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Showing posts from April, 2026

What is Kundalini Yoga

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What is  Kundalini Yoga  Kundalini Yoga has its roots in the Tantric and Nath traditions of India and is closely linked to Raja and Hatha Yoga, two of the classical six paths of Yoga. While the six traditional paths — Karma (action), Bhakti (devotion), Jnana (knowledge), Raja (meditation), Hatha (physical/energetic purification), and Tantra (sacred embodiment) — each offer unique approaches, Kundalini Yoga draws from several of them.  Historically, it emerged as an esoteric system within Tantric and Hatha Yoga, designed to awaken Kundalini Shakti, the spiritual energy at the base of the spine. Through a blend of pranayama, asana, bandha, mantra, and meditation, it bridges the inner refinement of Raja Yoga, the energy cultivation of Hatha Yoga, and the sacred worldview of Tantra. In essence, Kundalini Yoga is not a separate path but a synthesis rooted in the deeper currents of these classical traditions.

Paths of Yoga

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 Paths of Yoga  “O Arjuna! In Whatever way people are devoted to Me, in that measure I manifest Myself to them. All men, in every manner of seeking Me, pursue a path to Me.” ~ Bhagavad Gita 4:11   There are different branches or paths of yoga for different types of people. For a yoga student, understanding the different paths helps to orient oneself in better alignment with their individual dharma.  For a yoga teacher, knowing the different paths of yoga, how they manifest in various practices and where they show up in different styles or areas of life can help you to better understand and orient your student for their own unique predispositions. There is a path for everyone, and masters of each path. Your personal goals and interests may change throughout your life.  I myself began yoga with a very Hatha focus, and after many years incorporated more Bhakti and Kundalini yoga. This may be the case for you as well: as your practice and understanding of yoga and y...

What is Yoga

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 What is Yoga  Yoga is the ”integration and harmony between thought, feeling and deed, or integration between head, heart and hand”. That is to say, if you are thinking one thing and saying another you are not in the state of Yoga. If our work or our actions are not in harmony with our deeply held intuitions and beliefs, this fundamental disconnect will cause a sense of dis-ease, often eventually manifesting in the body. As human beings, we have access to a sense of inner knowing, a sense of our dharma (our ultimate purpose; what we are meant to be doing on this planet in this lifetime).  The path of Yoga is a process of getting in touch with our higher Self, recognizing that this Witness consciousness, this higher knowing, is our ever-present true nature, and is the essence of the body/mind. Living in a state of Yoga is to integrate this knowledge into daily life.  In the ‘Bhagavad Gita’ Krishna describes yoga as ‘balance’ and ‘skill in action’; the end of attachmen...

Savikalpa Samādh

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Savikalpa Samādh   Savikalpa Samādhi is a meditative state in yogic and Hindu philosophical traditions, particularly in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras . It represents a form of samādhi (deep meditative absorption or union) that is "with support" or "with differentiation." Etymology Sa = with Vikalpa = thought, imagination, differentiation, or mental modification Samādhi = complete concentration, absorption, or equanimity of mind It is also known as Samprajñāta Samādhi (cognitive or supported samādhi) or Sabīja Samādhi (samādhi with seed). Key Characteristics In Savikalpa Samādhi : The mind remains somewhat active and focused on an object of meditation (a deity, mantra, light, the breath, or a concept like "I am Brahman"). There is still a subtle sense of duality — a meditator experiencing the meditation. Bliss, peace, and expanded awareness arise, but "seeds" of desire, ego, or mental impressions ( saṃskāras ) persist. The pract...

Nirvikalpa Samādhi (Samādhi without Distinctions)

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  Nirvikalpa Samādhi (Samādhi without Distinctions)  Nirvikalpa Samādhi (Samādhi without distinctions or without mental modifications) is a profound meditative state described in yogic and Vedantic traditions as the highest form of absorption, where the mind becomes completely still, all dualistic thoughts, concepts, and mental fluctuations (vṛttis) cease, and consciousness rests in pure, non-dual awareness. Etymology  Meaning Nir  = without, beyond. Vikalpa  = distinction, differentiation, thought-construction, imagination, or mental modification. Samādhi  = complete absorption, integration, or union (from sam + ā + dhā, "to put together completely"). In this state, the usual division between knower, known, and knowing collapses. There is no subject-object duality, no egoic "I," no perception of the world or body as separate, and often no recording of the experience in ordinary memory (similar to deep sleep but with full awareness of pure existence/consci...

