Sreenivasam

Ashta Mutt 's of Udupi Sree Krishna

2012-01-15T22:22:00.000-08:00

Kaniyoor Mutt

When we come out of Sri Krishna Mutt and start going round the Car Street towards the East we come across the Kaniyur Mutt. The main branch of this Mutt is in the Kaniyour Village and hence that name. The original pontiff of this Mutt Sri Rama Tirtha was gifted with an idol of Yoga Narasimha of four hands seated on swastik symbol. The idol has sankha and cakra in two hands and the remaining two hands are placed on laps. The present swamiji Sri Vidya Vvarinidhi Tirtha is the 29th pontiff in the line. He was initiated when he was 11 years in the year 1942. vaisaakha bahula sasthi of Chitrabhanu samvatsara.

Sode Mutt

This is located in the Southeast corner of the Car Street. Before the time of Vadhiraja the main village branch of this Mutt was in Kumbhasi village. Hence it was known as Kumbhasi Mutt. Arasappa Navak of Sode honoured Vadiraja Swamiji by gifting land properties at Sode. Vadriraja Swamiji constructed a big Mutt there and renamed this Mutt as Sode Mutt. The main branches of all seven Mutts are in the villages of South Kanaka. But that of Sode Mutt alone is in the North Kanaka District.

The original pontiff of this Mutt started worshipping the idol of Bhuvaraha. Gifted by Sri Madhvacharya. The idol is known for its remarkable iconography with Bhuudeevi on one thigh and the other leg supporting on the hood of serpent. Along with Bhuvaraha idol of the personal god of Vadiraja namely Hayagriya is also worshipped. Sri Hayagriva is the presiding deity of knowledge and accordingly the idol has in hand the mudra of knowledge, book, rosary and conch. The 35th pontiff in the lineage Sri Vishvottama Tirtha Swamiji is the present head of the Mutt. He was initiated into the order at the age of 9 in the year 1943, the bhaadrapada suddha caturthi in the samvtsara svabhaaun.

Puttige Mutt

Next to Sode Mutt in the southern portion of the Car Street is Puttige Mutt. The main branch of this Mutt is in the village by name Puttige. The idol of Vithal with Rukmini and Satvabhama gifted to the first pontiff Sri Upendra Tirtha by the Acharya Madhva is worshipped here. The idol has a smiling face with conch in one hand. The other hand with abhaya mudra is placed on the waist. Since other two Mutts also have the idol of Vithala, the idol of this Mutt is known as Upendra Cvithala to distinguish this from the other idols as the one worshipped by the pontiff Upendra tirtha. The 29th swamiji in the lineage sri Sugunendra tirtha is the present pontiff. He was initiated into the order at the age of 13 on the 8th April, 1974.

Admar Mutt

Adamar Mutt is located in the South West corner of the car Street. The main branch of this Mutt is in the village known as Adamar.

The Acharya Madhva had gifted an idol of Kaliyamardana Krishna with four arms to Sri Narasimha (Narahari) Tirtha, the original swamiji of this Mutt. The idol depicts Lord Krishna with one leg on the serpent and with the other leg lifted up in a dancing pose. One hand is bent in a dancing pose and the other is holding the tail of the serpent. The other two hands are decorated with conch and the cakra.

Pejavur Mutt

By the side of admar Mutt in the western portion of the Car Street is Pejavar Mutt. The main branch of this Mutt is in the village by name Pejavar.

The idol worshipped here is that of Vithal with Sri Devi and Bhuu Devi gifted to the founder pontiff Sri Adhokshaja Tirtha by Sri Madhvacharya. This idol with its one hand placed on hips is also known as Aja Vithala to distinguish it from the other idols of Vithala. The idol worshipped by Adhokshaja Tirtha is rightly called Aja Vithala. Along with this, the idol of Sri Rama of Kanvatirtha is also worshipped. This is the idol worshipped by Sri Vijayadhvaja Tirtha.

Sri Vishvesha tirtha the 33rd pontiff in the lineage is the present swamiji. HE was initiated in his 8th year in 1938 (Bahudhaanya samvatsar Maargasiira Suddha dasami.)

He has initiated a junior swamiji to the order. His name is Sri Vishvavijya Tirtha. He was initiated in his 16th year in 1979 (siddhaarthi samvatsara vaisaakha suddha saptami)

Palimar Mutt

Beyond Sri Pejawar Mutt in the western Car Street there is Palimar Mutt by the side of the Kanakadasa Road. The chief branch of this Mutt is in the Palimar village.

The idol of Kodanda Rama with Lakshmana and Sita gifted by the Acharya Madhva to the first pontiff Sri Hrshikesha Tirtha is worshipped here. The idols of Rama and Lakshmana have bows and arrows in hands whereas that of Sita has lotus in hand. The 29th swamiji in the lineage Sri Vidyamanya Tirtha is the present pontiff. In the year 1969 the then Swamiji of Palimar Mutt renounced his seat and the swamiji of Sri Bhandarkeri Mutt accepted it and continuous to be in charge of both the Mutts. He has now initiated two junior swamijis for both the mutts under his charge; The junior swamiji of Palimar Mutt, Sri Vidhyadhisha Tirtha was initiated at the age of 24 years in the year 1979. (siddhaarthi samvatsara jyeestha suddha navami.)

Krishna Mutt

Sri Krishna Mutt is located in the northern side of the Car Street. The main branch of this mutt is in the village Krishnapura.

The idol of Kaliyamardana Krishna of two shoulders, gifted by the Acharya Madhva to the first pontiff Sri Janardana Tirtha of this Mutt is worshipped here. The idol has an attractive pose of child Krishna with his one leg on serpent Kalinga and another leg lifted up and holding the tail of the serpent in his left hand. The right hand has the mundra of abhaya to those who are afraid of the poison. At the request of Sri Janardana Tirtha the Acharya had given another idol of Ugra Narasimha also which has the pose of Narasimha keeping Hiranyakashipu on his laps and tearing away his intestines. Two hands operate at the chest of the enemy and the remaining six hands hold various weapons. At the foot of this
Eight-handed ferocious Narasimha is the tiny Prahlada standing with folded hands.

The 35th pontiff in the lineage Sri Vidyasagra Tirtha is the present chief of this Mutt. He was initiated in May 1970.

Shirur Mutt

To the east of Sri Krishna Mutt in front of the Kanaka’s shrine is located the Shirur Mutt. The main branch of this Mutt is in the village Shirur.

The idol of Vithala with Sri Devi and Bhudevi gifted by the Acharya to the first pontiff Sri Varmana Tirtha of this Mutt is worshipped here. To distinguish this Vithala from the other idols of Vithala, the name Varma Vithala is given to this idol.

The 30th pontiff in the lineage Sri Lakshmivara Tirtha is the present chief of this Mutt. He was initiated at the age of 8 years in june 1971.

Why we read the Bhagavat Geeta

2012-01-11T21:18:00.001-08:00

Why we read the Bhagavat Geeta, even if we can't understand it?

An old farmer lived on a farm in the mountains with his young grandson. Each morning, Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading his Bhagavat Geeta.

His grandson wanted to be just like him and tried to imitate him in every way he could.
...
One day the grandson asked, "Grandpa! I try to read the Bhagawat Geeta just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand, I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Bhagawat Geeta do?"

The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and

replied, "Take this coal basket down to the river and bring me back a basket of water."
The boy did as he was told, but all the water leaked out before he got back to the house.

The grandfather laughed and said, "You'll have to move a little faster next time," and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again.

This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was empty before here turned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was impossible to carry water in a basket, and he went to get a bucket instead.

The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You're just not trying hard enough," and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.

At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got back to the house. The boy again dipped the basket into river and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket was again empty.

Out of breath, he said, "SEE.... it is useless!"

"So you think it is useless?" The old man said, "Look at the basket."

The boy looked at the basket and for the first time realized that the basket was different. It had been transformed from a dirty old coal basket and was now clean, inside and out.

"Son, that's what happens when you read the Bhagavat Geeta. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, you will be changed, inside and out. That is the work of GOD in our lives."

