Feedback & Suggestions to this website - Forum - Yoga Vidya International - Yoga, Meditation and Spirituality2024-03-29T05:59:45Zhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/feed/category/Feedback+%26+Suggestions+to+this+websiteyoga peacehttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/yoga-peace2012-03-12T09:21:28.000Z2012-03-12T09:21:28.000Zclaire patricia punter conryhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/clairepatriciapunterconry<div><p>yoga peace</p>
<p>be repectful of others customs and cultures in our planet. we all share it .it is our place to look after the world we live in form inner peace with ourself and being true to who we are to being KIND to the all living things and the place we live and the people we met. spare a though for others suffering around us and in the world. we will all gain peace if we share peace in ourselves and peace in the world.</p></div>Sivananda Gurugram - February 2012https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/sivananda-gurugram-february-20122012-02-07T08:31:54.000Z2012-02-07T08:31:54.000Z☼ रवि Ravidas ☼https://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/raviRavidas<div><p>Issue #02/12 – February 01, 2012</p>
<p>Published from the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Toronto, Canada<br/> Html formatted version of this guru-gram available at<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/gurugram">http://www.sivananda.org/gurugram</a></p>
<p>OM NAMAH SIVAYA</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> THOUGHT OF THE MONTH<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/>
The World exists, because the mind functions dualistically.<br/>
- Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> TABLE OF CONTENTS<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>* News<br/> * Sivananda Yoga FAQ<br/>
* Hatha Yoga Tips<br/>
* Yoga Sanskrit Glossary<br/>
* Vegetarian Cuisine<br/>
* Upcoming Events<br/>
* International News<br/>
* Yoga Camp, Val Morin<br/>
* Yoga Farm, California<br/>
* Sivananda Ashram, Kerala<br/>
* Sivananda Ashram, Bahamas<br/>
* Retreat House, Austria<br/>
* Chateau du Yoga, Orleans<br/>
* Sivananda Ashram, Netala<br/>
* Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Meenakshi Ashram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.<br/>
* Yoga Centre, London<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Berlin<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Munich<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Vienna<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Buenos Aires<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Chennai<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Chicago<br/>
* Yoga Centre, New Delhi<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Geneva<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Los Angeles<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Madrid<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Madurai, India<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Montevideo<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Montreal<br/>
* Yoga Centre, New York<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Paris<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Rome<br/>
* Yoga Centre, San Francisco<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Tel Aviv<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Toronto<br/>
* Yoga Centre, Trivandrum</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> NEWS<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>OM Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves,</p>
<p>We are blessed with the increase of attendance to our workshops, programs and <br/> Teacher Trainings. Neyyar Dam and Bahamas are in the peak of their season, <br/>
offering exciting programs to full houses. Europe reports busy as usual, while <br/>
South American Centres and Ashrams are busy offering their TTCs. North American <br/>
Centres continue to be active throughout the winter, as well as the Ashrams, <br/>
even though it is considered low season. The Organization is blessed to serve the <br/>
plentiful number of students and guests worldwide.</p>
<p>In the spirit of Master and Guru, we would like to invite all TTC graduates to <br/> the Worldwide Sivananda Yoga Teachers Reunion, this time held in Neyyar Dam, <br/>
Kerala, India this month. There is still time to book your travel arrangements <br/>
to join us on February 18th, 19th and 20th. This timely event creates a setting <br/>
for our over 27,000 worldwide web of ambassadors of Peace to re-connect with each other and wi<br/>
th Swami Vishnudevananda’s vision. <br/>
Visit <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/india/news.html#Voice">www.sivananda.org/india/news.html#Voice</a> for more details.</p>
<p>A personal pilgrimage in 2012 - An extensive and exciting South Indian Yaatra is <br/> scheduled for 12th to 26th of March 2012. This is one of the most extensive <br/>
Yaatras the Ashram has offered, visiting Temples and significant spiritual <br/>
locations in Tamil Nadu and Kerala with perhaps a ride on an elephant fitted into the <br/>
itinerary. If interested, please visit <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/india/news.html#Yaatra">www.sivananda.org/india/news.html#Yaatra</a>.</p>
<p>On the other side of the globe, later this year, Yoga Camp HQ will mark its 30th <br/> year with celebrations on August 3rd, 4th of 2012. Visit sivananda.org/camp for more details.</p>
<p>We thank you all for you continued support towards the Sivananda Organization. May Master and Swamiji's blessings be with us always.</p>
<p>Pranams to all.</p>
<p>If you want God, you must turn your back to worldly enjoyments. Give up sensual life, if you do not want death.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> SIVANANDA YOGA FAQ ~~~ Frequently Asked Questions<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>Q 1: You say, "Atman is our real Self and we are, in reality, universal and <br/> absolute". You also say, "The personal relative self involves the idea of <br/>
individuality, but the Absolute does not ... The question arises-- are there two <br/>
selves? One involving individuality, and the other, without individuality but universal?</p>
<p>A: There is really one Self which is the Absolute. The relative self is not <br/> something different from the Absolute Self, but it is only the Absolute Self <br/>
experienced through the adjunct or the instrument of the mind. An object has an <br/>
independent nature of its own, but when it is seen through a distorted coloured <br/>
glass, it also appears distorted and coloured. It does not however mean from <br/>
this that the object is both perfect and distorted at the same time; the <br/>
difference is only in the means of perception and knowledge. This is the case <br/>
also with the experience of the Absolute Self with the help of the finite mind <br/>
acting as the instrument of knowledge. The difference is in the medium of perception; <br/>
the Reality is one.</p>
<p>Q 2: What are the qualifications of a real Guru or a true guide? Is it possible <br/> for an ordinary human being to select a real guide? If so, how?</p>
<p>A: A real Guru is a Srotriya and a Brahmanishtha, one who is learned in the <br/> scriptures and established in Brahman. He who is wise, desire-less and sinless <br/>
can be a true teacher and guide. The Guru, by virtue of his wisdom and capacity, <br/>
draws towards himself the souls fit to be guided by him. When one feels that he <br/>
is thus spontaneously drawn to a Mahapurusha whom he cannot help loving, <br/>
admiring and serving, who is an embodiment of unruffled tranquillity, mercy and <br/>
spiritual experience, such a great one can be taken as the Guru. A Guru is one <br/>
in whom the disciple can find no defect and who serves as the ideal to be <br/>
reached by the disciple. In short, the Guru is God in manifested form, and when <br/>
Divinity is seen in a person, he can be chosen as the Guru. The relation between <br/>
the Guru and the Sishya is genuine and unbreakable, even as that between God and <br/>
man is. It is a natural law that when a certain event has to take place in the <br/>
universe, the conditions necessary for the same are brought about exactly at the <br/>
proper time. When the disciple is ready to receive the higher Light, he is <br/>
brought into contact with a suitable Guru by the Supreme Dispensation.</p>
<p>Q 3: What is Nadi Suddhi in its technical sense? How to feel that one has attained <br/> perfect Nadi Suddhi?</p>
<p>A:. Nadi Suddhi means purification of the nerves (Nadis). Nerve is not the <br/> correct English term for Nadi. There is no appropriate word for Nadi in English. <br/>
Complete fast, preferably without any liquid or solid food, practice of Asans <br/>
and Pranayam, and intense physical exercise-- all go a long way in the <br/>
elimination of fat and other unwanted matters and in the overhauling of the <br/>
system to confer the benefit of Nadi Suddhi. Asans and Pranayam can purify the <br/>
nerves, if done with the correct technique. When one attains Nadi Suddhi, the <br/>
body becomes light. Stool becomes scanty. There is agility in movement and <br/>
activity in demeanour. No trace of slothfulness or indolence can be detected. <br/>
While walking, the body appears to be floating in the air. The tone of the voice <br/>
changes from hoarseness or gruffness to mellifluence. Hopping, jumping and <br/>
dancing while at work can be observed in one endowed with Nadi Suddhi. Something <br/>
inexpressible forces the person to do this and to achieve something grand in his lifetime.</p>
<p>Destruction of desire is Moksha, or final emancipation.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>Previous FAQs at <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/faq/faq.html">http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/faq/faq.html</a></p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> HATHA YOGA TIP<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>IN THE NAMES of the ASANAS - Here are some adjectives to help understand the names <br/> of the postures:</p>
<p>SUPTA – Reclining - ie. Supta Virasana (Reclining Hero Pose), Supta Baddha Konasana (<br/> Reclining Bound Angle Pose)</p>
<p>PARIVTTRA – Revolved. Rotated - ie Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle Pose)</p>
<p>ADHO – Downward – ie. Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)</p>
<p>MUK – Face – ie. Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose)</p>
<p>ARDHA – Half – ie - Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose)</p>
<p>EKA – One - ie. Eka Pada Rajakapotasana (One-Legged King Pigeon Pose)</p>
<p>PADA – Foot – ie. Eka Pada Rajakapotasana (One-Legged King Pigeon Pose)</p>
<p>URDHVA – Upward - ie. Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog)</p>
<p>UTTHITA – Extended - ie. Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose)</p>
<p>PARSVA - side, flank - i.e. Parsvottanasana (Intense Side Stretch Pose)</p>
<p>BADDHA - bound - i.e. Buddha Konasana (Bound Ankle Pose)</p>
<p>Come! Learn the lessons in Yoga-practice. Meditate. Tear the veil. Go. Dwell in peace. <br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>There is nothing you own in this universe. If you say "it is mine", it will <br/> leave you today or tomorrow; that's the inevitable law. - Swami Vishnudevananda</p>
<p>This yoga tip from the new Sivananda publication - “Yoga: Your Home Practice Companion” – Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre <br/> - 2010. Other yoga tips at <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/asana/101tips.html">http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/asana/101tips.html</a></p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> YOGA SANSKRIT GLOSSARY<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>ASTEYA: Truth; honesty. The function of truth is to maintain harmony through <br/> trust. It is better to be silent than tell a truth will cause pain or that <br/>
springs from a wrong motive. A truthful person has power, for what he says comes to pass, and his word becomes law.</p>
<p>This month’s online Gurugram has a Yoga Crossword and can also be found at: <br/> <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/guru-gram/gg-Feb01-2012.html">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/guru-gram/gg-Feb01-2012.html</a></p>
<p>Develop fiery determination, iron will, burning dispassion and yearning for liberation. You will realize the Truth right now.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>Complete glossary can be found at:<br/> <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/glossary/glossary.html">http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/glossary/glossary.html</a></p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> RAJA YOGA<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/>
From Discourse II: "Sadhana Pada - On Spiritual Disciplines"</p>
<p>II.31. JATI-DESA-KALA-SAMAYANAVACCHINNAH SARVABHAUMA MAHAVRATAM.</p>
<p>'These (abstentions) are not limited by social structure, location, time or circumstances, <br/> and they constitute the great (universal) vow'.</p>
<p>Commentary:<br/> Laughter comes from stimulation, but a smile comes from inner peacefulness. <br/>
Satisfied with itself, the mind needs nothing else for its contentment, which <br/>
grows in proportion to awareness of the inner Self. The mind should not be <br/>
effected by external objects. They may be possessed, but with detachment. Do not <br/>
let them possess the mind. Austerity means curtailing the insatiable demands of <br/>
the senses. Drink water instead of coffee, practice silence instead of talking, <br/>
control greed by eating bland food, and counteract sleep by getting up early. <br/>
When the mind learns that its demands for pleasure will not be met through the <br/>
senses, it stops its useless wandering and turns inward. Control of the senses <br/>
clears the way for such powers as telepathy and clairvoyance. Study of spiritual <br/>
works and the scriptures helps to keep a person on the right path. Books alone, <br/>
however, can only take one so far, can lead to intellectual pride. Surrender to <br/>
the will of God is necessary, for ultimately everything depends upon His grace.</p>
<p>Wish good to all beings. This will enrich your life and make you happy and peaceful.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> BHAGAVAD GITA QUOTE<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/>
Chapter V: The Yoga of Renunciation of Action</p>
<p>V.3. JNEYAH SA NITYASANNYAASI YO NA DWESHTI NA KAANGKSHATI; <br/> NIRDWANDWO HI MAHAABAAHO SUKHAM BANDHAAT PRAMUCHYATE.</p>
<p>(Krishna speaking to Arjuna)</p>
<p>He should be known as a perpetual Sannyasin who neither hates nor desires; for, <br/> free from the pairs of opposites, O mighty-armed Arjuna, he is easily set free from bondage!</p>
<p>COMMENTARY: A man does not become a Sannyasin by merely giving up actions due to <br/> laziness, ignorance, some family quarrel or calamity or unemployment. A true <br/>
Sannyasin is one who has neither attachment nor aversion to anything. Physical <br/>
renunciation of objects is no renunciation at all. What is wanted is the renunciation of egoism and desires.</p>
<p>Sadhana should be as much a part of your daily life as eating, drinking and breathing.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> VEGETARIAN CUISINE<br/>
- from 'The Yoga Cook Book' – a collection of recipes from the Sivananda Yoga Centres<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>COCONUT CHUTNEY - This lovely chutney is simple to prepare. Its spicy tang is <br/> cooled by the coconut, making it a suitable accompaniment for any meal. In South <br/>
India it is traditionally served with dosas and sambar for breakfast. Serves 4-6<br/>
Ingredients: <br/>
100g (4oz) desiccated coconut<br/>
3 tablespoons chopped curry leaves<br/>
1 green chili, seeded and chopped<br/>
1 cm (½ inch) piece fresh root ginger, peeled and grated<br/>
1 carrot grated<br/>
1 tbsp ghee<br/>
1 tsp black mustard seeds<br/>
1 tbsp lemon juice<br/>
1-2 tsp paprika<br/>
1 tsp salt</p>
<p>Preparation:</p>
<p>Soak the coconut in just enough water to cover for 15 minutes. Squeeze out the liquid from the coconut.<br/> Add the chopped curry leaves, green chili, ginger and carrot. Toss the mixture until everything is well mixed.<br/>
Heat the ghee in a frying pan. Roast the mustard seeds over high heat until <br/>
they “pop”. Add the ghee/mustard seeds to the coconut mixture. Mix well. Add the lemon juice, paprika and salt.<br/>
Serve at room temperature.</p>
<p>Option: Green Coconut Chutney - Add a bunch of chopped fresh coriander to the mixture.</p>
<p>More than food, water and fire, man's need is sympathy, kindness and brotherhood.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>Previous recipes can be found at:<br/> <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/diet/recipes.html">http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/diet/recipes.html</a></p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> SPIRITUAL CALENDAR<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>FEBRUARY 2012</p>
<p>03 - Ekadasi<br/> 07 - Full Moon<br/>
17 - Ekadasi<br/>
20 - Sivarathri<br/>
21 - New Moon</p>
<p>MARCH 2012</p>
<p>04 - Ekadasi<br/> 08 - Full Moon<br/>
09 - Holi<br/>
18 - Ekadasi<br/>
22 - New Moon</p>
