Do you believe that someone can predict the future? Whether or not you believe, do you understand the various methods used by the practitioners of fortune telling, the art of telling the future? I have been studying fortune telling for some time now and while I will admit to a healthy dose of skepticism regarding the practice I also think it is quite fascinating to read about their methods and the people who believe in them. In this primer I will expose the primary methods fortune tellers use to tell the future, broken down by geographical region.
Asia
Asian fortune telling began in China in the earliest dynasty known, Three Sovereign Ones and the Five Emperors, which dates to before 2600 B.C. With time the methods employed by the Chinese have spread to the rest of Asia under different names, but similar approaches. No matter in which Asian country it is practiced, however, the fortune telling method can be traced back to China.
These are the four major methods used to tell the future in Asia:
1. Face reading. In this method the teller analyzes the three primary regions of the face, upper which represents youth, middle which represents middle age and lower which represents old age. By analyzing the lines, shape, blemishes and other aspects of the face the practitioner is able to foretell the luck of the recipient as it pertains to that age of their life. For example, someone may be told they will have bad luck when they are in middle age but will have good luck when they get older, because of what the see in the different regions of the face.
2. Palm reading. The lines of the palm are analyzed to predict love, personalty and other traits. It is similar to western palmistry you may have seen in the movies or practiced for fun when you were a child.
3. Kau Cim. In this technique a bamboo cylinder is filled with incense sticks that have some inscription on them. The fortune teller shakes the stick until one incense stick falls out, which is then analyzed to reveal the future. This is a short term prediction as it is only good for the calendar year.
4. Zi wei dou shu. In this method a master of the Chinese calendar is sought out to give ones destiny path, or fate. It is done using a Chinese astrology, and it can also be used not only to tell the future but also justify why things happened in the past.
Africa
Africa is a large continent and the methods for fortune telling vary. However, one common approach is that of casting or throwing bones. This is practiced throughout Africa with various different objects used to represent the bones - small animal bones, pieces of wood, small rocks or shells can all be used. A common approach is to gather around in a circle while the caster throws and then reads the bones.
These are the two primary methods used in throwing the bones:
1. Simple count. In this method each bone is marked with a number. After the bones are cast, a mathematical formula is used based on whether the bones are touching each other or not, their directional position and what the number was. The score is then used to tell the future.
2. Symbolic. In this method each bones is chosen to represent something, for example a bone from a rabbits foot to represent travel, a shell to represent ocean, etc. The position of each symbolic bone is then used to determine the fate of the requester.
Europe & America
The practice of fortune telling is not respected not understood in the western world, at least to the degree it is elsewhere. Despite that, however, there are a number of believers and accepted practices.
These are the four major methods used to tell the future in Europe and the Americas:
1. Astrology. The attempt to answer a question by constructing a horoscope for the exact time and place at which the question was asked.
2. Tasseography. The interpretation of patterns in tea leaves, coffee grounds, or wine sediments.
3. Tarot reading. Using tarot cards to predict the future.
4. Palmistry. Palm reading, similar to the Asian method.
Fortune tellers are respected and revered in the East and reviled in the West. But no matter where you live and what your beliefs, it is interesting to learn about them. I hope you found this primer instructive, and I wish you the best of luck in whatever you choose to walk your own path in life.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The Hanuman Chalisa
The Hanuman Chalisa is a devotional hymn to the Hindu god Hanuman, and is so called because it has 40 verses (In Hindi, "Chalisa" means "forty") It is attributed to the authorship of poet-saint Tulsidas(1532- 1623), the author of the Ramcharitmanasa . The Hanuman Chalisa is one of the most popular texts for recitation, because it is believed to confer many benefits on those who recite it. The benefits guaranteed in the text include health, general protection, and spiritual attainments. Hanuman is one of the most popular Hindu deities, hailed for his courage, loyalty, humility, strength, fame, protective powers, knowledge, art of speech, easy accessibility and devotion. Lord Hanuman is always portrayed as a staunch devotee of Rama, and he stands as a model for a true devotee. The Chalisa is forty verses of prayer to Hanuman, with two invocatory verses and a concluding verse.Verses
Opening Invocation
Purifying my mind's mirror with the pollen dust of my guru's lotus feet, I will narrate Lord Rama's blemishless fame, which fulfills the four aspirations of life (viz. Dharma, Artha, kama and moksha).
Shri Guru Charan Saroj Raj Nija man mukur sudhar Varnao Raghuvar Vimal yasu Jo dayaku phal char
Knowing I have no intelligence and little understanding I meditate on the Son of the Wind (Lord Vayu). Give me strength, intelligence, and wisdom, Take away my faults and shortcomings.
Buddhi Hin Tanu Janike Sumirau Pavan Kumar Bal buddhi Vidya dehu mohi Harahu Klesa Vikar
