Cosmic energy
Prāṇa is the life force and the core inquiry is the nature of the self. Prāṇa is the cosmic energy enabling existence, divided into specific aspects for functions like sight and heartbeat. Physical prāṇa is linked to oxygen, while astral prāṇa is the eternal cosmic supply. The fundamental questions are: Who am I? From where did I come? For what purpose? Where will I go after this life? The self is not the body, mind, or intellect, but that which says "I." Awareness travels with the speed of thought, expanding consciousness instantly. Life's duty is to perform one's role well, though discerning how to truly help others requires understanding their actual needs. To protect and harmonize prāṇa, adhere to four nourishments: āhār (pure, sattvic diet), vihār (positive environment and company), ācār (kind, socialized behavior), and vicār (positive thinking). Practice prāṇāyāma to regulate breath and connect to spiritual energy, using specific techniques with alternate nostrils to calm the nervous system and cultivate pure consciousness.
"Prāṇa is the life force. Prāṇa is the source of our life."
"Who am I? I am not this body, I am not this mind, I am not this intellect."
Filming locations: Auckland, North Island, New Zealand
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Guru Pūrṇimā: From Darkness to Light
Guru Pūrṇimā marks our new year, leading from darkness to light. In Kali Yuga, negative energy spreads like wildfire, consuming the world through cruel practices like meat-eating. Meat's origin is unknown and could include human flesh, showing this age's depth. All creatures have eyes and a soul; you see God in the eyes of other beings, for every soul is the same God. Despite practices, you will not see God if you do not recognize this unity in all life. Every creature feels fear and pain, and torturing them distances us from divinity. Those under a saint's shelter avoid harming life; others remain in darkness. The guru guides you, even through harsh lessons that remove karma, for his bitterness brings the sweetness of knowledge and protection. Upholding your dharma—your duty to protect every creature and element—is essential, as dharma will then protect you. The complete remains complete. Human dharma is to protect all life. While negative ways spread, a positive message grows through practice and teachings, which we must share. Follow your master's guidance for your good, as unified vibration creates strength.
"Every soul is the same."
"Gu means darkness, ru means light."
Filming location: Vienna, Austria
Everything is in your hands
The initiation of eight sannyāsīs was a highlight. The Master decides readiness; these were not easy individuals, each a long effort to guide. One is profoundly honest, immediately embodying the role. Another prepared for decades through hardship. Three were from Australia, one from Israel, and one Indian who left too quickly. The final one is a devoted and humble soul. Your spiritual progress is ultimately in your own hands. Teachers and masters can only support you; the decisive action is yours. A story illustrates this: disciples, jealous of their Master, trap a bird and ask if it is alive or dead. The Master replies its fate is in their hands. Your liberation, like the bird's life, depends on your decisions. Do not delay in good actions. Regarding dress, disciples should wear white; sannyāsīs wear orange. Becoming a sannyāsī is serious, not a fashion; it helps carry the spiritual light but requires true readiness and independence.
"Master, if you know everything, then tell us what is in my hand."
"My son, whether this bird is alive or dead depends on your hands."
Filming location: Vép, Hungary
DVD 180b
Bhramari and bhramari pranayama
Brahmari Pranayama balances the nervous system and refines the voice. This practice is derived from the bee known as Brahmari. The female bee constructs a nest with intricate passages. She captures a specific worm and places it inside. She nourishes it until it develops wings and emerges as a new bee. The yogic practice mimics this process of internal transformation through sound. One method involves gently biting the teeth together. This directs resonance to the temples, balancing the Ida and Pingala nerve channels. It alleviates certain tensions and improves speech. Another method keeps the lips closed but the teeth apart. This directs energy upward toward the crown chakras. Both techniques significantly benefit singers and speakers by refining vocal quality and release. Practice should be avoided during an active headache.
"The sound goes from our ears and comes back here to the temple area."
"This prāṇāyāma balances both nerve systems, Iḍā and Piṅgalā."
Filming location: Strilky, Czech Republic
A Gathering at the Mahāprabhū Dīp Satsaṅg
This ashram is a center for yoga, culture, and harmony. It is maintained by devotees and supports the local village. People visit from across Europe and beyond for its peaceful atmosphere, clean air, and spiritual education. We offer teachings on Sanskrit, Indian scriptures, and European culture, maintaining a balance. The foundation promotes a sattvic lifestyle, including vegetarian and vegan food, emphasizing ahimsa. Veganism is a spiritual step to prevent animal suffering, like not taking milk from calves or honey from bees. Similarly, parents should care for their own children rather than use kindergartens. Preserve your native culture and language even when traveling; do not abandon your roots. Each country has its own beautiful culture. Yoga, especially the Sarvahitāsana practice, is the essential science for health of body, mind, and spirit. Practice daily. Avoid white sugar and junk food. You are welcome to visit this home anytime.
"Vegetarian is like a vegan, but more... very straight and very spiritual."
"Yoga is a science of the body, a science of the mind, a science of spirituality, and a science of the best practices."
Filming location: Strilky, Czech Republic