<p>When you are free from attachment to all external objects, the mind will be at peace.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> UPCOMING EVENTS<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/>
Mar 03 – Apr 01/12<br/>
TTC – Français<br/>
Orleans, France<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/orleans">www.sivananda.org/orleans</a></p>
<p>Mar 05 - Apr 01/12<br/> TTC – English, Français, Deutsch, Espanol, ???????, Hebrew<br/>
Nassau, Bahamas<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>Mar 11 – Mar 21/12<br/> Advanced Bhagavad Gita Certification Course<br/>
Nassau, Bahamas<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>Mar 18 - Apr 15/12<br/> TTC - Teachers Training Course – English, ??<br/>
Neyyar Dam, Kerala, South India<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/neyyardam">www.sivananda.org/neyyardam</a></p>
<p>Mar 18 - Apr 15/12<br/> TTC – English<br/>
Woodbourne, NY, USA<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/ranch">www.sivananda.org/ranch</a></p>
<p>Mar 23 – Apr 01/12<br/> Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Certification Course<br/>
Nassau, Bahamas<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>Apr 05 - May 02/12<br/> TTC – English<br/>
Nassau, Bahamas<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>Apr 08 - May 06/12<br/> TTC – English <br/>
Netala, Uttar Kashi, North India<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi">www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi</a></p>
<p>Apr 14 - May 13/12<br/> TTC – English, Nederlands<br/>
Orleans, France<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/orleans">www.sivananda.org/orleans</a></p>
<p>Apr 22 - May 13/12<br/> Kids Camp<br/>
Neyyar Dam, Kerala, South India<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/neyyardam">www.sivananda.org/neyyardam</a></p>
<p>Apr 26 - May 05/12<br/> Spring Detoxification and Juice Fasting Program<br/>
Nassau, Bahamas<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>Apr 29 - May 09/12<br/> Advanced Raja Yoga Certification Course III: Vibhuti Pada<br/>
Nassau, Bahamas<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>May 05 - Jun 03/12<br/> TTC – Deutsch<br/>
Reith, Tyrol, Austria<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/tyrol/en">www.sivananda.org/tyrol/en</a></p>
<p>May 05 - Jun 03/12<br/> ATTC – Deutsch<br/>
Reith, Tyrol, Austria<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/tyrol/en">www.sivananda.org/tyrol/en</a></p>
<p>May 06 - Jun 02/12<br/> TTC – English<br/>
Nassau, Bahamas<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>May 06 - Jun 02/12<br/> TTC – English<br/>
Grass Valley, CA, USA<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/yogafarm">www.sivananda.org/yogafarm</a></p>
<p>May 13 - Jun 10/12<br/> TTC – English <br/>
Netala, Uttar Kashi, North India<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi">www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi</a></p>
<p>May 26 - Jun 24/12<br/> TTC – English<br/>
London, England<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/london/teachers_training_UK.html">www.sivananda.org/london/teachers_training_UK.html</a></p>
<p>May 30 - Jun 27/12<br/> TTC – English<br/>
Woodbourne, NY, USA<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/ranch">www.sivananda.org/ranch</a></p>
<p>Jun 05 - Jul 03/12<br/> ATTC – English<br/>
Grass Valley, CA, USA<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/yogafarm">www.sivananda.org/yogafarm</a></p>
<p>Jun 10 - Jun 23/12<br/> Sadhana Intensive<br/>
Val Morin, QC, Canada<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/camp">www.sivananda.org/camp</a></p>
<p>Jun 17 - Jul 15/12<br/> TTC – English <br/>
Netala, Uttar Kashi, North India<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi">www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi</a></p>
<p>See full list of international courses and events:<br/> <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/ttc/schedule.html">http://www.sivananda.org/ttc/schedule.html</a><br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/programs/international/index.html">http://www.sivananda.org/programs/international/index.html</a><br/>
Think correctly. Decide carefully. Work diligently.<br/>
- Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br/> SIVANANDA WORLD NEWS – January 2012<br/>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashrams:</p>
<p>Sivananda Ashram Yoga Camp, Sivananda Headquarters, Val Morin, Quebec, Canada</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya, Greetings from the Headquarters. In early January we started <br/> busily with remaining holiday guests, then slowly the Ashram wound down as we <br/>
said goodbye to guests and prepared to enter Sadhana week with the staff. Swami <br/>
Mahadevananda left the Camp on the 3rd, to travel back to India. Prahlada, <br/>
Saraswati and family left on the 4th of January making their way back to <br/>
Toronto. It was a pleasure to feel their energy at the Ashram and in Satsangs <br/>
over the holidays. Visitors and staff kept busy with various workshops offered. <br/>
Shanti held Yoga Nidra workshops to get everyone into their deepest state of <br/>
relaxation. Kanti held a Chanting and Prayers workshop so that guests could join <br/>
in with their newly acquired Sanskrit and feel more at home in the Ashram. The <br/>
scent of fresh baked bread filled the Lodge after Kanti held a bread baking <br/>
workshop, making our breakfast even more delicious. Gita Parayana continued all <br/>
week, as attendees chanted a chapter each day. The Camp hosted a special weekend <br/>
from the 6-8th of January as Kevin Duquette came to lead snowshoe excursions. <br/>
Multiple walks were held each day for various skill levers. On Saturday everyone <br/>
went out under the full moon to walk the trails by night. The sprawling property <br/>
of the Camp was the perfect background to reconnect with nature and enjoy the <br/>
ABUNDANCE of snow. Upon completion of the walk, the snowshoers found themselves <br/>
at a bonfire for some chanting, chatting and cookies in the moonlight. On the <br/>
8th we said goodbye to our shoeshoe and yoga guests as they all checked out and <br/>
made their way home. Staff then perde for their week of Sadhana. Everyone looked <br/>
forward to the extra time for personal practice and group bonding that it will bring.</p>
<p>During mid-January we were closed for one week for the Staff Sadhana week. <br/> Satsangs were led by a different staff member each day, so everyone could <br/>
experience leading a Satsang and imparting their knowledge. It also provided <br/>
variation, and a chance for staff to hear the different interpretations of the <br/>
teachings. At 8 a.m. the staff did their own practice, gathering together in <br/>
Mataji Hall to retain group energy. Karma Yoga continued as usual at 11 a.m. <br/>
with a break at 1 p.m to go into the Krisha Temple and chant a chapter from the <br/>
Bhagavad Gita. After Aarti, we read the English translation together and <br/>
discussed the chapter. At 5 p.m, again everyone would stop for a study hour, for <br/>
spiritual reading, to do asanas, Pranayama or whatever they felt would benefit <br/>
their practice. One night we had a Karma Yoga night instead of Satsang and all <br/>
got together to give the kitchen a group scrub. With the staff working as a <br/>
team, it was done quickly adding to another perfect opportunity to spend time <br/>
together. On the Sadhana Wednesday, anyone who felt up for the challenge snow <br/>
shoed up Mount Condor nearby. The view from the top was picturesque. It was a <br/>
clear, sunny day to enjoy it. On the Sadhana week Thursday evening, Satsang was <br/>
held in Samadhi Estates so everyone coulf feel the energy of Swami Vishnu <br/>
present. On Sadhana Saturday we had an Iron Chef competition for dinner. Two <br/>
teams competed, with broccoli as the special ingredient. Each dish had to <br/>
include broccoli, including the dessert. It was good fun and good food, and an <br/>
enjoyable way for everyone to be in the kitchen working together. The final day <br/>
of Sadhana week ended with a visit to Montreal Centre to participate in their <br/>
Sunday prayers. It was nice to see the larger Sivananda community and support <br/>
each other. Everyone agreed the Sadhana week was a wonderful chance to focus on <br/>
the personal practice and also a way to lift the group energy. It’ll help us to <br/>
support each other all through the cold winter months, plus seed harmony among <br/>
the staff. Everyone had a chance to relax, practice, study, and laugh. We will <br/>
recall memories and lessons from the week into our coming days.</p>
<p>Later in January the Ashram reopened with a refreshed and rejuvenated staff. We <br/> welcomed back locals and regulars to classes and met new guests getting their <br/>
first taste of Sivananda. The staff implemented a packed guest program that was <br/>
brainstormed over Sadhana week. Each day multiple workshops and activities were <br/>
held so that visitors got a well rounded and fun filled week. Rudra led the <br/>
coaching workshop, allowing guests to work on asanas they found challenging or <br/>
didn’t fully understand. Chandrika 2 got heart rates up with snowshoeing and <br/>
cross country ski excursions, while Annapurna mellowed them out with Spiritual <br/>
Stories from Swami Sivananda. Claire and Kanti went over the 5 Points of Yoga <br/>
with guests to introduce them to all aspects of the yogic path. Miguel provided <br/>
some variation by giving a Tai Chi workshop, and Joanne led guests through a <br/>
cooking lesson (yielding some very delicious results!). Chandrika 1 gave a tour <br/>
of the Ashram, with a special stop at the goats’ house and the Peace Plane <br/>
Museum. Kanti Devi held a period of Q&A so that any lingering curiosities about <br/>
the Ashram were resolved. Shanti held her usual Yoga Nitra on Sundays plus, <br/>
nightly Gita chantings, maintaining relaxation and Centredness. The guests had <br/>
their own talents to share, as a group of Kung Fu students stayed with us one <br/>
weekend. One Sunday they showed us their personal practice, giving the staff a <br/>
very entertaining Kung Fu demonstration, as well as some ideas for future staff <br/>
outings. The entire staff came together to offer guests their very best. Staff <br/>
provided variation, information, practice and fun. Visitors left content and <br/>
impressed. The staff continued to ride on the energy and creativity brought <br/>
forth through our week of Sadhana. All staff and visitors at the Camp send Pranams <br/>
and prayers for Peace. Om Shanti.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/camp">http://www.sivananda.org/camp</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Ashram Chateau du Yoga, Orleans, France</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. Our guests who came for the Christmas/ New Year programme <br/> stayed on for a week and enjoyed the lectures on Ayurvedic principles, given by <br/>
Sanjay Kulkarni. Our priest also stayed the first week in January. We were happy <br/>
to have a Ganesha Puja and a Lalita Sahasranama lamp Puja. We also offered a <br/>
“Yoga Week for Beginners”, a “Meditation Retreat”, a weekend “Yoga at Home” in <br/>
January and a week with the title “You are the Architect of your Destiny”. Works <br/>
on our Permaculture project are continuing, as well as various renovation projects <br/>
at the Ashram. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/orleans">http://www.sivananda.org/orleans</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Dhanwanthari Ashram, Neyyar Dam, Kerala, India</p>
<p>Om Namo Narayanaya. In early January energy was high, preparing for TTC and more <br/> Yoga Vacationers. Three temporary dorms and additional bathrooms were set up. As <br/>
expected, we had more students for TTC than the November group. One hundred <br/>
eighty seven students were initiated. Non-English groups and translators include <br/>
Iranian - Sara; Japanese - Yogeshwari and Chancira; German - Sivaram and <br/>
Nirmala; Spanish - Iswara; French - Amala; Tamil - Marksim; Hindi - Vishnu and <br/>
Malyalam - Sandeep and Supreetha. Also a number of teachers came to assist practice <br/>
classes. We welcomed Ananta from Canada to join the staff.</p>
<p>Later in January the TTC energy was high as they moved into the second week <br/> smoothly. Kalyani finished the chanting classes and immediately proceeded to <br/>
Madurai Ashram to teach Bhagavad Gita for the TTC there. Nagaraj ji arrived from <br/>
Delhi to start the Bhagavad Gita here. A large group of YV and TTC took the <br/>
opportunity to visit the backwaters and Varkala beach on the Friday outing. One <br/>
Wednesday over 400 local people attended the free Sivananda Ayurveda Medical <br/>
Camp. As usual most of the paid staff participated to make the camp a success. <br/>
By Guru's grace, the camp caters to an increasing number of patients every <br/>
month. Coming up this month, we invite you all to join the first Sivananda <br/>
Teachers Reunion in India, to be held on the 18th, 19th & 20th of February 2012. <br/>
Visit <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/india/news.html#Voice">http://www.sivananda.org/india/news.html#Voice</a> for more details. Om Namah <br/>
Sivaya from all the staff at Neyyar Dam. May Master and Swamiji bless us all.<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/neyyardam">http://www.sivananda.org/neyyardam</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm, Grass Valley, California, USA</p>
<p>Om Namo Narayanaya. In early January we began the new year with a well-attended <br/> Beginner Course, which as, for many, their first exposure to yoga in any way. <br/>
Shambu Das and RaguRam guided the new yogis through the 5 points, asanas and <br/>
pranayama, took the group on a relaxing river trip and enjoyed talks at the <br/>
beautiful Durga Temple. Parvati led a weekend Juice Fasting Retreat with <br/>
attendees taking part in 3 juices per day, daily talks on health, nutrition and p<br/>
roper detoxification, and time in the sauna to help release toxins. Unseasonably <br/>
warm weather continues to grace the Yoga Farm, the garden is being prepped for the <br/>
coming spring with new raised beds under construction.</p>
<p>Later in January Swami Padmapadananda led an enthusiastic group through the <br/> 5-day Introduction to Meditation course with new yogis learning the essential <br/>
tools to meditation, the use of mantras, concentration, the mechanics of the <br/>
mind, along with the necessity of bhakti yoga. Guest presenter Kiran Patel led a 2<br/>
-day course on Nonviolent Communication workshop, teaching the group fundamental <br/>
techniques to listening and expressing to each other with empathy and care. <br/>
Gauri Chaitanya gave fun, informative and lively Indian Vegetarian Cooking <br/>
classes which included the students cooking the Ashram dinners with much <br/>
appreciation from all. The rains have finally arrived for the winter season <br/>
giving much needed water to the garden and surrounding hills. Om Shanti.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/farm">http://www.sivananda.org/farm</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Meenakshi Ashram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India</p>
<p>Om Namo Narayanaya. In early January a German group of 18 students visited the <br/> Ashram and stayed for two nights. All of them attended the Ashram's daily <br/>
programs. We started TTC on the eve of January 8th, with 24 students. Anoop <br/>
returned from a trip to Canada. All are well and conveying Pranams. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/madurai">www.sivananda.org/madurai</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Ashram, Netala, Uttarkashi, Himalayas, North India</p>
<p>Om Namo Narayanaya. The Ashram is closed for the winter months. Courses return <br/> in April 2012 with a TTC commencing on April 8th 2012. Peace and Pranams.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi">http://www.sivananda.org/uttarkashi</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Ashram Yoga Ranch Colony, Woodbourne, NY, USA</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya! Early January started with a 5-day Yoga Lifestyle Retreat. We <br/> had several participants eager to start the new year off with a yoga practice. <br/>
Mahadev Chaitanya lead the daily workshops on the five points of Yoga. All <br/>
students left very inspired and motivated to start the new year incorporating <br/>
Swami Vishnu's five points in their daily life. Srinivasan left for the Bahamas <br/>
early in the week to teach in the ATTC. The weekend program was on the Conquest <br/>
of Anger, students learned about the causes of anger, forms of Anger and how <br/>
Yogic living works as an antidote for Anger. One Sunday the staff drove into New <br/>
York City for Satsang at the New York Centre. Swami Sadasivananda lead an inspiring <br/>
Satsang on the 5 kleshas.</p>
<p>Later in January we happily received our first main snow fall of the season, <br/> making the Ashram beautiful in a blanket of white. The staff enjoyed exercising <br/>
in the fresh air while shoveling the snow. The construction in the Vishnu <br/>
building continued with renovations in Srinivasan's office, replacing the floors <br/>
and painting. One Wednesday the staff drove into New York City for Satsang at <br/>