1. Victory to Lord Hanuman, the ocean of knowledge and virtues, Hail! Lord of Monkeys, famous through the three worlds.
Jai Hanuman gyan gun sagarJai Kapis tihun lok ujagar
2. Lord Rama's messenger, possessing immeasurable strength, Anjana's son, named the Son of the Wind.
Ram doot atulit bal dhamaAnjani-putra Pavan sut nama
3. A great warrior, heroic, tough like Diamond. Warding off the wicked, keeping company with the good.
Mahavir Bikram BajrangiKumati nivar sumati Ke sangi
4. Golden-faced, resplendent in fine clothing, Earrings in his ears, and curly hair.
Kanchan varan viraj subesaKanan Kundal Kunchit Kesa
5. Hands resplendent with mace and bannerOn your shoulder a sacred thread of munja grass.
Hath Bajra Aur Dhuvaja VirajeKandhe moonj janehu sajai
6. Shiva's son, and Kesari's delight, the whole world knows your brilliant power.
Sankar suvan kesari NandanTej pratap maha jag vandan
7. Wise, virtuous, exceedingly clever, Ever intent on doing Lord Rama's work,
Vidyavan guni ati chaturRam kaj karibe ko aatur
8. Delighted in hearing tales of Rama's deeds and dear to Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita.
Prabu charitra sunibe ko rasiyaRam Lakhan Sita man Basiya
9. In your subtle form, you revealed yourself to Sita, In your enormous form, you burned Lanka,
Sukshma roop dhari Siyahim dikhavaBikat roop dhari lanka jarava
10. In your horrific form, you slaughtered the demons, And completed Rama's work.
Bhima roop dhari asura samhareRamachandra ke kaj sanvare
11. You brought the life-giving herb to revive Lakshmana, and Lord Rama hugged you tightly with delight.
Laye Sanjivan Lakhan JiyayeShri Raghubir Harshi ur laye
12. Lord Rama praised you exceedingly, saying "you are as dear to me as my brother Bharata!"
Raghupati Kinhi bahut badaiTum mam priya Bharat-hi sam bhai
13. Embracing cheek to cheek, Lord Rama proclaimed, "The thousand-headed serpent will sing your praise",
Sahas badan tumharo jash gaaveUs kahi Shripati kanth lagaave
14. "Sanaka, Brahma, and all the other sages, Narada, Sarasvati, and the Serpent King will glorify you".
Sanakadik Brahmadi MuneesaNarad Sarad sahit Aheesa
15. "Yama, Kubera, and all the divine guardians will also praise you" Which poet has enough skill to do this justice?
Yam Kuber Digpal Jahan teKabi kovid kahi sake kahan te
16. You helped the monkey prince Sugriva, Introduced him to Lord Rama, and gave him a kingdom.
Tum upkar Sugreeva hin keenhaRam milaye rajpad deenha
17. Vibhishana paid great attention to your mantra, He became Lord of Lanka, the whole world knows this.
Tumharo mantra Vibheeshan manaLankeshwar Bhaye Sub jag jana
18. Although the Sun is at a thousand light-years distance, You leaped at it in play, mistaking it for a sweet fruit.
Yug sahasra jojan par BhanuLeelyo tahi madhur phal janu
19. Holding Rama's ring in your mouth, You crossed the ocean to Lanka, this is no surprise.
Prabhu mudrika meli mukh maheeJaladhi lantti gaye achraj nahee
20. Whatever is difficult to do in this world, Becomes easy through your grace
Durgam kaj jagat ke je tesugam anugraha tumhre tete
21. You are the gatekeeper at Lord Rama's divine abode, None can enter without your permission.
Ram dware tum rakhvareHoat na agnya binu paisare
22. Your sheltering care brings all happiness, With your protection, whom should one fear?
Sub sukh lahai tumhari sarnaTum rachchak kahu ko dar na
23. You alone can carry your splendid valourThe three worlds tremble at your battle-cry.
Aapan tej samharo aapaiTeenhon lok hank te kanpai
24. When your name is uttered, Great Hero, Ghosts and ghouls dare not come near.
Bhoot pisach Nikat nahin aavaiMahavir jab naam sunavai
25. Ceaseless repetition of heroic Hanuman's NameDestroys disease, and removes all afflictions.
Nase rog harai sab peeraJapat nirantar Hanuman beera
26. Hanuman releases from difficulties anyone who remembers him in thoughts, words, and deeds.
Sankat se Hanuman chudavaiMan Karma Bachan dyan jo lavai
27. All power belongs to Lord Rama, king of ascetics, but you are intent on doing his work.
Sub par Ram tapasvee rajaTin ke kaj sakal Tum saja
28. Whatever other desires are there, Your devotee gains a blissful life.
Aur manorath jo koi lavaiSohi amit jeevan phal pavai
29. Your fame spans the four cosmic ages, O Highest Perfected One, Enlightener of the world!
Charon yug partap tumharaHai parsidh jagat ujiyara
30. You protect true ascetics and the righteous, Destroyer of demons, and Lord Rama's dear one.
Sadhu Sant ke tum RakhwareAsur nikandan Ram dulhare
31. You can bestow the eight powers and the nine treasures, Mother Sita gave this power as her boon.
Ashta sidhi nav nidhi ke dhataUs bar deen Janki mata
32. You are always nearby, when Rama's deeds are being told, And you will remain Rama's servant always.
Ram rasayan tumhare pasaSada raho Raghupati ke dasa
33. Those who sing your praises find Lord Rama, And forget countless lifetimes of sorrow.
Tumhare bhajan Ram ko pavaiJanma janma ke dukh bisravai
34. When they die, they go to Lord Rama's city, Where it is said all Rama's devotees are born.
Anth kaal Raghuvir pur jayeeJahan janma Hari-Bakht Kahayee
35. Pay no attention to any of the other deities. Serving Hanuman brings about all happiness.
Aur Devata Chit na dharehiHanumanth se yi sarve sukh karehi
36. Ceaselessly remembering heroic Hanuman cuts short all difficulties, and destroys all afflictions.
Sankat kate mite sab peeraJo sumirai Hanumat Balbeera
37. Hail, Hail, Hanuman, master of the senses! Have pity on me, you are my spiritual master (guru).
Jai Jai Jai Hanuman GosayinKripa Karahu Gurudev ki nyayin
38. Whoever recites this hymn 100 timesIs released from bondage, and gains great happiness.
Jo sat bar path kar koyiChutehi bandhi maha sukh hoyi
39. Whoever recites these 40 verses to HanumanGains perfection, Shiva is the witness to this.
Jo yah padhe Hanuman ChalisaHoye siddhi sakhi Gaureesa
40. Tulsidas is ever God's faithful servant, O Lord, dwell in my heart. (Closing Invocation:)
Tulasidas sada hari cheraKeejai Hrudaye mein dera
Son of the Wind(Lord Vayu), Remover of Difficulties, whose form is auspicious, Dwell in my heart, King of the Gods, along with Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita.