This is beautiful story - if inspired please forward, else keep it can't say when it might inspire one.

5 Faces of Lord Shiva

2012-01-10T15:27:00.000-08:00

Ishaana:

Ishaana is the northeast face that is pointing towards the sky. With this face Shiva controls all forms of knowledge, physical appearance, creation etc.

Thathpurusha:

Thathpurusa is the eastern face of Shiva. Through this face he controls the human ego and the activities on the earth plane.

Aghora:

Aghora is the southern face. Through this face he controls the right-brain, emotions, dreams, heart and other realities.

Vama Deva:

Vama Deva is the northern face of Shiva. With the northern face he controls left-brain, logical thinking, speech, wealth, desire, sex etc.

Sadhyo Jata:

Sadhyo Jata is the western face of Shiva. He controls the occipital lobes in the brain, intuitive powers and ability to do things instantaneously.

Take Hold of Every Moment

2012-01-01T08:07:00.000-08:00

Take Hold of Every Moment

A friend of mine opened his wife's underwear drawer and picked up a silk paper wrapped package:

"This, - he said - isn't any ordinary package."

He unwrapped the box and stared at both the silk paper and the box.

"She got this the first time we went to New York, 8 or 9 years ago. She has never put it on. Was saving it for a special occasion.
Well, I guess this is it. He got near the bed and placed the gift box next to the other clothings he was taking to the funeral house, his wife had just died. He turned to me and said:

"Never save something for a special occasion. Every day in your life is a special occasion".

I still think those words changed my life.

Now I read more and clean less.

I sit on the porch without worrying about anything.

I spend more time with my family, and less at work.

I understood that life should be a source of experience to be lived up to, not survived through. I no longer keep anything. I use crystal glasses every day. I'll wear new clothes to go to the supermarket, if i feel like it.

I don't save my special perfume for special occasions, I use it whenever I want to. The words "Someday..." and "One Day..." are fading away from my dictionary. If it's worth seeing, listening or doing, I want to see, listen or do it now. I don't know what my friend's wife would have done if she knew she wouldn't be there the next morning, this nobody can tell. I think she might have called her relatives and closest friends.
She might call old friends to make peace over past quarrels. I'd like to think she would go out for Chinese, her favorite food. It's these small things that I would regret not doing, if I knew my time had come.

I would regret it, because I would no longer see the friends I would meet, letters... letters that i wanted to write

"One of this days".

I would regret and feel sad, because I didn't say to my brothers and sons, not times enough at least, how much

I love them.

Now, I try not to delay, postpone or keep anything that could bring laughter and joy into our lives.

And, on each morning, I say to myself that this could be a special day.

Each day, each hour, each minute, is special.
Each day, each hour, each minute, is special.

If you got this, it's because someone cares for you and because, probably, there's someone you care about.

If you're too busy to send this out to other people and you say to yourself that you will send it "One of these days", remember that "One day" is far away... or might never come...

This TANTRA came from India. No matter if you're superstitious or not, spend some time reading it.
It holds useful messages for the soul.

Don't keep this message.

This Tantra must leave your hands within 96 hours.

Send copies and watch what goes on in the next four days.

You'll have a pleasent surprise.

This is true, even if you're not superstitious.

Now, here's the fun of it:

send this message to at least 5 people and you're life improves.

0-4 people: your life improves slightly.

5-9 people: your life imnproves according to your expectations!

9-14 people: you'll have at least 5 surprises in the next 3 weeks.

15 or more people: your life improves drastically and your dreams start to take shape.

ASHTA DRAVYA GANAPATHY HOMAM : For Prosperity and removal of Obstacles

2011-12-31T11:04:00.000-08:00

Ashtadravya, or Ashtadravyam, are eight sacred puja items that are offered to Lord Ganesha during the special puja known as Ashta Dravya Mahaganapathy Homam.

Ashta Dravya Ganapathi Homam is offered to Lord Ganesh to get his blessings – who blesses with wealth, prosperity and long life, on the eve of every important occasions like purchase of new land, new academic day, birth day, marriage anniversary etc.

Homam, Ashtothara Archana and Ganapathy Sooktha Parayanam are performed on the eve of major operations for the welfare of those who undergo operations.

The very popular eight sacred things that are part of the Ashtadravya are:
1. Dried coconut,
2. Jaggery,
3. Sesame Oil,
4. Sugarcane,
5. Honey,
6. Rice flakes (Puffed rice, fried paddy of rice)
7. Banana
8. Ghee.

There may be some variations according to the region of practice.

Difference among CV Resume and Bio Data

2011-11-28T04:06:00.001-08:00

Difference among CV Resume and Bio Data

People use the words RESUME, C.V., and BIO-DATA interchangeably for the document highlighting skills, education, and experience that a candidate submits when applying for a job. On the surface level, all the three mean the same. However, there are intricate differences.

RESUME

Resume is a French word meaning "summary", and true to the word meaning, signifies a summary of one's employment, education, and other skills, used in applying for a new position. A resume seldom exceeds one side of an A4 sheet, and at the most two sides. They do not list out all the education and qualifications, but only highlight specific skills customized to target the job profile in question.

A resume is usually broken into bullets and written in the third person to appear objective and formal. A good resume starts with a brief Summary of Qualifications, followed by Areas of Strength or Industry Expertise in keywords, followed by Professional Experience in reverse chronological order. Focus is on the most recent experiences, and prior experiences summarized. The content aims at providing the reader a balance of responsibilities and accomplishments for each position. After Work experience come Professional Affiliations, Computer Skills, and Education.

C.V CURRICULUM VITAE

C.V is a Latin word meaning "course of life". Curriculum Vitae (C.V.) is therefore a regular or particular course of study pertaining to education and life. A CV is more detailed than a resume, usually 2 to 3 pages, but can run even longer as per the requirement. A CV generally lists out every skills, jobs, degrees, and professional affiliations the applicant has acquired, usually in chronological order. A CV displays general talent rather than specific skills for any specific positions.

BIO DATA

Bio Data the short form for Biographical Data, is the old-fashioned terminology for Resume or C.V. The emphasis in a bio data is on personal particulars like date of birth, religion, sex, race, nationality, residence, martial status, and the like. Next comes a chronological listing of education and experience. The things normally found in a resume, that is specific skills for the job in question comes last, and are seldom included. Bio-data also includes applications made in specified formats as required by the company.

A resume is ideally suited when applying for middle and senior level positions, where experience and specific skills rather than education is important. A C.V., on the other hand is the preferred option for fresh graduates, people looking for a career change, and those applying for academic positions. The term bio-data is mostly used in India while applying to government jobs, or when applying for research grants and other situations where one has to submit descriptive essays.

Resumes present a summary of highlights and allow the prospective employer to scan through the document visually or electronically, to see if your skills match their available positions. A good resume can do that very effectively, while a C.V. cannot. A bio-data could still perform this role, especially if the format happens to be the one recommended by the employer. Personal information such as age, sex, religion and others, and hobbies are never mentioned in a resume. Many people include such particulars in the C.V. However, this is neither required nor considered in the US market. A Bio-data, on the other hand always include such personal particulars.

Love Vs Marriage

2011-11-14T01:40:00.001-08:00

Love Vs Marriage

Love is holding hands in the street.

Marriage is holding arguments in the street.

Love is dinner for 2 in your favorite restaurant.

Marriage is a take home packet.

Love is cuddling on a sofa.

Marriage is one of them sleeping on a sofa.

Love is talking about having children.

Marriage is talking about getting away from children.

Love is going to bed early.

Marriage is going to sleep early.

Love is a romantic drive.

Marriage is arrive on tops curvy tarmac.

Love is losing your appetite.

Marriage is losing your figure.

Love is sweet nothing in the ear.

Marriage is sweet nothing in the bank.

Tv has no place in love.

Marriage is a fight for remote control.

Love is 1 drink and 2 straws.

Marriage is "Don't you think you've had enough!".

Conclusion: "Love is blind, Marriage is an eye opener!"

