read more »
Alpahar Diet - Reduce the Eating
Drowsiness in practice arises from tamas, increased by diet.Grains that create gas promote tamas, like pouring water on a fire creates smoke. Therefore, Alpāhāra—eating little—is prescribed. Light meals that produce minimal waste are advised, as most breads and aged chapatis are tamasic. However, one's … read more »
Phalahari Diet
Phalāhāra is a diet of fruits, roots, and vegetables, excluding all grains and seeds.Milk products are permitted in very small quantities. Consuming large amounts of dairy, nuts, or excessive fruit contradicts the fast's purpose. For physical labor, strength from grains is necessary, making a simple meal preferable to an … read more »
Your Body will Give You Answer
The body is a divine creation where every part has a purpose.Do not remove functional parts like tonsils lightly, as they serve a role and alternatives exist. The body naturally ages, its functions retiring over time. In a dialogue, the body explains its weariness is due to … read more »
Touch the Nature
Sleeping under the open sky connects us to nature's peace and divine energy.Many cherish sleeping in a tent, a personal castle like a bird's nest. In some places, people sleep outdoors for most of the year by choice. While mosquitoes are a modern concern, nature offers profound rest. … read more »
Value of the Human Body
The human body is the essential instrument for spiritual realization.This physical form is a unique and invaluable vehicle, likened to a precious diamond that cannot be borrowed or replaced. Its loss is permanent. For performing karma, one must be fully awakened and seated within this … read more »
Use It or Lose It
The day is gone and will not return, so you must use it well or lose it.One day passes and is lost forever. I met a 102-year-old woman in an old age home who remains conscious and mobile, attributing her vitality to yoga practice. In Belgrade, a yoga teacher over 90 stays … read more »
Work as Worship
Work is worship, meaning all life activity is ceremony for the divine.Pūjā is adoration and glorification. Humans possess many hungers—for money, position, beauty—which are endless longings. To be free, one must not be a slave to these senses and mind. The immortal fulfillment comes from that which … read more »
Sanathana Dharma
Sanātana Dharma is the universal principle, not a religion.The Vedas and Upaniṣads teach of one nameless God, Īśvara. This wisdom is a world heritage. Our practice is a complete life, not just postures. Originally, there was only this eternal law. We also affirm millions … read more »
Gyan Yoga
Jñāna Yoga rests on four principles: viveka, vairāgya, ṣaṭ-sampatti, and mumukṣutva.Viveka is the discerning intellect that separates the unchanging reality from the changing non-reality. The world and all within it are non-reality, mere change. The truth is Brahman, the unchanging. To free oneself from attachment to … read more »
Raja Yoga
True spiritual development requires integrating yoga into every moment of life, not just a brief daily practice.A one-hour class is negligible; awareness must be continuous. This does not mean constant meditation but living all actions with yogic discipline. Work and practice must align with principle. Even emotions like anger should be expressed … read more »