the New York Centre. Swami Sadasivananda lead an inspiring Satsang. The weekend <br/>
schedule included a Beginners Yoga program. The guests were introduced to the <br/>
four paths of Yoga. They learned various methods on how to incorporate the <br/>
classical teachings of Yoga into their daily lives. The workshops were taught by <br/>
Mahadev Chaitanya. May the Gurus' blessings of be with us all. <br/>
The staff send Pranams! Om Shanti.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/ranch">http://www.sivananda.org/ranch</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, Nassau, Bahamas</p>
<p>Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves. Happy New Year! In early January Swami <br/> Swaroopananda, Swami Prema and Jnaneshwari arrived to the Ashram. Srinivasan <br/>
also arrived with Saraswati and remained here for the month to teach the ATTC <br/>
students. On January 4th we inaugurated 45 TTC students and 22 ATTC students. <br/>
This is the first time we are running the courses concurrently. Kyriacos <br/>
Markides lectured this week on Christian Mysticism and Claudia Welch gave a <br/>
program on Balancing Hormones through Breath. Swami Tattvavidananda began a <br/>
series of lectures, discussing the virtues of a liberated sage; teachings from <br/>
the second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita. The popular Detoxification and Juice <br/>
Fast program with Manu Dawson and Grace Van Berkum baigna,with 30 participants.</p>
<p>Later in January we concluded the 'On The Wings of Ecstasy: Interfaith <br/> Devotional Singing and Sacred Dance Festival' with diverse performances by Juan <br/>
De la Sierra, Shantala (Benjy and Heather Wertheimer), Davod Azad, Silvia <br/>
Nakkach, Val Serrant and the Gospel Band of the Trinity Full Baptist Church. <br/>
Vianna Stibal taught the Theta Healing Basic and Advanced Teachers Training <br/>
courses. Dr. John Beaulieu and Silvia Nakkach co-instructed a 7-day course <br/>
entitled 'The Yoga of Sound and Voice'. The TTC and ATTC students concluded <br/>
their third week of studies. Om Namah Sivaya. Pranams to all! Om.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/nassau">http://www.sivananda.org/nassau</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat House, Reith/Kitzbühel Tyrol, Austria</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. We started the New Year with a full house including many <br/> guests, visiting staff and inspired TTCs going into their 3rd week. Highlight of <br/>
the new year was our special program with special guests with most uplifting <br/>
raga music and spiritual discourses; and lectures and asana workshops with <br/>
Acharyas. Swami Durgananda giving inspiring lectures on Atma Bodha, Swami <br/>
Kailasananda workshops on concentration and meditation and Swami Atmaramananda <br/>
teaching well appreciated asana workshops. TTC s students continued to build up <br/>
energy and connect deeply with the teachings of the Masters and were rewarded <br/>
with a successful completion of the TTC for all 24 participants. Heavy snowfall <br/>
since Christmas contributed to the beautiful winter atmosphere. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/tyrol">http://www.sivananda.org/tyrol</a></p>
<p>The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres:</p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Zentrum, Berlin, Germany</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. We had a very nice New Years Eve with a good group of students <br/> who enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere in the Centre. The new carpet looks very <br/>
sattwig and is appreciated by students and staff alike. The highlight of the <br/>
month was the yearly Special Program with many guests, Swamis and staffs. Swami <br/>
Durgananda gave a series of Lectures on steps towards Self-Realization, which <br/>
were highly appreciated and very well attended by an attentive audience of <br/>
students and yoga teachers eager to deepen their knowledge and practise of Yoga. <br/>
Swami Sivadasananda arrived spontaneously and gave two asana classes on the <br/>
weekend; these were enthusiastically received and the students filled the asana <br/>
hall to maximum. Swami Atmaramananda also gave a series of interesting lectures <br/>
on workings of mind. Swami Shymananda gave the Asana Workshops during the week. <br/>
Every evening concluded with elevating classical Indian music concerts which <br/>
opened the hearts of all. Saturday was the high light with almost 300 students <br/>
visiting the Centre. We had many students, who came not only from Berlin, but <br/>
also from other German cities as well as from Poland. The week after the Centre <br/>
saw a staff exchange: Rajeshwari Chaitanya left for Vienna and we welcomed <br/>
Swami Gokulananda who came from Vienna to Berlin. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/berlin">http://www.sivananda.org/berlin</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Buenos Aires, Argentina, South America</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. Hello from Buenos Aires. Visit the report from Montevideo for <br/> the Garopaba TTC. Prem & Om to all.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/baires">http://www.sivananda.org/baires</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Chennai, India</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya to all Blessed Selves from the Chennai Centre. In early January <br/> all the staff were involved in doing karma yoga. They cleaned all the debris <br/>
left by the strong wind and the heavy rains that the cyclone brought to Chennai <br/>
on the last week in December. Thay also some remains from the 2011 construction <br/>
work. We started a Beginners’ Course with a good number of students. We started <br/>
an early morning Meditation Course on Tuesdays. We have changed the schedule of <br/>
some classes and added some more and we are having a very good feedback from the <br/>
students who are now coming back from their end-of-the-year holidays. We have <br/>
also been busy preparing a retreat with Swami Mahadevananda and the inauguration <br/>
of a new Yoga Hall at a Hostel outside Chennai. The inauguration will be on 20th Jan.</p>
<p>Later in January we started our third Beginners' Course of the month, with a <br/> very good number of students. Swami Mahadevananda arrived, then we went to <br/>
Padur, halfway between Chennai and Mamallapuram, for a two-day retreat. As part <br/>
of the retreat, the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, at Padur, was inaugurated. <br/>
This new Centre is located in the premises of the Sai Baba Hostels and will work <br/>
as an extension of the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Chennai. The area of Padur <br/>
is full of IT companies with huge numbers of workers, all of them in need of <br/>
proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive <br/>
thinking. Also, as part of the retreat we listened to Prof. Anantha Raman, a <br/>
famous bhajan singer, and his group of musicians on evening. Swami Mahadevananda <br/>
taught two yoga classes and gave two lectures. One Sunday morning we had a nice <br/>
silent walk to a nearby Ganesha temple. After the yoga class and the lecture we <br/>
all came back to Chennai. Kumari came to the Centre from Neyyar Dam. She will be <br/>
with us till the end of March. We are all well and now back into our regular <br/>
schedule. All the staff are well and send pranams of peace to all the Sivananda <br/>
family for 2012.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/madras">http://www.sivananda.org/madras</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Chicago, USA</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In early January, the New Year started well with a puja to <br/> celebrate Swamiji's birthday. Classes have been well attended, as was an Open <br/>
House event one Saturday which attracted a good number of interested newcomers <br/>
to the Centre.</p>
<p>Later in January a new Yoga 1 course began, well attended by attentive and <br/> focused students. The Centre welcomed a new resident, Mahesvari, who is <br/>
enthusiastic about service and committed to sadhana. Satsang, classes, and <br/>
courses continue well while Swami Narayanananda is away in Vietnam. <br/>
Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantihi.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/chicago">http://www.sivananda.org/chicago</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta DWARKA Centre, Delhi, India</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In early January began with a new batch of beginners at 6.30am <br/> and 4p m, with a good number of students attending. We also held a Shat Kriya <br/>
workshop one weekend. Vijay ji left for Meenakshi Ashram TTC and Mukund left for <br/>
Dhanwantari Ashram, both for one month. We welcomed Pranav back to the Centre <br/>
who will be with us for the next few months, and Rajesh who will be with us for <br/>
a month. Otherwise, by the master and guru’s grace our classes, courses workshops <br/>
and trial classes are going very well.</p>
<p>Later in January we began with a new batch of beginners at 6.30am and 4pm. We <br/> also began a weekend beginners course on Saturdays. All courses began with a <br/>
good number of energetic and motivated participants. Otherwise, by the Master <br/>
and Guru’s grace, our classes, courses, workshops and trial classes went very well. <br/>
Pranams from all the staff at Dwarka. Om Shanti.<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/dwarka">http://www.sivananda.org/dwarka</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta NATARAJA Centre, Delhi, India</p>
<p>Om Namo Narayanaya. In early January the Centre had undergone a complete <br/> cleaning and decoration to welcome Sw. Mahadevananda. Swamiji attended the Delhi <br/>
Music Festival, along with Uma Sharma. A special Satsang one Saturday was <br/>
attended by many teachers and students. Swamiji’s talk on Sacrifice was well <br/>
received and all enjoyed hearing of his many humorous Indian experiences. We <br/>
have started a new Yoga - 1 and a new Week end Intensive course.</p>
<p>Later in January we welcomed Jnanadev to be a staff for few months. Many new <br/> teachers who have completed the TTC recently joined as a assistant teacher. A <br/>
special Puja was performed by priests from Visakapattanam. Samvedula Bhima <br/>
Narayana Sasthri performed Rudra Puja for Shiva and many teachers and students <br/>
took part and received the blessings. Swami Mahadevananda and Mani Chaitanya <br/>
left to Neyyar Dam for the International TTC. A Trial Class and the Kids class <br/>
had many good number of students. Two new Yoga1 also started. Satsang on <br/>
Wednesdays and Sundays were filled with many old students. A cooking workshop <br/>
was attended by 13 students. Prem and Om from all staff at the Nataraja Centre. <br/>
May the Gurus' blessings of be with us all. Om Namo Narayanaya!<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/delhi">http://www.sivananda.org/delhi</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Geneva, Switzerland</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. Staff returned inspired and recharged from the Retreat house in <br/> Reith where they took part in the special programs. The Centre had a dynamic <br/>
start after two weeks Christmas-closure as many people came in with New Year’s <br/>
resolutions. Courses began with good numbers of students. The pensioners’ class <br/>
which is held in cooperation with the City of Geneva continues with an inspired <br/>
group and the two classes at the United Nations Organization had many new <br/>
students. We are also happy about a big and lively children’s’ class which is <br/>
now taught by two teachers. On the weekends we had a good Open Day with <br/>
interested and motivated students and many inscriptions for upcoming courses as <br/>
well as a workshop entitled “Food for Life”. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/geneva">http://www.sivananda.org/geneva</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In January we experienced low attedance because of Lunar New <br/> Year TET. The students and teachers busily prepared for new year which is the <br/>
biggest celebration of the Year in Vietnam. The whole country has a 2-week <br/>
holiday. Swami Pranavananda held the fort down and taught many small classes <br/>
when Ganga was busy helping to prepare for TTC in Cu Chi. We were also happy to <br/>
welcome back some of the Centre's senior teachers who travelled to India. The <br/>
Positive Thinking Course continued well with sincere students. Om Namo Narayanaya.</p>
<p>Cu Chi, Vietnam :<br/> The Ayurveda and Yoga course taught by Swami Sitaramananda, Durga Leela, and <br/>
Ananta Chaitanya completed successfully with eleven students acquiring the basic <br/>
knowledge on constitution assessment, the disease process and how to get back <br/>
into balance, Yoga and Ayurveda therapies, and how to counsel the mind and <br/>
emotions, and thus facilitate the process of remembering our true nature. Yoga <br/>
Vacations continued with a steady stream of guests from around the world. We <br/>
thanked Kamala, Lalita, and Saraswati for the successful Ayurveda Spa. We are <br/>
preparing to receive the Yoga Psychology group. TTC applications keep steady. <br/>
Staff were well and enjoyed the weather and nice food. Later in January we <br/>
completed the Yoga Psychology course and prepared the facility to receive 70 <br/>
students for TTC. Staff went on a break for 4 days to visit Dalat, Swami Sita's <br/>
home town in the mountains, and also visit Nha Trang and 2 Cham temples during <br/>
the Lunar New Year. The Beginners week, taught by Ananta Chaitanya, concluded <br/>
well with students from many countries being grateful to have found Sivananda <br/>
Yoga in Vietnam. We welcomed Swami Narayanananda from Chicago Centre who will be <br/>
helping with the TTC teaching.</p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, London, England</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In early January the first full week of the New Year picked up <br/> nicely as the week progressed. We saw a sudden surge in student numbers, due in <br/>
part to all the New Years resolutions that have been put in place. Many new <br/>
courses began with good bookings. The highlight was the successful Open House <br/>
one Saturday. We took many bookings for courses. Interest in TTC was strong. <br/>
Work continued on designing the brochure. We welcomed Vishnu, a close teacher <br/>
and KY, for 2 weeks service in the Centre. Gopika moved in as a resident.</p>
<p>Later in January we had many new courses starting; Yoga 1,2,3 & 4, plus, <br/> Positive Thinking. Bhima led a 2-part workshop on “Back in Shape” which helped <br/>
students to further understand the yoga techniques for a healthy back and how to <br/>
use the 12 basic postures to improve body alignment. Manesha, a close teacher <br/>
and KY, led a cooking workshop “A Journey through Indian Vegetarian Cooking” <br/>
that was well attended. The 18 students enjoyed the interesting array of dishes <br/>
and appreciate very much the “hands on” approach to preparation. Work continued <br/>
on the brochure. Vishnu, a close teacher and KY, left after 2 weeks of service in <br/>
the Centre. Om & Prem to All. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/london">http://www.sivananda.org/london</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Los Angeles, CA, USA<br/> Om Namo Narayanaya! Om Shanti.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/la">http://www.sivananda.org/la</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Madrid, Spain</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves! After a couple of weeks of reduced schedule and <br/> staff team for the Christmas holidays, the Centre went back to full activity. <br/>
Several new beginners and meditation courses started. A special program on <br/>
Ayurveda was given by Dr. Kulkarni. The lectures on the practical day to day <br/>
application of Ayurveda and a cooking course were very well received. The students <br/>
were inspired to change their cooking and eating habits. OM.<br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/madrid">http://www.sivananda.org/madrid</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Madurai, India</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. By the grace of God & Guru, the Centre ran well in January. In <br/> early January all the activities, classes and courses went well by the grace of <br/>
guru's and god's. One of the staff Alaxia (Amala) went to help the January TTC <br/>
in Neyyar Dam. We visited Madurai Ashram for the starting date of January’s TTC.</p>
<p>Later in January we celebrated the Tamil festival, Pongal, with staff and some <br/> students The festival was for three days. The staff were happy to receive a lot <br/>
of pongal from students. All the classes and courses going well and fine. The <br/>
staff sends their pranams. Om Shanti.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/madurai">http://www.sivananda.org/madurai</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Milano, Italy</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In early January Milan was very quiet as the Christmas holidays <br/> continued. Students and teachers slowly returned to their yoga mats.</p>