This is not my write up just like it hence posting here.

Reasons to quit smoking

2011-10-05T22:23:00.002-07:00

Smoking kills

One in two lifetime smokers will die from smoking.

Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, chronic bronchitis, asthma and emphysema.

Your smoking affects others too

Smoking around others can affect their health too.

For non-smokers, other people’s smoke can cause lung cancer and heart disease. It

can also irritate the nose, eyes and throat and lead to chronic coughing, phlegm production,

shortness of breath and chest illness.

Other people's smoke also increases the incidence of asthma attacks, especially in

children.

Smoking may make it harder for you to have a family

Men who smoke may suffer impotence and smoking can also affect sperm quality.

Women who smoke take longer to fall pregnant and are more likely to miscarry.

Mothers who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to have low birthweight babies,

and to give birth to babies who are premature, stillborn, or die shortly after birth.

Quitting sets a good example for your family

It shows you care about your health and the health of your family.

If you quit, your fitness will improve and you have a better chance of keeping up with

your kids!

And the money you used to spend on cigarettes will be there to spend on yourself

and your family.

Quit and you’ll feel some of the benefits straight away

After 24 hours, most carbon monoxide from smoking is out of your system. Lungs

work better and you can do more before running short of breath.

After two days, senses of taste and smell sharpen. Breath, hair, fingers and teeth

are cleaner.

Within a month of quitting, your blood pressure should return to its normal level.

Within two months, blood flow to hands and feet improves, the toes and fingers stay

warm and you will have more energy.

After about three months, men and women become more fertile. The lungs may

have regained the capacity to clean themselves properly.

Quit to live longer

Quitting smoking reduces the risk of lung cancer, other cancers, heart attack, stroke,

and chronic lung disease.

Smokers who quit live longer than those who quit later in life. For example, a person

who stops smoking before age 50 has half the risk of dying in the next 15 years compared

with continuing smokers.

On average, smoking reduces your life span by over 10 years.

At about three months, most quitters have become established non smokers.

Quitting is not always easy…

Every year about 1.7 million Australian smokers try to quit and 180,000 succeed permanently.

One of the things that make it hard to quit is that smokers are addicted to the nicotine

in cigarettes. There are medical products available to help you stop smoking and to

deal with the symptoms of withdrawal.

Each time you stop smoking you learn more about quitting and it is never too late to

try again.

Smoking Facts & tips to quit

2011-10-05T22:23:00.000-07:00

Hurting Yourself

· Smoking is an addiction. Tobacco contains nicotine, a drug that is

addictive and very difficult, but not impossible to quit.

· More than 50,00,000 deaths in the worldwide each year are from smoking related

illnesses. Smoking greatly increases your risk for lung cancer

and other cancers.

Hurting Others

· Smoking harms not just the smoker, but also family members,

coworkers, and others who breathe the smoker's secondhand smoke.

· Among infants to 18 months of age, secondhand smoke is associated

with as many as 300,000 cases of bronchitis and pneumonia each

year.

· Secondhand smoke from a parent's cigarette increases a child's

chances for middle ear problems, causes coughing, wheezing, and

worse asthma conditions.

· If both parents smoke, a teenager is more than twice as likely to

smoke than a young person whose parents are nonsmokers. In

households where only one parent smokes, young people are also

more likely to smoke.

· Pregnant women who smoke are more likely to deliver babies whose

weights are too low for the babies' good health. If all women would

quit smoking during pregnancy, about 4,000 new babies would not die

each year worldwide.

Why Quit?

· Quitting smoking makes a difference right away, you can taste and

smell food better. Your breath smells better. Your cough goes away.

This happens to people of all ages, even those who are older. It

happens to healthy people as well as those who already have a disease

or condition caused by smoking.

· Quitting smoking cuts the risk of lung and other cancers, heart and

lung disease, stroke, and other respiratory illnesses.

· Ex-smokers have better health than smokers. Ex- smokers have fewer

days of illness, fewer health complaints, and less bronchitis and

pneumonia than current smokers.

· Quitting smoking saves money. A pack-a-day smoker, who pays Rs25

per pack, can expect to save more than Rs 9125 per year.

Quitting Tips

Getting Ready to Quit

o Set a date for quitting. If possible, have a friend quit smoking

with you.

o Notice when and why you smoke. Try to find the things in

your daily life that you often do while smoking (such as

drinking your morning cup of coffee or driving a car).

o Change your smoking routines: Keep your cigarettes in a

different place. Smoke with your other hand. Don't do

anything else when smoking. Think about how you feel when

you smoke.

o Smoke only in certain places, such as outdoors.

o When you want a cigarette, wait a few minutes. Try to think of

something to do instead of smoking; you might chew gum or

drink a glass of water.

o Buy one pack of cigarettes at a time. Switch to a brand of

cigarettes you don't like.

On the Day You Quit

o Get rid of all your cigarettes. Put away your ashtrays.

o Change your morning routine. Stay busy.

o When you get the urge to smoke, do something else instead.

o Carry other things to put in your mouth, such as gum, or hard

candy.

o Reward yourself at the end of the day for not smoking. See a

movie or go out and enjoy your favorite meal.

Staying Quit

o Don't worry if you are sleepier or more short-tempered than

usual; these feelings will pass.

o Try to exercise.

o Consider the positive things about quitting, such as how much

you like yourself as a non-smoker, health benefits for you and

your family. A positive attitude will help you through the

tough times.

o When you feel tense, try to keep busy, think about ways to

solve the problem, tell yourself that smoking won't make it

any better, and go do something else.

o Eat regular meals. Feeling hungry is sometimes mistaken for

the desire to smoke.

o Start a money jar with the money you save by not buying

cigarettes.

o Let others know that you have quit smoking-most people will

support you. It's good to talk to others about your quitting.

o If you slip and smoke, don't be discouraged. Many former

smokers tried to stop several times before they finally

succeeded. Quit again.

Tantric Panchanga

2011-09-07T06:48:00.001-07:00

09-Sep-11	Bhuvaneswari Jayanti	Bhadraprada	Sukla	Dwadasi
11-Sep-11	Ananta Chaturdasi	Bhadraprada	Sukla	Chathurdasi	Ananta Padmanabha Vrata
12-Sep-11	Umamaheswara vrata	Bhadraprada	Sukla	Pournami
13-Sep-11	Pitrupaksha Starts	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Padyami
15-Sep-11	Bruhatyumaa Vrata	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Trutiya
16-Sep-11	Kinnera Jayanti	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Chavithi
18-Sep-11	Kapila Shasti	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Shashti
19-Sep-11	Saptaloka Jayanti	Bhadraprada	Krishna	saptami
20-Sep-11	Rudraashtami	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Ashtami	Kamalasiddhi
21-Sep-11	Aparaajita Siddhi	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Navami
22-Sep-11	Preta jayanti	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Dasami
25-Sep-11	Guruparvami	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Trayodasi
26-Sep-11	Viswakarma jayanti	Bhadraprada	Krishna	Chathurdasi
27-Sep-11	Mahalaya Amavasya	Bhadraprada	Sukla	Amavasya
28-Sep-11	Sarata Navaratri	Asveeyuja	Sukla	Padyami
03-Oct-11	Pustaka mandala Puja	Asveeyuja	Sukla	saptami
04-Oct-11	Pustaka mandala Puja	Asveeyuja	Sukla	Ashtami	Durga Jayanti
05-Oct-11	Pustaka mandala Puja	Asveeyuja	Sukla	Navami	Aparaajita Jayanti / Maharnavami
06-Oct-11	Vijayadasami	Asveeyuja	Sukla	Dasami
09-Oct-11	Guru Siddhi	Asveeyuja	Sukla	Trayodasi
11-Oct-11	Shaarada Pournami	Asveeyuja	Sukla	Pournami
15-Oct-11	Taara Jayanti	Asveeyuja	Krishna	Trutiya
16-Oct-11	Siddhi prayoga	Asveeyuja	Krishna	Ashtami
17-Oct-11	Rama Ekkadasi	Asveeyuja	Krishna	Ekaadasi
18-Oct-11	DhanTrayodasi	Asveeyuja	Krishna	Trayodasi
19-Oct-11	Roopa Chaturdasi	Asveeyuja	Krishna	Chathurdasi
20-Oct-11	Diwaali	Asveeyuja	Krishna	Amavasya	Kamal Jayanti

A trubute a GURU

2011-06-26T22:47:00.000-07:00

As I travelled the path of spirituality and i found everyday one new mission , new method of testing by Poojya Gurudev and ultimately new understanding of life.
Guru never speaks but shows the path of eternal serenity through thorough monitoring.