Doha Pavantanay sankat haran, Mangal murti roop. Ram Lakhan Sita sahit, Hrudaya basahu sur bhoop.
*****
Thanks to Shri.Amitabh Bachchan, mentioned "The Hanuman Chalisa" in his blog for his cure, who made me to search for the above and post it.
Reciting "The Hanuman Chalisa" helps in gaining good health and consciousness.
Opening Invocation
Purifying my mind's mirror with the pollen dust of my guru's lotus feet, I will narrate Lord Rama's blemishless fame, which fulfills the four aspirations of life (viz. Dharma, Artha, kama and moksha).
Shri Guru Charan Saroj Raj Nija man mukur sudhar Varnao Raghuvar Vimal yasu Jo dayaku phal char
Knowing I have no intelligence and little understanding I meditate on the Son of the Wind (Lord Vayu). Give me strength, intelligence, and wisdom, Take away my faults and shortcomings.
Buddhi Hin Tanu Janike Sumirau Pavan Kumar Bal buddhi Vidya dehu mohi Harahu Klesa Vikar
1. Victory to Lord Hanuman, the ocean of knowledge and virtues, Hail! Lord of Monkeys, famous through the three worlds.
Jai Hanuman gyan gun sagarJai Kapis tihun lok ujagar
2. Lord Rama's messenger, possessing immeasurable strength, Anjana's son, named the Son of the Wind.
Ram doot atulit bal dhamaAnjani-putra Pavan sut nama
3. A great warrior, heroic, tough like Diamond. Warding off the wicked, keeping company with the good.
Mahavir Bikram BajrangiKumati nivar sumati Ke sangi
4. Golden-faced, resplendent in fine clothing, Earrings in his ears, and curly hair.
Kanchan varan viraj subesaKanan Kundal Kunchit Kesa
5. Hands resplendent with mace and bannerOn your shoulder a sacred thread of munja grass.
Hath Bajra Aur Dhuvaja VirajeKandhe moonj janehu sajai
6. Shiva's son, and Kesari's delight, the whole world knows your brilliant power.
Sankar suvan kesari NandanTej pratap maha jag vandan
7. Wise, virtuous, exceedingly clever, Ever intent on doing Lord Rama's work,
Vidyavan guni ati chaturRam kaj karibe ko aatur
8. Delighted in hearing tales of Rama's deeds and dear to Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita.
Prabu charitra sunibe ko rasiyaRam Lakhan Sita man Basiya
9. In your subtle form, you revealed yourself to Sita, In your enormous form, you burned Lanka,
Sukshma roop dhari Siyahim dikhavaBikat roop dhari lanka jarava
10. In your horrific form, you slaughtered the demons, And completed Rama's work.
Bhima roop dhari asura samhareRamachandra ke kaj sanvare
11. You brought the life-giving herb to revive Lakshmana, and Lord Rama hugged you tightly with delight.
Laye Sanjivan Lakhan JiyayeShri Raghubir Harshi ur laye
12. Lord Rama praised you exceedingly, saying "you are as dear to me as my brother Bharata!"
Raghupati Kinhi bahut badaiTum mam priya Bharat-hi sam bhai
13. Embracing cheek to cheek, Lord Rama proclaimed, "The thousand-headed serpent will sing your praise",
Sahas badan tumharo jash gaaveUs kahi Shripati kanth lagaave
14. "Sanaka, Brahma, and all the other sages, Narada, Sarasvati, and the Serpent King will glorify you".
Sanakadik Brahmadi MuneesaNarad Sarad sahit Aheesa
15. "Yama, Kubera, and all the divine guardians will also praise you" Which poet has enough skill to do this justice?
