Around the world - Khatu pranam
A praṇāma is a greeting and a practice that transforms energy. It aligns the spinal column and expels impurities, cleansing the entire system. This work is prepared through breath control, mantras, and energetic concentration. The practice requires the transformation of both the individual and the place itself. The greatest opportunity for change is always in the present moment. The key is to return to the essential self without creating grand personal identities. Working with a mantra completes the whole, influencing all aspects of being.
"The most important question is that of the Anāhata."
"A praṇāma can be used as an āsana, or in combination with breathing, which then begins to take on a completely different dimension."
Filming locations: Thar Desert, Rajasthan, India.
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Keep balance while you are practicing
Yoga is a lifelong practice for body, mind, and spirit. It is an ancient science for health and self-realization, not merely physical exercise. Many misunderstand it, turning it commercial, but true yoga overcomes stress and brings peace. It is for all ages and walks of life, a daily system like eating or breathing. Practice must be balanced, without competition or strain, and includes postures, breath, and meditation. Breath harmonizes the body, and the heart works loyally; we must care for it. The body is a temple for the inner self, which dislikes aggression and falsity. Spirituality is devotion—a higher, respectful love—not a temporary, misused emotion. True devotion leads to oneness and God realization, harmonizing life and family.
"Health is the first wealth."
"Yoga should be for every walk of life."
Filming location: London, UK
Dawn Meditation
A guided practice for relaxation and meditation.
Begin with physical stretches to prepare the body. Perform a breathing exercise called Bhastrikā for fifty-one cycles to become warm and refreshed. Then, close the eyes for a meditation. Withdraw from the external world and come to the inner space at the eyebrow center, the Cidākāśa. Visualize a dark blue sky and witness the dawn. See the sun rise completely, absorbing its energy of immortality. Feel the entire physical body and the breath. Conclude with chanting and warming the face with the hands.
"One is called Kapālabhāti, which involves only forceful exhalation."
"Visualize the dawn emerging from the dark night. See the dawn and wait until the sun rises."
Filming location: Prague, Czech Republic
Karma and liberation
The grandparents of the forest teach us about karma and the world's balance. Vegetation is essential for life, and ancient trees are loving grandparents. Good karma from non-violence leads to Svarga Loka, a temporary heaven. Bad karma from harming creatures leads to Naraka Loka. Liberation comes only through the guru's grace. Human actions are destroying the earth's equilibrium. Digging for resources creates hollow spaces and allows water in, making the planet unstable. This invites cataclysm where all will be lost. Spiritual people may depart beforehand. One must cease harming all creatures, including animals, and live with prayer and non-violence to alter this course.
"Good karma that you didn’t eat meat, you didn’t kill any animals, you didn’t kill any humans. Then you come to the heaven."
"Eating meat, you have to pay back. That’s it."
Filming location: Strilky, Czech Republic