I found GURU Meri Pooja as optly inspires guruhood from Sikh community.

'The Lord Almighty caused Himself to be called as Guru '

I'll put the same here for all who wanna enjoy the Guru blessings.

Sri Guru Arjan Sahib proclaims the Eternal Glory of Sri Guru Nanak Sahib in the following hymn:

Gur Meri Pooja Gur Gobind

Guru is my worship and Guru is my Lord.

Gur Mera Parbrahm Gur Bhagwant
Guru is my Lord Almighty and Guru is my Supreme Master.

Gur Mera Deyo Alakh Abheyo

Guru is my imperceptible and inaccessible all Luminous Lord.

Sarb Pooj Charan Gur Seyo

All serve and worship my Guru's holy feet.

Gur Bin Awar Nahi Main Thhaon

Without Guru I have no other abode.

Andin Japo Guru Gur Naon (Rahao)

Day and night I worship Guru's Name.

Gur Mera Gian Gur Ridey Dhian
Guru is my wisdom divine and I meditate on Guru in my heart.

Gur Gopal Purakh Bhagwan
Guru is my Lord and Luminous Supreme Being.

Gur Ki Saran Raho Kar Jor
With folded hands I live under the sole shelter of the Guru.

Guru Bina Main Nahin Hor
Without Guru I have none other.

Gur Bohith Taray Bhav Paar
Guru is the Saviour Ship ferrying across the dreadful ocean of existence.

Gur Sewa Jam Te Chhutkaar
In the service of Guru one is released from Yama.

Andhkaar Meh Gurmantar Ujaara
Guru's Name illumines the heart by dispelling all darkness.

Gur kai Sang Sagal Nistaara
In the holy company of Guru all are saved.

Gur Poora Payiaye Badhbhagi
Perfect Guru is attained only through good fortune.

Gur Ki Sewa Dookh Na Lagi
Service of Guru wards off sufferings.

Gur Ka Sabad Na Metay Koiye
Invioable is the Guru's Word.

GUR NANAK NANAK HAR SOYE

NANAK IS MY GURU AND
NANAK IS THE SUPREME LORD HIMSELF.

If i put all this it will be like this

Guru is my worship and Guru is my Lord.

Guru is my Lord Almighty and Guru is my Supreme Master.

Guru is my imperceptible and inaccessible all Luminous Lord.

All serve and worship my Guru's holy feet.

Without Guru I have no other abode.

Day and night I worship Guru's Name.

Guru is my wisdom divine and I meditate on Guru in my heart.

Guru is my Lord and Luminous Supreme Being.

With folded hands I live under the sole shelter of the Guru.

Without Guru I have none other.

Guru is the Saviour Ship ferrying across the dreadful ocean of existence.

In the service of Guru one is released from Yama.

Guru's Name illumines the heart by dispelling all darkness.

In the holy company of Guru all are saved.

Perfect Guru is attained only through good fortune.

Service of Guru wards off sufferings.

Invioable is the Guru's Word.

Kaal Sarp Dosha Types

2011-05-30T23:45:00.000-07:00

In Vedic astrology horoscope, Kaalsarp yog is formed when all the seven planets comes between rahu and ketu. When all the seven planets are on the same side of rahu and ketu axis and not a single planet is on the other side of axis, the full or poorna kaal-sarp yoga is formed.

When one planet is on the other side then partial kaal sarp yoga is formed which is having

less intensity.

General Impacts of Kaal Sarp Dosha:

1. Hurdles in every important and auspicious work.

2. Lesser Mental peace

3. Low self-confidence

4. Deterioration of health and reduces longevity

5. Poverty and destruction of wealth.

6. Destruction of business and loss of job

7. Anxiety and unnecessary Tensions

8. Bad Relations with family members and friends

9. Strained marital life

10. Treachery from friends and colleagues

11. Very less help from relatives and friends

Types of Kaal Sarp Yoga

All the calculations are based on lagna and rashi. The calculation based on Rashi will prove more effective.

1) ANANT KAAL SARP YOGA:

The yoga, when Rahu is in the first House and Ketu in the seventh house and rest of the planets are left to this axis is known as Anant Kaal Sarp Yoga. Though this equation has the power to give windfall profit, it is bad for marital life. Delay in marriage may be another factor.

2) KULIK KAAL SARP YOGA:

When Rahu lays in the second house and Ketu in the eighth house, Kulik Kaal Sarp Yoga arises. This combination is bad for health. The probability of losses and accidents is high with natives of this combination. This is bad for financial prosperity too. The native is worried on account of an insecure financial standing.

3) VASUKI KAAL SARP YOGA:

The yoga arises when Rahu occupies the third house and Ketu the ninth house and rest of the planets are located to the left of the axis. The native with the equation is burdened with problems related to job and business.

4) SHANKHPAL KAAL SARP YOGA:

When Rahu is in the 4^th house and Ketu in the 10^th this yoga is formed. The native gets troubles related to work sphere and has to go through stress and anxiety. However this yoga also has the power of conferring high political success & windfall gains.

5) PADAM KAAL SARAP YOGA:

When Rahu occupies the 5^th house and Ketu the 11^th house, this yoga is formed. The native is worried on account of children. There is difficulty in getting a progeny. If the moon is also afflicted then there is possibility of being troubled by the spirits. In this case if the native falls ill, the recovery time is longer. There are also chances of being let down by friends.

6) MAHAPADAM KAAL SARP YOGA:

This yoga is formed when Rahu is in the 6^th house and Ketu is in 12^th house. The native has many enemies and has problems on account of diseases. However if this yoga acts beneficially it has the power to confer power and political success.

7) TAKSHAK KAAL SARP YOGA:

When Rahu is in the 7^th house and Ketu in the 1^st house, this yoga is formed. The native has got speculative tendencies and can lose wealth by way of wine, women and gambling. There is marital discord in the life of the native.

8) KARKOTAK KAAL SARP YOGA:

When Rahu occupies the 8^th house and Ketu in the 2^nd house, this yoga is formed. The native is short tempered and has many enemies. Such a native has friendship with the anti-social elements. The native may be deprived of paternal wealth.

9) SHANKHACHOOD KAAL SARP YOGA:

When Rahu lays in the 9^th house and Ketu in the 3rd house, this yoga is formed. The native, who have this yoga in his horoscope have many ups and downs in life. They have a habit of speaking lies. They are also short tempered.

10) GHATAK KAAL SARP YOGA:

This yoga arises when Rahu is in the 10^th and Ketu 4^th house. Litigation problems are common is this combination. Punishment by law or the government is also possible.

11) VISHDHAR KAAL SARP YOGA:

When Rahu occupies the 11^th and Ketu the 5^th house, the yoga is called the Vishdhar Kaal Sarp Yoga. The native has to travel frequently and is never fixed at one place. Problems from children, lovers or in education arise. However these natives get some peace in the latter half of their life.

12) SHESHNAAG KAAL SARP YOGA:

The combination, when Rahu is in the 12^th and Ketu in 6^th house, is known as Sheshnaag Kaal Sarp yoga. The native has to face problems related to litigation. There are many enemies and health problems in his life.

Ask for remedies...

If you can't speak well of someone, rather don't say anything

2011-05-29T04:42:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time an old man spread rumors that his neighbor was a thief. As a result, the young man was arrested. Days later the young man was proven innocent. After been released he sued the old man for wrongly accusing him.

In court the old man told the Judge: 'They were just comments, didn't harm anyone..'