Yam Kuber Digpal Jahan teKabi kovid kahi sake kahan te
16. You helped the monkey prince Sugriva, Introduced him to Lord Rama, and gave him a kingdom.
Tum upkar Sugreeva hin keenhaRam milaye rajpad deenha
17. Vibhishana paid great attention to your mantra, He became Lord of Lanka, the whole world knows this.
Tumharo mantra Vibheeshan manaLankeshwar Bhaye Sub jag jana
18. Although the Sun is at a thousand light-years distance, You leaped at it in play, mistaking it for a sweet fruit.
Yug sahasra jojan par BhanuLeelyo tahi madhur phal janu
19. Holding Rama's ring in your mouth, You crossed the ocean to Lanka, this is no surprise.
Prabhu mudrika meli mukh maheeJaladhi lantti gaye achraj nahee
20. Whatever is difficult to do in this world, Becomes easy through your grace
Durgam kaj jagat ke je tesugam anugraha tumhre tete
21. You are the gatekeeper at Lord Rama's divine abode, None can enter without your permission.
Ram dware tum rakhvareHoat na agnya binu paisare
22. Your sheltering care brings all happiness, With your protection, whom should one fear?
Sub sukh lahai tumhari sarnaTum rachchak kahu ko dar na
23. You alone can carry your splendid valourThe three worlds tremble at your battle-cry.
Aapan tej samharo aapaiTeenhon lok hank te kanpai
24. When your name is uttered, Great Hero, Ghosts and ghouls dare not come near.
Bhoot pisach Nikat nahin aavaiMahavir jab naam sunavai
25. Ceaseless repetition of heroic Hanuman's NameDestroys disease, and removes all afflictions.
Nase rog harai sab peeraJapat nirantar Hanuman beera
26. Hanuman releases from difficulties anyone who remembers him in thoughts, words, and deeds.
Sankat se Hanuman chudavaiMan Karma Bachan dyan jo lavai
27. All power belongs to Lord Rama, king of ascetics, but you are intent on doing his work.
Sub par Ram tapasvee rajaTin ke kaj sakal Tum saja
28. Whatever other desires are there, Your devotee gains a blissful life.
Aur manorath jo koi lavaiSohi amit jeevan phal pavai
29. Your fame spans the four cosmic ages, O Highest Perfected One, Enlightener of the world!
Charon yug partap tumharaHai parsidh jagat ujiyara
30. You protect true ascetics and the righteous, Destroyer of demons, and Lord Rama's dear one.
Sadhu Sant ke tum RakhwareAsur nikandan Ram dulhare
31. You can bestow the eight powers and the nine treasures, Mother Sita gave this power as her boon.
Ashta sidhi nav nidhi ke dhataUs bar deen Janki mata
32. You are always nearby, when Rama's deeds are being told, And you will remain Rama's servant always.
Ram rasayan tumhare pasaSada raho Raghupati ke dasa
33. Those who sing your praises find Lord Rama, And forget countless lifetimes of sorrow.
Tumhare bhajan Ram ko pavaiJanma janma ke dukh bisravai
34. When they die, they go to Lord Rama's city, Where it is said all Rama's devotees are born.
Anth kaal Raghuvir pur jayeeJahan janma Hari-Bakht Kahayee
35. Pay no attention to any of the other deities. Serving Hanuman brings about all happiness.
Aur Devata Chit na dharehiHanumanth se yi sarve sukh karehi
36. Ceaselessly remembering heroic Hanuman cuts short all difficulties, and destroys all afflictions.
Sankat kate mite sab peeraJo sumirai Hanumat Balbeera
37. Hail, Hail, Hanuman, master of the senses! Have pity on me, you are my spiritual master (guru).
Jai Jai Jai Hanuman GosayinKripa Karahu Gurudev ki nyayin
38. Whoever recites this hymn 100 timesIs released from bondage, and gains great happiness.
Jo sat bar path kar koyiChutehi bandhi maha sukh hoyi
39. Whoever recites these 40 verses to HanumanGains perfection, Shiva is the witness to this.
Jo yah padhe Hanuman ChalisaHoye siddhi sakhi Gaureesa
40. Tulsidas is ever God's faithful servant, O Lord, dwell in my heart. (Closing Invocation:)
Tulasidas sada hari cheraKeejai Hrudaye mein dera
Son of the Wind(Lord Vayu), Remover of Difficulties, whose form is auspicious, Dwell in my heart, King of the Gods, along with Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita.
Doha Pavantanay sankat haran, Mangal murti roop. Ram Lakhan Sita sahit, Hrudaya basahu sur bhoop.
*****
Thanks to Shri.Amitabh Bachchan, mentioned "The Hanuman Chalisa" in his blog for his cure, who made me to search for the above and post it.
Reciting "The Hanuman Chalisa" helps in gaining good health and consciousness.
Stress-relief, the Vedic Way
Stress-relief, the Vedic Way
- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Our breath plays a very important role in our life. The breath is the connecting link between the inner world of the mind and the outer world of the body and environment. Sudarshan Kriya is a rhythmic breathing process, using three different cycles of breath. The breath sorts out the imbalances in the mind and the body.
Your emotions as well as your thoughts move in a particular rhythm. All these rhythms arise from your Being, which has its own rhythm. In Sudarshan Kriya, we get into the rhythm of our Being and see how Being is permeating our emotions, our thoughts, our breath, and our bodies. Every cell of the body becomes so alive and releases all the toxins and negative emotions it has stored from times past. Once again, we will be able to smile from our hearts.
By teaching people how to unlock the secrets of life through breath, His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has created an ever-expanding family of happy individuals, who are inspired by his message of compassion, commitment to society and a universal understanding of life.
Through simple breathing techniques and practical stress-elimination programmes, Sri Sri has touched the lives of over 45 million people, cutting across all barriers of caste, creed, race, nationality and religion. Through the regeneration of human values, he is promoting global peace and development by inspiring individuals towards self-awareness, joyful living and selfless service.
Born in 1956 in Papanasam, India, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar studied under many renowned spiritual masters and became a scholar of Vedic literature. In 1982, Sri Sri founded the Art of Living Foundation, which is now one of the world’s largest volunteer NGOs, active in 146 countries.
Sri Sri travels to more than 35 countries every year, to reinforce the message that all religions and spiritual traditions share common goals and values. In his presence, one experiences a profound silence that is beyond words. People have found peace of mind, vibrant health and a deep understanding of their own nature. His followers include the crème de la crème of high society as well as the poorest of the poor. In spite of his hectic schedule, he meets everyone untiringly listening, guiding and blessing. He brings a child-like innocence to wisdom and effortlessness in activity. Sri Sri is known as much for his profound wisdom as his zeal for service.
Here are excerpts from an exclusive interview:
How can one become more loving and compassionate, in spite of antagonistic behaviour from others? It is a general attitude that one has to inculcate in life. You cannot try to be compassionate at a particular moment, if you don’t practise it in your life throughout. You cannot learn archery in the war-field.
It is easy to say “control your anger, forgive the mistakes of others, etc.” But how can one handle a subordinate or an acquaintance, who does not perform satisfactorily? When someone doesn’t perform, you need to take action. Anger is not bad; it is part of life. There is nothing wrong in showing anger or being upset in life. Only thing is, it should not linger for too long. You cannot be “goody goody” all the time. It is not practical; you have to be stern, when you need to be stern.