आदि शंकराचार्य द्वारा रचित आनन्द-लहरी

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आदि शंकराचार्य द्वारा रचित आनन्द-लहरी   आनन्द-लहरी आदि शंकराचार्य द्वारा रचित एक प्रसिद्ध स्तोत्र है। यह सौन्दर्य-लहरी का प्रथम भाग माना जाता है, जिसमें माँ भवानि (पार्वती/त्रिपुरसुन्दरी) के सौन्दर्य, महिमा और कृपा का वर्णन है। इसमें लगभग १८-२० श्लोक हैं (कुछ संस्करणों में थोड़ा भिन्नता हो सकती है)। यह स्तोत्र भक्ति, सौन्दर्य-वर्णन और आध्यात्मिक लाभ के लिए जाना जाता है। श्लोक १ संस्कृत: भवानि स्तोतुं त्वां प्रभवति चतुर्भिर्न वदनैः प्रजानामीशानस्त्रिपुरमथनः पञ्चभिरपि । न षड्भिः सेनानीर्दशशतमुखैरप्यहिपतिस्तदान्येषां केषां कथय कथमस्मिन्नवसरः ॥१॥ हिंदी अनुवाद: हे भवानि! प्रजापति ब्रह्माजी अपने चार मुखों से भी तुम्हारी स्तुति करने में समर्थ नहीं हैं। त्रिपुरविनाशक महादेव (शिव) पाँच मुखों से भी तुम्हारा स्तवन नहीं कर सकते। कार्तिकेय छः मुखों के साथ भी असमर्थ हैं। नागराज शेष हजार मुखों से भी तुम्हारा गुणगान नहीं कर पाते। फिर अन्य लोगों की तो बात ही क्या? तुम्हीं बताओ, इनकी यह दशा है तो दूसरे किसी को तुम्हारी स्तुति का अवसर कैसे मिल सकता है? ॥१॥ श्लोक २ संस्कृत: घृतक्षीरद्रा...

Ananda Lahari (The Wave of Bliss)

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  Ananda Lahari (The Wave of Bliss) Lord Shiva is one of the principal deities in Hinduism, known as the Destroyer in the Holy Trinity of Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. He is revered for his role in destruction and transformation, which paves the way for new creation. Lord Shiva is often depicted as an ascetic yogi, embodying both fierce and benevolent aspects. The Ananda Lahari is a devotional hymn that praises the divine qualities and beauty of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. The verses express the inadequacy of even the most eloquent beings, such as the four-faced Lord Brahma, the five-faced Lord Shiva, and the six-faced Lord Muruga, in fully capturing the essence of the Goddess.  The hymn highlights the indescribable sweetness and beauty of the Goddess, which surpasses all worldly descriptions. The imagery used in the verses includes the adornments of the Goddess, such as betel leaves in her mouth, kohl in her eyes, and a pearl necklace around her neck, e...

New Book Published By Global Vision Publishing House

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 New Book Published By Global Vision Publishing House in April 26

RSS Views on Citizenship

 RSS  Views on Citizenship The RSS views citizenship through the lens of national loyalty and cultural integration rather than purely legal or religious criteria: It supports measures to protect persecuted non-Muslim minorities from neighboring countries (e.g., Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan), as seen in its endorsement of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019 . RSS leaders called the CAA a "courageous" and "moral" step fulfilling India's obligation to those fleeing religious persecution, while insisting it does not affect Indian Muslims' citizenship rights. Bhagwat has stated repeatedly that CAA-NRC processes target illegal immigration, not Indian citizens of any faith. It advocates identifying and deporting illegal immigrants (often linked to demographic concerns in border areas) and has pushed for nationwide implementation of mechanisms like the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in principle, while clarifying safeguards for genuine citizens. Ov...

Yoga Yajnavalkya Samhita

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 Yoga Yajnavalkya Samhita This book Available on Amazon and Flipkart

Environmental Education (For B. Ed., M. Ed. and Post Graduate Students)

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  Environmental Education   (For B. Ed., M. Ed. and Post Graduate Students) by  Dr. Yatendra Pal Gaur   Education and Management is written to provide learners, educators, and administrators with a clear understanding of the foundational concepts and modern approaches to educational administration. The book explores the meaning, nature, and scope of administration, theories and principles guiding institutional management, and the growing importance of effective leadership and decision-making in education. It highlights the structure of school education in India, supervision and monitoring mechanisms, and the application of Total Quality Management for continuous improvement. Each unit is designed to blend theoretical insights with practical perspectives, encouraging reflective thinking and professional growth. This work aims to equip readers with the knowledge and skills necessary for fostering efficiency, accountability, and innovation within educational institution...