The judge, before passing sentence on the case, told the old man: 'Write all the things you said about him on a piece of paper. Cut them up and on the way home, throw the pieces of paper out. Tomorrow, come back to hear the sentence.'

The next day, the judge told the old man: 'Before receiving the sentence, you will have to go out and gather all the pieces of paper that you threw out yesterday.'

The old man said: 'I can't do that! The wind spread them and I won't know where to find them.'

The judge then replied: 'The same way, simple comments may destroy the honor of a man to such an extent that one is not able to fix it. If you can't speak well of someone, rather don't say anything.

An Ant's story

2011-05-29T04:37:00.001-07:00

One morning I wasted nearly an hour watching a tiny ant carry a huge feather cross my back terrace. Several times it was confronted by obstacles in its path and after a momentary pause it would make the necessary detour.

At one point the ant had to negotiate a crack in the concrete about 10mm wide. After brief contemplation the ant laid the feather over the crack, walked across it and picked up the feather on the other side then continued on its way.

I was fascinated by the ingenuity of this ant, one of the smallest creatures. It served to reinforce the miracle of creation. Here was a minute insect, lacking in size yet equipped with a brain to reason, explore, discover and overcome. But this ant, like the two-legged co-residents of this planet, also shares human failings.

Isn't our life like that?

We worry about our family; we worry about money or the lack of it, we worry about work, about where we live, about all sorts of things. These are all burdens - the things we pick up along life's path and lug them around the obstacles and over the crevasses that life will bring, only to find that at the destination they are useless and we can't take them with US......

The Truth of "X"

2011-05-27T09:06:00.001-07:00

Anyone who ever hear the letter "X" will take their own meaning depending on age and understanding. I donot like to comment on usages of X letter.

But I like to take this letter to explain three major words that can change our lives every time we apply.
It's the theory of XXX. This XXX does mean neither a porn categeorisation nor a detergent soap.

XXX here claims as follows

1.Experience (Xperience)

Yesterday is an Xperience. As we cannot unwind the yesterday, keep the observations you made yesterday as your Xperience and Move on.

2.Experiment (Xperiment)

As we cannot see the today and everything looks only for anticipation hence, Xperiment all all the day long and compare the same with Yesterday's Xperience.

3.Expectation (Xpectation)
None seen Tomorrow and can know what it holds. Hence analysing the Xperience and Xperiment you can Xpect the day of Tomorrow.

The one who follows will be evolution visionary of emphasize and Ethical future Society

Whether true Human spirituality Exists? I

2011-04-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

I went to see so called famous and TV presenter , Teacher and healer one fine evening in high location of bangalore.
Got shocked to see the so much crowd waiting at reception which was quite small and adding to pain the people in reception never lifts the phones during this time. I found it very difficult to locate address and spent around 15min time to call those numbers which were never answered.

Wait for 20 minutes over and i was called inside before i could adjust myself in chair handycam was on. Then there comes a few words from esteemed Guru enquiring about reason for my visit, before i could start, he continued with set of questions and now it's my memory skill to remember and select the options.

Immediately he used his crystal pendulum and and wrote on the booklet that 65% of negativity presents and some spirits exist in my body.

Remedy: I need to learn Reiki and Self hypnosis along with two of my close relatives/friends learning the same course and support me by energizing me for 3-31/2 hours a day for 5 months and still if i were not out of problem he'll provide support from his disciples to heal.

Charges: Intial 500 for consultation

2600 Reiki and 3600 for Hypnosis

Duration : 5 months

Verdict: Yes i do like to take permanent measures to come out but i feel they should heal first and then teach for long term goal achievements. If this is way of treatment then everyone should study at least one school of medicine to claim the right to live was the final verdict flashed in My thoughts.

Whether true Human spirituality Exists?

2011-04-29T22:45:00.000-07:00

It's amazing to read about those stories about spirituality and spirit relievers. These people only want earn their living from this rather than helping the human kind.

Many these healers just using the TV shows as a path for fame and earning potential in future.

My question directly to these so called Spiritual healers who appear frequently on TV shows is are they really helping the Mankind with selflessness.

I'm taking a step ahead to find out these realities with time and money consuming.

Spiritual healing is generally speaking a therapy used in addition to conventional medicine in order to improve the overall well-being of body, mind and soul.

Spirituality involves the recognition and acceptance of a God beyond our own intelligence and with whom we can have a relationship. This God can provide an experience of inspiration, joy, security, peace of mind, and guidance that goes beyond what is possible in the absence of the conviction that such a power exists.

Spiritual healing is when energy is transmitted to the person who needs it. The treatment works on the body, mind and spirit, which are seen as one unit that must harmonize for good health. If a separate healer is involved, the healer will place the hand on the person being treated to channel the energy from the Higher Source. The spiritual healing can help mental and emotional problems and physical conditions such as a frozen shoulder.

The Origin of Spiritual Healing
The channeling of healing energy from its spiritual source to someone who needs it is called spiritual healing. The channel is usually a person, whom we call a healer, and the healing energy is usually transferred to the patient through the healer's hands. The healing does not come from the healer, but through him. On the other hand, you don't need a healer to take advantage of spiritual healing. You can pray. A full treatment of prayer and healing is found elsewhere.

The word "spiritual" refers to the divine nature of the energy, which healers agree comes from one external, invisible intelligent source. The healing energy from this source is available to all.

Healers see the body mind and spirit as one interdependent unit and believe all three must work in harmony to maintain positive health. Any problem - be it a broken leg or depression needs the power of healing to restore the balance of the whole person. It is felt that sickness often starts in the mind, or at the deeper level of the spirit, and it is often here that healing begins.

The Significance of Spirituality in New Age
New Age is a loose term that includes everything from self improvement programs to awareness of mind-body connections. The movement is growing by leaps and bounds. Time magazine reported that in 1996, about 44 million Americans identified with the healing movement. It is estimated that Americans alone spend about $1.5 billion annually on books about spirituality and religion. About 42 percent of Americans have sought out alternative health care. So, there is no doubt that the movement is catching on.

Spirituality vs Religion
Spirituality can be seen as being distinct from religion. Different world religions have proposed various doctrines and belief systems about the nature of a God and humanity's relationship with it. Spirituality, on the other hand, refers to the common experience behind these various points of view. It is an experience involving an awareness of and relationship with something that transcends your personal self as well as the human order of things. This "something" has been given various names ("God" being the most popular in Western Society) and defined in ways that are too numerous to count. We call it simply as the God. You can choose to define what that means for yourself in whatever way feels most appropriate. Your own sense of a God can be as abstract as "cosmic consciousness" or as down-to-earth as the beauty of the ocean or mountains. Even if you regard yourself an agnostic or atheist, you may get a sense of inspiration from taking a walk in the forest or contemplating a beautiful sunset. Or a small child's smile may give you a special sense of joy.

There is much healing and benefit to be obtained by cultivating your spiritual life. A personal spiritual commitment is the most important ingredient. Spiritual awareness and growth can effect a transformation in your whole being. It can help you to develop a basic trust and faith that is unshakable. Scientists call this intrinsic belief.

Many have experienced major turnarounds in their condition as a result of cultivating their spirituality. They feel that developing a relationship with their God provided the moral support, courage, hope, and faith for them to follow through with their personal recovery program. It provided them with a sense that they are not alone in the universe, and that there is a source of guidance and support that is available at times of confusion and discouragement.

