shri shaktidarshan march 2011 shri shaktidarshan …yogashram.in/magazines/mar2011.pdf · 19 - 23...

.

Special News for Dear Dhyanabandhus,

2 Mrityunjaya Homa followed by whole night meditation with

Poojya Guruji

3 Satchintana – Mangalore Satsang

9 & 24 Kriya Yoga Punaschetana

17 Kundalini Beejamantra Punaschetana

19 - 23 Shakthi Prerana Camp ( VI, VII, & VIII Std Childern Only )

19 -23 Kriya Yoga Teachers Camp ( For New Teachers )

25 - 29 Kriya Yoga Camp ( Kannada & English )

25 - 29 Shakthi Prerana Camp ( IX, X - I & II Puc Students Only ) 21 & 22

Public meet

30

Mrityunjaya Homa followed by whole night meditation with

Poojya Guruji

May 1

Satchintana ( Dharwad Satsang )

Programmes for April

– 2011

2, Mruthyunjaya Homa and whole night meditation on the

occasion of Mahashivarathri

6

Satchintana (Sullia Satsang)

7 – 9

‘Premadhara’ meditation with Poojya Guruji’

From 9.30 am to 4.00 pm with liquid food at noon and light

refreshment after meditation.

12 & 27

Kriya Yoga Punashchetana

20

Kundalini Beeja mantra Punashchetana

21 & 28

Public meet

Programmes for March

– 2011

“YOGI VARENYA SRI DEVBABA” (Kannada)

Biography of Poojya Guruji, written by Dhyana Bandhu Sri. V. Ramdas -

Hosabettu. will be released shortly. Those who want to book copies may please

contact Ashram.Programs are liable to change. Readers are requested to contact the office and

ascertain exact dates before coming.

SHRI SHAKTIDARSHAN MARCH 2011

2

Honorary EditorSri B. Devadas Rao

Yogacharya

Editor

Sri. Srinivasa Bhargav M.K.

Editorial Advisory Board

Dr. Meera R. Kamath

Smt. Shashikala Nayak Sri Mohandas Bhat J Smt. Anitha Kishore Sri Angelo Dias Sri. Anand M.K. Dr. Shashidhar H.S.

Subscription Rates:

Domestic

Single copy : Rs. 10

Yearly : Rs. 120

Poshak : Rs. 1000

(10 years)

International

Yearly : USD 30$

Sri Shakti Darshan Yogashram

Magazine Section, Elathur – Post,Kinnigoli, D.K. Karnataka

PH: 0824 – 2295100 / 2297700Email: [email protected]

[email protected]: www.yogashram.in

Printed by Sri Arvind published by Sri Srinivasa Bhargav M.K. on behalf of Sri Shaktidarshana Yogashram (R) & Printed at Brindavan Printers & Publishers Pvt. Ltd No. 39/2-1 Kalyani Garden, B.S.K 1st Stage, Bangalore - 560050 and published at Sri Shaktidarshana Yogashram (R) Yelathur, Kinnigoli - 574 150, D.K.Dist.

Editor: Srinivasa Bhargav M.K.

The Ashram / Editorial Board does not accept any responsibility for the views

expressed in the articles / contributions published in this Magazine

INDEX

Question & Answers

Meditation & Material Life

Knowledge Hats

Conquer Yourself

Health Benefits of Lime Water

Acupressure

Saints of Tamil Nadu

Women in Spirituality

Opinions of ParticipantsAshram Programmes

SHRI SHAKTIDARSHAN

A Magazine dedicated to Yoga and Meditation

Volume - X Issue - VI March - 2011


4-7

8-9

10

11-12

13-15

16-18

19-20

21-22

23-24

25-26

3

Dear Dhyanabandhus,

!!!!AUM NAMAHA SHIVAYA!!!!

Maha Shivaratri falls on the 13th day of Krishna Paksha of Maagha

Maasa (February- March). It is a night of fasting and prayer in honor

of Lord Shiva in His aspect of destroying sins and bad things. The

night is called Shivamaya, i.e. a night to spend with thoughts of Lord

Shiva. As the Lord of the universe he is full of compassion and only

punishes out of Love and for the good of mankind. It is on this great

night that Lord Shiva redeems the world... During this holy night the

devotees of Lord Shiva fast, meditate, pray and sing the glory of the

Savior. Whatever is offered to Lord Shiva with devotion is pleasing to Him. On this night He

showers blessings abundantly.

Despite being infinite, He manifests in the form of Shakti [nature] for the Lord is

essentially formless and known by the name Shiva, purpose of creation. Scholars also go

a step further and describe Shiva is the one to whom Mahashivaratri is dedicated. Shiva

is often depicted as a deity bearing an ascetic form and engrossed in meditation. Shiva as

the creator, the male aspect of God and, Shakti as the creation, the female aspect.

Lord Shiva is shown either in meditating or in the form of a Dancing God Nataraj

where His dance is to the beat and rhythm of creation. He is also shown in sculptures

with many hands. One pair of hands, for example, represents the balance between life

and death. Shiva is 'tri netra' known as the three eyed Lord or Tryambaka Deva. The sun

is his right eye, the moon left while the third eye of Shiva on his forehead is the eye of

wisdom. It is the eye that looks beyond the obvious. The third eye can search evil from

anywhere and destroys it completely. Shiva with Damaru (Drum): A small drum with

two sides alienated from each other by a thin neck-like structure represents the two

utterly different states of existence, unclear and clear. When a damaru is shaken, the

sound formed denotes Nada, the cosmic sound of AUM, which can be heard during deep

meditation besides, there 'Neela Kanta' - blue-necked (having consumed poison to save

the world from destruction). There are a lot many attributes associated with

Lord Shiva.

May Shiva bless you and your family and bring balance and peace in your family life.


4

Question & Answers

Q: 1: Aim of my life is to know myself.

In my path I am told that I have to face

lots of tests and odds. What are the

precautions and attitude of mind that I

have to observe? Who tests me on my

path and how?