Environmental Education

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New Released Book Environmental Education This Book available on Amazon and Flipkart or you can send direct order to us  This book serves as a vital guide to environmental education, fostering the knowledge, skills, and ethical commitment needed to tackle ecological challenges. By focusing on behavioral change in individuals and society, it examines how to protect natural resources for humans and wildlife. It also highlights the crucial role of international agencies in promoting sustainable, responsible, and informed action, making it an essential resource for educators, students, and conservationists.

Ashtanga Hridyam Samhita: Ancoent book of Ayurveda

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Ashtanga Hridyam Samhita: Ancoent book of Ayurveda  This book is Available on Amazon and Flipkart. You can send direct order to Us

PM Modi's Foreign Policy & Foreign Visit in 2025

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PM Modi's Foreign Policy & Foreign Visit in 2025 

Laya Yoga: the Supreme Consciousness

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Laya Yoga   Laya Yoga is an ancient branch of yoga focused on dissolution or absorption (laya) of the individual self (ego, mind, and limited identity) into the Supreme Consciousness or universal divine. The Sanskrit word "laya" means to dissolve, merge, or suspend, referring to the process of transcending ordinary awareness and achieving a state of deep absorption, often leading to samadhi (enlightened union). Meaning and Goal Laya Yoga emphasizes merging the practitioner's consciousness with higher reality by dissolving mental fluctuations, attachments, and the sense of separation. It leads the mind from its manifested state back to its original source ( moola prakriti ). The ultimate aim is spiritual liberation through complete absorption, where the individual self reunites with the divine. This path is closely linked to Tantric traditions , particularly Shaktism, where it involves awakening the dormant kundalini energy (coiled serpent power at the base of the ...

Raja Yoga

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Raja Yoga   Raja Yoga (also spelled Raj Yoga) primarily refers to the "royal path" or "kingly yoga" in classical Indian philosophy and yoga traditions. "Raja" means king, royal, or supreme, signifying mastery over the mind and the highest or most excellent form of yoga. It emphasizes mental discipline, meditation, and self-realization rather than physical postures alone. Raja Yoga in Yoga Philosophy This is the most common interpretation, rooted in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (compiled around 2,000 years ago). Swami Vivekananda popularized the term in his 1896 book Raja Yoga , equating it with Patanjali's system, also known as Ashtanga Yoga (eight-limbed yoga) or classical yoga. The core idea is that the mind's fluctuations ( chitta vritti ) obscure our true nature (the divine Self or Atman). Raja Yoga provides a systematic way to gain control over the mind, leading to inner peace, self-mastery, and ultimately samadhi (enlightenment or uni...

The Gheranda Samhita

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  The Gheranda Samhita Author : By Maharshi Gheranda ISBN : 978-81-19462-48-3 Page : 176 Year : 2025 Size : 14.5×21.5 Cm Price : Rs. 1200/- : Hardcover Description About the Book The Gheranda Samhita is considered as one of the three important texts (Hatha-yoga-pradipika and Siva-samhita) in the Haha-yoga tradition. It’s the most encyclopedic of the classic Yoga texts and teaches a unique sevenfold path to perfection of the person. The book, containing three hundred and fifty verses, is divided into seven chapters, in each of which are given the directions for the purification of the body, asanas or postures, mudras, pratyahara, pranayama, dhyana, and samadhi. The present transcription and translation of the Gheranda Samhita from original Sanskrit into English is an important contribution to the literature on yoga and should be of great use to those interested in the subject. Even though some grammatical inconsistencies, textual corruption and lack of succinctness are noted in the ...

Laya-siddhi-yoga

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L aya-siddhi-yoga A common symbolic depiction of the meditative state in Laya practices, where the self dissolves into cosmic energy. L ayasiddhi-yoga (also known as Laya Siddhi Yoga Samadhi) is a specific form of samadhi described in classical Hatha Yoga texts, particularly the Gheranda Samhita (Chapter 7). It represents one of the pathways to the highest state of union in yoga, emphasizing laya —dissolution or absorption of the individual self into the supreme consciousness. Etymology and Meaning Laya (लय) means dissolution, absorption, or merging—specifically, the dissolving of the microcosm (individual consciousness, mind, prana, and ego) into the macrocosm (pure consciousness or Paramatman/Brahman). Siddhi (सिद्धि) refers to accomplishment, perfection, or attainment (often linked to yogic powers, though here it points to the perfected state of realization rather than supernatural abilities). Yoga is the union or yoke. Thus, Layasiddhi-yoga is the "yoga of accom...

