Think Twice, Live Once: Why Impulsivity is Your Worst Enemy (and How to Tame It)

We’ve all been there. That moment when anger flares, opportunity knocks, or excitement bubbles over, and before we know it, we’ve thrown caution to the wind and leapt into action. Sometimes, it works out. We land the amazing deal, impress the room with our bold statement, or extinguish a brewing conflict with a quick retort. But more often than not, acting without thinking leads to a tangled mess of problems: burned bridges, bruised egos, and consequences we wish we could rewind.

The human brain is wired for both reactive impulses and deliberate thought. The former, that knee-jerk reaction, is a handy survival tool honed over millennia. But in our modern world, where social graces and complex decisions reign supreme, it can be a recipe for disaster. That’s where the power of pause comes in.

Think of your brain as a two-chambered engine:

• Chamber 1: The Impulse Zone: Here, emotions like anger, excitement, or fear take the wheel. It’s a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled environment where decisions are made in the blink of an eye.
• Chamber 2: The Reflection Zone: This is where logic and reason step in. It’s a slower, more deliberate space where you can assess the situation, weigh the consequences, and choose the most effective course of action.

The key to harnessing this engine effectively is bridging the gap between the two chambers. Here are some ways to do it:

• Take a breath: Sounds simple, but it works wonders. Give your body and mind a chance to settle before reacting.
• Ask yourself questions: Is this reaction based on emotions or logic? What are the potential consequences of my actions? Are there alternative approaches?
• Visualize the outcome: Before diving in, picture the possible results of your actions. How will they affect you, others, and the situation at hand?
• Step away: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, give yourself some time and space to cool down. Sometimes, a walk, a conversation with a trusted friend, or a few minutes of quiet reflection can do wonders for clarity.

Remember, thinking before you act doesn’t mean becoming indecisive or missing out on opportunities. It’s about consciously choosing your actions and ensuring they align with your values and desired outcomes. It’s about avoiding knee-jerk reactions and embracing calculated moves.

Think of it as taking control of your own narrative. Instead of being at the mercy of your impulses, you become the author of your story. You choose your words, your actions, and the impact you have on the world around you.

So, the next time that urge to react without thinking arises, take a deep breath, engage your reflection zone, and remember: a moment of pause can save you a lifetime of trouble. Happy thinking and happy living!

Share your experiences and tips for taming impulsivity in the comments below! We can all learn from each other’s journeys.

Ditch the Gulps, Embrace the Chomp: Why We Should Drink Our Food and Chew Our Water

In a world of rushed meals and quick fixes, we often forget the most fundamental act of nourishing ourselves: eating. Shove a sandwich in your face, chug some water, and get on with the day, right? But what if I told you that this fast-paced approach to sustenance is actually doing your body a disservice?

Enter the revolutionary, yet surprisingly simple, concept: drink your food and chew your water. Yes, you read that right. It’s not about blending your steak with a smoothie, but about a conscious shift in how we approach what we put into our mouths.

Here’s why this shift matters:

1. Digestion starts in the mouth: Chewing isn’t just about breaking down food into bite-sized pieces. It’s about triggering the release of digestive enzymes in your saliva, the first step in a complex breakdown process. By thoroughly chewing your food, you’re essentially pre-digesting it, making it easier for your stomach and intestines to do their job efficiently.

2. Savor the flavor: Rushing through meals mutes the symphony of taste and aroma that food offers. Slowing down, taking small bites, and really chewing allows you to fully appreciate the textures and flavors of what you’re eating. This mindful approach can even lead to healthier food choices, as you become more attuned to what truly satisfies your palate.

3. Befriend your water: Water may not have the allure of a juicy burger, but it’s vital for every bodily function. Yet, we often gulp it down like it’s an obligation, neglecting its potential. Chewing water, yes, you read that right, involves holding a mouthful for a few seconds, swirling it around your mouth, and then swallowing. This practice can increase water absorption, promote saliva production, and even improve dental health.

So, how do we actually drink our food and chew our water?