Ans: Always have the questions

before you 'WHO AM I'.

Taking this body and mind as

ourselves we act in our society,

in every dealing. Thus we

develop 'EGO' that makes us ,

the most important person in

the family, later in our

influential circle of friends, in

office and in every dealings. One should

remember that this ego of mind is the real

culprit for seeker's fall in spiritual path. Ego

is the store house of all negative emotional

characters such as jealousy, selfishness,

anger etc., therefore we have to take care of

this. Now the question is how to reduce our

Ego level in everyday life. Only through

analysis of this life and its reality we can

find a permanent solution for the negative

qualities hidden in our mind which

otherwise ruins our spiritual reality and

peace and harmony in our life.

The truth is I am not this body, because

one day I have to leave this body. Reality is,

this body is a gift of our parents and

developed from earthly materials. We

entered this body, with life and mind. We

know that we have a mind and life. Life and

body development depends on actions of our

mind. Mind is the most important tool in our

life for success or failure. So we have to be

very careful in observing our

mind in every action. Neither

hate your mind nor fight with

it. Try to love it; co-operate

with it, certainly mind will

slowly respond positively.

Remember that mind is an

unpredictable ent i ty. I t

changes in every moment.

Beauty of creation is that it created so

beautiful mind with 'MAYA'. It means that

mind differs from life to life, individual to

individual. No two minds are born equal

neither in the past nor in the future. That is

why mind can never be defined by any

science. Mind creates things and we enjoy

them just as we are in dreams. Creation of

mind is therefore beyond truth, or

temporary truth. Everything we see from

our eyes are fast changing and never remains

as they are . Finally all that are created will

be vanished one day. This is known as

“Maya”. We are on this earth just as in a

dream land. Nothing can be predicted.


5

Many a times our wishes will never

be fulfilled. Therefore, we have to observe

the mind. We have to think well and then act

using our wisdom. If not mind may direct us

to a wrong path for re-birth. The very

purpose of mind is to promote re-birth and

not self realization. But we have only one

tool on this earth to act and that is mind. So

we have to use the mind with great care and

wisdom. In the presence of wisdom, mind

behaves like a servant. So wisdom is the

chariot and mind is the horse and driver is

“The Creator”. Absence of Creators'

wisdom, horses may run uncontrolled.

Seeker of truth therefore has to be cautious,

in every act of life, that he never allows the

mind to drive (the horses.) by itself.

At this juncture we have to think far

and analyze. We are not this body, life, mind

and wisdom. Then who are we? From us

deduct all these four; the remainder is the

SELF “I”. With this knowledge we have to

proceed on the spiritual path. Elderly

guidance, from realized souls, a teacher is

very much essential and that makes our

progress smooth. Also we need guidance

from “Satsangh”. Without moving with

saintly divine persons, we may not be

able to progress in life and spirituality. So

most of us have to seek a teacher for

guidance. We also should note that we

have two worlds. First one is inner world

and that is psychic world beyond

perception. Outer world is common to

all. The outer world experiences such as

light and dark, hot and cold, sweet and

sour etc., are common to all. These are

managed by mind, so liking and disliking

of these differs from person to person.

Let us think for a while who enjoys this

world of creation? Though initially

perception is through the senses, final

enjoyment is for the Creator Himself

who dwells inside every life. Secret of

creation is still a myth. Leaving

everything to the creation with total

surrender we have to proceed .When I

totally surrender, EGO will vanish.

Then 'I 'of mind will not be there. Only

Creator will remain. Which means I am a

big zero? Finally in all life on this entire

Universe 'Only one Exists' that is

Creator. Understanding this Truth,

proceeding in our spiritual path will

certainly take us to the real LOVE,

PEACE AND TRUTH.

Q (2) The mind which can be made

still during meditation, gets into

useless thoughts while dealing in day

to day transactions. How to solve this?


6

Ans: If the activities are carried with

total dedication and happiness, that

itself is a kind of meditation. As great

saint Basavanna has said “Kayakave

Kailasa” which means the work done

with great love itself is like attaining

Kailasa. For example: If a Bus driver

drives the vehicle with utmost care and

calmness, then he gets satisfaction from

his work. The passengers also feel happy.

We get satisfaction if we do our work

whole heartedly. This

satisfaction is equal to

medi tat ion . Such

p e r s o n s a t t a i n

thoughtless state very

easily, when they

meditate.

Those who cannot

follow as stated above may keep the mind

engaged by chanting mantras. There are

few who like to sing while engaged in

work at home. They usually do not get

trapped in the thought process.

Q (3) Under a congenial environment

only, a soul entering a life can prosper.

If the environment is not suitable,

prosperity is not possible. Is it the

fault of the soul?

Ans: You seem to be right from the

point of view of the mind. But it depends

on the 'prarabdha karma' of the mind

which accompanies the soul. Under

which circumstance to take birth,

how many lives to take birth, every

action in each life is all predetermined be

traced from our genes. This shows that our

lives are predetermined. A child born in a

good environment, because of ego may lose

everything and lead a downtrodden life. Not

everybody born to poor parents would

become beggars. Many such born persons

have become saints, for example: Bhakta

Kanakadasa, America's former President

Abraham Lincoln.

A person who was into

sadhana and departed

before accomplishing it

in previous birth, will in

spite of environmental

i n f l u e n c e , i n a l l

probabilities continue his

sadhana in present life

also. That is how more than the

environment; a sadhak's karma of many

births carries him forward in further births.

Sufferings and pleasures are the feelings of

the mind. Sufferings make a person's Will

power strong, resulting in his progress. We

find from the persons who are brought up in

a highly affluent way, their Will power is

very low. But God does not give difficulties,

instead gives an experience. These

difficulties called experiences become

stepping stone for him. We see people

brought up with lot of difficulties becoming

great men. We see lot of poor people


7

praying for God's mercy. Most of the

rich rarely remember God. They may

spend only money for God's purpose. But

they will not give time and mind for the

sake of God. He who with ego thinks 'I

am the mind' faces lot of mental

conflicts. This is ignorance. He has an

illusion that he is the mind. When the

wisdom dawns, the he realizes that the

world is only a dream. There is no use to

go behind happiness, peace and

prosperity. He who does ritualistic

sacrifices to attain wealth, power,

longevity, good health, longing to

heaven wil l give him pleasure

temporarily. This too is ignorance.