<p>Later in January Milan 'reopened' after the Christmas Holidays. Students started <br/> to return to the Centre. Dhruva also returned from visiting family for a few <br/>
weeks. The boutique was stocked with new items from India and a good clean of <br/>
the asana rooms was made. New beginner courses started readily filling up. <br/>
Om Namo Narayanaya. Pranams.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/milano">http://www.sivananda.org/milano</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Montevideo, Uruguay, South America</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya! In early January we saw a good amont of activity at the Centre. <br/> On Tuesday the 3rd January, we had 50 students enrolled for the beginning of the <br/>
year. In January we will have a reduced schedule of classes but classes continue <br/>
with pregnancy, beginners, advanced, trial and regular classes. We were also <br/>
very busy preparing the final details before the departure of Kanti Devi and <br/>
Chandra for the TTC in Garopaba , Brazil. They left on Thursday morning so as to <br/>
be there for the whole month. Shakti (staff) went to Garopaba too, so as to do the TTC.</p>
<p>Later in January we had a good attendance of students, despite the excessive <br/> heat. They were very happy with the air conditioning. We received a work study, <br/>
Agustina. She came from Buenos Aires, Argentina. One Saturday we offered the <br/>
free yoga class. A good number of new students came to the Centre. We began wall <br/>
repair work and painting in bathrooms, locker rooms, kitchen, patio and room <br/>
staff. Classes were regularly being developed through support provided by <br/>
teachers in this month. Little by little the advanced group is formed and they <br/>
are really enjoying the classes. Agustina (work study) returned to Buenos Aires. <br/>
She said that she lived a wonderful experience during her stay in the Centre. <br/>
Pranams to all the Sivananda family!</p>
<p>Garopaba, Brazil: The Sivananda Yoga Teachers’ Training course has been held in <br/> Garopaba, Brasil for eight consecutive years now. This month the fourth Advanced <br/>
Teachers´ training course also took place. We’ve received a wonderful group of <br/>
students thirsty for knowledge and practice. There are people coming from <br/>
Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, C<br/>
olombia, Italy, United States, Germany, Canada, Spain and Holland. Communication <br/>
between different languages flowed as a result of the desire of knowing each <br/>
other and of learning about different cultures and customs. Kanti Devi, Swami <br/>
Gopalananda and Swami Premananda inaugurated both courses. Everything was in a <br/>
harmonious spirit. The night of inauguration, we enjoyed an incredible native <br/>
music concert, played by Daniel Namkay, with his more than 200 flutes collection <br/>
coming from all around the world. He also brought his instruments made of seeds <br/>
and different natural elements. We played music all together and immersed ourselves <br/>
in the wonderful world of the sounds of Nature.</p>
<p>We also watched some very inspirational videos about Swami Sivananda´s and Swami <br/> Vishundevananda´s lives. The weather treated us lovingly. A soft breeze <br/>
refreshed our activities and allowed us a comforting rest at night. Rain <br/>
accompanied us too, of course!, as a way to remember us that here, we have <br/>
tropical weather. During the first Friday of TTC, the first free day, it was a <br/>
beautiful sunny day, so some of the staff members and some students enjoyed a <br/>
boat trip and sea baths, while others stayed at the Ashram and studied. Everyone <br/>
took a rest from the intense rhythm of the TTC course. Yoga vacation guests s<br/>
tarted arriving. They joined staff and TTC students for a variety of activities.</p>
<p>The Atlantic forest’s marvelous landscape gave us a show of its multicolor <br/> shapes every day. Birds and butterflies flutter around as we walk to make us feel <br/>
part of this beauty.</p>
<p>The staff members spread out teaching in both courses, Yoga vacation, as well as <br/> translations. Everybody collaborated happily and with enthusiasm. The second <br/>
week of TTC saw the students more and more attentive, orderly and quiet during <br/>
the classes. Around a Bon fire we shared some delicious hot chocolate and <br/>
traditional songs from the different countries where the students come form. <br/>
They sang their songs filled with joy and emotion. The weather continued to be <br/>
kind to us, allowing us to enjoy our classes and our rest. The ATTC´s day began <br/>
with the practice of pranayama at 5 am, all enjoying the spectacle of the moon <br/>
and the stars bathing the landscape with light. We enjoyed a kirtan concert, <br/>
lead by Gastón Gerónimo from Uruguay, accompanied by Mark from Belgium, playing <br/>
the bass and Mateo from Uruguay on percussion. Mateo is just 14 years old, and <br/>
he is a clear example of the strength of samskaras, as he plays like a Hindu who <br/>
has been studying and playing for forty years. We also attended a workshop lead <br/>
by Gastón where he taught us how to use our voice as an instrument for the <br/>
practice of bhakti yoga. After this experience, the chanting during the Satsangs <br/>
sounded like they have never sounded before, filled with prana and devotion. One <br/>
of the morning meditations took place in the “cachoeira” (cascade) where we <br/>
arrived after a walk by the forest. Wonderful! The power of Nature is always so <br/>
inspirational! We all meditated and to took a refreshing bath after Satsang! <br/>
Some of the Yoga Vacation attendees already left with others are arriving. Their <br/>
classes are being held regularly so they can enjoy the power coming from both <br/>
classes each day. We had another beautiful sunny free day that allowed us to go <br/>
to the beach, the cachoeira and the pool. The members of the staff went to Siriu <br/>
beach that offers more than six kilometers of white and soft sand surrounded by <br/>
beautiful deep green mountains. We walked back to Garopaba, where we stopped to <br/>
have coconut water, juice and the traditional ice cream. Unfortunately, <br/>
Subramanya, Anapurna and little Kumari had to go back to Rio de Janeiro for <br/>
personal reasons. Before their departure, we celebrate Subramanya´s birthday in <br/>
advance. The Dining room was decorated with balloons and forty candles lighting <br/>
a delicious chocolate cake. Versed, from Porto Alegre, joined the staff. Uma and <br/>
Nirmala from Uruguay are a great support for the courses’ daily activities. All <br/>
the teachers took turns to teach in all the languages, a challenging job and <br/>
well received by the students. Classes take place normally and everyone lovingly <br/>
appreciated the teachings. We continued receiving applications for the Teachers <br/>
Meeting and there is a huge excitement about the program to be held.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/montevideo">http://www.sivananda.org/montevideo</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In early January a highlight was one of the Sunday Satsangs. <br/> Eleven staff members from Val Morin attended. There was a very positive energy. <br/>
Everyone enjoyed the evening. As usual a fine meal was served. Altogether about <br/>
40 people attended. Gopal from Val Morin spent some days at our Centre to his <br/>
way to Delaware, in the United States. We started a Yoga 1 course, with 12 <br/>
students and a meditation course, with 7 students. We had our first big snowstorm <br/>
with very cold temperatures.</p>
<p>Later in January we continued with a busy program. Neeti from Val-Morin gave a <br/> North Indian cooking course one Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. Music <br/>
was in the spotlight on Fridays. The evening's yoga classes were accompanied by <br/>
inspiring and relaxing music played by Ina and Guillaume. This was followed by <br/>
mantra singing during a concert by singer Lea Longo. Also, Satsang were well <br/>
attended on Sundays. It was freezing cold with temperatures as low as -20°C.<br/>
Pranams to all the Sivananda family.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/montreal">http://www.sivananda.org/montreal</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Munich, Germany</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. We started into the New Year with lots of prana. Many people <br/> came to our classes and courses and also the first of our monthly Open Houses <br/>
attracted many newcomers. We had a very nice special program “The Power of <br/>
Asanas” with Swami Keshavananda. We also organized a program “Ayurveda and <br/>
Health” with Dr. Kulkarni, ayurveda acharya from India, with two lectures and a b<br/>
ig cooking course. Further newly starting courses were a Meditation Introduction <br/>
course, a course “Thought Power through Concentration” and a preparation day for the y<br/>
oga teachers training course. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/munich">http://www.sivananda.org/munich</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Neuquen, Patagonia, Argentina</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya! Greetings from Patagonia, Argentina! In early January the <br/> Centre opened the doors to the New Year and all baigna well. The students were <br/>
happy that we return the first day of the 2012 with our regular classes.</p>
<p>Later in January inspite of a really hot summer in Neuquén, with temperatures of <br/> more than 40ºC, the Centre was fine!! We introduced a reduced schedule. Pranams to <br/>
all the staff. May the Gurus' blessings of be with us all.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/neuquen">www.sivananda.org/neuquen</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, New York, USA</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya! In early January we started the New Year at the Yoga Ranch and <br/> celebrated with a beautiful evening feast and midnight ceremony. Over the <br/>
weekend we held a successful Open House with 28 students, many whom registered <br/>
for courses, classes and memberships. The beginning of the year has inspired <br/>
many people to drop in for classes and sign up for the upcoming courses and <br/>
workshops. We completed the brochure and worked on more advertising projects to <br/>
distribute throughout the City. Swami Sadasivananda continued a Sanskrit course, <br/>
with a dedicated group of students and teachers.</p>
<p>Later in January we were fortunate to welcome two karma yogis for a week-long <br/> service stay at the Centre. Mukti Devi and Sarah stayed with us and served <br/>
kindly. Sarah, a chef by profession, and Mukti Devi, a teacher, were a wonderful <br/>
addition to the Centre. In the evenings we began a Positive Thinking course, <br/>
with 17 students, two new Yoga 1s began with a full classroom of students and we <br/>
have continued the Raja Yoga and Sanskrit Courses as well. We held two FIT <br/>
classes this week, each class enjoyed a basic class and meal. During the weekend <br/>
Sri Dhira Chaitanya, from the Arsha Vidya Ashram, delivered a lecture entitled <br/>
"The Role of Emotional Maturity in Spiritual Pursuits", it was an insightful <br/>
talk with several students and teachers attending. One Saturday we held a <br/>
headstand workshop with a few students. Joe continued to renovate the Centres' <br/>
rooms, with great finesse and craftsmanship. All staff are well, sending <br/>
blessings to all other staff. May the Gurus' blessings of be with us all. Om Shanti.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/ny">http://www.sivananda.org/ny</a></p>
<p>Centre de Yoga Sivananda Vedanta, Paris, France</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. It was an eventful and uplifting month in the Paris Centre. The <br/> first week of the year started with a 3-day special programme on Ayurveda <br/>
including two informative lectures and a much appreciated cooking class during <br/>
which students learned to prepare traditional, Indian dishes following Ayurvedic <br/>
guidelines. Swami Kailasananda gave a very well attended 3-day special programme <br/>
entitled Meditation and mental relaxation. The knowledge shared during the <br/>
workshops and Satsangs were a source of inspiration and encouragement for the <br/>
continued sadhana of students, teachers and staff. A South Indian priest <br/>
performed a deity puja and a yantra puja, uplifting the spiritual energy of the <br/>
Centre further. A residential teachers weekend brought TTC graduates from <br/>
different parts of France and some from abroad to the Centre. The programme <br/>
included workshops on how to correct postures, how to teach pranayama and on the <br/>
three levels of relaxation. A vibrant, professional Bharata Natyam dance <br/>
performance with 6 dancers filled the main asana hall to the brim. The energetic <br/>
dance performance, the colourful costumes and the devotional music gave a <br/>
vibrant Indian touch to the week-end and left the audience in awe. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/paris">http://www.sivananda.org/paris</a></p>
<p>Centro Yoga Vedanta Sivananda, Rome, Italy</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed selves. In January we focused on advertising for the <br/> Centre and the Open House. We had a very good response with 79 people arriving <br/>
for the day’s activities. All the classes were full, with many people staying <br/>
for all the activities. A good number of teachers and karma yogis helped nicely <br/>
throughout the day. Many students registered for the upcoming Yoga 1, Meditation <br/>
1 and the cooking classes. We had a teachers meeting, consisting of an advanced <br/>
yoga class then Satsang. The teachers are inspired. May the blessings of Master and <br/>
Swamiji be with all. Om & Prem from Roma.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/rome">www.sivananda.org/rome</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, San Francisco, California, USA</p>
<p>Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves. In early January a new Yoga 1 and Positive <br/> Thinking & Meditation Courses started with both courses full to capacity. The <br/>
resident program is also quite full with all spaces filling by the week’s end. <br/>
With the new year arrival the energy as high. This was noticeable at Sundays <br/>
packed Satsang, where many faces that had been absent over the holidays have <br/>
returned with a sigh of gratitude and relief on their faces. Pranams to all <br/>
from San Francisco Centre.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/sanfrancisco">http://www.sivananda.org/sanfrancisco</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya from the Tel Aviv Centre. We would like to wish you all a <br/> bright, happy, healthy prosperous and peaceful year. In early January we focused <br/>
a lot of prana in the promotion of our upcoming winter yoga retreat and the many <br/>
new courses and workshops to come. Krishnadas left the Centre and took off on <br/>
his way back to the Yoga Retreat. After many months during which the Centre was <br/>
packed with so many staff members, we are now 3 staff members keeping the high <br/>
energy strongly vibrating and inspiring the Centre's many students. The weather <br/>
in Tel-Aviv was changing all the time in January, mostly sunny and cold but <br/>
sometimes very stormy and rainy. We started a new "communication project". This proj<br/>
ect was initiated in order to improve all aspects - monetary and infrastructure, <br/>
of our internet, cellular and phone Equipment and programs. What we've found <br/>
quite quickly is that with the right knowledge we can pay less and get much more. <br/>
The project was crowned as a great success.</p>
<p>Later in January we were very busy with many successful events, projects and courses.</p>
<p>Two new beginners courses started day after day, both well attended. For <br/> Thursdays we have 14 participants and on Fridays, 17 students. On Wednesdays we <br/>
opened a new Pranayama workshop. In these four-meetings workshops, students <br/>
received a broader outlook on the work with prana and pranayama and their <br/>
relation to Tejas and Ojas. One Thursday we held a most successful introductory <br/>
lecture to meditation. All 8 participants registered right after the meeting, <br/>
and the course itself will open in two weeks with Shankara Chaitanya. Another <br/>
introductory lecture was held for the upcoming Positive Thinking course. A new <br/>
Raja Yoga course started on Tuesdays, with Shankara Chaitanya. The students were <br/>
inspired much by the material, and stayed after the class to discuss the <br/>
intricate points of the yogic philosophy. We increased the promotional efforts <br/>
for the many new courses, workshops and the winter retreat starting at the end <br/>
of month. The weather was very stormy in Tel-Aviv, with powerful winds, low <br/>
temperatures and a lot of rain. Despite the weather the activities in the Centre <br/>
continued to be vibrant, and students, old as well as new ones, were streaming <br/>
to the classes. A new Advanced Yoga course opened on Mondays, with 20 students. <br/>
Our introduction classes for Yoga and Meditation were well attended. One weekend <br/>
we held our Winter Yoga Retreat. We all traveled to the Galilee at the north of <br/>
Israel. Although the weather there was even colder, none of the guests missed <br/>