Can dispassion and success co-exist in one’s life? Definitely. In fact, it is dispassion that brings more success. In a state of dispassion, you can enjoy success. Excitement and feverishness kill the joy of success.
What to do when one faces failures, despite putting in 100 percent efforts? Every failure is a step towards success. See that your failure is not due to lack of initiatives. If it is so, then improve your style of functioning and be steadfast in pursuing your goal.
Is money not important? How can one balance material pursuits and spiritual discipline? Money is important. But money is not everything in life. You should have a balance between values and wealth.
How can we console someone, when he or she loses his or her near and dear one, by fate of death? Silence consoles a person more than words. Just blabbering and showing sympathy do not really console anybody. A quiet and compassionate mind has its own vibration that brings solace to the bereaved.
Many mystics talk about out-of -body experiences, astral travel, etc. Are these true? Certainly. The manifest world as we know is only a tip of the iceberg. The vast subtle world has many secrets to offer.
What spiritual inputs are necessary to create a universal platform for solving global problems, such as nuclear disarmament? Spiritual awareness can bring understanding between people and nations. It breeds mutual trust and co-operation, which are absolutely essential for disarmament. Spirituality allows people to think with a calm mind.
What is the secret behind the immense popularity of Sudarshan Kriya? Its effectiveness and usefulness have made it very popular. It is a simple, but powerful breathing technique, taught exclusively through the Art of Living courses designed by me. It was revealed to me during a period of silence in 1982.
It is a rhythmic breathing practice that harmonizes the rhythms of the body and emotions, and brings them in tune with the rhythms of nature.
The subtle and specific rhythm of Sudarshan Kriya, floods every cell of the body with oxygen and prana and eliminates physical and emotional toxins at the cellular level.
Sudarshan means “right vision” and kriya means “purifying action”. This Eastern approach to emotional purification is different from the approach of Western psychology. Generally psychologists are able to help us to identify our emotions, but fail to get us to the very core of our nature.
Sudarshan Kriya takes us beyond our thoughts and emotions, and allows us to totally experience our feelings. One does not experience an emotional “seminar high.” Instead, there is a feeling of being more even and natural, centered in one´s Self. Practitioners report that they feel renewed physically, emotionally and elevated spiritually.
Sudarshan Kriya is a rhythmic breathing process, using three different cycles of breath. The breath and mind are linked, just like the body and the mind. The breath sorts out the imbalances in the mind and the body. The breath holds the secret of life that we have forgotten.
Sudharshan Kriya Research conducted at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) of India, (the premiere institute for the study of neuroscience and mental health in India), has documented the Art of Living programme’s efficacy as a stress-management tool. Levels of Cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” decreased significantly in people who practised the Sudarshan Kriya technique, within 21 days. Stress is known to be a major contributing factor to violence. It is also known to diminish an individual’s ability to execute non-violent conflict-resolution strategies.
The findings of study conducted by AIIMS, New Delhi suggest that regular practice of the Sudarshan Kriya and Pranayama invokes positive emotions, replacing anger, frustration and jealousy.
EEG, blood cortisol and blood lactate levels reflect a state of relaxation, of course with necessary alertness. Increase in killer cells and anti-oxidant enzymes suggest that regular practice may prevent many diseases, including infectious ones and possibly even Cancer. Fall in Cholesterol level may prevent cardiac diseases. Positive results have been noticed in 70 per cent of cases of depression.
The Sudarshan Kriya benefits every individual in an unique way. Its benefits are infinite and deepen over time, with regular practice. Below are some benefits that have been commonly experienced from various perspectives:
Physical Level: Increased lung capacity; reduced levels of stress (reduces the stress hormone Cortisol); improved anti-oxidant defence; greater energy and sense of well being; many report relief from common ailments such as asthma, hypertension, diabetes and insomnia.
Spiritual Level: Broader vision of life; clearer vision of one’s true nature; blossoming of positivity through an experience of love; deeper sense of belongingness, enthusiasm and joy.
What is the “Art of Living”? The Art of Living Foundation is dedicated to creating peace from the level of an individual and fostering human values within the global community. It is working to bring about a transformation that will free every individual from stress and other negative emotions, and help experience the true pleasure of joy. This can be achieved just by attending to our breathing pattern for a few minutes everyday. What keeps us from experiencing a relaxed state of mind is stress. The various courses taught by “Art of Living” release the stress of modern life effortlessly.
The introductory Art of Living course combines ancient breathing and relaxation techniques with knowledge and skills to handle the mind, emotions, relationships and life in general. The 18-20 hour workshop is open to everyone, who is above 21 years of age. Spread over six days, the course is regularly conducted in 146 countries. Also the International Centre of the Art of Living on Kanakapura Road, near Bangalore offers the course on a three-day residential format.
There are courses for kids, teenagers and specialized programmes for the corporate sector, where busy executives can learn very powerful tools to de-stress themselves. The foundation also conduct rehabilitation programmes in prisons across the globe.
The foundation is basically a service organisation run by volunteers and it is currently engaged in providing material and trauma relief to the victims of recent earthquake in Kashmir and Pakistan. It continues to provide trauma relief camps in the tsunami��"affected areas in India and Sri Lanka. It conducted major relief operations in the aftermath of earthquakes in Gujarat and Bam; floods in Mumbai and Indonesia; Orissa cyclone and 9/11 World Trade Centre attack. Its trauma relief initiative in war-torn Iraq is just one example of its unceasing commitment to service.
The Art of Living Foundation is channelling the same spirituality as a strong catalyst for making a difference to the world through service. Its social intervention initiative is called 5H Program. 5H stands for Home, Hygiene, Health, Harmony in Diversity, and Human Values.