These are not permanent. We all have to

go leaving behind all these. We have

come to this earth as travelers. He is wise

who continues to live without being

trapped by desires. That is the real

knowledge. He is a real courageous

person.

Q (4) What is the difference between

Kriya yoga and Pranayama?

Ans. Action is important in Kriya yoga.

That means an action is done along with

breath. Example: Giving action to any

part of the body with a breathing

technique. In Second Kriya, stretching

both hands upwards with inhalation and

bringing them back with exhalation. Here

the attention will be on the hands, energy

points in chest and navel regions. Second

importance is for the breath. Physical and

mental movements have the top priority. In

Third Kriya, breathing through glottis with

Omkar sound is important.

In Pranayama, attention on physical

and psychic body is less. Maximum attention

is given on the breath. Utmost importance is

given to the technique of drawing the

cosmic energy while inhaling and passing

the same to different parts of the body.

Pranayama takes from the external world to

the inner world. Kriya also takes the mind to

the inner world through the psychic body up

to a great depth inside. That is why a Kriya

yogi attains Samadhi state very

quickly. It may be rare to attain

this state by doing Pranayama.


8

Meditation and Material Life

We are truly blessed to be in the

company of our beloved Guruji. It is rare to

find a master whose teachings and practices

are so simple and easy, yet their effect is

profound. One of Guruji's teachings, and a

lesson we can learn from Guruji's life, is

doing sadhana being a grihastha, without

giving up our worldly duties.

It is very important that, while we

sincerely practice meditation, we pay

attention to the way we lead our worldly life.

The phrase 'worldly life' refers to the life we

lead to fulfill our duties towards others in

this temporal world, like our families and

jobs. How we behave with our family, friends

and colleagues, and how we conduct our

business or work are as important as how we

meditate. Meditating when our worldly life

is disorganized or totally neglected is like

trying to fill water in a pot with many holes.

It is a very inefficient way of working

towards our goal. Therefore tidying up and

simplifying our material life is very

important. Let us discuss few steps we can

take in this direction.

1. Considering every person and

every work as equal: Consciously or

unknowingly each of us has the habit of

classifying people around us as better/

bad, wealthy/poor, wise/ignorant,

beautiful/ugly, friend/enemy and so on. We

consider some people as "lower" than us and

By Ramnath Prabhu

expect respect and submission. We also

demean other spiritual paths or religions or

people following them.

We should remember that everyone

in his or her purest form is God himself and

their current state is due to their past deeds,

just like us. It is the habit of our mind that

deceives us to believe in what is false. It will

help our sadhana if we stop classifying and

differentiating people; and respect every

person we meet. Let us start that with our

"enemy", competitor, spouse, child,

neighbor, friends, colleagues, maid, servant

or subordinate. Start interacting with each

of them with heartfelt respect. Show it in

our speech and deeds. Let us give the same

respect to nature and all creatures around us.

Maharishi Ramana never referred to any

animal as “it”. He used to always refer to

them as “he” or “she”. Never consider anyone

as useless, inferior or insignificant than

yourself and never discuss about other’s

faults. Humility is a very noticeable sign of

every true sadhaka.

Similarly, without prejudice, let us

consider every work, duty and action as

worship. Let us be sincere and responsible.

We should perform every action with love,

and to the best of our ability. If we are

unable to perform due to any reason, we

should tell the concerned people as


9

soon as we can. If we make a mistake, we

should accept responsibility and learn from

it. Performing lower than our ability and

need of the situation is insulting our duty.

At the same time we should avoid

being attached to our work, achievements

and business. Always remind ourselves that

we are only taking care of something on

behalf of God who gave us the work and

skill. No success or achievement is ours and

we are nothing without Him.

2. Being kind: Taking the above

point forward, we should pay close attention

to each of our actions and find out how they

affect others. We must always be considerate

to people around us and cause no or least

inconvenience to them. We must never hurt

others or deprive others of anything that

rightfully belongs to them. Let us start with

our family, neighbors, colleagues and fellow

citizens.

For example, when driving vehicle

don't honk unnecessarily or jump a signal,

stopping those who have the right of way;

never be rude to others; follow queue system

wherever needed, which is a way of giving

equal opportunity to everyone; when getting

up early in the morning for meditation, let us

make sure that it does not disturb others in

our home or neighborhood; When using

common facilities like parks, footpaths,

restaurants or Ashram, always try to leave

the place the way you would like to find it. It

also means that we don't ignore our duties

towards our families when we meditate or

visit ashram. And we can go a step further to

continually trying to improve lives of people

around us, by understanding and foreseeing

their needs and fulfilling them.

3. Being organized disciplined

and clean: Cleaning our mind begins with

cleaning and organizing the place we live

and work in. Let us always be organized in

handling all our tasks. Keep a list of things

to do and work on it. Avoid wasting time on

things such as unwanted gossip or over-

sleeping. Let us be good at managing time

and task, which helps us do more things in

less time and leaves us with more time for

our sadhana.

Never keep unwanted or unused

things in our desk, home or car. Clutter and

chaos attract negative energy. They also

show us how easily we get attached to things

and refuse to discard them even when we

don't use them. Let us start with our attics,

lofts, storerooms and cupboards. If there is

anything that we have not used over a year, it

must be discarded or, if in good condition,

donated. It helps us bring in freshness and

learn to be detached.

Let us watch what we do with our

senses. For what we see, eat, feel or say

directly affects our spiritual growth. Let us

be graceful in our thoughts and deeds. It

brings beauty to our character and paves

way to quicker progress on our path.

