Models, examples and parables are often more effective than word descriptions in enabling us to understand new concepts. You have heard the saying that a picture is worth a 1000 words. Well, the same holds true for a mental picture. It facilitates our comprehension of a new subject by using a example with which we are already familiar. It helps to understand mental or spiritual concepts in terms of material examples. We have already used a number of examples in the previous chapters, such as the example of the river grasses, the boat on the sea, the fire in the bedroom, the pressure cooker and others. Here we will offer a few more examples, which we have found useful in understanding the various aspects of meditation and its benefits. Be aware, however, that no model or example can ever be perfect. There will always be flaws or possible contradictions. Their usefulness, however, is not diminished by that fact. Continue reading “A40 Models of Meditation: We can understand the process of meditation through various examples and models”

It is a common belief; in fact a serious misconception, that the discoveries of modern Science are in conflict with the universal philosophical truths about the nature of the world. Continue reading “A56 Science And Philosophy: An analysis of similarities between scientific and spiritual views of the universe”

Sprouts are rapidly becoming popular all over the world as people are seeking an economic and healthy source of food value. A handful of seed can sprout into enough food to provide balanced nutrition for a whole week. Continue reading “A72 Sprouting for Vitality: How to make sprouts from grains and beans”

It may take some time before some emotions can be transformed or transcended. Thus it is beneficial to be aware of various ways of handling those emotions in the present so that they do not accumulate creating problems in our bodies and relationships, perhaps even in our work. We must, however, remember that such techniques do not constitute a permanent solution, but rather a temporary means for keeping our balance and harmony. We present you with this chart (fig. 6) so that you might locate more easily the method which might help you or another. As most techniques described are clear enough, we will add only a few explanations in addition. Continue reading “A24 Handling Emotions: How to deal with emotions as they occur in our daily lives”

In the previous chapters we have already mentioned some very valuable “objects of concentration” for our meditation. Here we will mention a few more as well as some techniques or visualizations which you can use in order to move into a meditative state more easily and then begin to focus on your regular object. These introductory techniques are not designed to be meditations in themselves (although in some cases they can be) but rather as a way to develop inner concentration and a spiritual orientation in the mind so that we can then begin to focus on our chosen object of concentration. We will refer to these methods then as “Objects” or as “Methods of moving into meditation” accordingly. You can use them as they suit you best. Continue reading “A41 Moving into Meditation: This article offers suggestions as to how to enhance our meditation through various visualizations and prayers”

Sex, eros and love are our most powerful drives. They are simultaneously the sources of our greatest happiness and our deepest pain. How can we balance these energies in our lives, put them into perspective and experience their benefits without their disadvantages? Continue reading “A57 Sex and Love: Sex, Eros and Love are often confusing matters on the spiritual path. Here is some common sense thinking on the matter”

Fasting – cleansing the body and mind

Fasting has a long history in almost every religion on earth. The Christians have Lent. The Moslems have Ramadan. The Hindus have Ekadasi every two weeks. Continue reading “A73 Fasting for Health & Vitality: How fasting can improve our health and vitality”

We are all trying very hard to be happy. It is the main goal of every human life. Happiness has some prerequisites such as security, safety, contentment, acceptance and love among others. Thus all day long, and even during our dreams, we work hard trying to find these very illusive and rare states of mind. Do you know many people who feel enough security, contentment, acceptance and love, in order to feel really happy most of the time? What is wrong then? Why are we not able to succeed in this effort? Continue reading “A25 Happiness Is Service: An analysis of how selfless service can be a path towards self-knowledge and happiness”