The Meaning of “Asato Ma Sadgamaya” Mantra
Anjali KanojiaThis Sanskrit mantra is often heard at the beginning and closure of yoga classes and practices. What exactly does it signify? "Asato Ma Sadgamaya" is a mantra with deep spiritual…
Temples as Sacred Spaces in Indian Philosophies
Philosophies and traditions that originate from the more incredible Indian subcontinent all have one thing in common – discussions related to realizing one’s true nature. Ancient literature and methods such…
Yoga and Ecology
Ecology is a branch of natural sciences that deals with organisms and their relationship to each other as well as their surroundings. Yoga is a science and a practice that…
How Does Body Scan Meditation and Guided Imagery Relaxation Work in Yoga?
At times Yoga classes incorporate a body scan practice. The body scan is a mindfulness meditation practice that allows the practitioner to tune inside the body. Meaning, the practitioner deliberately…
Why Do We Revere Gurus?
Guru is a Sanskrit term that translates as the removal of darkness. Therefore, a Guru is an entity that helps shed light (figuratively) on doubts and guides the Sadhaka or…
Ganesha: The Lord of Beginnings, Wisdom, and Yoga
Ganesha is often invoked as the "Lord of Beginnings" and the "Remover of Obstacles." Devotees pray to him before starting any new endeavor, whether a wedding, a business venture, an…
The Essence of Navratri: Embracing the Divine Feminine Within
While I grasped that my name, Anjali, drew inspiration from Tagore's poetry, I couldn't help but ponder: how did Ma Durga come to be revered throughout the Indian subcontinent? "Durga"…
The Many Buddhas – Essence, Not Identity
Many Buddhas There have been thousands of Buddhas on this planet, before and even after Gautama the Buddha. This means that "Buddha" is not a name but rather a quality…