the beautiful morning silent walks in the meadows of Kibbutz Inbar. The retreat <br/>
focused on the practice of Meditation and Pranayama. Everyone came back fully <br/>
recharged physically, mentally and spiritually. Blessings and Peace to all the <br/>
Sivananda Family from the Tel Aviv Centre.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/telaviv">http://www.sivananda.org/telaviv</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Tokyo, Japan</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves. Early January started the new year with morning <br/> Satsanga on the 4th with many devoted students and teachers. Lal enjoyed <br/>
Japanese sweet after the Satsanga. The 9-day workshop on "Intro to Vedanta" <br/>
started on Saturday the 7th with many students. One Sunday we had a workshop series of <br/>
"The Wisdom of India" with many students.</p>
<p>Later in January we had a 9-day Vedanta Intro workshop which ran for a whole <br/> week. We had Satsanga just before the end of workshop and many students enjoyed Kirtan.</p>
<p>We also had workshop on the topic of "Yogic Life Style" with many students. <br/> Weekend Yoga 1 started on Saturdays, with a good number of students. We had <br/>
three months series workshop of "Wisdom of India" on Sundays with many <br/>
enthusiastic students. One of the students, a Sivananda Teacher, attended the <br/>
workshop every time coming all the way from Shizuoka, two and a half hour bus <br/>
drive away from Tokyo. We also had a Sunday free trial class with many students, <br/>
some of them were not accepted reservation due to the room space. It was for the <br/>
first time held this year because of the fact that we were unable to do it due <br/>
to the 9-day Vedanta Workshop. Some of the attendees joined Satsanga and enjoyed <br/>
it very much. We welcomed the arrival of new staff. Om & Prem. May the blessings of <br/>
Master and Swamiji be with us all.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.jp">www.sivananda.jp</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In early January, in the absence of the main staff who are <br/> still at the Yoga Camp, the Karma Yogis and teachers opened for a very <br/>
enthusiastic group of new yogis of Toronto. Even though no courses, the open <br/>
classes were very full. Saraswati just got back in time to give her Meditation <br/>
class and a Satsang for a room full of people. Her message for New Years was <br/>
quite inspiring. We have lots of new registrations for the upcoming courses. New <br/>
students arrived with New Year resolutions. The Centre is been given a thorough <br/>
cleaning and remains very sattvic and inviting. We were very sad to see our <br/>
bright and young Alan leaving to stay with his parents, so the sign went up for a new resident.</p>
<p>Later in January two Y1, and two new Y2 plus all open classes were completely <br/> full. The Centre was extremely busy, as many people came in with new years <br/>
resolutions. On Saturdays we started two kids courses, so it was quite vibrant <br/>
with parents taking regular open classes, and kids enjoying their classes with <br/>
Saraswati and Anoosha. We welcomed Ramapriya from Tokyo Centre who will be at <br/>
the Centre for 6 months to get training. She was overwhelmed to see how busy the <br/>
Centre was and slowly integrating in to Centre life well. Saraswati led <br/>
inspiring Satsangs on Fridays and Sundays. Our morning Satsangs continued on <br/>
very smoothly. We were extremely busy with two Y1 starting with a full room of <br/>
people. Another Y2 has also started. Saraswati started a new Meditation course <br/>
on Fridays, with 12 people. Weekend was busy once again with kids classes with <br/>
more kids joining, it was vibrant and quite nice energy with Anoosha and <br/>
Saraswati teaching. One Saturday Prahlada gave the popular headstand work shop. <br/>
Satsangs continued with good attendance. We had great weather with warmer <br/>
temperatures and without any signs of snow yet. Ramapriya adapted to the busy <br/>
pace of the Centre life and worked hard on her English. Peace and Pranams to all the <br/>
Sivananda family. Om.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/toronto">www.sivananda.org/toronto</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Trivandrum, Kerala, India</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. Our staff wishes all in the Sivananda family a peaceful and guided <br/> 2012. Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/trivandrum">www.sivananda.org/trivandrum</a></p>
<p>Yoga Vedanta Centre, Vienna, Austria</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. The New Years intensive beginners course hat a good number of <br/> inspired participants. Madhava returned inspired from his stay in the retreat <br/>
house in Reith during the special programs there and courses and classes picked <br/>
up in full swing after the vacation and holiday time. We had a successful and <br/>
large cooking course and a very well visited open house, with many new students <br/>
also registering for the upcoming beginners’ courses. With the Centre running in <br/>
full swing we had a staff exchange with Berlin. We welcomed Rajeshwari Chaitanya <br/>
from Berlin and said farewell to Swami Gokulananda, who departed to Berlin. <br/>
Swami Vidyananda came from Reith for a successful special weekend program <br/>
entitled “Power of Asanas”, joined by many teachers, karmayogis and students. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/vienna">www.sivananda.org/vienna</a></p>
<p>Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Vilnuis, Lithuania</p>
<p>Om Namah Sivaya. In early January the Centre came back to its usual schedule and <br/> classes started to attract more students after Christmas and New year holidays <br/>
break. One Sunday we held our first Open Day of the year, which went very <br/>
successefully. We welcomed 28 new peuple. Half of the students subscribed for <br/>
the Yoga 1, 2, 3 courses, cooking workshop, meditation course. We could see that <br/>
many students had some physical problems and tensions and they wanted to do <br/>
something about it through the practice of Yoga. One woman was interested in the <br/>
TTC. Many students stayed for the whole open day and it was wonderful to see <br/>
them in the evening Satsang sincerely singing mantras and kirtans. All students <br/>
left thankful for this day.</p>
<p>Later in January we started with a good group in the Yoga 1 course. We <br/> concentrated on the finalizing the mailing list and working on promotion of the <br/>
special program with Swami Atmaramananda. Karma yogis helped with distribution <br/>
of the posters and leaflets in the town. We were happy to see a nice group of <br/>
the students for the cooking class named “Classical Yogic Dishes”. The cooking <br/>
class went very well. We had especially many questions from two italian students <br/>
who also were profesional in Italian cooking. Our karma yogis supported the <br/>
Centre very nicely with cooking, cleaning, some office work and poster runs. <br/>
Durga Devi returned very inspired from Reith and Berlin where she was helping during <br/>
the special programs. OM.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sivananda.org/vilnius">www.sivananda.org/vilnius</a></p>
<p>Make Yoga the only purpose, aim, and real interest in your life. Plunge in Sadhana now, and realize God.<br/> - Sri Swami Sivananda</p>
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<p>---------------------------------------------------------------------------<br/> To be unsubscribed from the mailing list simply click on the link below <br/>
<a href="http://www.sivananda.org/cgi/mlists/s.pl?r=1&l=2&e=eduard.jolmes=:gmx.de">http://www.sivananda.org/cgi/mlists/s.pl?r=1&l=2&e=eduard.jolmes=:gmx.de</a></p></div>MY GURU is 24https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/my-guru-is-242012-02-01T10:10:58.000Z2012-02-01T10:10:58.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div><p>Once King Yadu saw Lord Dattatreya (Avadhoot) in a forest and addressed him "Sir, you are indeed quite capable, energetic and wise. Such as you are, why do you live in the forest, free from all desires? Even though you have neither kith and kin nor even a family, how could you be so blissful and self-contented?"<br/> <br/>
The Avadhoot replied, "My bliss and contentment are the fruits of self-realization. I have gained the necessary wisdom from the whole creation, through 24 Gurus. I shall elaborate the same for you".<br/>
<br/>
Shri Dattatreya had twenty-four teachers from nature "many are my preceptors," he told king yadu, "selected by my keen sense, from whom acquiring wisdom freely, I wander in the world…. The earth, air/breeze, sky, fire, the sun, pigeon, python, sea, moth, elephant, ant, fish, Pingala the courtesan, arrow-maker, infant/playful boy, the moon, honeybee, deer, bird of prey, maiden, serpent, spider, caterpillar and water are my twenty four preceptors.<br/>
<br/>
1. Earth: All creatures, in accordance with their pervious store of karma (action) assume different physical forms and live on earth. People plough, dig and tread the earth. They light fires on it. Still, the earth does not swerve from its course even by a hair’s breadth. On the other hand, it feeds and houses all creatures. Seeing this, I learned that the wise one should never swerve from his vow of patience, love and righteousness under any circumstances and one should dedicate his life for the welfare of living beings. The earth along with its mountains and rivers is my first guru.<br/>
<br/>
2. Air: I observed that air is pure and odorless in itself. And it blows on both sweet and foul-smelling things without any discrimination or preference. Though it momentarily seems to take on the smell of its surroundings, in a short while, it reveals its pristine quality. From this I learned that a spiritual aspirant should live in the world, unaffected by the dualities of life like joy and sorrow and by the objects of the senses. He should keep his heart’s feeling and his speech unpolluted by vain objects. As I have learned all this by observing it, air is my second guru.<br/>
<br/>
3. Sky: The soul is also like the sky, which is omnipresent. I have noticed that sometimes the sky (or space) gets thickly overcast, or filled with dust or smoke. At sunrise and during night, it apparently takes on different colors. But in fact, it ever retains its colorless self, and it is never touched or stained by any thing. From this I learned that a true sage should remain ever pure like the sky or space, untouched or unaffected by anything in the phenomenal universe in time, including his own physical processes. His inner being is totally free from emotional reaction to things and events even like the space. Thus I accepted the sky or space as my third guru.<br/>
<br/>
4. Fire: My fourth teacher is element of fire. Sometimes, it manifests itself as blazing flames; sometimes as smoldering embers, covered by ash. But it is always present in all objects as latent heat. The god of fire accepts the offering of everyone, irrespective of his moral worth and <a href="http://www.yoga-vidya.de/yoga-psychologie/einsatzbereiche/beschwerdebilder/burnout-stress.html" target="_blank">burns</a>down his sins; and it still remains the ever-pure divinity as the fire-god; he is untainted by the sins of such devotees. So too, a sage of perfect realization should accept food of everyone, burn down his sins and bless the giver. Though fire has no specific form of its own, when it is associated with fuel that burns, it assumes such apparent forms. So too, the true Self, though formless in itself, appears in the forms of deities, human beings, animals and trees when it is associated with the respective physical structures. The source of all forms in the universe, as also their end, remains ever mysterious. All the things are manifest only in between their origin and their end. Their source and end is the true Self, which is eternal, unchanging, unmanifest and omnipresent. The nature of the element of fire is such. The manifest fire transforms the various things it consumes into the same ash. So too, the wisdom of self-realization rejects the manifest forms and properties of things as illusion and realizes their one original essence as itself. Thus the element of fire is my fourth guru.<br/>
<br/>
5. Sun: My fifth guru is sun. Though the sun we see in our daily life is one, it appears as many when reflected by water in different vessels. Similarly, the one real Self manifests itself as many selves of living creatures when reflected by their physical structures. As Sun illuminates the many forms in nature to our visions, the sage too illuminates the true nature of all things to his devotees.<br/>
<br/>
6. Pigeon: I have gained wisdom from a pigeon too. Once a pair of pigeons lived together on a tree. They bred their young and were bringing them up with deep affection and love. One day, a hunter caught the young fledglings in a snare. The ladybird, which returned from the forest with food for its young ones, saw their plight and, unable to leave them, she leapt in the snare to share their fate. Shortly after, the male pigeon turned up and, unable to bear the separation from its sweetheart, it too jumped in the snare and met its end. Reflecting on this, I realized how, even after being born as an intelligent human being, man is caught in the coils of possessiveness and brings about his own spiritual destruction. The self, which is originally free, when associated with the body sense, gets identified with it, and thus gets caught in the endless cycle of birth, death and misery. Thus the pigeon was my sixth guru.<br/>
<br/>
7. Python: The python is a sluggard, unwilling to move out briskly for its prey. It lies in its lurch and devours whatever creature it comes across, be it sufficient to appease its hunger. From this I learnt that the man in search of wisdom should refrain from running after pleasures, and accept whatever he gets spontaneously with contentment. Like the python, he should shake off sleep and wakefulness and abide in a state of incessant mediation on the Self. Thus the python was my seventh teacher of wisdom.<br/>
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8. Sea: Contemplating the marvelous nature of the ocean, I have gained much wisdom. Any number of overflowing rivers may join it, yet the sea maintains its level. Nor does its level fall even by a hair’s breadth in summer, when all the rivers dry up. So too, the joys of life do not elate the sage of wisdom, nor do its sorrows depress him. Just as the sea never crosses its threshold on the beach, the wise one never transgresses the highest standards of morality under the pull of passions. Like the sea, he is unconquerable and cannot be troubled by anything. Like the unfathomable ocean, his true nature and the depths of his wisdom cannot be easily comprehended by anyone. The ocean, which has taught me thus, is my eighth guru.<br/>
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9. Moth: I often observed that the moth (or, more precisely, a grasshopper) is tempted by fire to jump in it and get burnt down. So too, the unthinking man is enticed by the illusory pleasures of the senses and thus gets caught in the ceaseless cycles of birth and death. On the other hand, the wise one, when he catches even a glimpse of the fire of wisdom, leaves everything aside, leaps in it and burns down the illusion of being a limited self. Thus the moth was my ninth guru.<br/>
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10. Elephant: The elephant was my tenth guru. The human beings raise a stuffed cow-elephant in the forest. The wild tusker mistakes it for a mate, approaches it and then skillfully bound in fetters by the cunning human beings. So too, the unregenerate man is tempted by the opposite sex and gets bound by the fetters of infatuation. The seekers after liberation should learn to be free from lust. The elephant was thus one of my teachers.<br/>
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11. Ant: The ant stores up lots of food materials which it neither eats nor gives away in charity to any other creature. In consequence, other more powerful creatures are tempted to plunder the ants. So too, the man who lays by treasures of merely material things becomes a victim of robbery and murder. But the ant has something positive to teach us, too. It is a tireless worker and is never discouraged by any number of obstacles and setbacks in its efforts to gather its treasure. So too, a seeker after wisdom should be tireless in his efforts for Self-Realization. This noble truth has the little ant taught me and became my eleventh guru.<br/>
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12. Fish: The fish greedily swallows bait and is at once caught by the angle-hook. From this, I realized how man meets his destruction by his craving for delicious food. When the palate is conquered, all else is conquered. Besides, there is a positive feature in the fish. It never leaves its home, i.e. water. So too, man should never loose sight of his true self, but should ever have his being in it. Thus the fish became my twelfth guru.<br/>
