Advertisement
Swami Satyananda Saraswati: A Life Dedicated to Yoga and Spiritual Awakening
Introduction:
Are you intrigued by the profound influence of yoga and spirituality on modern life? Then you've likely heard the name Swami Satyananda Saraswati. This article delves into the life and teachings of this remarkable figure, exploring his significant contributions to the global yoga community and his enduring legacy. We will journey through his early life, his pivotal role in establishing Bihar School of Yoga, his unique approach to yoga, and the lasting impact of his teachings on millions worldwide. Prepare to be inspired by the story of a man who dedicated his life to self-realization and the empowerment of others.
1. The Early Life and Spiritual Journey of Swami Satyananda Saraswati:
Born in 1923 in Almora, India, Swami Satyananda Saraswati's early life laid the foundation for his profound spiritual journey. His innate curiosity and inclination towards a life beyond the material world led him to seek spiritual guidance at a young age. He encountered various spiritual teachers and practices before encountering Swami Sivananda, a renowned yoga master who profoundly impacted his life. This meeting marked a turning point, initiating Satyananda's formal training in yoga and Vedanta philosophy at the Divine Life Society, Rishikesh. This period was characterized by rigorous self-discipline, intensive study, and dedicated practice, shaping him into the influential spiritual leader he would become. His intense dedication and profound understanding of yogic principles prepared him for his future role in propagating yoga globally.
2. The Founding of the Bihar School of Yoga (BSY):
Swami Satyananda Saraswati's vision extended beyond personal spiritual growth. Recognizing the transformative potential of yoga, he established the Bihar School of Yoga (BSY) in Munger, Bihar, in 1964. This institution became a central hub for yoga education and training, attracting students from across India and eventually the world. The BSY wasn't just a school; it was a vibrant community dedicated to holistic development, blending the ancient wisdom of yoga with modern techniques. It became a beacon for those seeking authentic yoga practice and spiritual enlightenment, reflecting Swami Satyananda's commitment to making yoga accessible and relevant to contemporary life. His focus on practical applications, rather than just theoretical understanding, made the BSY a pioneering institution in modern yoga education.
3. Swami Satyananda Saraswati's Unique Approach to Yoga:
Swami Satyananda Saraswati's contribution to yoga lies not only in his establishment of the BSY but also in his innovative approach to yogic practice. He emphasized a holistic approach, incorporating various aspects of yoga – Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga – into a comprehensive system. His teachings extended beyond asanas (physical postures) to encompass pranayama (breath control), meditation, and self-inquiry, aiming at the complete development of the individual. He was also a master of applying yogic principles to everyday life, providing practical tools and techniques for stress management, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. This integrated approach distinguished his teachings from more traditional schools of yoga, making them appealing to a wider audience. His emphasis on self-realization as the ultimate goal of yoga permeated all aspects of his teachings.
4. The Lasting Legacy and Influence of Swami Satyananda Saraswati:
Swami Satyananda Saraswati's impact resonates far beyond the walls of the Bihar School of Yoga. His teachings have influenced countless individuals across the globe, impacting their lives profoundly. His books, which are translated into numerous languages, have made his insights accessible to a broad audience. His emphasis on self-knowledge and the practical application of yogic principles continue to inspire seekers of spiritual growth. The Bihar School of Yoga, under his guidance, has produced numerous teachers who have carried his legacy forward, spreading his teachings and creating a worldwide network of dedicated practitioners. His work continues to transform lives through yoga and spiritual practices, solidifying his position as a significant figure in the history of modern yoga.
5. Key Teachings and Contributions:
Swami Satyananda Saraswati's contributions extended beyond establishing the BSY. He developed unique techniques such as Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep), a powerful relaxation and meditation technique used for stress reduction and personal growth. He also emphasized the importance of Mantra Yoga and the power of sound in spiritual practice. His understanding of the subtle energies of the body and his ability to communicate complex yogic concepts in a clear and accessible manner made his teachings highly influential. His publications remain invaluable resources for students of yoga and those seeking spiritual insight.
Book Outline: "The Life and Teachings of Swami Satyananda Saraswati"
Introduction: A brief overview of Swami Satyananda's life and impact.
Chapter 1: Early Life and Spiritual Awakening: Details of his childhood, spiritual quests, and encounter with Swami Sivananda.