• Mindful bites: Take time to appreciate the look and smell of your food before digging in. Take small bites, chew slowly, and focus on the textures and flavors.
• Water breaks: Instead of chugging, sip small amounts of water throughout your meal. Hold each sip in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing, ensuring proper hydration and digestion.
• Make it a habit: Start with one meal a day and gradually incorporate this practice into your routine. You’ll be surprised at how quickly your body and mind adjust to this mindful approach to eating.

In a world of instant gratification, slowing down to drink your food and chew your water is a radical act of self-care. It’s a rebellion against the tyranny of haste and a delicious celebration of mindful nourishment. So, put down your phone, silence the distractions, and rediscover the joy of truly experiencing the simple pleasure of a meal. Your body, and your taste buds, will thank you for it.

Remember, it’s not about what you eat, but how you eat it. Let’s make every bite a mindful masterpiece.

Let’s discuss! What are your thoughts on this concept? Do you think you could incorporate “drinking your food and chewing your water” into your routine? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!

Breaking the Cycle: Finding Forgiveness and Transformation with the Bhagavad Gita

We all stumble. As good individuals, we grapple with the complexities of desire, greed, and anger, and sometimes, unwittingly, our actions can hurt others. The guilt that lingers, the cycle of repeating mistakes – it can feel like a heavy burden to bear. But what if there was a path to break free, to heal yourself and mend the bridges you’ve built? That’s where the Bhagavad Gita, the ancient Indian scripture, offers profound insights.

Unraveling the Root of the Cycle:

The Gita identifies the root cause of our struggles as the ego, the false self that clings to desires and attachments. This ego drives our actions, often leading us down paths of greed, anger, and ultimately, suffering. We act impulsively, driven by the need for immediate gratification, without considering the consequences for ourselves or others.

Breaking Free from the Web of Guilt:

The Gita emphasizes the power of self-awareness, urging us to witness our thoughts and actions without judgment. By acknowledging our mistakes, we can begin to break free from the cycle of guilt. Instead of dwelling on the past, we can learn from our experiences and choose to act differently in the future.

The Power of Karma Yoga:

The Gita introduces the concept of Karma Yoga, the path of selfless action. It encourages us to detach from the fruits of our actions and focus on performing our duties with dedication and without attachment. By acting with a pure heart, without seeking personal gain or validation, we can break the cycle of karmic bondage and cultivate inner peace.

Developing Equanimity:

The Gita teaches us to cultivate equanimity, a state of inner balance that remains unshaken by external circumstances. This allows us to face challenges with a calm mind, without succumbing to the pull of anger or greed. By acting with equanimity, we avoid harming ourselves or others, even in difficult situations.

The Path of Forgiveness:

Perhaps the most powerful lesson of the Gita is the importance of forgiveness. We must forgive ourselves for our mistakes, acknowledging them as lessons learned, and not as defining our worth. We must also forgive others, understanding that their actions are often driven by their own internal struggles. By letting go of resentment and anger, we free ourselves from emotional bondage and open ourselves to healing and transformation.

The Gita’s Guidance is a Journey, Not a Destination:

Remember, the Bhagavad Gita is not a quick fix, but a transformative journey. It takes time and dedication to implement its teachings in our lives. But with each step, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our motivations, and the interconnectedness of all beings. This knowledge empowers us to break free from the cycle of negativity and cultivate a life of compassion, peace, and joy.

So, if you find yourself caught in the cycle of mistakes and guilt, turn to the Bhagavad Gita. Open its pages with an open heart and a willingness to learn. Its ancient wisdom can illuminate your path towards forgiveness, self-transformation, and ultimately, a life lived with purpose and grace.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Seek out communities of support, engage in mindfulness practices, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. With each step, you can break free from the cycle and create a life worthy of your true, compassionate self.

Be Happy: Your Daily Ritual for a Blissful Life

Happiness isn’t a lucky accident. It’s a conscious choice, woven into the tapestry of our daily lives. Like any worthwhile pursuit, it needs tending, cultivation, and a touch of daily magic. So, let’s craft a personal ritual for happiness, one that fits seamlessly into your life and transforms your interactions with the world.