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13. Pingala: The thirteenth guru that has awakened my spirit is a prostitute named Pingala. One day, she eagerly awaited a particular client in the hope that he would pay her amply. She waited and waited till late in the night. When he did not turn up, she was at last disillusioned and reflected thus: "Alas! How stupid I am! Neglecting the divine spirit within, who is of the nature of bliss eternal, I foolishly awaited a debauchee (sensualist) who inspires my lust and greed. Henceforth, I shall expend myself on the Self, unite with Him and win eternal joy. Through such repentance, she attained blessedness. Besides, reflecting on its obvious purport, I also realized that a spiritual aspirant should likewise reject the lure of lesser spiritual powers, which are mere by-products of sadhana (spiritual practice). I learned that the temptation to secure things from other’s hands are the seeds of misery; that renunciation of these is the sole means of realizing infinite joy.<br/>
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14. Arrow-maker: Once I observed an arrow-maker who was totally absorbed in molding a sharp arrow. He grew so oblivious of all else that he did not even notice a royal pageant that passed by. This sight awakened me to the truth that such single-minded, all-absorbing contemplation of the Self spontaneously eliminates all temptation for the trivial interests of the world. It is the sole secret of success in spiritual discipline. Thus the arrow-maker is my fourteenth guru.<br/>
<br/>
15. Playful Boy: Little boys and girls know neither honor nor dishonor. They do not nurse a grudge or a prejudice against anyone. They do not know what is their own, or what belongs to others. Their happiness springs from their own selves, their innate creativity and they do not need any external objects or conditions to be happy. I realized that the sage of perfect enlightenment is also such. A playful boy thus happened to be my fifteenth guru.<br/>
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16. Moon: Of all things in nature, the moon is unique. It appears to wax and wane during the bright and dark fortnights. In fact, the lunar globe ever remains the same. In this, it is like the self of the man. While a man appears to pass through the stages of infancy, boyhood, youth, maturity and old age, his real self remains unchanged. All changes pertain only to body and not to the self. Again, the moon only reflects the light of the sun, but has no such of its own. So too, the soul or mind of man is only a reflection of the light of awareness of the real self. Having taught this truth, the moon became my sixteenth guru.<br/>
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17. Honeybee: Honeybee wanders from flower to flower and, without hurting them in the least, draws honey. So too, a spiritual seeker should study all the Holy Scriptures but retain in his heart, only that is essential for his spiritual practice. Such is the teaching I imbibed from my seventeenth guru, the honeybee.<br/>
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18. Deer: It is said that deers are very fond of music and that poachers employ it to lure them before hunting them. From this, I learned that passions and sensual desires will soon bog down a spiritual aspirant who has a weakness for merely secular music, till he ultimately loses whatever spiritual progress he has achieved earlier. The deer that taught me this truth is my eighteenth guru.<br/>
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19. Bird of prey: A bird of prey is my nineteenth guru. One day, I saw one such carrying away a dead rat. Many other birds like crows and eagles attacked it, now kicking on its head and again pecking on its sides in their endeavor to knock off the prey. The poor bird was thus very much pestered. At last, it wisely let its prey fall and all the other birds rushed after it. Thus freeing itself from so much botheration, it sighed in relief. From this, I learned that a man who runs after worldly pleasures will soon come into clash with his fellow-beings who too run for the same, and has to face much strife and antagonism. If he learns to conquer his craving for worldly things, he can spare himself much unhappiness. I realized that this is the only way to the peace in the world.<br/>
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20. Maiden: Once, I observed a family visit a maiden’s house, seeking her hand in marriage for their son. At that time, her mother was away from home. So the maiden herself had to entertain the guests with refreshments. She at once started pounding food-grains with a pestle. The bangles on her hand started knocking against each other, pounding sound. She was afraid that the guests might hear the sound and be unhappy for having caused her so much of trouble. As a Hindu maiden, she is not expected to remove all the bangles on her hand at any time. So she kept two on each hand and removed all the rest. Even then, they were knocking against each other and were making noise. So she kept only one bangle on each hand this time and she could finish her task in quiet. Reflecting on this, I realized that when a number of spiritual seekers live together, a lot of unwanted gossip ensues and no spiritual practice can be pursued with a single-minded effort. Only in solitude, a spiritual aspirant can carry his task. Knowing this truth, I henceforth resorted to solitude. Thus, a maiden happened to be my twentieth guru.<br/>
<br/>
21. Serpent: I observed that a serpent never builds a dwelling for itself. When white ants have raised an anthill for themselves, the serpent eventually come to inhabit it. Similarly, worldly people have to endure many hardships in raising houses for themselves, while a recluse monk does no such thing. Worldly men raise the monasteries and the monk lives in them; or, he leaves in old dilapidated temples, or underneath shady trees. The serpent moults, leaving off its old skin. So too at the end of his life Yogi leaves his body deliberately and in full awareness of his own true self and is not frightened by the phenomenon of death. On the other hand, he casts off his old body as happily as he does his worn out clothes and dons new ones. Thus has my twenty first guru taught me.<br/>
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22. Spider: The spider is my twenty second guru. It weaves its web from the thread in the form of a fluid. After sometime, it gathers up the web into itself. The supreme projects the whole creation out of itself and after sometime, withdraws it into itself at the time of dissolution. The individual soul too, bears the senses and the mind within itself and, at its birth as a human being or any other living creature, it projects them out as the sense organs, organs of action and the whole body. In accordance with its latent tendencies, the creature thus born, gathers up all the means and objects needed for its living. At the end of its life’s duration, the soul again withdraws the senses, mind and acquired tendencies at the hour of death. Thus have I learned from the spider.<br/>
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23. Caterpillar: The caterpillar is also one of my teachers of wisdom. The wasp carries its caterpillar to a safe corner and closes it up in its nest and goes on buzzing about it. The young caterpillar is so frightened by the incessant buzzing, that it cannot think of anything else than the buzzing wasp. Through such unintermittent contemplation of its mother, the caterpillar too, soon grows up into a wasp! In a like fashion, a true disciple is so charmed and over-awed by the spiritual eminence of his own guru that he cannot think any one other than him. Through such contemplation, he soon blossoms into a great spiritual master himself. The caterpillar is thus my twenty third Guru.<br/>
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24. Water: Water is my twenty fourth Guru. It quenches the thirst of every creature, sustains innumerable trees and all creatures. While it thus serves all living beings, it is never proud of itself. On the other hand, it humbly seeks the lowliest of places. The sage too should likewise bestow health, peace and joy to every creature that resorts to him. Yet he should ever live as the humblest of God’s creation.<br/>
<br/>
With such humility and devotion, I looked upon the whole of God’s creation as my teacher, gathered up wisdom and, through patient effort I realized my goal of spiritual enlightenment.<br/>
<br/>
on shanti on</p></div>mantra chantinghttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/mantra-chanting2012-01-16T09:37:49.000Z2012-01-16T09:37:49.000ZKriyananda Maharshi Dayanandahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/KriyanandaMaharshiDayananda<div><p><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Those who chant divine mantras without receiving them from a Sadgurudev is worthless and wasting their most valuable time instead. Therefore those who really seek for such PARASHAKTI must look for a Sadgurudev.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">With LOVE<br/> Kriyananda Maharshi Dayananda<br/>
</span></p>
<p></p></div>the Past is the past the future is the future and present is the present so just Behttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-past-is-the-past-the-future-is-the-future-and-present-is-the2012-01-14T23:48:50.000Z2012-01-14T23:48:50.000Zclaire patricia punter conryhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/clairepatriciapunterconry<div><p></p></div>How did you grow your business?https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/how-did-you-grow-your-business2011-12-25T20:21:56.000Z2011-12-25T20:21:56.000ZKumari de Silvahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/KumarideSilva<div>I've brought yoga to a smalll community. Every month about two new people wander into the studio and two mysteriously dissappear. I've been in business six months. Any ideas on how to grow the biz?</div>Behaviour aspects of Yoga ?https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/behaviour-aspects-of-yoga2011-12-09T11:42:14.000Z2011-12-09T11:42:14.000ZGopalsamyhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/Gopalsamy<div><p>Can any one explain the 'behaviour aspects of Yoga ?'"</p></div>My.Yoga-Vidya.News from Oct. 1st. 2011https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/my-yoga-vidya-news-from-oct-1st-20112011-10-01T08:48:11.000Z2011-10-01T08:48:11.000ZOmkarahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/Omkara<div><table border="0" width="690">
<tbody><tr><td><h2><strong>Om Namo Narayanaya <br/>dear yoga friend,</strong></h2>
<p>it is the beginning of a new quarter and time to send you as a broadcast message some suggestions from My.Yoga-Vidya.International to share some links, contributions and recommendations. We hope you'll enjoy this message. Stay strong! Thanks for all interesting contributions, links, blog posts and videos to this site in the last three quarters. May we all continue our good work and yoga practise. <br/><br/>Om Shanti,<br/>yours Yoga Vidya Web 2.0 Team<br/><br/>If you can't read this email message correctly you can read this message in our <a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/my-yoga-vidya-news-from-oct-1st-2011">Yoga Vidya Forum</a></p>
<p>This message is written by <a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/profile/Omkara">Omkara</a></p>
<p> </p>
<hr style="width: 100%; height: 2px;"/><p><br/><br/> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Top five blog entries of this month:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/xn/detail/2740171%3ABlogPost%3A222940" target="_blank">Sarvangasana</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/xn/detail/2740171%3ABlogPost%3A108254" target="_blank">Mantra Yoga</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/xn/detail/2740171%3ABlogPost%3A108256" target="_blank">Effects of Mantra Repetition</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/xn/detail/2740171%3ABlogPost%3A225226" target="_blank">Death by food</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/xn/detail/2740171%3ABlogPost%3A108233" target="_blank">Transmission of Shakti</a></li>
</ul>
<p><br/><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/137774236?profile=original"/> <br/> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Discussions:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/aum" target="_blank">Aum</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-big-question-in-life-is-death-the-answer-to-death-is-life" target="_blank">The big question in life is death - the answer to death is life</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/question-about-power-yoga-for" target="_blank">Question about power yoga for beginners</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/how-to-reduce-body-heat-in-a" target="_blank">How to reduce body heat in a natural way?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/health-and-spiritual-benifits" target="_blank">Health and Spiritual benifits of Yoga with Chakra</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/who-is-a-real-guru" target="_blank">Who is a real guru?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/a-necessary-purification-in-yoga" target="_blank">A ‘Necessary purification’ in Yoga</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/how-can-one-start-meditation" target="_blank">How can one start meditation?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/is-meditation-dangerous" target="_blank">Is meditation dangerous?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-senses-what-are-they" target="_blank">The senses - what are they?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/shankaracharya-master-of" target="_blank">Shankaracharya, Master of Vedanta</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/it-happens-in-sadhana" target="_blank">It happens in Sadhana</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/mantras-only-in-sanskrit" target="_blank">Mantras only in Sanskrit?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/mantra-diet" target="_blank">Mantra Diet</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/marmas-and-chakras" target="_blank">Marmas and Chakras</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/ayurveda-1" target="_blank">Ayurveda</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/getting-your-body-ready-for" target="_blank">Getting your body ready for meditation</a></li>
<li><a href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-one-who-is-simple-is-the-one-who-is-free-from-pain" target="_blank">The one who is simple is the one who is free from pain</a></li>
</ul>
<p><br/><br/></p>
<p><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/137774236?profile=original"/><br/> <br/><span style="font-weight: bold;">Videos:</span><br/><br/></p>
<div align="center"><table border="0" cellspacing="10" width="500">
<tbody><tr><td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/the-ashram-of-swami-bodhichitanandaji-near-rishikesh"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730471?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>The Ashram of Swami Bodhichitanandaji near Rishikesh</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/arshayoga-gurukulam-ashram-in-kerala"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730236?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Arshayoga Gurukulam Ashram in Kerala</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/hatha-yoga-and-mythology"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730501?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Hatha Yoga and Mythology</a></td>
</tr>
<tr><td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/child-pose-headstand-scorpion"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730504?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Child pose Headstand Scorpion</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/upward-facing-vira-bhadrasana-silent-yoga-movie"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730400?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Upward Facing Vira Bhadrasana - Silent Yoga Movie</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/twisting-vira-bhadrasana-yoga-heroe-pose-silent"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730508?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Twisting Vira Bhadrasana - Yoga Heroe Pose Silent</a></td>
</tr>
<tr><td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/fire-ceremony-by-sanjay-yogi-bulgaria"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730514?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>fire ceremony by sanjay yogi bulgaria</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/mala"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730511?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Mala</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/om-aim-saraswatyai-namaha-mantra-rezitation-sehr-langsames-mantra"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730480?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Om Aim Saraswatyai Namaha Mantra Recitation</a></td>
</tr>
<tr><td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/yamuna-tira-vihare-vrindavana-sanchari-kirtan-in-sivananda-ashram"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730535?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Yamuna Tira Vihare Vrindavana Sanchari - Kirtan in Sivananda Ashram Rishikesh</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/we-are-one-in-the-spirit-chanting-with-janin-devi"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1214267403?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>We are One in the Spirit - Chanting with Janin Devi</a></td>