What is enlightenment? Seekers on the spiritual path are very curious about enlightenment. Enlightenment is like a joke! It is like a fish in the ocean, searching for the ocean. Enlightenment is the very core of our being, going to the core of our Self and living our life from there.
We all came into this world gifted with innocence; but gradually as we became more intelligent, we lost our innocence. We were born with silence and as we grew up, we lost the silence and were filled with words. We lived in our hearts and as time passed, we moved into our heads. The reversal of this journey is enlightenment. It is the journey from the head back to the heart, from words back to silence, getting back to our innocence in spite of our intelligence. Although it seems very simple, this is a great achievement.
Enlightenment is that state of Being, mature and unshakeable under any circumstance. Come what may, nothing can rob the smile from our heart. Going beyond the limited boundaries, and feeling “all that exists in this universe belongs to me,” is enlightenment.
What is your message to the blog readers? Attend to your breathing pattern; develop clarity of mind and focus on the present. Control your negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, fear and jealousy. Pave way for a peaceful atmosphere in the New Year!
- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Our breath plays a very important role in our life. The breath is the connecting link between the inner world of the mind and the outer world of the body and environment. Sudarshan Kriya is a rhythmic breathing process, using three different cycles of breath. The breath sorts out the imbalances in the mind and the body.
Your emotions as well as your thoughts move in a particular rhythm. All these rhythms arise from your Being, which has its own rhythm. In Sudarshan Kriya, we get into the rhythm of our Being and see how Being is permeating our emotions, our thoughts, our breath, and our bodies. Every cell of the body becomes so alive and releases all the toxins and negative emotions it has stored from times past. Once again, we will be able to smile from our hearts.
By teaching people how to unlock the secrets of life through breath, His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has created an ever-expanding family of happy individuals, who are inspired by his message of compassion, commitment to society and a universal understanding of life.
Through simple breathing techniques and practical stress-elimination programmes, Sri Sri has touched the lives of over 45 million people, cutting across all barriers of caste, creed, race, nationality and religion. Through the regeneration of human values, he is promoting global peace and development by inspiring individuals towards self-awareness, joyful living and selfless service.
Born in 1956 in Papanasam, India, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar studied under many renowned spiritual masters and became a scholar of Vedic literature. In 1982, Sri Sri founded the Art of Living Foundation, which is now one of the world’s largest volunteer NGOs, active in 146 countries.
Sri Sri travels to more than 35 countries every year, to reinforce the message that all religions and spiritual traditions share common goals and values. In his presence, one experiences a profound silence that is beyond words. People have found peace of mind, vibrant health and a deep understanding of their own nature. His followers include the crème de la crème of high society as well as the poorest of the poor. In spite of his hectic schedule, he meets everyone untiringly listening, guiding and blessing. He brings a child-like innocence to wisdom and effortlessness in activity. Sri Sri is known as much for his profound wisdom as his zeal for service.
Here are excerpts from an exclusive interview:
How can one become more loving and compassionate, in spite of antagonistic behaviour from others? It is a general attitude that one has to inculcate in life. You cannot try to be compassionate at a particular moment, if you don’t practise it in your life throughout. You cannot learn archery in the war-field.
It is easy to say “control your anger, forgive the mistakes of others, etc.” But how can one handle a subordinate or an acquaintance, who does not perform satisfactorily? When someone doesn’t perform, you need to take action. Anger is not bad; it is part of life. There is nothing wrong in showing anger or being upset in life. Only thing is, it should not linger for too long. You cannot be “goody goody” all the time. It is not practical; you have to be stern, when you need to be stern.
Can dispassion and success co-exist in one’s life? Definitely. In fact, it is dispassion that brings more success. In a state of dispassion, you can enjoy success. Excitement and feverishness kill the joy of success.
What to do when one faces failures, despite putting in 100 percent efforts? Every failure is a step towards success. See that your failure is not due to lack of initiatives. If it is so, then improve your style of functioning and be steadfast in pursuing your goal.
Is money not important? How can one balance material pursuits and spiritual discipline? Money is important. But money is not everything in life. You should have a balance between values and wealth.
How can we console someone, when he or she loses his or her near and dear one, by fate of death? Silence consoles a person more than words. Just blabbering and showing sympathy do not really console anybody. A quiet and compassionate mind has its own vibration that brings solace to the bereaved.
Many mystics talk about out-of -body experiences, astral travel, etc. Are these true? Certainly. The manifest world as we know is only a tip of the iceberg. The vast subtle world has many secrets to offer.
What spiritual inputs are necessary to create a universal platform for solving global problems, such as nuclear disarmament? Spiritual awareness can bring understanding between people and nations. It breeds mutual trust and co-operation, which are absolutely essential for disarmament. Spirituality allows people to think with a calm mind.
What is the secret behind the immense popularity of Sudarshan Kriya? Its effectiveness and usefulness have made it very popular. It is a simple, but powerful breathing technique, taught exclusively through the Art of Living courses designed by me. It was revealed to me during a period of silence in 1982.
It is a rhythmic breathing practice that harmonizes the rhythms of the body and emotions, and brings them in tune with the rhythms of nature.
The subtle and specific rhythm of Sudarshan Kriya, floods every cell of the body with oxygen and prana and eliminates physical and emotional toxins at the cellular level.
Sudarshan means “right vision” and kriya means “purifying action”. This Eastern approach to emotional purification is different from the approach of Western psychology. Generally psychologists are able to help us to identify our emotions, but fail to get us to the very core of our nature.