(Contd to Page no. 16)


10

SHIVARATRI SPECIAL QUIZ (FOR CHILDREN):

1. In Hindu Mythology, Lord Shiva is considered to be the God of

A. Creation B. Destruction

C. Preservation D. Happiness.

2. Along with Lord Shiva, which other two Gods are parts of the Holy

Hindu Trinity?

A. Bramha & Ganesha B. Ganesha & Durga

C. Ganesha & Vishnu

D. Bramha & Vishnu

3.

The dancing posture of Lord Shiva is represented as

A.

Nataraja

B.

Shankara

C.

Trinetra

D.

Bolenath

4.

Which of these is not a name of Lord Shiva?

A. Manmohan

B. Neelakantha

C. Eshwara

D. Mahadeva

5.

Who is the divine consort of Lord Shiva?

A.

Mohini

B.

Parvathi

C.

Urv ashi

D.

Seetha

Ans:

1. (B) 2. (D) 3. (A) 4. (A) 5.(B)

KNOWLEDGE HATS


11

CONQUER YOURSELF

YOUTH SPECIAL

As human beings, what do we want in Life?

We want success, peace of mind and happiness!

Conquer yourself for self improvement, to achieve success, experience peace of

mind and find happiness.

In today's fast-paced world, man is always under stress to stay in tune with life.

He wants to conquer everybody and everything around him, little realizing that

conquering himself is the key to spiritual success, peace of mind and find happiness.

There comes a time in life, when man realizes that the external world is no

longer interesting and does not give him peace of mind and happiness. He

understands that there is something more to life and starts analyzing him or starts

looking within. This is the beginning to conquer himself. This is the beginning for

conquering peace and happiness.

Just as your shadow follows you wherever you go, your thoughts are always

with you, wherever you are; be it home, at work or the Himalayas. Hence conquering

yourself is of prime importance. It is a mind game.

Attitude, mind-set or your way of thinking is of fundamental importance for self

improvement. As in the case of your attire for your outer-self, spend enough time to

choose and maintain the right attitude for your inner-self. This can make or break

you.

Attitude change required in personal life

We should play to win and not just participate. If you are not playing to win,

why play at all? We are playing the game of life – not in the Olympics – where the

motto is to participate irrespective of success or failure. We have to win the game of

life. Enjoy what you do, even if you do not have the option of doing what you want.

You should love your work and be totally involved and committed to it. Be

enthusiastic and energetic at work. Be positive about what you do and the output will

be positive too.


12

Gender equality in social life

Husband and wife are equals. No one-upmanship please. Husband and wife

should jointly pull the cartload of life. Man and woman are created differently but

definitely are equals.

Lifestyle change for spiritual success

We must use our sixth sense. Do not blame fate for everything. Prayers are

important but remember GOD helps people who help themselves. We need to do our

part.

After choosing the right attitude, we need to have a worthy purpose in life. We

should not drift in life. Our life's purpose must be such that our achievement should

outlive our lives. It should be beneficial to our family, our organization and society.

Next, we should set ourselves realistic goals in life – short term, mid-term and long

term with definite periods and review them periodically to see if we are on the right

track.

Once we have a worthy purpose and goal, life becomes meaningful. We must

try to realize our purpose and goal with a burning desire to achieve and win.

The burning desire within us should be fed with the fuel of perseverance with a

never-say-die attitude. However, always leave the end result gracefully to GOD!

Remember, it is your life. Decide what you want to do with it. Take charge and hold

yourself responsible and no one else. Success, peace of mind and happiness will

follow.

SADGURU GOD IN HUMAN FORM

Hinduism lays greatest emphasis to surrender to Sadguru. The Sadguru means God

in human form. He/she is not like any ordinary learned person but he/she is God in a

human body. Many times some Sadgurus speak very less but that does not mean that

they know lesser than those who speak volumes. Rather a Sadguru will bring

changes in your mind, heart and body that are revolutionary. You can feel the

changes that are permanent and can be difficult to describe. A single word spoken by

a Sadguru can change your life forever. a simple touch can change your life forever

and sometimes Sadguru brings about changes in you without showing any outward

sign. Surrender to Sadguru is most important.


13

Many people love the tarty flavor of lemon juice in their dishes. But have

you ever wondered that you can put this lemon juice to many more good

uses than this?

There are enormous benefits to be drawn from the consumption of lemon

juice and water in your everyday life. You simply need to arm yourself

with the relevant knowledge and you will soon start valuing this

amalgamation more than ever.

Lemon is an inexpensive, easily-available citrus fruit, popular for its culinary and

medicinal uses. It is used to prepare a variety of food recipes such as lemon cakes, lemon

chicken and beverages like lemonade and lemon-flavored drinks. It is also used for

garnishing.

Lemon juice consists of about 5 percent citric acid that gives a tarty taste to lemon. It

is a rich source of Vitamin C. It also contains vitamins like Vitamin B, riboflavin and

minerals like calcium, phosphorus and magnesium as well as proteins and carbohydrates.

Lemon is generally consumed in the form of lemon juice or lemon water. Lemon water is a

healthy drink, especially when taken in the morning. Daily consumption of lemon water

provides a number of health benefits:

1. It is good for the stomach

Lemon can help relieve many digestive problems when mixed with hot water. These

include nausea, heartburn and parasites. Due to the digestive qualities of lemon juice,

symptoms of indigestion such as heartburn, bloating and belching are relieved. By drinking

lemon juice regularly, the bowels are aided in eliminating waste more efficiently. Lemon

acts as a blood purifier and as a cleansing agent.

The intake of lemon juice can cure constipation. It is even known to help relieve hiccups

when consumed as a juice. Lemon juice acts as a liver tonic and helps you digest your food

by helping your liver produce more bile. It decreases the amount of phlegm produced by

your body. It is also thought to help dissolve gallstones.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF LEMON WATER

-Dr. Anuradha Kamath


14

2. Excellent for skin-care

Lemon, being a natural antiseptic

medicine, can participate to cure problems

related to the skin. Lemon is a Vitamin C-

rich citrus fruit that enhances your beauty

by rejuvenating skin from within and thus

bringing a glow to your face.