<td valign="top"><a target="_blank" href="http://my.yoga-vidya.org/video/rama-mantras-and-shlokas-recitation-in-sivananda-ashram-rishikesh"><img width="136" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/58730565?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="136"/><br/>Rama Mantras and Shlokas - Recitation in Sivananda Ashram Rishikesh</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/137774236?profile=original"/></p>
<p><br/><br/><br/>You receive this message because you are a member of My.Yoga-Vidya.org. <br/>Om Shanti.</p>
</td>
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</tbody>
</table></div>THE BIG QUESTION IN LIFE IS DEATH -THE ANSWER TO DEATH IS LIFEhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-big-question-in-life-is-death-the-answer-to-death-is-life2011-09-10T18:41:26.000Z2011-09-10T18:41:26.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>THE BIG QUESTION IN LIFE IS DEATH -THE ANSWER TO DEATH IS LIFE</div>THE MORE YOU GIVE BENEFIT TO OTHERS,THE MORE YOU DO GOOD TO YOURSELF .BE GOOD TO YOURSELF DAILYhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-more-you-give-benefit-to-others-the-more-you-do-good-to2011-09-09T17:53:24.000Z2011-09-09T17:53:24.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>THE MORE YOU GIVE BENEFIT TO OTHERS,THE MORE YOU DO GOOD TO YOURSELF .BE GOOD TO YOURSELF DAILY</div>The one who is simple is the one who is free from pain.https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-one-who-is-simple-is-the-one-who-is-free-from-pain2011-09-02T05:58:09.000Z2011-09-02T05:58:09.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>The one who is simple is the one who is free from pain.@ : When I am simple I am able to be free from pain or hurt even in adverse situations. I am able to take benefit from the wealth of experiences accumulated over the past without feeling the pain. With simplicity I know that I need to remember the past only to the extent that I have to learn from it. Solution: When something goes wrong and I find myself thinking about it again and again, I need to remind myself that all the past experiences are only for me to learn from them. The past is finished and I don't have to undergo the sorrow again thinking about the past repeatedly.</div>Mayahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/maya2011-08-06T10:44:38.000Z2011-08-06T10:44:38.000ZAjithhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/Ajith<div>Maya does not exist from the standpoint of Reality.Maya is only an explanation of creation given by those who hold creation to be a fact. None (is) in bondage, none liberated, this is the ultimate truth. Yogis look upon mind as separate from Atman, that they seek to control it in Samadhi. But Gaudapada says that the mind is the non-dual Atman. Therefore there does not arise any question of controlling it. The mind and its activities are nothing but the non-dual Brahman, ever pure, ever free and ever illumined. It is only due to ignorance that one perceives the duality of the subject-object relationship in the activities of the mind. But a knower of truth perceives everywhere and in all activities only the non-dual Brahman.</div>STAMMERINGhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/stammering-12011-06-25T11:01:44.000Z2011-06-25T11:01:44.000ZRobin binnyyoghttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/Robinbinnyyog<div>my 12 year son having Stammering speach problem. i wanted to cure it by yoga and ayurvedya medicens. please give me more information. thank you.</div>THE END OF BIRTH IS DEATH THE END OF DEATH IS BIRTHhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/the-end-of-birth-is-death-the2011-06-03T19:46:23.000Z2011-06-03T19:46:23.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>THE END OF BIRTH IS DEATH
THE END OF DEATH IS BIRTH</div>God has love even for sinners,all are children of god and so what right do have to hate a child of god ???https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/god-has-love-even-for2011-05-30T17:15:26.000Z2011-05-30T17:15:26.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>God has love even for sinners,all are children of god and so what right do have to hate a child of god ???</div>Meditation Resultshttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/meditation-results2011-05-29T12:22:49.000Z2011-05-29T12:22:49.000ZSooraj kumarhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/Soorajkumar<div>Nmasty:
I have been doing meditation since last 9 months but still i not got any fruit full results.Let me know what should i do?
Jai Shri Ram.</div>ONE''S CHARACTER IS NOT VISIBLE IN A MIRRRRRRRRORhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/one-s-character-is-not-visible-in-a-mirrrrrrrror2011-09-11T19:30:44.000Z2011-09-11T19:30:44.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>ONE''S CHARACTER IS NOT VISIBLE IN A MIRRRRRRRROR</div>ONE WORD SPOCKEN WITH LOVE CAN SOOTHE THE SORROWFULL HEARTS OF MANYhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/one-word-spocken-with-love-can2011-03-12T22:40:02.000Z2011-03-12T22:40:02.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>ONE WORD SPOCKEN WITH LOVE CAN SOOTHE THE SORROWFULL HEARTS OF MANY
To be content is to
neither to get upset nor
to upset others.
Projection: Many times I
find that my words,
actions or behaviour tend
to upset others inspite of
my not wanting to hurt
them. I seem to be very
happy with the situation,
but others don't seem to
be. At that time I am not
really able to understand
the reason for this and I
consider the others to be
unreasonable.
Solution: I need to check
myself when others are
getting upset with me. I
need to make effort to
check and change myself
constantly so that I am
able to move along with
the demands of time. This
is what will bring about
true contentment - such
contentment that neither
will I be upset nor will I
upset others.<p class="attachment"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/9079601277?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener">positive.jpg</a></p></div>Colors of Yogahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/colors-of-yoga2011-02-22T23:44:47.000Z2011-02-22T23:44:47.000ZRatna B.R.https://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/RatnaBR<div><object width="640" height="390"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/RbIoHT5yzr0?fs=1&hl=de_DE"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="false"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="never"></param><embed wmode="opaque" src="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/RbIoHT5yzr0?fs=1&hl=de_DE" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="false" width="640" height="390"></embed> <param name="wmode" value="opaque"></param></object></div>It's Sukadev's birthday today – HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SUKADEV!https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/its-sukadevs-birthday-today2011-02-03T13:47:18.000Z2011-02-03T13:47:18.000ZDevaki Erika-Hahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/DevakiErikaHa<div>Dear Sukadev,
Om Trayambakam – my very best wishes to you, lots of love and prana,
bliss and happiness and wonderful inspirations! February 3, 2011.
Om Namah Shivaya,
Devaki Erika-Ha</div>SELF LEANING AND SELF MANAGEMENT, CONTENTMENT AND BLISS GO HAND IN HAND .THESE QUALITIES CREAT GREAT FASCINATION FOR YOU AMONG OTHERShttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/self-leaning-and-self2011-03-11T02:50:29.000Z2011-03-11T02:50:29.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>Self Learning & Self
Management
If we are to manage our
self and our life
successfully, it will help us
to go back to school. Not
the school of our
childhood and not to
learn physics and
mathematics, but to learn
about our inner selves -
the one subject that was
missing in all our
educations. Are you ready
to go back to school? Are
you humble enough to
put on the hat of the
student and be a learner
again? Are you interested
enough to learn about the
mechanisms of your own
consciousness, which
create the outcomes or
results of your life? If you
are interested and you do
value continuous learning
you will find that real
learning has nothing to do
with having to remember
things (which we did in
school), in fact, it is more
like the opposite. The real
lessons of life do not need
to be remembered
because they cannot be
forgotten. That's what
makes real learning a
joyful, awakening and a
spiritually empowering
experience. When you do
put on your learning hat
again you will see that
your life is your school,
every scene is a workshop,
your teachers are all
around you, and every
interaction carries a
potential lesson to be
looked at closely and
learned. There are
probably a million things
you could know about
yourself that would be
useful, but not all would
be immediately necessary.
But there are a few basic
things about the "self"
that are immediately
useful, and probably
essential, to your well-
being right now. These
few basic things are what
we are trying to share
with you through the
spiritual messages on a
regular basis.</div>Very fortunate is the one who has learned to admire ,but not to envy . . To be free from weakness means to have the power to mouldhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/very-fortunate-is-the-one-who2011-03-09T01:14:09.000Z2011-03-09T01:14:09.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>Very fortunate is the one who has learned to admire ,but not to envy .
.
To be free from weakness means to have the power to mould. Projection: We do have certain weaknesses within us which makes it difficult for us to mould according to the needs of the situation. The weakness within us creates hardness and rigidity not allowing the situations to create internal beauty. So when we are working with our own weakness, we find it difficult to stop the negativity from being expressed immediately. The weakness is revealed inspite of making effort not to and there is unpleasantness created. Solution: To have the ability to mould means to become real gold. I become as flexible and beautiful as pure gold, which is ready to take beautiful shapes when it comes under the influence of the heat of the situation. So I have no hard feelings for having to adjust, but I am able to enjoy the beauty I create and the joy I spread</div>Good books are like good company .Obscene literature pollutes our minds and leads us to wrong pathshttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/good-books-are-like-good2011-03-07T19:27:01.000Z2011-03-07T19:27:01.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>Good books are like good company .Obscene literature pollutes our minds and leads us to wrong paths</div>Man knows the comma and full -stop of language .He knows not the full stop of negative thoughts @ An elevated consciousness brings speciality to the task being donehttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/man-knows-the-comma-and-full2011-03-07T15:28:33.000Z2011-03-07T15:28:33.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>Man knows the comma and full -stop of language .He knows not the full stop of negative thoughts @ An elevated consciousness brings speciality to the task being done. Projection: Sometimes, while doing even a special task, our consciousness tends to become ordinary because of negative feelings for the self or others. Such thoughts make even a special task into an ordinary one. So what has to be done in a beautiful way is done in a very ordinary way. So there is a tendency to just perform action and finish the task at hand, which does not bring speciality and accuracy as much as it should. Solution: I need to understand that as is the consciousness, so is the feeling behind the task, and therefore its quality. When I am able to start each task with a special consciousness, like “I am victorious”, or “I am powerful” or “this task is for the benefit of all”, I am able to experience the speciality of doing the task. I am also able to increase my state of self-respect, whatever the task or however simple it maybe.</div>Keep me away from evilhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/keep-me-away-from-evil2010-09-07T18:50:49.000Z2010-09-07T18:50:49.000Zkancharana lakshmi pathihttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/kancharanalakshmipathi<div>Bless me, that I hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil, inhale no evil, touch no evil, feel no evil, think no evil, and dream no evil.<br/></div>Why? Why do things exist?https://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/why-why-do-things-exist2010-11-14T07:23:24.000Z2010-11-14T07:23:24.000ZOmsrihttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/Omsri<div>Can anyone provide an answer to the following "Why" question. <br/><br/>Why? Why do things exist? Plants, animals, people, planets, stars… everything. Why do they exist? I do not think physics or science can answer this question. Science may be able to explain how things work and what causes what. But the Why questions, I am not sure Science can ever answer. But the various religions have a similar shortcoming. They say – if you do this you go to heaven or if you do something else you go to hell? Or they say if you do this you will be happy and if you do something else you will be unhappy. But I have not seen a decent explanation as to why everything was created. Just to see if we the creations behave properly? That’s like saying we have kids so that we can give them treats/punishments based on whether the kids behave well/bad. <br/><br/>Om Shanti <br/>Omsri<br/></div>Sankaracharya and Mayahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/sankaracharya-and-maya2010-11-13T10:16:30.000Z2010-11-13T10:16:30.000Zsantthoshhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/santthosh<div><p><a href="http://kriyababa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);"><br/></span></b></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/104005554?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<p><a href="http://kriyababa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);"><br/></span></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://kriyababa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);"><br/></span></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://kriyababa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);"><br/></span></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://kriyababa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);"><br/></span></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://kriyababa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);">Sankaracharya and Maya</span></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://kriyababa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);"><br/></span></b></a></p>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(79, 98, 40);">VlSHNUVARDHANA, the King of the Hoysalas, was a Vaishnavite and was greatly incensed at the doctrine taught by Sankaracharya that everything here below is an illusion. He wanted to teach the exponent of this doctrine a lesson. So he invited the then Sankaracharya to his palace. That holy man went there and stoutly maintained that everything in this world was illusion. The king had arranged to let loose an infuriated elephant against Sankaracharya. The beast rushed at Sankaracharya who took to a precipitate flight to save himself.</span></p>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(79, 98, 40);">'Oh, Venerable Sir,' shouted the king, 'why do you run so fast seeing that the elephant is only an illusion?'</span></p>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(79, 98, 40);"><span style=""> </span><br/> 'Oh, king,' said Sankaracharya in his course of his flight, 'my running too is an illusion. Everything in this world is an illusion.’ <br/></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(79, 98, 40);"><br/></span></p>
<br/>
<p><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(99, 36, 35);">Similarly, we all are searching truth within the illusion not being aware of the fact that, the illusion is created out of single stuff which is:</span> <b style=""><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(192, 0, 0);">Consciousness/Spirit/Self/Christ/Brahman/Emptiness.</span></b></p>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; color: rgb(99, 36, 35);">Thus searching the truth in illusion with the illusory self, within the illusory experience, has to be illusion.<span style=""> </span> The illusion is created, and sustained, and finally dissolves as Spirit, which is Soul/Self.<span style=""> </span> Since, there is no second thing other than the Spirit or consciousness; the Spirit itself is God/ Brahman/Christ.<span style=""> </span> This conviction can be derived from deeper inquiry, analysis and reasoning.</span></p></div>Pregnancy Yoga ~ Baby is Back to Back..... / Schwangeren Yoga ~ Baby liegt Rücken an Rücken mit Mamahttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/pregnancy-yoga-baby-is-back2010-11-08T22:01:24.000Z2010-11-08T22:01:24.000ZRenate Mullinshttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/RenateMullins<div>Hi everyone,
any ideas, on what I could suggest to one of my "Mum's-to-be", who asked me for Yoga poses to turn her little one horizontaly?