The Morning Mantra:

1. Breathe Deep, Be Aware: Begin your day with a deep, mindful breath. Anchor yourself in the present, release the shadows of yesterday, and welcome the promise of a new dawn.
2. Smile and Greet: Light up your face with a genuine smile. Greet everyone you meet, be it the barista brewing your coffee or the sun painting the sky. Let friendliness be your first offering to the world.
3. Listen Deeply, Nod Wisely: When others speak, lend them your ears, not just your presence. Listen with intent, not just to respond, but to truly understand. Offer silent nods of acknowledgment, showing respect and encouraging them to share more.

Discerning Personalities:

1. Foolish and Wise: Learn to recognize personalities. The “foolish” seek instant gratification, often driven by impulses and lacking foresight. For them, a gentle smile and a subtle shift in conversation might be more effective than words. With the “wise,” however, open your heart and speak the truth, for they seek knowledge and understanding.

Choosing Your Words:

1. Speak with Significance: Every word should carry weight. Avoid filling air with meaningless chatter. Let your words uplift, enlighten, and bring knowledge. Be like a sculptor, carving meaning into the silence with your carefully chosen words.
2. Know Your Audience: Speak only to those who listen. Not everyone is ready to receive your pearls of wisdom. Choose your audience wisely, for words spoken on deaf ears can become wasted arrows.
3. Seek Permission to Guide: Unless specifically asked for, refrain from offering unsolicited advice. True growth comes from within, not from imposed guidance.

Navigating Emotions:

1. Triggered? Breathe and Retreat: When negativity arises, don’t react impulsively. Take a deep breath, excuse yourself politely, and count to a hundred. Allow the storm to pass before rejoining the conversation.
2. Praise Publicly, Criticize Privately: Celebrate publicly and offer constructive criticism in private. Applause in the open nourishes the spirit, while gentle whispers in solitude allow for improvement without humiliation.
3. Emotional Decision Making? Wait: When happiness, anger, excitement, or any other strong emotion clouds your judgment, step back. Don’t make life-altering decisions in the throes of emotional turbulence. Wait until the dust settles and a clear perspective emerges.

Moving Forward:

1. Seek Progress, Shun Negativity: Don’t listen to those who discourage your growth. If you want to climb the mountain, find those who have reached the summit, not those who scoff at your ambition. Be proactive, respond to every challenge, and never stop seeking upward movement.
2. Learn from Criticism: Embrace criticism as an opportunity to learn and grow. Honestly acknowledge feedback and use it to refine your actions and words. Turn negativity into a stepping stone, not a stumbling block.
3. The Power of “I understand, but…”: When faced with dissenting opinions, use the powerful “I understand, but…” phrase. Acknowledge their perspective, then gently offer your own, fostering conversation and collaboration instead of conflict.

The Ultimate Rule:

Above all, never hurt anyone. Let kindness be your guiding principle, your compass in the ever-shifting landscape of human interaction.

Remember, happiness is not a destination, but a journey. With these daily rituals as your guiding lights, you can weave a tapestry of joy, understanding, and progress into the fabric of your life. Step into the world with awareness, choose your words carefully, and spread the sunshine of your unique presence. As Gandhi beautifully said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” So go forth, dear reader, and let your happiness illuminate the way.

Top Gun Maverick: Lessons That Soar Beyond the Dogfight

Top Gun Maverick isn’t just a high-octane thrill ride about daring fighter pilots. It’s a story packed with valuable lessons that resonate far beyond the confines of the cockpit. So buckle up as we explore some key takeaways from this cinematic masterpiece:

1. Embrace the Maverick spirit: Pete “Maverick” Mitchell is the epitome of defying expectations and pushing boundaries. He challenges authority, champions unconventional methods, and refuses to be confined by the “play it safe” mentality. This film reminds us to embrace our own inner Maverick, to challenge the status quo, and to pursue our passions with unwavering determination.

2. Teamwork makes the dream work: While Maverick is undoubtedly a skilled individual, his success hinges on his ability to collaborate with his fellow aviators. The film emphasizes the importance of communication, trust, and synchronized action in achieving a common goal. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how talented we are, we can achieve far greater heights by working together.

3. Fear is a compass, not a roadblock: Maverick grapples with fear throughout the film, but he learns to use it as a motivator rather than a deterrent. He understands that fear is a natural human response, but it shouldn’t dictate our actions.Top Gun Maverick teaches us to face our fears head-on, acknowledge their presence, and use them to fuel our determination.