Daily consumption of lemon water can

make a huge difference in the appearance of

your skin. It acts as an anti-aging remedy

and can remove wrinkles and blackheads.

Lemon water, if applied to areas of burns

can fade the scars. As lemon is a cooling

agent, it reduces the burning sensation on

the skin.

3. Aids in dental care

Lemon water is used in dental care also.

If fresh lemon juice is applied on areas of

toothache, it can assist in getting rid of the

pain. Massaging lemon juice into the gums

can stop gum bleeding. It gives relief from

bad smell and other problems related to the

gums.

4. Cures throat infections

Lemon is an excellent fruit that aids in

fighting problems related to throat

infections, sore throat and tonsillitis as it

has an antibacterial property. For sore throat,

dilute one-half lemon juice with one-half

water and gargle frequently.

5. Good for weight-loss

One of the major health benefits of

drinking lemon water is that it paves the way

towards losing weight faster, thus acting as a

great weight-loss remedy. If a person takes

lemon juice mixed with lukewarm water and

honey, it can reduce the body weight as well.

6. Controls high blood pressure

Lemon water works wonders for people

having heart problems, owing to its high

potassium content. It controls high blood

pressure, dizziness, nausea as well as provides

relaxation to the mind and body. It also

reduces mental stress and depression.

7. Assists in curing respiratory disorders

Lemon water assists in curing

respiratory problems, along with breathing

problems and revives a person suffering from

asthma.

8. Good for treating rheumatism

Lemon is also a diuretic and hence lemon

water can treat rheumatism and arthritis. It

helps to flush bacteria and toxins out of the

body.

9. Reduces fever

Lemon water can treat a person who is

suffering from cold, flu or fever. It helps to

break fever by increasing perspiration.


15

10. Acts as a blood purifier

Diseases like cholera or malaria can be

treated with lemon water as it is a blood

purifier How much lemon water should I

drink? In case you are in good health and

weigh 70 kgs or less, it is advisable for you to

have the juice of half a lemon squeezed into

one glass of water, twice daily. However,

ifyou weigh more than 70 kgs, the juice of

one whole lemon in a glass of water is

preferable. For maximum benefit, this

mixture should be taken twice a day,

although you may dilute more lemon juice

according to your taste if you wish.

Do not remain oblivious to gifts of nature

such as this -- always try to make the most

of them. Make it a part of your daily routine

to drink a glass of warm lemon water in the

morning, so that the gateway to its many

benefits opens up to you.

Continued from Page 9

4. Being law-abiding: It is also very important to adhere to personal and

professional ethical and moral principles. Similarly, let us follow the rules of the

society we live in, like those enforced by government authorities or the company we

work for or the place we visit, like an Ashram or school, which bring in harmony and

peace to the society. Breaking the rules and flaunting it is not what is expected of a

true sadhaka. For example, it means that we don't break rules of Ashram based on the

number of years of our acquaintance with Guruji.

5. Being independent: In our day-to-day activities let us find out how we are

dependent on others, emotionally or otherwise. Let us try to decrease our dependency

on others as much as we can. Dependency increases attachment and laziness. Being

independent creates space [for us and others around us] and helps us to be detached

and to attain self-confidence. We can start with our parents, spouse and children.

Remember Guruji's teachings about differentiating between love and attachment.

(To be continued….)


16

ACUPRESSURE

Padma Srinivasan

Acupressure is an ancient healing art using the

fingers to gradually press key healing points,

which stimulate the body's natural self-curative

abilities. Acupressure was developed in Asia over

5,000 years ago. Using the power and sensitivity

of the hand, Acupressure Therapy is effective in

the relief of stress-related ailments, and is ideal for

self-treatment and preventive health care for

boosting the immune system. Acupressure

releases tension, increases circulation, reduces pain, and develops spirituality and

vibrant health.

Living with Stress can exhaust your vital energy, affecting the quality of

your life. Stress causes shallow breathing, which can lead to irritability, frustration,

and eventually chronic fatigue. Many people turn to unhealthy habits like smoking,

overeating, and alcoholic drinking to counteract stress. Instead, you can use

Acupressure point therapy and Yoga Therapy to manage stress and enhance your life.

Tension tends to concentrate around the acupressure points (also called

pressure points, trigger points, or acupoints). When a muscle is in spasm or chronically

tense, the muscle fibers contract due to the secretion of lactic acid caused by fatigue,

trauma, stress factors, chemical imbalances, or poor circulation. As an Acupressure

point is held, the muscle tension yields to the finger pressure, enabling the muscle fibers

to elongate and relax, blood to flow freely, and toxins to be released and eliminated.

Increased circulation from relieving stress also brings more oxygen and other nutrients

to affected areas. This increases the body's resistance to illness and promotes a longer,

healthier, more vital life. When the blood and bioelectrical energy circulate properly,

there is a greater sense of harmony, health, and well-being.


17

SOME OF THE ACUPRESSURE POINTS HAVE BEEN DEPICTED IN THE DIAGRAM BELOW

:

Acupressure Techniques:

Firm pressure is the most fundamental technique. Use thumbs, fingers, palms,

the side of the hand, or knuckles to apply steady, stationary pressure. To relax an area or

relieve pain, apply pressure gradually and hold without any movement for several

minutes at a time. One minute of steady pressure (when applied gradually) calms and

relaxes the nervous system, promoting greater healing. To stimulate the area, apply

pressure for only four or five seconds.

Slow motion kneading uses the thumbs and fingers along with the heels of the

hands to squeeze large muscle groups firmly The motion is similar to that of kneading a

large mass of dough. Simply lean the weight of your upper body into the muscle as you

press to make it soft and pliable. This relieves general stiffness, shoulder and neck

tension, constipation, and spasms in the calf muscles.