Hallo an Alle,
kann mir jemand vielleicht einen Tipp gegen, von wegen, was man tun kann um ein Baby um seine Achse zu drehen. Eine meine Teilnehmerinnen möchte wissen, was sie tun kann, um den Zwerg von Gesicht nach Aussen zu Gesicht zum Körper zu drehen?????
Thanks and schonmal DANKE
Om Om Om
Liebe Grüsse
Renate</div>[b]Friday I m goingsabarimalatempleinkeralabigforestareaSearchintrestgooglewebSabarimalatemplehistorySwamiayyappanomshantiwww.sabarigiri.org/hist.htmhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/bfriday-i-m2010-11-25T18:31:57.000Z2010-11-25T18:31:57.000ZVISHNU ERhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/VISHNUER<div>Lord Ayyappa of
sabarimala or Dharma
Sastha as is universally
called has a number of
historical stories about
him which his devotees
heard from their
ancestors or,Guru.The
Stories about Lord
Dharma Sastha is also
mentioned in Vedas and
Puranas. However
different stories are
prevalent in different
areas , depending upon
the locality and places.
Lord Vishnu's " Mohini
Vesham" is a well known
story. After the death of
Mahishasura , His sister
Mahishi took a decision
to take revenge against
all Devas. Hence she
started Dhyanam
(meditation) to please
Lord Brahma . Impressed
by her bhakti, Brahma
made an appearance
and granted her wish
that, nobody in the
Universe could kill her
except the son of Lord
Shiva and Vishnu.
With this boon, she felt
so powerful that ,she
started harassing
Devandran and the
Devas. The Devas prayed
to Lord Vishnu and Lord
Shiva. The venerable
gods sent their shakti &
spirit together to the
earth in the form of a
Mahisham. There upon
the Mahishi along with
Mahisham left heaven
for earth and started in a
jungle.
One day Lord Shiva
requested Lord Vishnu to
show the Mohini Vesham
once more. As the
Mohini appeared in
front of Lord Shiva ,
Kamadeva sent his arrow
at Lord Shiva and thus
the disaster began for
Mahishi. A male child
was born(Uthram
Star,wendesday )from
the thigh of Lord
Vishnu . The child was
born with a bell in his
neck and so he was
named as Manikandan
(The one who was born
with a bell in his neck).
Lord Shiva took him to
Kailasam. The boy learnt
all mantra and tanthra
under the tutelage living
of Lord Shiva and
became a good warrior.
At the age of 12,
Manikandan was told
about his mission of life
and sent to earth as a
child.
Raja Rajasekharan was
the king of Panthalam, a
small place in southern
Kerala. He was an
ardent devotee of Lord
Shiva and his queen that
of Lord Vishnu. They
were childless. They
prayed to god ceaselessly
for a child.
One day after hunting,
while taking rest at the
bank of river pumba ,
the Raja heard a child's
cry . When he went for a
search with his
companions he found a
child alone in the
jungle . Immediately a
saint appeared and told
the king to take the child
to his palace and call
him Manikandan.
The king and queen were
very happy and they
brought up the child as
their own. After three
years, the queen gave
birth to a son and
named him Raja Raja.
Manikandan was sent to
Raja Guru for learning.
Manikandan completed
his studies quickly and
bcame expert in all fields.
When the time for
leaving the Gurukul
came, Manikandan
wanted to give Dakshina
to his Guru. The Guru
then told Manikandan to
cure his son from
blindness. As soon as
Manikandan rubbed his
hands over the eye of
the boy, his vision was
restored. The Guru then
told Manikandan that
one day he would
become Lord of the
Universe. Manikandan
requested guru to keep it
as a secret and left the
Gurukul.
The Panthalam Kingdom
was one of the smallest
kingdom, but it was rich.
There were frequent
attacks from other
kingdoms as well as
Persian countries. The
Diwan was not loyal to
the king. After his return
from the Gurukul,
Manikandan took keen
interest in the affairs
of the kingdom . He put
an end to the internal
fight among the warring
kingdoms and restored
law and order in the
Kingdom.
One day a Muslim
invader by name
VAVAR reached the
coastal area of
panthalam to attack the
kingdom. Seeing the
helpless situation of the
king, Manikandan
insisted on going alone
for the battle with Vavar.
After much persuasion,
the king acceded to
Manikandan's wish.
Manikandan with his
divine power temporarily
closed the eyes of Vavar
who could see only
Manikandan. Realising
the divine power Vavar
became his ardent and
closest believer .
This was the beginning of
a friendship between
two people from
different religions and
regions. It was a proof
that caste, religion or
region were not barriers
for a good friendship
and that humanity is
above all. The mutual
respect and love they
shared helped them to
overcome all difficulties.
Raja started thinking of
making Manikandan as
the next king. The
minister did not like this
and took several steps to
kill Manikandan . The
Minister failed in his
attempts because of the
divine power of
Manikandan and timely
intervention of Lord
Shiva.
The Minister then
persuaded the queen to
make her own son the
next king. Persuaded by
the Minister , the queen
created a drama of
suffering from severe
headache and the King,
believing this, called the
Diwan to bring in the
best physicians to treat
her. The Physician,
brought by the Diwan
examined the Queen
and told the King that
the Queen had been
suffering from a
dangerous disease and
it could be cured
only by applying Tigress'
milk. The King sent
several of his men to the
forest for bringing this
milk. The King
understood that it was
an impossible task and
wanted his dear
Queen to be cured at
any cost and offered
half of his Kingdom to
anybody who brought
the milk.
Manikandan wanted to
go and fetch Tigress' milk
but was refused
permission by the king as
he was very young to go
to the forest and that he
was to be crowned.
Understanding the
situation Manikandan
requested the king for a
promise to do something
he wanted. The King
gave the promise and
Manikandan asked for
permission to go to the
forest. Disappointed that
he was tricked the king
had no other alternative
but to send Manikandan
to the forest.
King Rajasekara made
arrangements to send a
group of his loyal men
along with Manikandan,
which however was
refused by Manikandan
on the ground that the
tigress might run away
seeing the crowd of
soldiers. King
Rajasekara sent along
with Manikandan
necessary foodstuffs and
coconuts with three
eyes, in remembrance of
Lord Shiva.
In the mean time Mahishi
was enjoying life along
with Mahisham. However
within a few days ,
Mahishi could guessing
the plan of Lord Vishnu
and Lord Shiva
abandoned the
Mahisham and went to
Devalok and again
started attacking Devas.
Devendra and others
had to run away to seek
the help of Lord Shiva,
who promised the early
end of Mahishi .
In the jungle
Manikandan was
welcomed by the VAVAR
and Panchbutha of
Lord Shiva .On his way
seeing the atrocities of
Mahishi in the Devaloka,
he went there and in
the battle between them,
Mahishi was pushed by
Manikandan into the
earth, where she fell on
the banks of Azhutha
River. Manikandan
clashed with her there.
At the end of the
battle between Mahishi
and Manikandan at
Azhutha River banks,
Manikandan climbed
up her chest and danced
violently. The impact of
his dance was felt in the
Earth and Devloka and
the Devas were afraid.
Mahishi knowing that the
divine power dancing on
her body was none
other than the son of
Hari and Haran,
prostrated before
Manikandan and died.
This dance was
witnessed by Lord Shiva
and Mahavishnu from a
place called Kalakatti .
A divine lady( Leela
daughter of Karaban)
came out of the body of
Mahishi and requested
Manikandan to consider
her as his Shakti.
Manikandan expressed
his inability to accept her
as his wife as he has
taken Brahmcharya for
welfare of the Universe.
He offered a suitable
place near his temple
and named her as
Malikapurathamma.
Manikandan visited one
of his old devotee
"Sabari" and gave
salvation to her soul. He
also agreed the Sabari's
request to remain in
Sabarimala for the
welfare of the Universe.
Then Lord Shiva
appeared before
Manikandan and told
him that though he had
done good for the
Devas, still there was one
main task and that was
to give comfort to the
King Rajasekara who was
very concerned about
him and also to cure
the Queen's ailment.
Lord Shiva further told
him that he could go to
the Palace with the
tigresses and Lord
Indran would help him.
As stated by Lord Shiva,
all female devas in the
disguise of tigresses and
male devas as tigers with
Lord Devendran as the
tiger on whom
Manikandan rode,
started their journey to
the Palace.
When Manikandan
approached the palace
with the tigers and
tigresses, the people who
ridiculed him when he
started his journey to teh
forest whether he
wanted toy tigresses,
really got panicky seeing
the violent bunch of
animals and started
running helter skelter.
The Sanyasi who
appeared at the forest
at the time of King
Rajasekara's visit there
when he heard a child's
cries, again appeared
at the palace and told
King Rajasekara the
identity of Manikandan.
Hearing this, the King
stood in great surprise
and silence. He stood
non plused as he saw
Manikandan riding a
tiger and people
running away. Seeing the
King, Manikandan
descended from the
tiger's back and told him
that since the tigresses
were there, he could get
the Queen cured with
their milk. King
Rajasekara, fell at his
feet and begged to
forgivence for whatever
happened without his
knowledge, and asked
him to send back the
tigers as the Queens
ailment had been
cured the moment
Manikandan went to the
forest.
King Rajasekara told
Manikandan that the
Diwan was responsible
for all these things and
hence he should be
punished. However,
Manikandan told the
king that he need not
punish the Diwan and
all had happened only
through the will of God.
He also gave necessary
advice to Raja for the
salvation of soul (Which
is known as Boothanatha
Geetha) . After giving
necessary guidance and
information for the
construction of temple at
Sabarimala Lord
Ayyappa(Dharma Sastha)
informed Raja ,that he
is going for meditation at
Ponnambalamedu for
the welfare of the
universe and to protect
Dharma.
King Rajasekharan was
heart broken hearing this
and implored Ayyappa, "I
have made all
arrangements for your
coronation and what
shall I do with all the
ornaments which were
made for your
coronation ceremony?".
To this Lord Ayyappa
replied, "I am entering
eternal meditation for
the betterment of the
world. However, every
year at the time of
Makara Sankranthi, I will
wake up from my
meditation and open my
eyes to see the world. At
that time you may adorn
my idol with all the
ornaments that you have
made for my coronation
ceremony and Makara
Jyoti will appear in the
Ponnambala Medu. The
Lord then merged in to
the idol of Lord Dharma
Sastha in the
Ponnamlamedu for
meditation for the
welfare of the universe
and to protect Dharma .
At the advice of
Saint Agasthya, King
Rajasekara laid the
foundation stone for the
building Shabarimala
Temple. Bhagwan
Manikandan, had made
it clear that he would
grace only those
devotees who offer
Dharshan after
performing Viradha for
forty one days keeping
themselves isolated from
family desires and tastes
and leading a life like
Brahmacharyas,
thinking of good
things always, and that
while coming for his
darshan, they shall adorn
themselves with three
eyed coconut and
foodstuff/Aantha
Garland in their heads, as
the Bhagwan did when
he went to the forest to
fetch tigress milk, and
bathe in River Pampa
raising slogans of
Saranam and climb the
eighteen stairs.
As graced by the
Bhagwan, King
Rajasekara completed
building of the temple
with eighteen stairs to
reach it. When the
King was thinking how
to put Dharmasastha's
figure in the temple for
darshan to devotees, he
recalled the words of the
Bhagwan, the River
Pampa was a holy river
as River Ganga,
Sabarimala was a holy
place as Kasi.
Dharmasastha sent
Parasuraman to
Sabarimala who
carved the figure
of Lord Ayyappa
and installed it on
the day of
Makarasankranthi. Every
year lakhs and lakhs of
people throng to
Sabarimala irrespective of
caste or creed and
adorn themselves
with garlands and
irumudis, chant slogans
on Lord Ayyappa,
bathe in holy river
Pampa, climb up the
eighteen stairs and get
the grace of Lord
Ayyappa, the
Dharmasastha.
The Jewel Casket is
carried on head from the
ancestral residence of
the royal family of
Panthalam to the Shrine
on the day. A Garuda,
the Brahman kite, follows
this ornaments carrying
procession, hovering
about in the sky. After
these ornaments are
adorned on the Lord the
bird circles the temple in
the sky three times and
disappears. Excited by
this sight the devotees
begin to chant "Swamiye
Saranam Ayyappa". A
Star(Uthram Nakshathra)
never seen before in the
sky appears on the day
of Makarajyothi day
before the sighting of the
Jyothi. A Jyothi is seen for
a little time on the hilltop
showing the presence of
Swamy Ayyappan gracing
his devotees.</div>yoga seminorhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/forum/topics/yoga-seminor2010-11-02T09:19:14.000Z2010-11-02T09:19:14.000Zcherlamaheshhttps://my.yoga-vidya.org/members/cherlamahesh<div>hiu</div>