4. Legacy is built, not given: Maverick initially struggles with the idea of mentoring the next generation of pilots. He fears being replaced and feels stuck in the past. However, he eventually realizes that his true legacy lies in passing on his knowledge and skills to those who follow. This film reminds us that our actions and contributions have the power to shape the future, and that true fulfillment comes from leaving a positive impact on the world around us.

5. The human factor is the ultimate weapon: Top Gun Maverick beautifully showcases the power of human connection and resilience. The film emphasizes that technology and advanced weaponry are mere tools, and it’s the human spirit that ultimately determines success or failure. This lesson reminds us to invest in relationships, foster trust, and never underestimate the power of the human spirit to overcome any obstacle.

Top Gun Maverick is more than just a popcorn flick; it’s a cinematic experience that leaves us with valuable lessons about life, leadership, and overcoming challenges. So, the next time you find yourself facing a seemingly insurmountable obstacle, remember the words of Maverick: “There’s no such thing as a one-man mission.” Embrace the Maverick spirit,trust your team, and soar towards your goals!

Bonus takeaway: Don’t forget to appreciate the breathtaking aerial sequences and Tom Cruise’s death-defying stunts!This movie is a visual feast for the senses, and a testament to the power of filmmaking to transport us to another world.

I hope you enjoyed this blog post! Feel free to share your own takeaways from Top Gun Maverick in the comments below.

Top Gun Maverick starring Tom Cruise

Dumbbell Exercises vs. Yoga: Unveiling the Differences and Examining the Benefits

Introduction:
When it comes to fitness and well-being, various exercise modalities offer unique benefits and cater to different goals. Dumbbell exercises and yoga are two popular forms of physical activity that provide distinct advantages. In this blog post, we will delve into the differences between these two practices and explore whether the benefits they offer remain the same or differ significantly. I personally work on both. I feel that muscle mass decreases as you age that it is important to keep muscle mass consistent since sedentary lifestyle could take a toll on that.

Dumbbell Exercises: Strength and Resistance Training
Dumbbell exercises primarily focus on strength and resistance training. By utilizing dumbbells, individuals engage in targeted movements that challenge specific muscle groups. Dumbbell exercises typically involve repetitive motions with added weights, enabling the muscles to adapt, grow, and become stronger over time. Some benefits of dumbbell exercises include:

1. Increased Muscle Mass and Strength: Dumbbell exercises promote muscle hypertrophy and enhance overall strength by targeting specific muscle groups. This is particularly beneficial for individuals aiming to build muscle mass or improve their physical performance.
2. Improved Bone Health: Resistance training with dumbbells is known to stimulate bone growth, helping to increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
3. Weight Management: Strength training, including dumbbell exercises, can aid in weight loss or weight management by increasing metabolism and promoting fat burning even at rest.

Yoga: Mind-Body Connection and Flexibility
Yoga, on the other hand, is a holistic practice that combines physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation. It focuses on the mind-body connection, promoting both physical and mental well-being. Some benefits of practicing yoga include:

1. Enhanced Flexibility and Joint Mobility: Yoga incorporates a range of stretching exercises that improve flexibility, joint mobility, and muscle elasticity. Regular practice can help alleviate stiffness and increase overall range of motion.
2. Stress Reduction and Mental Clarity: Yoga emphasizes mindfulness, deep breathing, and meditation, promoting relaxation and stress reduction. It can improve mental clarity, focus, and overall emotional well-being.
3. Balance and Core Strength: Many yoga poses require balance and stability, which help strengthen the core muscles and improve overall stability. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to enhance their posture and prevent injuries.

Shared Benefits:

While dumbbell exercises and yoga have their unique advantages, there are areas where their benefits overlap:

1. Increased Strength and Muscle Tone: Both dumbbell exercises and yoga can contribute to increased strength and muscle tone. Dumbbell exercises focus on targeted muscle groups, while yoga poses engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

2. Improved Body Awareness and Mindfulness: Both practices promote body awareness and mindfulness. Dumbbell exercises require individuals to focus

Photo by Mo Eid on Pexels.com

Hindu Calendar, Seasons, Festivals and Significance

This post marks as Spiritual and Health significance.