Benefits of Spirituality Healing
Edmund Bourne, author of 'The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook,' has described a number of benefits to spirituality as it applies to healing emotional problems. Dr. Burke has personal experience of his patients benefiting from a deep spirituality. He has listed a number of benefits that are gained through spirituality. These are:

Security and Safety
Through developing a connection with God, the person gain security through the conviction that you are not all alone in the universe, even at those times when you feel temporarily separated from other people. You feel increasingly safe as you come to believe that there is a source you can always turn to in times of difficulty. As the twenty third psalm says, "God is my shepherd," he will take care of me and won't let me get into trouble if I trust him. There is much security to be gained through the understanding that there is no problem or difficulty that cannot be resolved through the help of God.
Peace of Mind
Peace of mind is the result of feeling a deep, abiding sense of security and safety. The more reliance and trust one develop in God, the easier it becomes to deal without fear or worry with the inevitable challenges life brings. It is not that one give up ones self or you will to such a power; rather you simply learn that you can "let go" and turn to God when you feel stuck with a problem in living and don't know how to proceed. Learning how to let go when solutions to problems aren't immediately apparent can go a long way toward reducing worry and anxiety in your life. Peace of mind is what develops in the absence of such anxiety.
Self-Confidence
As you develop a relationship with God, you come to realize that he has created you and hence he has found something good in you. You are part of the universe. You're good, lovable, and worthy of respect just by virtue of the fact that you're God's creation. This realization can improve the way you look at yourself and will help you to improve your ego and what you think of yourself. You are still inherently good and worthwhile. Your own judgments of yourself, however negative, do not ultimately count if you are a creation of the universe as much as everything else. As one person put it: "God doesn't make junk."
Capacity To Give and Receive Unconditional Love
The most fundamental characteristic of God is that it offers you an experience of unconditional love. This is a kind of love which differs from romantic love or even ordinary friendship. It entails an absolute caring for the welfare of another without any preconditions. That is, no matter how another person appears or acts, you have compassion and care for them without judgment. As you develop a deeper connection with God, you come to experience greater degrees of unconditional love in your life. You feel your heart opening more easily to people and their concerns. You feel freer of judgment toward them or of making comparisons among them. Unconditional love shows up both in your increased capacity to give love to others and to experience more of it coming into your life. You begin to experience less fear and more joy in your life and help to inspire others to experience their own capacity for unconditional love. This kind of love also manifests itself through the experience of having everything you need in your life to get on with what you want to do

PS: I'm indebted to those who gave me insight of these materials

Watch this place for updated views on Bangalore Spiritual healers....

Science of Meditation; DHARANA AND ITS OBSTACLES

2010-06-12T22:33:00.000-07:00

Science of Meditation
Swami Kripalu

DHARANA AND ITS OBSTACLES
1. The Internal Aspect of Yoga
Patanjali, in Yogadarsana, discusses two main aspects of yoga: the means or techniques of yoga and the manifestations or attainments of yoga. The former is discussed in Sadhanapada1 and the latter in Vibhutipada2. Sadhanapada includes yama and niyama, asanas, pranayama, and pratyahara—these five embodiments of yoga are considered external. Vibhutipada includes dharana, dhyana, and samadhi—these are the internal aspects of yoga, and these alone enable one to enter into the important spheres of yoga. However, only through the mastery of the techniques of yoga is the mind fit for the attainments of yoga. The body is the medium for asana, pranayama, and pratyahara, while the mind is the medium for dharana, dhyana, and samadhi. Only after the purification of the body does the purification of the mind really begin. In Goraksa-Paddhati it is said, “A seeker should practice dharana only after mastering asana, pranayama, and pratyahara.3”

2. Concept of Dharana
In Yogadarsana, Patanjali describes dharana thus: “When the pure mind is kept focused in the desired desa (region) by the seeker, it is called dharana.”4
One must meditate in order to decrease the fluctuations of the mind, which result in ignorance, inability, and misery. Through meditation, one can attain knowledge, ability, and happiness. However, just as there cannot be a tree without a seed, so there cannot be meditation without dharana. In order to meditate, one must first practice dharana.
A seeker practices dharana in order to focus many divergent thoughts towards a single region of contemplation. Out of the trio of meditator, meditation, and the object or the goal of meditation, the last one can be called the region of dharana. The seeker must focus his mind on such an object or goal.
3. The Three Regions of Dharana
There are three regions of dharana: adhibhautika (relating to matter), adhyatmika (relating to spirit) and adhidaivika (relating to celestial objects—sun, moon, etc.). The seeker may choose any one of these three regions on which to focus his mind. Focusing
1 Chapter on “Manifestations or Attainments of Yoga.”
2 Chapter on “Means or Techniques of Yoga.”
3 Goraksa-Paddhati, Part II, stanza 52.
4 Patanjali’s Yogadarsana; Vibhutipada, Aphorism 1
the mind on the idol of a chosen deity, a picture of the guru, a diamond, a jewel, a lamp, a flame, etc. is known as adhibhautik dharana. The mind becomes automatically fixed on an object or a goal if one has a great liking for it. In this type of dharana, the predisposition of one’s feelings and intellect play an important part.
When a seeker, favored with the grace of the Lord or of a guru, reaches the stage of dharana, his mind is automatically focused or fixed on various cakras in the body and on the respective deities controlling these cakras. This is known as adhyatmika dharana. Of course, the seeker practices dharana in its subsidiary form even when he does asanas, pranayamas, and pratyahara.

4. Spontaneous Occurrence of Dharana
In the initial stages of pranotthana (release of prana), prana moves very quickly. As a result, it is not able to remain stable in any cakra or nerve center for long. Later on, as the seeker advances in his spiritual practice, the activity of prana is reduced and gradually it becomes capable of remaining steady in the area of its activity for a longer period of time. However, real stability is attained only when one is firmly established in the stage of pratyahara, which itself assumes the form of dharana. Thereafter it becomes stabilized in any region which it chooses for purification. The mind is automatically attracted towards the regions in which the prana is localized. Hence, dharana begins to occur automatically in the center where the prana has become stable.

5. Results of Mastering Dharana
Dharana is considered to have been mastered when one’s mental focus remains steady for two hours. No sooner is dharana perfected than the yogi becomes revered by the people. He may have visions of the great siddhas (adepts or realized yogis) and also he gains understanding about the secrets of all religions. It is through dharana that one conquers the mind and becomes fit to practice dhyana, or real meditation. Moreover, it is only through dharana that the cakras and the granthis are penetrated and various siddhis (miraculous powers) are attained. But the true seeker reaching this stage does not become the slave of these siddhis, and, remaining unconcerned about them, proceeds further on the path of yoga.

6. The Initial Stages of Dharana in Various Cakras
When dharana is centered in muladhara cakra (basal plexus), asanas like mulabandhasana, virasana, ardha matsyendrasana, vrsasana, parsvasana, etc., in which the anus is pressed or contracted, are automatically performed. When dharana is centered in svadhisthana cakra (sacral plexus), siddhasana and its associated asanas, in which the portion between the anus and the genitals is pressed, occur automatically. Yoni mudra also occurs in natural course. When dharana is centered in manipura cakra (solar plexus) either the belly gets completely filled with air or uddiyana bandha (stomach lock) occurs frequently. Asanas like pascimottanasana, bhunamanasana may also be performed automatically. When dharana is centered in anahata cakra (cardial plexus), various pranayamas occur automatically, the chest gets completely filled with air, and asanas like dhirasana, khanjanasana, kurmasana, and bhujangasana are performed automatically. During dharana of visuddhakhya cakra (pharyngeal plexus) anahata nada (spontaneous sound) is generated in the form of chanting Rama or aum mantras, singing vedic hymns, roaring, making sounds like various beasts, or singing classical Indian music. Asanas like sarvangasana, halasana, and other asanas in which the throat is pressed, are performed automatically. When the prana is stabilized in this cakra, khecari mudra is also practiced. When dharana is centered in ajna cakra (frontal nerve center), asanas like padmasana, swastikasana, siddhasana, mulabhandhasana, vajrasana, or sthirasana are automatically performed and meditation in bhrucakra (between the eyebrows) becomes natural. During dharana of sahasradala padma (thousand-petalled lotus or the crown of the head), sirsasana, vrksasana, and associated asanas are automatically performed and the subtle sounds of drums, cymbals, conches, veena (stringed instrument), flute and bell or thundering (as in lightning) are heard. All these dharanas go on ascending and descending until they become stable in any one center for five ghadis5 (two hours). These are all adhyatmik dharanas.