Chapter 2: The Founding of the Bihar School of Yoga: The vision, establishment, and growth of the BSY.
Chapter 3: A Unique Approach to Yoga: An exploration of his holistic approach, including various yoga paths and techniques.
Chapter 4: Key Teachings and Contributions: Focus on Yoga Nidra, Mantra Yoga, and other unique contributions.
Chapter 5: The Lasting Legacy: Analysis of his enduring influence on the global yoga community.
Conclusion: A summary of his life and lasting impact on the world.
(The following sections would expand upon each chapter outlined above, providing detailed information and specific examples supporting the points already mentioned.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is Yoga Nidra and how did Swami Satyananda Saraswati contribute to it? Yoga Nidra is a systematic method of deep relaxation and meditation developed and popularized by Swami Satyananda. It involves a guided process that leads to a state between wakefulness and sleep, promoting deep rest and stress reduction.
2. What is the Bihar School of Yoga (BSY) and what is its significance? The BSY is a renowned yoga institution founded by Swami Satyananda, playing a pivotal role in the dissemination of yoga worldwide. It emphasizes a holistic approach to yoga encompassing various paths.
3. How did Swami Satyananda Saraswati's teachings differ from other yoga traditions? He emphasized a practical and holistic approach, integrating various aspects of yoga for complete personal development and incorporating techniques like Yoga Nidra.
4. What are some of Swami Satyananda Saraswati's most influential publications? His works include "Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha," "Raja Yoga," and various other texts offering insights into yoga philosophy and practice.
5. Where can I learn more about Swami Satyananda Saraswati's teachings? The official website of the Bihar School of Yoga and numerous online resources offer detailed information.
6. What is the significance of Mantra Yoga in Swami Satyananda Saraswati's teachings? He highlighted the power of mantras in spiritual practice, emphasizing their use in meditation and self-transformation.
7. How can I apply Swami Satyananda Saraswati's teachings to my daily life? His teachings can be applied through practicing yoga, meditation, and mindful living, fostering self-awareness and stress management.
8. What is the current status of the Bihar School of Yoga? The BSY continues to operate, offering various yoga courses and training programs worldwide, upholding his legacy.
9. What makes Swami Satyananda Saraswati's approach to yoga unique and relevant today? His holistic approach, combining ancient wisdom with practical techniques, remains relevant in addressing the challenges of modern life.
Related Articles:
1. Bihar School of Yoga: A Deep Dive into Its History and Teachings: Explores the history, philosophy, and current activities of the BSY.
2. Yoga Nidra: A Step-by-Step Guide to Yogic Sleep: Provides a practical guide to practicing Yoga Nidra.
3. Mantra Yoga: The Power of Sound in Spiritual Practice: Explores the significance and techniques of Mantra Yoga.
4. Swami Satyananda Saraswati's Asanas: A Comprehensive Guide: Details specific asanas taught within his tradition.
5. The Philosophy of Swami Satyananda Saraswati: Examines the core tenets of his philosophical teachings.
6. Swami Satyananda Saraswati and the Importance of Self-Realization: Explores his perspective on self-realization as the ultimate goal of yoga.
7. Comparing Swami Satyananda Saraswati's Yoga to Other Styles: Compares and contrasts his style with other popular yoga forms.
8. The Bihar School of Yoga's Contribution to Modern Yoga: Focuses on the BSY's impact on contemporary yoga practice.
9. Yoga and Stress Reduction: Applying Swami Satyananda's Techniques: Explains the application of his teachings for stress management.