Tithi, meaning dates in Hindu calendar (Panchang), where month details including festivities are highlighted according to season. Isn’t it interesting? There is significance and I am really trying to understand if it really makes meaning to our life and sometimes it makes sense because we celebrate Diwali. On that day we oil our bodies before taking bath. It may have significance spiritually but since winter starts it makes sense to follow rituals. It is healthy to oil ourselves during pre-winter season to continue it during winter. It will remove any Vata deformities in the body.

Hindu calendar month is divided into 30 days. One Paksha of 15 days is called Shukla Paksha. Another Paksha of 15 days is called Krishna Paksha.

Here is the listing of each month mapped to season.

• Chaitra (March to April) :: Season – Vasanta/Spring
  • Papavimocani Ekadashi (Chaitra, Krishna Ekadashi) –
    • For the worshippers of Lord Vishnu for a blissful life on earth & observed to get rid of the sins committed by an individual.Whosoever keeps this fast is never affected by any ghosts or spirits. All his wishes will be fulfilled, and all the sins of the observer will be vanquished. That person becomes exceedingly religious and pious.
  • Ugadi or Samsar Padava (Chaitra, Shukla Pratipada)
    • Lord Brahma started the creation of the universe on Ugadi. Hence, it is a New Year!
    • Weather significance – symbolizes relief from the harshness of the winter weather.
    • Popular dish called “Pachhadi” is blend of sweet, sour, salty bitter, pungent and spicy. It uses neem, jaggery, mango, tamarind, chilli and salt. These ingredients reflect the six aspects or emotions of life.
  • Rama Navami (Chaitra, Shukla Navami)
    • Lord Rama is born. When your mind is quiet and free from conflict, that is when the divine eternal light dawns within you. Maharishi Patanjali said – if you recognize the light present inside of you, then you will attain wholeness and purity. That is Lord Rama.
    • Celebrated during the summer, panakam is offered as a cooling beverage.
  • Kamada Ekadashi (Chaitra, Shukla Ekadashi)
    • Kamada suggests, is believed be the occasion when all the desires of a devotee are granted.
    • After taking bath in the morning, the devotee observes a fast. Worship is also offered to Vishnu in the form of Krishna. This vrata grants all desires, to cleanse even the most heinous sin one committed and to free the devotee or his family members from curses.
  • Hanuman Jayanti (Chaitra Purnima)
    • Lord Hanuman is born. Devotees of Hanuman celebrate him and seek his protection and blessings.
    • Lord Hanuman who is a devotee of Lord Rama. On this day both Shri Rama and Shri Hanuman are worshipped. Lord bestows one with joy and destroys the problems. Reciting the famous ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ continuously can gain mental peace and gain immense strength.
• Vaisakha (April to May) :: Season – Vasanta/Spring
  • Varuthini Ekadashi (Vaishakha, Krishna Ekadashi)-The significance of Varuthini Ekadashi is narrated by the Hindu deity, Krishna, to King Yudhishthira in the Bhavishya Purana. Krishna tells Yudhishthira that Varuthini Ekadashi is a very auspicious day that can bring many benefits to those who observe the fast.
  • Akshaya Tritiya – Considered an auspicious day for new beginnings, marriages, and investments. It is believed that any venture started on this day will be blessed with success and prosperity.
  • Parashurama Jayanti-The significance of Parashuram Jayanti is to honor the birth of this great warrior and to seek his blessings. Devotees observe a fast on this day and offer prayers and worship to Lord Parashurama. They also read the story of his life and meditate on his teachings.
  • Narasimha Jayanti– The significance of Narasimha Jayanti is to honor the birth of this great incarnation of Lord Vishnu and to seek his blessings. Devotees observe a fast on this day and offer prayers and worship to Lord Narasimha. They also read the story of his life and meditate on his teachings
  • Kurma Poornima-Kurma Jayanti also marks the beginning of the four-month period called Chaturmas, when Lord Vishnu is said to sleep on the serpent Ananta Shesha