7. Various Elemental Dharanas
From the feet to the thighs is the region of prthvi tattva (the earthy element), from the thighs to the navel is the region of jala tattva (the watery element), from the navel to the heart is the region of agni tattva (the fiery element), from the heart to the frontal region is the seat of vayu tattva (the airy element), and from the frontal region to brahmarandhra (the crown of the head) is the seat of akasa tattva (the ethereal element). One performs dharana spontaneously on the four-armed form of Lord Brahma, along with the bija (seed) sound ‘lam’ in the earthy region, on the four-armed from of Lord Narayana along with the sound ‘vam’ in the watery region, on the three-eyed from of Lord Maharudra with the sound ‘ram’ in the fiery region, on the all-powerful, omniscient, Lord of all, Satcitananda Iswara (Lord in the form of ‘existence-consciousness-bliss’) with the sound ‘yam’ in the airy region, and on the cosmic form of Lord Sadasiva with the sound ‘ham’ in the region of the ether element for five ghadis (two hours). By such practice one can gradually attain command over the earthy, watery, fiery, airy, and ethereal elements in turn.
8. Obstacles Arising During Initial States of Dharana
As soon as a seeker begins to be steady in dharana, many obstacles spring upon his path. Due to the fear of these dangers, many seekers prefer to tread the easier paths of yoga. The first obstacle is that yaksinis (demigoddesses from the other world known as Yaksaloka) adopt beautiful forms and come to tempt the seeker away, or they adopt the forms of snakes, lions, tigers, etc. to frighten him. Of course, all these can be seen only through inner vision. Under such circumstances, only if the seeker is neither tempted by the beauty of the yaksinis nor frightened by the dangerous animals does his yoga practice remain undisturbed. Some famous portraits of the Buddha show him surrounded by monstrous figures or a Kama Sena (a large group of cupids). This depicts the difficulties arising at this stage of dharana.

9. The Menace of Kundalini during Dharana
Another major difficulty that a seeker must face during dharana is the menace of the awakened kundalini. A seeker does not, in fact, enter the stage of dharana without the kundalini having been awakened. Dharana is usually performed in various cakras, so it presupposes the penetration of the cakras, which does not happen until the kundalini is awakened and moves upward into the passage of the susumna.
Although asanas, mudras, pranayamas, etc., are performed automatically when the prana is released, prana does not itself penetrate the cakras. Such penetration begins only when the kundalini power is awakened, and with it begins dharana. Since it is difficult to handle the awakened kundalini, the seeker has to face many difficulties during dharana.
The seeker who dares to awaken the kundalini power without the grace and guidance of a guru might become insane, succumb to diseases or even die. This is because he does not possess the necessary knowledge, steadiness of mind, or patience required for this difficult undertaking.
Many seekers are found wandering here and there in search of a guru who will awaken their kundalini. However, their search ends in despair because they do not have genuine faith in the guru. In order to get the kundalini awakened through the grace of a guru, one must have full faith and surrender completely. Although thousands may claim that they know kundalini and that their kundalini is awakened, it is doubtful if even one of them really has such knowledge or experience.
To awaken the kundalini power is one thing, but to make it move upward into the passage of the susumna is something else. In the beginning, as the kundalini is awakened, the seeker feels a lot of enthusiasm. But as he advances in dharana, he begins to encounter various menaces of kundalini. Only one with great courage can cope with these menaces; it is simply not possible for all to do so. This is where those who are attracted by siddhis (miraculous powers) retreat from the awakened kundalini and bow down to her from a distance.

10. The Obstacle of Sensuality
One of the stumbling blocks which the seeker faces during dharana is that of sensuality. There are seven major cakras and three granthis in the body and only through the correct practice of dharana will they be known. When dharana occurs spontaneously in the region of svadhisthana cakra, strong sensual feelings develop. This could be tolerated if it were to occur only once in a while, but it is encountered frequently. One may ask here: why does sensuality become intense through dharana? Should it not decrease through the practice of yoga? This problem can be explained in the following manner.

Prana energy is the soul of yoga. At no time can the mind be controlled without controlling the prana. In the same way, prana cannot be controlled without controlling the mind. As a long-handled fork is used for catching a snake, so is the prana energy used for controlling the mind. The mind is thus conquered by conquering the prana energy.
The seeker, whose prana energy is released through the grace of God or a guru, begins to establish control over prana automatically during meditation. Due to this automatic process, the blood in the body of the seeker is purified. As the blood is purified, it produces a large quantity of sexual fluid, and with this increased production of sexual fluid, sensuality is intensified. As a result, the seeker faces a stumbling block in his or her spiritual practice.
The Jain Preceptor Hemacandra Suriji pointed out: “Pranayama is useless. Peace of mind cannot be preserved by it. On the contrary, it generates unrest and the mind becomes depressed.” This statement must have been the result of experiencing such obstacles.
Due to such dangers there seems to be everywhere the tendency to avoid Hatha Yoga and go directly to the practice of Raja Yoga. But the real seeker must not be impeded by these difficulties. Only then can he obtain true knowledge of everything or become omniscient. All other remedies are common, and the power of omniscience cannot be attained through them.
Because they are so puzzled by this difficult aspect of yoga, particularly during dharana, even those seekers making the most progress stop. They are simply overwhelmed by the whole phenomenon. Once more the need for the wisdom, experience and grace of a true guru arises.
This is where the paths of krama mukti (liberation by stages or after many births) and sadyo mukti (liberation in the present lifetime) become separate. Only the brave Hanumana (the monkey God of the Ramayana and the deity of Brahmacarya or the perfect celibate) can cross the sea of sensuality with one leap. An ordinary monkey cannot do that. Therefore, for their own protection, many seekers will be directed or diverted into the path of krama mukti. Those seekers who cannot meet these obstacles with patience and full faith cannot tread the path of sadyo mukti.

11. Encountering Diseases
Another difficulty arising from the practice of dharana is disease. Often, in the lower stages of dharana, bodily impurities create obstructions. One may ask: why should a practitioner of yoga succumb to disease? The answer is that the active life of the seeker promotes a continuous flow of rajoguna in the body and mind; consequently, the proportion of passion, intolerance, anger, egoism, etc., greatly increases. Through the practice of dharana, however, the process of physical purification takes place very quickly. As a result, the unhealthy elements in the body are generated in large proportion and, in order to be eliminated quickly from the body, they may assume the nature of a disease which was previously lying dormant.
When diseases are manifested in the body in this way, that is, as a result of the process of prana, the seeker need not be afraid. Such diseases subside automatically through the process of prana itself. Therefore, the seeker should not abandon the practice of dharana but continue it. However, under such circumstances he should avoid taking any medicine, and should abstain from rich food. He may maintain either a simple and light diet or take only milk and fruits.
It is a popular belief that a yogi should not suffer from disease. This is true, but during the initial stages of dharana, one is merely an ordinary seeker and not an evolved yogi. When the yogic scriptures mention that a yogi does not suffer from disease, they refer to a highly evolved yogi and not to an ordinary seeker. On the contrary, an ordinary seeker frequently has to put up a tough fight against disease, and sometimes he may even encounter death during the practice of yoga. If he undergoes defeat in such encounters, he falls victim to various diseases, and if the disease turns out to be incurable, the seeker may eventually die.
Only when the yogi realizes the stage of samadhi does his body become completely purified by the fire of yogic penance and is he rid of disease. At that stage of his spiritual evolution, disease has no hold on the yogi, but before reaching that level, he has to tread a long and difficult path. As a matter of fact, the path of yoga is so full of difficulties that a seeker who cannot meet these challenges with enthusiasm, faith, patience, and courage will never tread the path of yoga to the end.