swami satyananda saraswati: Meditations from the Tantras Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2002-10 Hindu tantric practices and meditation. |
swami satyananda saraswati: A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2007-01-01 |
swami satyananda saraswati: Kundalini Tantra Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 1996 In the last few decades, yoga has helped millions of people to improve their concepts of themselves. Yoga realises that man is not only the mind, he is body as well. Yoga has been designed in a such a way that it can complete the process of evolution of the personality in every possible direction. Kundalini yoga is a part of the tantric tradition. Even though you may have already been introduced to yoga, it is necessary to know something about tantra also. Since the dawn of creation, the tantrics and yogis have realised that in this physical body there is a potential force. It is not psychological or transcendental; it is a dynamic potential force in the material body, and it is called Kundalini. This Kundalini is the greatest discovery of tantra and yoga. Scientists have begun to look into this, and a summary of the latest scientific experiments is included in this book. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Sure Ways to Self-realization Saraswati Swami Staff, Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2006-09 Offers the reader different systems of meditation from cultures world wide. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Teachings of Swami Satyananda Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Satyananda Ashram (Australia), 1982 |
swami satyananda saraswati: Shree Maa Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Shree Maa, 2015-04-30 The biography of Shree Maa describes the extraordinary experiences of an enlightened being. Knowing her divinity from childhood, Shree Maa left home at an early age to reside in the seclusion of the Himalayas and devote her life to spiritual practices. Having realized her ultimate unity with God, she has dedicated her life to sharing wisdom and inspiration. The story of Shree Maa's journey is a classic example of realizing the human potential, no matter what field of endeavor one may choose. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Chandi Path Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Shree Maa, 2010-09-03 The name Chandi comes from the word chand which in Sanskrit means to tear apart. The spiritual meaning of Chandi is She Who Tears Apart Thought. The recitation of the Chandi Path is designed to guide the reader's awareness into the presence of Chandi - the Divine Mother Herself - so that all conflict of mind may return to Peace. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Yoga and Cardiovascular Management Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2009-02 This book compiles the discussions between Swami Satyananda Saraswati and a group of French medical experts, physicians and yoga teachers who shared their views on Yoga and Medical Management of Cardiovascular Disease at Tenon Hospital, Paris in September 1981. A yogi discusses the whole range of heart and vascular diseases plus the relevant co-existing diseases like diabetes mellitus and pulmonary disorders from the modern scientific as well as yogic viewpoints. Covered are the causes, patho-physiology and management of cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, cardiac arrhythmia, stroke, cerebral degenerative diseases, peripheral vascular disease and arteriosclerosis, followed by the yogic explanation and in-depth yogic management with scientific back-up. The research data was correlated by an Australian doctor and the scientific disposition and language make the book ideal for both medical scientists and lay people alike. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Kali Puja , 2004-01 Kali is the Goddess who takes away darkness. She cuts down all impurities, consumes all iniquities, purifies, Her devotees with the sincerity of Her Love. Now we can worship Her according to the ancient tradition. Kali Puja is a treasure house of Her Wisdom. It contains abundance Kali's tools for living: Her sattvic worship, Her Hundred Names, Her Thousand Names, Her Armor, the mantras for offering bhanga, alcohol, animal sacrifice and how to give birth to spiritual children. These offerings have great spiritual significance when performed with the mantras which explain the meanings and appropriate circumstances for such worship. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Bhakti Yoga Sagar S. Satyananda, Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2006-09 |
swami satyananda saraswati: Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2003-08 This comprehensive text provides clear illustration. Step by step & details of chakraawareness. It guides the fractional or teacher from the simplest to the most advanced practices of the health yoga system. A therapeutic index is included for use by doctors and yoga therapist incorporating resent inspiration from research into yoga. This edition successfully brings the exposition of yoga practiced to the standard of a university text. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Durga Puja Advanced Satyananda Saraswati, Shree Maa, 2018-06-28 The Advanced Puja is significantly more sophisticated than the original Durga Puja Beginner, adding several viddhis and stotrams, including the Durga Sahasranam. This book guides the spiritual seeker toward union with Durga, the Goddess who takes away confusion, replacing it with stillness and clarity. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Laksmi Puja and Thousand Names Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Swami Vittalananda Saraswati, Mata Parvatinanda Saraswati, 2001-03-01 Lakhsmi is the Goddess of Wealth, our goals, our values, our aspirations. Lakhsa means goal - Lakhsmi manifests the goal, every aim in existence. What our goals are, are what we value; that which we value is our wealth. One of Lakhsmi's names is Shri meaning the Highest Respect. Sa means peace. Ra means the mind. I means the heart or intuition. The highest respect is peace in the mind and peace in the heart. When we can experience life with peace in our minds and peace in our hearts, we are offering our respect. Lakhsmi's promise is: Whoever will pursue their goals with peace, they will find the wealth. This text contains Lakhsmi's thousand names with Her puja, japa and nyasa all in the original Samskrita along with a Romanized phonetic transliteration, and a complete English translation by Swami Satyananda, who by his wisdom and deep knowledge makes ancient Samskrita texts accessible and relevant for people all over the world. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Four Chapters on Freedom Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2006-10 Puts Together Lectures Delivered By The Author - Their Translations In English - An Aid To Learning Yoga And Its Philosophy. Samadhi Pada - Sadhana Pada - Vibhuti Pada - Kaivalya Pada. Cover Slightly Damaged, Otherwise Condition Ok. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Swara Yoga Swami Muktibodhananda, 1999-01-01 Swara Yoga is the ancient science of pranic body rhythms which explains how the movement of prana can be controlled by manipulation of the breath. Recently, modern science has taken great interest in electromagnetic fields and the behaviour of bioenergy, which is the inherent energy principle of the body. With exciting development accelerating in such areas as bioenergetics, psychotronics and kirlian photography, the science of swara yoga is now in great demand. |
swami satyananda saraswati: The Laughing Swamis Harry Aveling, 1994 In 1895 Swami Vivekananda of the Ramakrishna Mission initiated two Europeans one a womean into the ancient tradition of sannyasa or world-renuciation. This practice was continued in the first part of the twentieth century by Swami Shivananda of Rishikesh. From the late sixties onwards with the sudden expansion of European awareness of Indian Spirituality, a vast hord of foreign religious heads have spread through India in incomprehensibly large numbers. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Devi Gita Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Shree Maa, 2018-05-28 The Devi Gita presents the magnificent dialogue between Himalaya and the Divine Mother. She explains the principles of Yoga, which include directions for how to sit, how to breathe, and how to please the Goddess through acts of devotion. Presented in the original Sanskrit, the Roman phonetic transliteration and an exquisite English translation. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Yoga Education for Children Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 1999-01-01 Intended as a guideline for teachers of yoga to children based on the experience of the various authors who have taught yoga to children in widely differing environments for a considerable number of years. The book indicates some of the requirements of children of different age groups, abilities and disabilities, as well as some of the constraints imposed by the teaching environments. Furthermore, the book presents some of ways that teachers have adapted general yoga practices to suit their own specific requirements and constraints. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Prana, Pranayama, Prana Vidya Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati, 1994 Chiefly on Prânayâma Yoga, the art of breath control. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Art of Super-Realization Paramahansa Yogananda, In Art of Super-Realization: Initiation, Paramahansa Yogananda guides readers on a profound journey of spiritual awakening and self-discovery. Through ancient wisdom and practical techniques, Yogananda illuminates the path to realizing one's highest potential and experiencing the ultimate truth of existence. This transformative book offers a gateway to inner peace, divine love, and the art of living in harmony with the universe. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Yogic Management of Common Diseases Swami Karmananda Saraswati, 2003 Deals with 36 common as well as serious diseases afflicting the human body. Diseases covered include those affecting the head and neck, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the gastrointestinal tract, the joint and musculoskeletal system, and the urogenital system. Basic information is provided about the causes and effects of each condition from both the yogic and medical viewpoints. In depth yogic management of each disease is also presented along with the current medical treatment, dietary recommendations and other advice. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Sri Vijnana Bhairava Tantra Swami Satyasangananda Saraswati, 2003 Critical interpretation with text of Hindu Tantric text. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Dynamics of Yoga Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 1996-12-31 The word yoga is of great significance. It is derived from the Sanskrit root, unite. Yoga means union, identification. Identify with the joy and sorrows of everyone, extend your horizons, live above the pettiness of life. Yoga stands for both physical and mental well-being. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Rikhiapeeth Satsangs Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2009-02 Rikhiapeeth Satsangs is a selection of talks given by Sri Swamiji between 2000 and 2007 to visitors from all over the world. The Satsangs exemplify Sri Swamji's liberal, compassionate and practical views on a broad range of subjects, including ashram life, guru-disciple relationship, sannyasa, the Cosmic Mother, kanya worship, anna daan, children, awakening of consciousness, yoga, poverty, purushartha, destiny, opening the heart, and the future vision of Rikhiapeeth. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Surya Namaskara Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 1996 |