RIGHT PALM LEFT PALM


18

Brisk rubbing uses friction to stimulate the blood and lymph. Rub the skin lightly to

relieve chilling, swelling, and numbness by increasing circulation, as well as to benefit

the nerves and tone of the skin.

Quick tapping with fingertips stimulates muscles on unprotected, tender areas of the

body such as the face. For larger areas of the body, such as the back or buttocks, use a

loose fist. This can improve the functioning of nerves and sluggish muscles in the area.

CERTAIN PRECAUTIONS:

vApply finger pressure in a slow, rhythmic manner to enable the layers of tissue

and the internal organs to respond. Never press any area in an abrupt, forceful, or

jarring way.

vBurns & infections: Do not work directly on a serious burn, an ulcerous

condition, or an infection: for these conditions, medical care alone is indicated.

vScars and injuries: Do not work directly on a recently formed scar. During the

first month after an injury or operation, do not apply pressure directly on the

affected site. However, gentle continuous holding a few inches away from the

periphery of the injury will stimulate the area and help it heal.

SPIRITUALITY AND ACUPRESSURE

Using the healing touch of acupressure can also be a practical way of deepening your

spiritual life. By lightly touching the Third Eye Point Forehead region, for a couple of

minutes, you can enhance your inner awareness. If you want to progress further,

meditate on this point for five to ten minutes each day, and within a few weeks, you may

notice that your intuition will begin to increase. Concentrating on the Third Eye Point

while touching it lightly with your eyes closed, can nourish your spiritual nature and

increase intuition. Using this as a meditation practice, twice a week or more, will

develop your intuitive healing skills.

Spirituality is not disembodied; the most powerful spiritual experiences

are rooted in one's body. When you close your eyes and lightly touch the Third Eye

Point, and completely focus your attention on that spot between the eyebrows. You can

feel intensely awareness of how body responds, how you're breathing feels. As you

sense the blood pulsing throughout the body, you would experience the flow of life

energy. And if when you continue breathing deeply, sitting with your spine straight, you

will be aware of every part of the body at once - as a harmonious, unified presence.

When you meditate, this often leads to a powerful sense of oneness with the world.

Acupressure's potent power can heal us both physically and spiritually.


19

By stages, Samban -

dhar reached Thiru

Alankadu, the holy

place where Karaikkal

Ammaiyar Nayanar

"walked" on her head,

not wishing to pollute

the place. Sambandhar

too, did not enter the place, but had the

darshan of the Lord in his dream.

Sambandhar then went to Kalahasthi

and had the vision of Kannappar Nayanar and

also of Kailasa, Ketharam, Gokarnam,

Thirupatham, Indraneela Parvatham, etc.

Sambandhar then came to Thiru-Votriyur.

In Mylapore, there lived a merchant

by name Sivanesar who was a siva bhakta. In

answer to his sincere prayer, Lord Siva

blessed him with a female child. They named

her Poompavai. She was very beautiful.

Sivanesar heard of Sambandhar's greatness

and felt that Sambandhar was the only

suitable match for his daughter. Mentally, he

had offered her to Sambandhar.

One day when Poompavai was

gathering flowers in the garden, she was

bitten by a poisonous snake and she died.

Sivanesanar even announced that he would

give any amount of money to anyone who

SAINTS OF TAMIL NADU – 4 THIRUGNANA SAMBANDAR

(CONTD) - Ramakrishnan

would revive her — but it was of no use. Then

he recollected that he had mentally offered

her to Sambandhar. This made him more

courageous. He at once cremated the body of

the girl, collected the ashes, and preserved

them in a pot. Daily he would decorate the pot

with flowers, etc., and meditate on

Sambandhar. The news that Sambandhar was

staying at Thiruvotriyur reached the

merchant. At once he erected a big pandal

from Mylapore to Thiruvotriyur. Followed by

Siva bhaktas, Sivanesar began to proceed

towards Thiruvotriyur to meet Sambandhar.

Meanwhile, Sambandhar was coming

towards Mylapore . S ivanesar and

Sambandhar met each other on the way.

Sambandhar had heard about Sivanesar and

his worship of the pot, which contained the

ashes of his daughter. He wanted to please

Sivanesar by bringing the girl back to life.

They reached Mylapore, worshipped the

Lord, sang hymns and came out of the temple.

Sambandhar then asked Sivanesar to bring

forth the pot of ashes. Sambandhar addressed

the pot, "Oh Poompavai, the very purpose of

human birth in this world is to serve the Lord

and His devotees, and to feast the eyes by

seeing the festivals of Lord Siva. If this is true,

arise in the presence of all. Are you going

away without seeing the festival?”


20To be continued...........

In the previous

issue, we narrated

about the story of

Vishnu Chittar or

Periyazhwar and

A n d a l ' s b i r t h .

Andal was found

under a Tulasi bush in the flower

garden of Vishnu Chittar. Vishnu

Chittar took the child and laid her at

the feet of Vadabhatra sayee, the Deity

of the local temple in Srivalliputhur. A

Heavenly voice was heard, “Vishnu

Chitta, call this divine child. 'Kodai'.

Kodai means in Tamil one who has

beautiful hair. (KO means the 'earth' da

means 'given by') Another meaning is

'beautiful' just like a garland of

beautiful flowers. She is also called as

Andal.

Vishnu Chittar always used to

tell the stories of Balakrishnan to

Andal. Like his chitta always dwelled in

Lord Krishna, the same way he brought

her up also. She developed lot of love

towards Lord Ranganatha from the

childhood itself. She did not play like

other girls, but instead, collected

flowers and made garlands for the Lord

like her father. She worked in the flower

garden with her father and continuously

sang the glory of the Lord. She also found

delight in reading and hearing the Puranas.

She was intensely devoted to Lord

Ranganatha of Srirangam, to whom she had

dedicated her life. She reached the pinnacle

of Madhurya Bhava- the attitude of a lover

towards his beloved.

One day she asked her father,

“How can I reach Krishna? He replied, “In

Br indavan Gopis were observed

'kathyayani nonbu'. (To perform prapatti to

the Lord and seek refuge at His Lotus feet).