  • Mohini Ekadashi (Vaishakha, Shukla Ekadashi) -Falls on the 11th lunar day of the waxing phase of the moon in Vaishakha. Dedicated to Goddess Mohini, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Fasting on this Ekadashi is believed to bring blessings and fulfill wishes
• Jyestha/ (May to June) :: Season – Grishma/Summer
  • Apara Ekadashi (Jyestha, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Vata Pournima
  • Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi (Jyestha, Shukla Ekadashi)
• Ashada (June to July) :: Season – Grishma/Summer
  • Yogini Ekadashi (Ashada, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Guru Purnima
  • Sayana Ekadashi (Ashada, Shukla Ekadashi)
• Shraavana (July to August) :: Season – Varsha/Rain – (Chaturmaas – Vishnu Sleeps)
  • Kamika Ekadashi (Shravana, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Naga Panchami
  • Sutta Punnav
  • Govatsa puja
  • Krishna Ashtami
  • Padmini Ekadashi (Shravana, Shukla Ekadashi)
  • Parama Ekadashi (Shravana, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Shravana Putrada/Pavitropana Ekadashi (Shravana, Shukla Ekadashi)
• Bhadra (August to September) :: Season – Varsha/Rain – (Chaturmaas – Vishnu Sleeps)
  • Annada Ekadashi (Bhadra, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Vinayaka Chaturthi
  • Parshva Ekadashi (Bhadra, Shukla Ekadashi)
  • Garuda Panchami 
  • Anant Chaturdashi
  • Pitru Paksha Starts
  • Pitru Paksha Ends (Mahalaya Amavasya)
• Ashvina (September to October) :: Season – Sharad/Autumn– (Chaturmaas – Vishnu Sleeps)
  • Indira Ekadashi, Vyanjuli Mahadvadashi (Ashvina, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Pitru Paksha Ends
  • Navaratri
  • Durgashtami 
  • Pashankusha Ekadashi (Ashvina, Shukla Ekadashi)
  • Maha Navami 
  • Vijayadashami 
  • Deepavali  
  • Dhana Trayodashi 
  • Naraka Chaturdashi or Bali Pratipada
  • Bhau-bij or Yamadwititya
• Kartika (October to November) :: Season – Sharad/Autumn – (Chaturmaas – Vishnu Sleeps)
  • Kartik Ekadashi or Haribodhini or Prabodhini or Rama Ekadashi (Kartika, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Tulsi Pooja or Tulsi Vivah
  • Vaikunta Chathurdashi
  • Utthana Ekadashi (Kartika, Shukla Ekadashi)
  • Kartik or Tripura Purnima or Deepa Daan
  • Vysa Puja
• Agrahayana/Margashirsha (November to December) :: Season – Hemanta/Pre-Winter
  • Utpanna Ekadashi (Margashirsha, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Subramanya Shashti
  • Mokshada Ekadashi (Margashirsha, Shukla Ekadashi)
  • Skandha Shashti
• Pausha aka Nourishing (December to January) :: Season – Hemanta/Pre-Winter
  • Putrada Ekadashi (Shukla Ekadashi)
    • Putrada Ekadashi (Sunanda Ekdashi), meaning “Child Giver”. Observance of this Ekadashi fulfils the wishes of devotees wishing for son.
  • Swargavathil Ekadashi or Vaikunta/Mukkoti Ekadashi
    • It is believed that Vaikuntha Dwaram or the gate of Lord’s inner sanctum is opened on this day and devotees who observe fast on Vaikuntha Ekadashi attain salvation by going to Heaven.
    • Vaikunta Ekadasi, or Mukkoti Ekadasi, is observed with fast, prayer, chants and meditation, Japa and Dhyana. Its strict observance by taking food only once on Dashami followed on Vaikunta Ekadasi by a rigorous fast or partial fast. The mind in a body thus restrained, it is felt, will become pure. A purified body and mind help one to attain proximity with the divine or the Paramatman.
• Magha (January to February) :: Season – Shishira/Winter
  • Shat Tila Ekadashi (Magha, Krishna Ekadashi)
    • This day teaches the importance of food i.e. consumption of sesame seeds. Bathing with some sesame seeds in the water is considered auspicious.
  • Ratha Saptami or Surya Jayanti (Magha, Shukla Saptami)
    • Birth day of Sun God. It is believed that seven types of sins done, knowingly, unknowingly, by words, by body, by mind, in current birth and in previous births are purged by worshipping Lord Surya on this day. Taking bath before sunrise and giving Arghya (pouring water facing Sun) keeps one healthy and free from all types of ailments and diseases.
  • Madhwa Navami
  • Makara Sankranti 
  • Vasant Panchami (Magha, Shukla Panchmi)
  • Bhaimi Ekadashi (Magha, Shukla Ekadashi)
• Phalguna (February to March) :: Season – Shishira/Winter
  • Vijaya Ekadashi (Phalguna, Krishna Ekadashi)
  • Mahashivaratri (Phalguna, Krishna Chaturdashi)
  • Holika Dahan (Phalguna, Shukla Poornima)
  • Amalaki Ekadashi (Phalguna, Shukla Ekadashi)