Udiyâna-Bandha-Mudrâ in Kundalini Yoga

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Udiyâna-Bandha-Mudrâ   in Kundalini Yoga Udiyâna-Bandha-Mudrâ is a classic yogic technique from Hatha Yoga traditions. It is known as the Upward Flying Lock , Abdominal Lock , or Abdominal Lift . In Sanskrit: Uḍḍīyāna (उड्डीयन) means "upward" or "flying up" — referring to the upward movement of the diaphragm and the direction of prana (life energy). Bandha (बन्ध) means "lock," "bind," or "seal" — a muscular contraction that contains and redirects energy. It is sometimes called a mudrâ (seal) because it functions as an internal energetic seal, similar to other mudras that direct prana. This practice is one of the three primary bandhas in yoga (along with Mūla Bandha — root lock — and Jālandhara Bandha — throat lock). It is often combined with them in Mahā Bandha (great lock) or used in pranayama and kriyas like Nauli. How to Practice Uddiyana Bandha  The most accessible way for beginners is in a standing position (though it ...

Kumbhaka (Retention of Breath)

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  Kumbhaka  (Retention of Breath)  Kumbhaka (कुम्भक) is a Sanskrit term from yogic traditions, primarily in pranayama (breath control practices). Classical texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika emphasize kumbhaka as central to pranayama, stating that mastery (especially of the advanced form) leads to profound benefits, including purification of energy channels ( nadis ), stabilization of the mind, and even states akin to samadhi (deep meditative absorption). In practice, kumbhaka refers to the conscious suspension or retention of breath —a deliberate pause after inhalation, exhalation, or spontaneously. It forms a core part of traditional Hatha Yoga pranayama, where the full breath cycle often includes: Inhalation (filling), Retention (holding, and Exhalation (emptying). Types of Kumbhaka Antara Kumbhaka (Internal or Antah Kumbhaka) Retention after a full inhalation (lungs full of air/prana). Often paired with bandhas (energy locks) like Jalandhara Bandha (thro...

Prâna-Devatâ-Kundalinî

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  Prâna-Devatâ-Kundalinî   Prâna-Devatâ-Kundalinî is a profound Tantric concept from Hindu Shakta and Kundalini traditions, describing Kundalini Shakti as the Prāṇa Devatā — the Goddess of vital life force (Prāṇa). In classical texts like the Shatchakranirupana , Kundalini is explicitly called the Prāṇa Devatā . She sustains all beings through inhalation and exhalation ( prāṇa and apāna ), while embodying the full creative, sustaining, and dissolving power of the universe ( sṛṣṭi-sthiti-layātmikā ). Meanings Prāṇa (प्राण) : The vital breath or life-force energy that animates the body and mind. It flows through the subtle channels ( nāḍīs ), particularly iḍā (lunar, left) and piṅgalā (solar, right). Normally, prāṇa circulates in these side channels; spiritual practice redirects it into the central channel ( suṣumnā ). Devatā (देवता) : A divine being or deity. Here, it personifies the intelligent, conscious aspect of energy — not mere mechanical force, but a living God...

Significance of Pûraka and Rechaka in Yoga Practice

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Significance of Pûraka and Rechaka in Yoga Practice   In yoga, particularly in pranayama (breath control) practices, "Pûraka" (or Puraka) and "Recaka" (or Rechaka) are Sanskrit terms describing the core phases of the breathing cycle. They form essential building blocks of yogic breathing techniques, often paired with Kumbhaka (breath retention). Definitions Pûraka (Puraka) : This means inhalation or "filling" (from the root "pûr," to fill). It refers to the deliberate, controlled intake of breath, often deep and slow, to draw prana (life force/energy) into the body. In some contexts, "Puraka pranayama" emphasizes a prolonged inhalation followed by a short hold and natural exhalation. Recaka (Rechaka) : This means exhalation or "emptying" (from the root "ric," to empty or release). It involves controlled expulsion of breath, often lengthened to release toxins, stale air, and tension. "Rechaka pranayama...