In the month of Markazhi (Mid Dec to mid

Jan), they woke up early in the morning

(Brahmi muhurtham – 3 AM) and had bath

and sang Lord's Glory. They had

surrendered their body, mind and intellect

to God and lived to seek the Supreme. If

you do so like Gopis, you may get the

blessing of Lord Krishna.” So, she acted as

advised by her father. Villputhur became

like Brindavan to Andal. She regarded

other women as Gopis and called upon

t h e m t o w o r s h i p S r i K r i s h n a .

Vatapatrasayee became Sri Krishna and her

friends, the Gopis.

WOMEN IN SPIRITUALITY – IXANDAL Part - 2


21

With them she enacted

scenes from the life of

Sri BalaKrishna. She

was always merged

w i t h t h e K r i s h n a

Consciousness She

meditated and in the

Samadhi s tate , she

composed the poem, which had disclosed her

passionate yearning for Lord Krishna. Andal

grew up with great amount of Bhakthi for

Krishna (Ranganathan). Her love for the Lord

was so much that she even wished to marry

Him. She took a vow to marry Him only, and

could not think of getting married to any other

person.

Andal addressed other women as

Gopis, saying to them, “Wake up, O lovely

ones of Brindavan! Birds have started to sing,

the temple conch is being blown. Do you not

hear the sound? Do you not hear the sound of

beautiful poems; Tirupavai and Naacchiar

Tirumozhi gives a detailed description of such

scenes, and are filled with great sweetness and

charm. Andal was like a Gopi-loving and

longing for Krishna as the Gopis had done.

Tirupavai is compilation of 30 verses, in which

she has placed herself as a Gopika Stree who is

longing to serve Lord Krishna. The second

compilation is known as Nachiar Tirumozhi,

consisting of 143 verses. Through the curd

being churned by the Gopis? Are you

deaf ? Let us take bath in the sparkling

Yamuna River and behold Lord Krishna,

the flute-bearer of Brindavan, the joy of

Yasodha.. Let us worship Him with fresh

flowers. Wake Up! Do not sleep anymore.

Open your door as the lotus opens.Are you

still sleeping? Shame! Arise! Be quick!

Brahmimuhutra will fly away. This is the

best time for singing the Lord's glory and

for prayer and meditation.”

Spiritual Quotes

- Swami Vivekananda

We are responsible for what we are, and whatever we wish ourselves to be, we

have the power to make ourselves. If what we are now has been the result of our

own past actions, it certainly follows that whatever we wish to be in future can

be produced by our present actions; so we have to know how to act .

(To Be Continued….)


22

OPINION OF PARTCIPANTS OF KRIYA YOGA

17.1.2011 TO 21.01.2011

1 We came to the Ashram from Austria

with an aim to develop Spirituality I got

few experiences here and learnt

wonderful Kriya technique which I

practice in future from now on.

2 Four Kriyas which were covered were

taught very well, with sincere care given

to ensure that students did not pain

themselves to the point of discomfort.

The Yogasana classes in the early

morning were also very well conducted.

They were general and informative and

also made sitting in Meditation more

comfortable. Another aspect of the

Ashram that was very endearing to

observe was the splendid life that the

Ashram's cow herd are living. The

Ashramites clearly love and respect their

cows, and a positive calm aura pervades

the whole place. The meals provided

were also nutritious. I was very pleased

to see that overall, the management

people were warm hearted and

responsible with regard to the well being

of the course participants. I am happy to

see that this technique with a global

audience making yoga Universal

again…… as it should be, as it is.

3 An excellent beneficial, relaxing program.

Biggest learning for me was 'Shoonya

Dhyna' with zero thought state. The mantra

chanting sessions in the morning were very

soothing. The food was very good. On the

whole, the program was a memorable

experience. Thanks to everybody.

4 Arrangements were excellent. I felt I was in

a different world.

5 It was wonderful session for me this time. I

felt that the whole world has joined hands to

teach me Kriya and happiness. All I can say

is thank you to all wonderful people, with

salutations to our Pujya Guruji.

6 Hari Om. I like this ashram. Nature is

beautiful and very peaceful. The teachers

were very good and co-operative. Guruji's

session were very informative, meaningful

for sadhana we get peace when we sit in

front of Guruji.

7 Sadguruji is next to God. The four Kriya

yoga sessions were conducted excellently.

The residential arrangements were very

good. Overall excellent. My life has

become PAVAN by blessings of Guruji.


23

8. Dear Gurji, many thanks for your

wonderful guidance. For the last 7-8 years I

have been searching for this and feel I have

reached the right destination. Kriya yoga

with mediation taught by you has been a

wonderful experience. I shall pursue this

path, I shall request others to follow.

9. Thank you, the Ashram, Guruji and

learning about Kriya has been so great,

words cannot describe how I am feeling. I

have felt amazingly welcomed, and well

taken care of. You have made such a great

effort to give translations. The teaching is

divine and easy to understand, because they

come from the Universe. You also did a good

job in teaching and showing in practice how

Kriya yoga has an effect on us. I love you so

much.

10. We are very fortunate to participate in the

camp, doing Kriya was a great experience. I

have seen lot of love in all the people, all your

staff. Teachers are very co-operative and kind

hearted. I will give same guru mantra to others,

that we are here only to love each other and also

take care of Nature's creation. Thanks for your

hospitality. Jai Gurudev!

11. The ashram is abounding with natural

beauty. Atmosphere is very good with positive

vibrations. Here is lot of love and only love. The

unwanted thoughts have reduced. My mind is

more peaceful from meditation. I feel

physically relaxed. I will practice Kriya yoga

hence forth.

Spiritual Quotes

Keep your thoughts positive because your thoughts become your words.

Keep your words positive because your words become your behaviors.

Keep your behaviors positive because your behaviors become your habits.

Keep your habits positive because your habits become your values. Keep

your values positive because your values become your destiny.

