”The basic cause for all types of fear is lack of Self-knowledge—knowledge of the indestructible Self that can never perish and is immortal. If that is realized, even the fear of death is no more. Once you get over the fear of death, you are not afraid of anything.“–Swami Satchidananda
(photo: Swami Satchidananda at a Catholic monastery, Italy, early 1970s).
I realize that there are a number of people who do not believe in a God who is “sitting somewhere, out there.” “What is this God?'', they ask me. “Is God going to come running just because I cry?” I do not believe in such a God either. I think that God is everywhere and has no name or form, no limitations like that. God is Consciousness Itself. In that case you might ask, “Then what is the purpose of prayer? How can you say God is going to hear our prayers and answer them?” MORE
I tend to be an obsessive thinker. I can remember times when obsessive thinking distracted me from work and studies, movies and conversations. I even told myself, “Hey, you’re sabotaging your own fun!” But then I returned to obsessing. And the stuff I obsess over is often ridiculous. Like “I let that 40 percent-off coupon from CVS expire!” And that spirals into “see ya shoulda set an alarm to use it,” or “I can’t believe I forgot!” I can ruin my whole day this way. Enter sutra 2.33... MORE
In this inspiring and informative video, Integral Yoga's renowned Yoga MD, Dr. Sandra Amrita McLanahan, gives an overview of the health benefits of Yoga. She goes through each of the body's physiological systems to highlight these benefits. Citing the latest research, Dr. Amrita demonstrates who Yoga's efficacy is gaining more and more recognition as lifestyle medicine and Yoga therapy enter the medical mainstream.
South Indian Tamil Nadu's verdant landscapes, nestled amid swaying coconut palms, is the setting for the village of Chettipalaym, Sri Gurudev’s birthplace. His parents were both devout practitioners of Tamil Shaivism, the predominant religion of Tamil Nadu. The stories and poetry of the Nayanars, the Tamil poet-saints, date back to the 6th century and helped shape the devotional and philosophical aspects of Tamil Shaivism. The inspiration flowing from this sacred literature filled the family home.MORE
Michael Grosso began studying with Swami Nada Brahmananda and found his life profoundly changed. Sharing the lessons of Sri Swamiji, as well as painting a vivid portrait of New York City in the 1970s—and its vibrant and chaotic underground arts and music scene—Grosso explores Sri Swamiji’s approach to Nada Yoga in depth in his new bookYoga of Sound: The Life and Teachings of the Celestial Songman, Swami Nada Brahmananda. Read an exclusive excerpt here.
Join Integral Yoga teacher Zac Parker in this 18 minute guided meditation utilizing the mantra Om. This mantra is considered to be the primordial sound of the universe, representing the essence of existence and the ultimate reality. When meditating on Om, practitioners feel they are connecting with this universal energy, aligning their individual consciousness with the Cosmic Consciousness. MORE
Yoga, historically a spiritual and meditative discipline, was crafted to guide us toward enlightenment through a profound connection between mind, body, and spirit. In the realm of Yoga philosophy, practitioners explore enduring questions about identity, purpose, and existence. The Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutras, Tantras, Puranas, and Hatha Yoga Pradipika offer diverse perspectives and guidance. A new book highlights how to bring these texts to daily Yoga practice.MORE
Join Satchidananda Ashram–Yogaville's annual Maha Shivaratri celebration on Saturday, March 9th at 9 pm ET. Maha Shivaratri celebrates the triumph of the Light of Wisdom over the darkness of spiritual ignorance. Celebrating Maha Shivaratri helps remind us that steadfast devotion to the Light of Wisdom leads to inner peace and spiritual awakening. Enjoy the night of kirtans, pujas, stories, and more in-person or online here (or later via the Livestream archive).