Sudarshan Kriya takes us beyond our thoughts and emotions, and allows us to totally experience our feelings. One does not experience an emotional “seminar high.” Instead, there is a feeling of being more even and natural, centered in one´s Self. Practitioners report that they feel renewed physically, emotionally and elevated spiritually.
Sudarshan Kriya is a rhythmic breathing process, using three different cycles of breath. The breath and mind are linked, just like the body and the mind. The breath sorts out the imbalances in the mind and the body. The breath holds the secret of life that we have forgotten.
Sudharshan Kriya Research conducted at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) of India, (the premiere institute for the study of neuroscience and mental health in India), has documented the Art of Living programme’s efficacy as a stress-management tool. Levels of Cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” decreased significantly in people who practised the Sudarshan Kriya technique, within 21 days. Stress is known to be a major contributing factor to violence. It is also known to diminish an individual’s ability to execute non-violent conflict-resolution strategies.
The findings of study conducted by AIIMS, New Delhi suggest that regular practice of the Sudarshan Kriya and Pranayama invokes positive emotions, replacing anger, frustration and jealousy.
EEG, blood cortisol and blood lactate levels reflect a state of relaxation, of course with necessary alertness. Increase in killer cells and anti-oxidant enzymes suggest that regular practice may prevent many diseases, including infectious ones and possibly even Cancer. Fall in Cholesterol level may prevent cardiac diseases. Positive results have been noticed in 70 per cent of cases of depression.
The Sudarshan Kriya benefits every individual in an unique way. Its benefits are infinite and deepen over time, with regular practice. Below are some benefits that have been commonly experienced from various perspectives:
Physical Level: Increased lung capacity; reduced levels of stress (reduces the stress hormone Cortisol); improved anti-oxidant defence; greater energy and sense of well being; many report relief from common ailments such as asthma, hypertension, diabetes and insomnia.
Spiritual Level: Broader vision of life; clearer vision of one’s true nature; blossoming of positivity through an experience of love; deeper sense of belongingness, enthusiasm and joy.
What is the “Art of Living”? The Art of Living Foundation is dedicated to creating peace from the level of an individual and fostering human values within the global community. It is working to bring about a transformation that will free every individual from stress and other negative emotions, and help experience the true pleasure of joy. This can be achieved just by attending to our breathing pattern for a few minutes everyday. What keeps us from experiencing a relaxed state of mind is stress. The various courses taught by “Art of Living” release the stress of modern life effortlessly.
The introductory Art of Living course combines ancient breathing and relaxation techniques with knowledge and skills to handle the mind, emotions, relationships and life in general. The 18-20 hour workshop is open to everyone, who is above 21 years of age. Spread over six days, the course is regularly conducted in 146 countries. Also the International Centre of the Art of Living on Kanakapura Road, near Bangalore offers the course on a three-day residential format.
There are courses for kids, teenagers and specialized programmes for the corporate sector, where busy executives can learn very powerful tools to de-stress themselves. The foundation also conduct rehabilitation programmes in prisons across the globe.
The foundation is basically a service organisation run by volunteers and it is currently engaged in providing material and trauma relief to the victims of recent earthquake in Kashmir and Pakistan. It continues to provide trauma relief camps in the tsunami��"affected areas in India and Sri Lanka. It conducted major relief operations in the aftermath of earthquakes in Gujarat and Bam; floods in Mumbai and Indonesia; Orissa cyclone and 9/11 World Trade Centre attack. Its trauma relief initiative in war-torn Iraq is just one example of its unceasing commitment to service.
The Art of Living Foundation is channelling the same spirituality as a strong catalyst for making a difference to the world through service. Its social intervention initiative is called 5H Program. 5H stands for Home, Hygiene, Health, Harmony in Diversity, and Human Values.
What is enlightenment? Seekers on the spiritual path are very curious about enlightenment. Enlightenment is like a joke! It is like a fish in the ocean, searching for the ocean. Enlightenment is the very core of our being, going to the core of our Self and living our life from there.
We all came into this world gifted with innocence; but gradually as we became more intelligent, we lost our innocence. We were born with silence and as we grew up, we lost the silence and were filled with words. We lived in our hearts and as time passed, we moved into our heads. The reversal of this journey is enlightenment. It is the journey from the head back to the heart, from words back to silence, getting back to our innocence in spite of our intelligence. Although it seems very simple, this is a great achievement.
Enlightenment is that state of Being, mature and unshakeable under any circumstance. Come what may, nothing can rob the smile from our heart. Going beyond the limited boundaries, and feeling “all that exists in this universe belongs to me,” is enlightenment.
What is your message to the blog readers? Attend to your breathing pattern; develop clarity of mind and focus on the present. Control your negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, fear and jealousy. Pave way for a peaceful atmosphere in the New Year!
Phallic Worship of Shiva
Here is a note on Phallic Worship of Siva.