swami satyananda saraswati: Prana and Pranayama Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati, 2009-12 Prana and Pranayama, by Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati, is a comprehensive book on the philosophy of prana the life force, and pranayama the expansion and control of the life force.This book offers a complete explanation of the science of pranayama as presented in the classical texts and as taught in the Satyananda Yoga Tradition by Bihar School of Yoga. The book explores the theory of prana and its related yogic concepts such as koshas, chakras, nadis and mantras. It also discusses respiratory physiology and current research undertaken on pranayama. The book also has a practical section, which contains particular guidelines for practicing pranayama, explained through instructions and illustrations. Throughout the book, biblical sources enhance the reader's understanding, bringing to light the unique spirit and intent of these classical teachings. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Swami Purana Swami Saraswati, 2011 An anthology of selected stories from the folklore of ancient India. These stories are filled with many levels of meaning and can be read over and over again. Swami Purana is full of knowledge, wisdom, and fun. Great for the whole family! |
swami satyananda saraswati: The Path of Modern Yoga Elliott Goldberg, 2016-07-18 A history of yoga’s transformation from sacred discipline to exercise program to embodied spiritual practice • Identifies the origin of exercise yoga as India’s response to the mania for exercise sweeping the West in the early 20th century • Examines yoga’s transformations through the lives and accomplishments of 11 key figures, including Sri Yogendra, K. V. Iyer, Louise Morgan, Krishnamacharya, Swami Sivananda, Indra Devi, and B. K. S. Iyengar • Draws on more than 10 years of research from rare primary sources and includes 99 illustrations In The Path of Modern Yoga, Elliott Goldberg shows how yoga was transformed from a sacred practice into a health and fitness regime for middle-class Indians in the early 20th century and then gradually transformed over the course of the 20th century into an embodied spiritual practice--a yoga for our times. Drawing on more than 10 years of research from rare primary sources as well as recent scholarship, Goldberg tells the sweeping story of modern yoga through the remarkable lives and accomplishments of 11 key figures: six Indian yogis (Sri Yogendra, Swami Kuvalayananda, S. Sundaram, T. Krishnamacharya, Swami Sivananda, and B. K. S. Iyengar), an Indian bodybuilder (K. V. Iyer), a rajah (Bhavanarao Pant Pratinidhi), an American-born journalist (Louise Morgan), an Indian diplomat (Apa Pant), and a Russian-born yogi trained in India (Indra Devi). The author places their achievements within the context of such Western trends as the physical culture movement, the commodification of exercise, militant nationalism, jazz age popular entertainment, the quest for youth and beauty, and 19th-century New Age religion. In chronicling how the transformation of yoga from sacred discipline to exercise program allowed for the creation of an embodied spiritual practice, Goldberg presents an original, authoritative, provocative, and illuminating interpretation of the history of modern yoga. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Nine Principal Upanishads Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2006-10-01 Presents a culmination of Vedic thought and contains the essence of the original Vedantic teachings. This work imparts sublime truths about the nature and destiny of mankind revealed by sages and seers during informal discussions with disciples and spiritual seekers. |
swami satyananda saraswati: A History of Modern Yoga Elizabeth De Michelis, 2005-12-08 Please note: We can't take UK web orders at this time, but further information can be obtained by emailing info@continuumbooks.com. US web orders are available now. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Shree Maa the Guru and Goddess Saraswati S.S., 2003-01 The combined texts of the Kashyapa Sutras, Lalita Trishati, and the Guru Gita with full Sanskrita mantras, Roman phonetic transliteration and English translations. The Kashyapa Sutras is a series of delightful sat sañghas with Shree Maa and Swamiji in which they share stories, philosophy and songs. The Guru Gita explains the nature of relationship to the Guru, and the Lalita Trishati defines Shree Vidya with three hundred names of the Divine Mother |
swami satyananda saraswati: Light on the Guru and Disciple Relationship Swami Satyasangananda Saraswati, 2011-10 |
swami satyananda saraswati: Yoga, Tantra and Meditation in Daily Life Janakanada Swami Saraswau, 1992-02-01 The author demonstrates how you can practice Tantric Yoga and go on living your life as you usually do, adding another habit to the ones you already have. The step-by-step, well-illustrated instructions in this book take you from beginners' exercises to those for advanced students. You will learn how to meditate easily, breathe correctly during yoga or meditation, and how to do easy yoga poses and exercises, such as the back program to improve posture and maintain youthfulness, and a great deal more! |