12. The Obstacle of Illusions
Yet another difficulty which arises during the stages of dharana is that the seeker does not correctly recognize the level of his progress. Often, out of over-enthusiasm, he begins to evaluate his attainments in a liberal way. This is because of his illusory understanding about the attainment of various aspects of yoga. At first, he considers yoga to be only a small ditch which can be very easily crossed over by a single jump. However, as he advances, he becomes disillusioned and finds that it is neither a ditch nor a small pond nor even a big lake, but a vast ocean, which cannot be so easily crossed.
For instance, when the frenum under the seeker’s tongue is cut automatically during meditation, he begins to think that now, within a couple of months, his tongue will be elongated enough to be able to stand in the tenth gate above the palate. But as he strives hard in meditation to attain khecari mudra (in which the tongue is locked in the cavity of the skull) month after month without success, he begins to feel uneasy about his progress. Further, when he finally succeeds in making the tongue stand in the tenth door, he again becomes overjoyed, thinking that he has now approached the stage of samadhi. At that time, he feels that he will be able to master the highest nirvikalpa samadhi very soon. However, when year after year passes without such an attainment, his illusion vanishes.
In fact, in the whole path of yoga there are many steps which often generate illusions making the seeker elated at one time and dejected at another time. Only that seeker who no longer worries about such illusions but continues the practice with full patience and faith succeeds in overcoming all obstacles

13. Viparyaya Vrtti or Illusory Thoughts
During the stages of dharana the seeker undergoes many experiences which cause illusory thoughts to occur in his mind. Hence, he is continually being disillusioned about some old experience or succumbing to a new illusion based on fresh experiences. Thoughts which nourish such illusions are called viparayaya vrttis (illusory thoughts). These are caused by inadequate or incomplete experiences. Because of such illusory thoughts, the seeker is often either joyful or sorrowful about his attainment or progress on the spiritual path.

In Yoga Darsana, Maharsi Patanjali has divided the vrttis (thoughts) into five types: 1) pramana, 2) viparyaya, 3) vikalpa, 4) smrti, and 5) nidra. So the seeker has to know which thought belongs to which category according to its characteristics.
Pramana are those thoughts which are based on experience and are devoid of doubt or illusion. For example, one knows gold as gold and brass as brass on the basis of experience. This pramana vrtti is the first type and we shall call it ‘truth’.

Viparyaya are those thoughts in which, due to lack of experience, there is the illusion that untruth is truth. For example, one mistakes gold for brass and brass for gold, for want of experience. This viparyaya vrtti is the second type and we shall call it ‘untruth’.

Vikalpa are those thoughts which, due to incomplete experience, cannot stay fixed on any decision. For example, one remains indecisive about whether this is gold or brass. This vikalpa vrtti is the third type and we shall call it ‘doubt’.
It can also be said that the seeker, as he or she progress in yoga, first crosses the ‘untruth’ and then enters the arena of ‘doubt’. Previously, the seeker was seeing only ‘untruth’ but now sees both ‘truth’ and ‘untruth’, and due to their lack of experience they are unable to decide what is ‘truth’ and what is ‘untruth’ out of the two. When, through further yoga practice, they cross the second arena, their experience becomes complete and they face only ‘truth’. This is the explanation of viparyaya, vikalpa, and pramana vrttis, which can be called, for practical purposes, untruth, doubt, and truth, respectively.
The knowledge which enables us to recognize the subject of our experience is called smrti. It relates to the past. For example, ‘I have seen this person’; ‘I have read this book’, etc. is the knowledge impressing previous experiences on the mind and the senses. This is called ‘smrti’.

The vrtti in which all four vrttis mentioned above (i.e. pramana, viparyaya, vikalpa and smrti) are absent is known as nidra.

The seeker treading the path of yoga is often waylaid by these different vrttis, but as he progresses from ignorance to knowledge, he once again finds the main path.

Courtesy:

Copy & Paste : Do it carefully

2010-03-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

A popular motivational speaker was entertaining his Audience. He Said: "The best years of my life were spent in the arms of a woman who wasn't my wife!"

The audience was in silence and shock. The speaker added: "And that woman was my mother!"

Laughter and Applause!!!

A week later, a top manager trained by the Motivational speaker tried to crack this very effective joke At home. He was a bit foggy after a drink. He said loudly to His wife who was preparing dinner, "The greatest years of my life were spent in the arms of a woman who was not my Wife!"

The wife went; "ahhhh!" with shock and rage.

Standing there for 20 seconds trying to recall the second Half of the joke, the manager finally blurted out "...and I can't remember who she was!"

By the time the manager regained his consciousness, he was on a hospital bed nursing burns from boiling water.

Moral of the story...

Don't Copy if you can't PASTE

19. Start Early, Go Slowly and Reach Safely

2010-03-19T04:24:00.000-07:00

From childhood everyone heard and enjoyed the story of Hare and Tortoise and now how many of us remember the moral of the story?

We almost forgot all those great classics imbibed into stories and educated most of us. Today being pushed practically impossible targets and always on calculators we need to slow down and if possible re-read those old classics which gives best clues for management.

I knew a company into some retail business for more than a century, who are always adept of the business, but expansion is relatively slow compared to new genre joint ventures who rapidly multiplied the stores and reduced their own margins. This is the reason, if you know the tagline,

You'll lead better if you slow down. You'll get more done, too.

It doesn't seem like it would be true. It doesn't seem like slowing down would get that much more done. But it does. Every day you do it, you will get more done. Every day you experiment with slowing down, you will understand the truth behind the legend of the tortoise and the hare.

The most important element of slowing down is to know that you're always working on the right thing to be working on at any given time. Business consultant Chet Holmes says that he and his clients accomplish that by making sure each day has only six things on the Must Do list. That list lets them slow down.

If I am on the wrong road, it doesn't matter how good I get at speeding down the road. It's still the wrong road.

I need to remind myself of this: Slow down and win. I need to take my sweet, gentle time. I want this conversation ahead of me to be relaxed and strong so that the relationship I have becomes relaxed and strong. So all day, it helps to tell myself: Slow down. Even slower than that.

Great spirits have always found violent opposition from mediocrities. The latter cannot understand it when a man does not thoughtlessly submit to hereditary prejudices but honestly and courageously uses his intelligence----- Albert Einstein

18.Give Attention to Attention

2010-03-18T04:07:00.000-07:00

Anything you pay attention to expands. It grows.
Pay attention to your garden plants and they grow. Pay attention to your wife and you never fall in any tussle, Pay attention to your child and there would be no complaints throughout the life from them. Pay attention to your favorite cause, and your passion and knowledge will grow the success of that cause. Attention is like that. Anywhere you direct it; the object of that attention grows.
Attention is powerful. Yet most people allow their attention to be pushed and pulled around all day long by outside forces.
Your attention is like money. It is a precious treasure. It is paid in to things. We say pay attention for a reason. It is invested. It gets paid in to whatever you choose to pay it in to. If you pay it in to the things you want (measurable, numerical outcomes and specific results), you will get more and more of what you want.
When you talk to members of your team, keep paying attention to the results you want, not the effort to achieve them. When you praise your managers, pay attention to results they achieved that you wanted, not the trying, the effort, or the attempt to do it.

Most managers miss this vital point: they keep rewarding the "trying," not realizing that doing so sends the subconscious message that "trying" is always enough. Their people soon think that if they can show they're making efforts, if they can show activity, then there won't be so much focus on end results.
Make sure you reward end results more than anything else like trying, the effort, or the attempt to do it.If you do so, you'll get better end results. You have to be the one who keeps talking numbers if you want that one person to hit his numbers.
If, instead, you commiserate with how hard everything is, and you acknowledge how hard everyone is trying, then that's what you'll get: fewer results and more trying. Whatever you praise, grows.
Always. It's the law of the harvest.

Any man who can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves.---Albert Einstein

17.Change : Encourage

2010-03-17T04:05:00.000-07:00

If the rate of change on the outside exceeds the rate of change on the inside, the end is near.

16.Difference between a Leader and a Boss

2010-03-16T04:03:00.000-07:00

The leader works in the open, and the boss in covert. The leader leads and the boss drives.

15.Be a hardnosed Optimist

2010-03-15T04:01:00.000-07:00

A leader is a dealer in hope.
—Napoleon Bonaparte

14.Teaching how to Teach Themselves

2010-03-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

If you want a man to be for you, never let him feel he is dependent on you. Make him feel you are in some way dependent on him.