The Sanskrit word dhyana comes from the verbal root dhyai, which means “to contemplate, meditate, think.” It’s the most common name for both the meditative state of consciousness and the yogic techniques that make it happen. Meditation is an important part of many Vedic traditions, such as the Yoga tradition. The term dhyana is used a…

A Shibhir is basically a spiritual retreat where guided sessions are conducted by trained professionals. There is a regimen of daily schedule with lessons, lifestyle and leisure in a way that there is a rejuvenation of mind, body and spirit.

Tattva is a Sanskrit term meaning “principle” or “reality.” It is derived from the roots, tatt, meaning “that,” “quality” or “godhead”; and tvam, meaning “thou” or “individual.” The cosmos is made up of 24 elements, known as tattvas, starting from Moola Prakriti, followed by mahat and ahamkara (egotism). Thus Prakriti, mahat, ahamkara, mind, the five…

Satsanga is formed from two terms: ‘Sat’ refers to the absolute, i.e. ‘Brahman,’ and ‘Sanga’ refers to a ‘company’ or ‘union. Thus, Satsanga’s literal definition is to be constantly in the company of the Lord. While God manifests in everyone’s heart, He manifests more vividly in the heart of a sage or saint who possesses spiritual…

Lokasamgraha is a well-known idea from the Bhagavad-Gita, India’s holy book. This is one of India’s fundamental social and ethical concepts, which involves performing one’s actions not just for oneself but also for others in a selfless manner or through Nishkama karma. It is the ideal of fulfilling duties for the purpose of bringing people…