There is no end of learning
The ashram is heaven on earth, a place of immense energy where the Guru is always present in essence. A journey unfolds through divine guidance, not personal will. A trip to India for Guru Pūrṇimā was redirected by unseen forces, leading one back to the ashram family. Later, guidance came through a spoken sentence about Romania, which led to the establishment of an ashram there through inner instruction, not conversation. A pilgrimage to holy sites in the Himalayas was similarly guided, with paths clearing miraculously to allow darśan. In all endeavors, the Guru's direction is for self-learning. Yoga is a path to discover who one is. Scientific research into modified prāṇāyāma, inspired by the Guru's words, later fostered a university collaboration and a successful public yoga event, where a protective cloud appeared as a sign.
"With our yoga in daily life, it is not just āsana. It is a way to learn about ourselves and to look at ourselves."
"One sentence from Gurudev can change and influence so many things."
Filming location: Strilky, Czech Republic
Up next
Chakras, Nadis and Kundalini
Chakras are rotating circles of energy within the body, representing major energy centers. They are symbolic, not literal anatomical structures. Thousands exist at the junctions of the nāḍīs, the body's nerve network. This system exists for the soul's journey, supported by five bodily sheaths and the five elements. The three main channels are the Iḍā (Moon, mind/emotion), Piṅgalā (Sun, action/temperament), and central Suṣumnā. Their intersections form powerful chakras, like the Viśuddhi at the throat for purification. The mind is a messenger between senses and intellect; do not block it, but give it direction. Problems arise from suppressed emotions, which can manifest as physical illness. Practices like prāṇāyāma maintain this network for health. Awakening energies like kuṇḍalinī requires great care, as improper handling can be harmful.
"These chakras are a methodological representation. You will not see this exact picture if you look within your own body."
"The mind is a river; we should not block it. If we block a dam, we must provide an outlet."
Filming location: London, UK
We are cosmic travelers
The Mūlādhāra Cakra is the seat of dormant primal energy and the beginning of spiritual awakening.
The red spot symbolizes the third eye of wisdom that burns all impurity. The Mūlādhāra is the foundation, containing all potential like a seed. Its awakening feels like emerging from darkness into the safety of a mother's lap. The journey of this energy to supreme consciousness is long, like a river flowing to the ocean. This chakra is depicted as a lotus, symbolizing beauty and creation while remaining detached from the worldly water. It has four petals representing the four ways life enters this world. An inverted triangle within it symbolizes creative energy; if not awakened, this energy flows downward. A mighty elephant with seven trunks represents prosperity, strength, and the earth's minerals. Within resides the Śiva Liṅgam, the pillar of consciousness, around which a snake representing time is coiled. Spiritual practice awakens this snake to rise, granting vision beyond time. The
Yoga is a science
Yoga is the science of body, mind, consciousness, and soul, a universal principle of balance and harmony. Our subject is Kuṇḍalinī and the chakras, the hidden powers in human consciousness. The chakras are centers that receive and circulate cosmic energy through the body. We possess five bodies or layers: the physical, energetic, mental, intellectual, and causal bodies. The causal body holds desires and the potential for divine bliss. The soul is a collection of karma and qualities; it does not dissolve until self-realization is attained. Chakras must be purified through mantra and practice for the Kuṇḍalinī to awaken safely. Without proper guidance, this awakening can cause imbalance and distress. Life is love, and love is God. Creating friendship and walking the path with love is essential. The world is a field of karma for development, yet one must remain detached like a lotus in muddy water. The first chakra, Mūlādhāra, is the root foundation. Its red color represents concentrated energy and the earth element. The lotus symbolizes remaining untouched by worldly temptations while fulfilling one's duty. The four petals represent the four aims of human life: dharma (duty), artha (wealth), kāma (righteous desires and progeny), and mokṣa (liberation).
"Yoga without spirituality is like a body without a soul; no achievement can take place without spirituality."
"If you protect your dharma, dharma will protect you."
Filming location: Australia
The Path of Grace and Guidance
The path requires grace, guidance, and consistent practice. Begin by invoking divine protection and wisdom, bowing to the teacher who embodies it. The master provides knowledge of the highest state and the systematic practice to realize it within. Progress slowly and continuously, crossing inner obstacles like thoughts and feelings to clarify consciousness. The outer world with its changing desires easily pulls one down, so a guide who knows the safe way is essential. Repeating the divine name connects one to the highest energy, liberating from ignorance and false identification. Worldly pursuits are transient and disappointing, while the inner Self offers complete fulfillment. Divine grace manifests through the master, whose presence transforms the disciple, establishing an eternal, fearless connection within, even amidst outer life.
"Practice what you receive. Practice the system, do it systematically, and do it slowly so that you will cross inward."
"Repeat the name of God... This we can repeat, and with this energy we are connected to the highest."