swami satyananda saraswati: Yoga Sequencing Mark Stephens, 2012-09-18 The yoga teacher’s guide to planning and sequencing yoga classes—with over 2,000 instructional photos and 67 yoga pose sequences for students of all skill levels. Also features additional resources, including yoga class planning worksheets, comprehensive glossaries, and much more! Addressing one of the most popular topics in the yoga profession, this book offers 67 model sequences of yoga poses (asanas) that cover the broad range of yoga student experience. Inside, established and aspiring yoga teachers will find: • Over 2,000 instructional photos and guide to over 150 yoga asanas • Multiple sequences for beginning, intermediate, and advanced students • Yoga sequences for kids, teens, seniors, and women across their life cycle • Yoga classes designed for relieving depression and anxiety • Sequences for each of the major chakras and ayurvedic constitutions • Guidance for teaching breathing (pranayama) and meditation techniques • Glossary of terms and alphabetical asana index with thumbnail photographs • Yoga class planning worksheets • Representative sequences from several popular styles of hatha yoga • And many more resources for further reading! Drawing on ancient yoga philosophy and contemporary insights into functional anatomy, biomechanics, and kinesiology, Yoga Sequencing is the ultimate guide teachers looking to bring the transformative power of yoga into their practice and classes. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Yoga Education for Children: Volume 1. Yoga education for children Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati, 2009 Yoga Education for Children, Volume one This book on yoga compiled with children in mind. The first part explains which yoga practices are particularly beneficial for children of different ages. It offers approaches that can be used by teachers and parents to introduce yoga to children of different age groups. |
swami satyananda saraswati: The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga Swami Vishnu Devananda, 2011-02-23 Since 1960, more than 1 million people have used this classic guide to tap the incredible power of yoga. The attractive new edition, in a new size, will appeal to a wide audience of contemporary yoga students. |
swami satyananda saraswati: The Story of Yoga Alistair Shearer, 2020 How did an ancient Indian spiritual discipline turn into a $20+ billion-a-year mainstay of the global wellness industry? What happened along yoga's winding path from the caves and forests of the sages to the gyms, hospitals and village halls of the modern West? This comprehensive history sets yoga in its global cultural context for the first time. It leads us on a fascinating journey across the world, from arcane religious rituals and medieval body-magic, through muscular Christianity and the British Raj, to the Indian nationalist movement and the arrival of yoga in the twentieth-century West. We discover how the practice reached its present-day ubiquity and how it became embedded in powerful social currents shaping the world's future, such as feminism, digital media, celebrity culture, the stress pandemic and the quest for an authentic identity in the face of unprecedented change. Shearer's revealing history boasts a colorful cast of characters past and present, who tell an engaging tale of scholars and scandal, science and spirit, wisdom and waywardness. This is the untold story of yoga, warts and all. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Swara Yoga Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Swami Muktibodhananda Saraswati, 1984 |
swami satyananda saraswati: Cosmic Puja Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2001-01-01 English Version The Samashtii Upasana or Cosmic Puja, is the meditation and worship of all the forms of divinity in existence, of all the deities of the universe. The Cosmic Puja is derived from the Chandi Path, and it reveals the worship of the Divine Mother and Her multitudinous family. Puja describes the actions that give birth to merits. The action of the greatest merit is to guide one's awareness into the presence of God and to maintain that presence as long as possible. Through puja we offer all that we possibly can to God and thereby experience peace. This worship is intended to lead us to that objective. Swami Satyananda Saraswati has translated the Cosmic Puja so that we may use it to instill within us that quality of true reverence for all of life in which we actually pay attention. By performing this worship we become so absorbed in the union between the perceiver and the object of perception that we go beyond all duality. |
swami satyananda saraswati: Secret Bija Mantras of the Chandi Pathah Swami Satyananda Saraswati, 2019-07-10 The entire Chaṇḍī Pāṭhaḥ purports to be a bridge or commentary on the two Rig Vedic hymns included at its beginning and end: the Rātri Sūktam, Praise to the Night of Duality, and the Devi Sūktam, Praise to the Goddess who is Unity. The 700 verses of DurgāSaptaśatī, or Chaṇḍī Pāṭhaḥ, tell us how to make the journey from duality to unity, by calling upon the Divine Mother to withdraw Her energy from negativity and give it unequivocally to positivity. Contained within are the Bija mantras which represent the 700 verses. The text is presented in Devanagari, Roman transliteration, and English translation |