-Mahatma Gandhiji


24

st 1 - Between 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Mruthunjaya homa was performed in

presence of Poojya Guruji. The Homa was

sponsored by Smt Vani Sarathy, Nigeria.

Following this Sanjeevini, Pranayama was

conducted. Whole night Meditation was

held in the presence of Pujya Guruji from

9:00pm.

nd2 - Satchintana program was

conducted by Bangalore Satsang. Poojya

Guruji and Satsang young dhyanabandhus

inaugurated the program at 9:30am by

lighting the lamp. First Kriya of Sri Shakti

Darshan Kriya was held. After juice break,

meditation continued till 1 pm. After lunch

break the satsang members sang few

bhajans. Poojya Guruji later answered

questions of the meditators. After a brief

laughing session & meditation, the program

concluded with distribution of Prasad.

rd th3 to 7 - “Premadhara” Silence

mediation camp was held in the presence of

Poojya Guruji. About 10 meditators

participated.

th rd8 & 23 - Kriya Yoga Punashchetana

was conducted. About 14 & 68 meditators

respectively participated.

Ashram's Programs held in January 2011th

8 - Poojya Guruji conducted satsang & th th th

meditation program for 8 , 9 & 10 standard

students of Sri Kumaraswamy High School,

Kukke Subramanya. About 200 students got

benefit of this program. From 1:30pm to

2:30pm, Poojya Guruji held discussions with

the teachers highlighting the importance of

cordial relationship between them & the

students. Between 2:30pm to 4:00pm parents

of the students had useful discussions with

Poojya Guruji.

t h9 - P o o j y a G u r u j i a t t e n d e d

Mahasatsang organized by Dr. Shashidhar and

Dr. Anupama Shashidhar at Hasanadka

Wellness Centre, Kajemoole near Bellare,

Sullia. After the lightning of the lamp by

Poojya Guruji, Dr. Shashidhar conducted the

first kriya of Shakti Darshan Kriya Yoga. After

a short juice break and meditation Poojya

Guruji, blessed the gathering. After lunch

break Poojya Guruji answered the questions

of meditators. The program concluded with

distribution of Prasad.

th11 - At 5:00pm Poojya Guruji attended

Surathkal satsang organized by Smt Prema

Narayan. About 50 Participants attended.

t h16 - Kundalini Beeja Mantra

Punashchetana was conducted. About 26

meditators participated.


25

th st17 to 21 - Kriya Yoga camp was conducted

(in Kannada & English languages) by

Dharwad Satsang. About 52 participants

attended the camp.

th th 17 & 24 - 20 & 34 members respectively

took the opportunity of public consultation

with Poojya Guruji.

th30 - Satsang was conducted by Smt Bharathi

V Murty at her residence “Belli Chukki” in

Manur near Kundapur.

Poojya Guruji started the satsang by lighting

the lamp, the satsang members introduced

themselves to the gathering. After meditation,

Bhajans were sung by the satsang members.

Post lunch, Poojya Guruji answered the

questions of the participants. The program

concluded at 3:00pm after distribution of

prasadam.

th30 - Between 4:00pm to 6:00pm Poojya

Guruji conducted a meditation session at Smt.

Pushpa Rajagopal's residence 'Sri Krishna' at

"Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless

it agrees with your own reason and your own common

sense." -Buddha (536 B.C.-483 B.C.)


26

Statement of Ownership and other Particulars of the Newspaper

Entitled SHRI SHAKTI DARSHAN (English)

R.N.I. No KAR ENG /01/126421

(To be published in the first issue every year after the last day of February)

Form IV (See Rule 8)

1. Place of Publication

Shri Shakti Darshan Yogashram ( R )

Yelathur Kinnigoli – 574150 ( D.K )

2. Periodicity of Publication Monthly

3. Printer’s Name

Whether Citizen of India

Address

Arvind

Yes

Brindavan Printers & Publishers Pvt

Ltd

No 39/2-1 Kalyani Garden,B. S. K Ist

Stage

Bangalore – 560050

4. Publisher’s Name

Whether Citizen of India Address

Srinivasa Bhargav M.K.

Yes No. 90 2nd Cross 3rd Stage, 3rd Phase,

5th Block B.S.K. Bangalore - 560085 5. Editor’s Name Whether Citizen of India Address

Srinivasa Bhargav M.K. Yes No. 90 2nd Cross 3rd Stage, 3rd Phase,

5th Block B.S.K. Bangalore - 560085 6. Names and Address of individuals

who own the newspaper and partners

or Shareholders holding more than

one percent of the total paid up capital

Shri Shakti Darshan Yogashram ( R ) Yelathur Kinnigoli – 574150 ( D. K )

I, SRINIVASA BHARGAV M.K. Hereby declare that the particulars given above are true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Date 01.03.2011.

( Sd )SRINIVASA BHARGAV M.K.

(Signature of Publisher)


27

Registered with RNI. Under No. KAR KAN/01/10750Regd. No. : MNG/957/2009-11Posted at Kinnigoli Post Office

Date of Posting : 29/30th of every month

SHRI SHAKTIDARSHAN (KANNADA MONTHLY)

Registered with RNI. Under No. KAR ENG/01/126421Regd. No. : MNG/957/2009-11Posted at Kinnigoli Post Office

Date of Posting : 29/30th of every month

SHRI SHAKTIDARSHAN (ENGLISH MONTHLY)

²æÃ ±ÀQÛzÀ±Àð£ÀCzsÁåvÀä¯ÉÆÃPÀzÀ eÁÕ£À ¢Ã«UÉ

gÀÆ. 15/- ¸ÀA¥ÀÅl 10 ¸ÀAaPÉ 6 ªÀiÁZïð 2011

SHRI SHAKTIDARSHANA Magazine dedicated to Yoga and Meditation

Volume - X Issue - VI March - 2011Rs. 10/-

shri shaktidarshan march 2011 shri shaktidarshan …yogashram.in/magazines/mar2011.pdf · 19 - 23...

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