Sages ask Suta to narrat the story behind the worship of phallic formof Shiva to which Sage Sutasays that once upon a time in the forestof daruka, sages were all devotees of lord Shiva and worshipping himdaily. to test their devotion, lord Shiva comes in the form of anaked person (avadhoota) with ashes smeared all over is body,standing there and holding his penis. the wives of the sages wereextremely frightened at this sight while other women excited,surprised and approached lord Shiva. some embraced him, others heldhis hands and the women were engrossed in struggling with oneanother. meanwhile the great sages came there and seeing lord Shivaengaged in perverse activities, they were pained and infuriated.deluded by siva maya and plunged in grief, the sages asked the nakedperson who he is but Shiva does not reply. then the sages curseShiva that his penis fall on the ground since he is actingpervertedly in violation of the vedic path.due to the curse of the sages, the penis of that avadhoota fell downand burnt everything and wherever it went, it began to burneverything there. the penis went all over the earth, patala andheaven and never remained steady anywhere and kept on going places.unable to comprehend Shiva maya, the sages and gods approached lordbrahma to find a solution to stop the penis from burning everythingeverywhere. then lord brahma says that if a guest comes to theashram of sages, he must be treated with respect even if he isavadhoota. since this avadhoota instead of getting respect gotcursed, the penis would not become stationary which bodes bad for allthe three worlds. to make the penis stationary and steady, lordbrahma advises the gods and sages to propitiate goddess parvati andpray her to assume the form of vagina so that it holds the penis.lord brahma also states that a pot shall be placed over it and waterfrom holy centres shall be poured into the pot along with the sproutsof durva and barley invoked with vedic mantras. the penis held inthe vagina thus shall be drenched in water with sata rudriyamantras. parvati in the form of vaginal passage and an auspiciousarrow shall form as the pedestal wherein the phallus shall beinstalled with vedic mantras. the Shivalinga then shall bepropitiated with the offerings of sandal paste, fragrant flowers,incense and other things as well as by food offerings and other formsof worship. with prostrations, holy hymns, bhajans and songs heshall be propitiated further with svastyayana mantras etc.thus pleased, lord Shiva tells the gods and sages that if the penisis supported in the vaginal passage, it will immediately become quietand no woman other than parvati can hold his penis. then goddessparvati assumes the vagina form and holds the phallus and isworshipped by brahma, Vishnu, other gods and sages and the three worlds stayed in peace and happiness.
*********
This is as is re-produced, so dont get offended. God is always in everyone's heart!
Sages ask Suta to narrat the story behind the worship of phallic formof Shiva to which Sage Sutasays that once upon a time in the forestof daruka, sages were all devotees of lord Shiva and worshipping himdaily. to test their devotion, lord Shiva comes in the form of anaked person (avadhoota) with ashes smeared all over is body,standing there and holding his penis. the wives of the sages wereextremely frightened at this sight while other women excited,surprised and approached lord Shiva. some embraced him, others heldhis hands and the women were engrossed in struggling with oneanother. meanwhile the great sages came there and seeing lord Shivaengaged in perverse activities, they were pained and infuriated.deluded by siva maya and plunged in grief, the sages asked the nakedperson who he is but Shiva does not reply. then the sages curseShiva that his penis fall on the ground since he is actingpervertedly in violation of the vedic path.due to the curse of the sages, the penis of that avadhoota fell downand burnt everything and wherever it went, it began to burneverything there. the penis went all over the earth, patala andheaven and never remained steady anywhere and kept on going places.unable to comprehend Shiva maya, the sages and gods approached lordbrahma to find a solution to stop the penis from burning everythingeverywhere. then lord brahma says that if a guest comes to theashram of sages, he must be treated with respect even if he isavadhoota. since this avadhoota instead of getting respect gotcursed, the penis would not become stationary which bodes bad for allthe three worlds. to make the penis stationary and steady, lordbrahma advises the gods and sages to propitiate goddess parvati andpray her to assume the form of vagina so that it holds the penis.lord brahma also states that a pot shall be placed over it and waterfrom holy centres shall be poured into the pot along with the sproutsof durva and barley invoked with vedic mantras. the penis held inthe vagina thus shall be drenched in water with sata rudriyamantras. parvati in the form of vaginal passage and an auspiciousarrow shall form as the pedestal wherein the phallus shall beinstalled with vedic mantras. the Shivalinga then shall bepropitiated with the offerings of sandal paste, fragrant flowers,incense and other things as well as by food offerings and other formsof worship. with prostrations, holy hymns, bhajans and songs heshall be propitiated further with svastyayana mantras etc.thus pleased, lord Shiva tells the gods and sages that if the penisis supported in the vaginal passage, it will immediately become quietand no woman other than parvati can hold his penis. then goddessparvati assumes the vagina form and holds the phallus and isworshipped by brahma, Vishnu, other gods and sages and the three worlds stayed in peace and happiness.
*********
This is as is re-produced, so dont get offended. God is always in everyone's heart!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Astrology Today
Astrology today has become a matter of curiosity than some intelligent science to look at future to cushion the effects!
People are very confident about their future in this untamed world!
They seem to know very surely, about their Horoscopes...
See the Indian stock market!
Who could have predicted other than Astrologers in January 2008?
Me and some of my friends interested in this science, knew what is going to come, and advised near and dear and ensured the big fall is cushioned.
Only Mutual funds SIPs were advised to continue!
Well, is it the time to invest? Wait till December!
People are very confident about their future in this untamed world!
They seem to know very surely, about their Horoscopes...
See the Indian stock market!
Who could have predicted other than Astrologers in January 2008?
Me and some of my friends interested in this science, knew what is going to come, and advised near and dear and ensured the big fall is cushioned.
Only Mutual funds SIPs were advised to continue!
Well, is it the time to invest? Wait till December!
Obama's Victory and Analysis
I had clearly shown the path for him during the nomination process.
Few friends of his (David, Ann) had contacted me
Obama's Victory and Analysis.. here... President OBAMA, Astrological Analysis
I am invited to the USA for the swearing in ceremony! Thanks to all.
Also the blog has crossed, 6000 hits, with 1000 coming in less than a months time!
I dont give free predictions to folks. Please note this. Nor do I teach Astrology. Read the blog and learn yourself!
Few friends of his (David, Ann) had contacted me
Obama's Victory and Analysis.. here... President OBAMA, Astrological Analysis
I am invited to the USA for the swearing in ceremony! Thanks to all.
Also the blog has crossed, 6000 hits, with 1000 coming in less than a months time!
I dont give free predictions to folks. Please note this. Nor do I teach Astrology. Read the blog and learn yourself!
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