Sri Swami Sivananda said that our suffering brings out the essence in us, just as an herb releases its fragrance when crushed. Diamonds are formed through intense pressure.... The entire human race is suffering today and heroes are being born. Who will we be on “the day after” this pandemic? Can we allow ourselves to be refined and strengthened? Is there a little bit of heroism in us? What will it take for us to “step up” and practice Yoga in a way that will meet the demands of the day?  MORE

One of Buddhism’s most respected teachers in the West shares her initial experiences with lovingkindness meditation and the value of beginner’s mind.
IYM: One of your main teachers was Sayadaw U Pandita?
Sharon Salzberg: I first met Sayadaw U Pandita when he came to our center in Barre, Massachusetts to teach a three-month retreat. We met with him six days a week to describe our practice.... His teaching style was such that he’d say the same thing again and again until something shifted in you.  MORE

IYM: How can we stay spiritually sane in the midst of madness?
Phil Goldberg: Anxiety, fear, and other toxic emotions have been ramped up, and that makes taking refuge with spiritual practices that much more vital. The consistent use of effective methods such as deep meditation, mindfulness, prayer, Yoga, etc., doesn’t only offer temporary relief. Some of the peace and mental clarity sticks to us when we return to face the world.  MORE