Shukla Paksha (Waning Crescent Moon to New Moon)	Krishna Paksha (New Moon to Waning Crescent Moon)
1. Prathama/Prathipada	1. Prathama/Prathipada
2. Dwitiya	2. Dwitiya
3. Tritiya	3. Tritiya
4. Chaturthi	4. Chaturthi
5. Panchami	5. Panchami
6. Shashti	6. Shashti
7. Saptami	7. Saptami
8. Ashtami	8. Ashtami
9. Navami	9. Navami
10. Dashami	10. Dashami
11. Ekadashi	11. Ekadashi
12. Dwadashi	12. Dwadashi
13. Thrayodashi	13. Thrayodashi
14. Chaturdashi	14. Chaturdashi
15. Purnima	15. Amavasya

Note: Shukla and Krishna Paksha

Please note this post will be updated periodically. Based on complexity and research time, I will post this public. Any comments welcome.

Yoga Poses for Sciatica

This list of Yoga poses are beneficial to relieve Sciatica Nerve.

• Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
• Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
• Extended Triangle Pose (Utthita Trikonasana)
• Revolved Triangle Pose (Parivitta Trikonasana)
• Extended Side Angle Pose (Utthita Parsvakonasana)
• Revolved Side Angle Pose (Parivrita Parsvakonasana)
• Warrior Pose (Virabhadrasana)
• Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana)
• Extended Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana)
• Pyramid Pose (Parsvottanasana)
• Intense Leg Stretch Pose (Prasarita Padottanasana)
• Head Stand Pose (Shirshasana)
• Shoulder Stand Pose (Sarvangasana)
• Belly Twist Pose (Jhatara Parivartasana)
• Reclined Big Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana)
• Sleeping Vishnu Pose (Anantasana)
• Raised Legs Pose (Uttana padasana)
• Bridge Pose (Setubandhasana)
• Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)  
• Locust Yoga Pose (Shalabhasana)
• Bow Pose (Dhanurasana)
• Snake Pose (Bhujangasana)
• Upward-Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana)
• Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
• Upward Plank Pose (Purvottanasana)
• Tortoise Pose (Kurmasana)
• Bharadvaja’s Twist (Bharadvajasana)
• Marichi’s Twist (Marichiasana)
• Seated Twist Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)
• Squat Forward Bend (Malasana)
• Noose Pose (Pashasana)
• Monkey Pose (Hanumanasana)
• Reclining Split (Supta Trivikramasana)
• Camel Pose (Ushtrasana)
• Two Legged Inverted Staff Pose (Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana)

Excerpts from Shrimad Bhagavatam

Lessons –

1. In this era only Sankirtana Yagna i.e. Bhakti is recommended.

2. Cow killing or any animal killing is not advisable for sacrifices.

Qualities of Lord Ram

I am writing this post on Ram Navami, the birthday of Lord Shree Rama. Why is he followed so much? What should we learn from him? Being a central character in Ramayana, a Sanskrit epic which many learn personal and leadership lessons from. He is the seventh avatar of the Lord Vishnu in Hinduism and a king of Ayodhya in Hindu scriptures. Today people still want a kingdom like that of Rama known as ‘Rama Rajya’. Any quality comes from upbringing and response towards adversity he faces thus a great personality thrives. These are great qualities which we need to imbibe in our lives.

Obedient
He was an obedient student, who gracefully learnt all the required knowledge from his guru, Sage Vasistha. He obeyed and respected his elders in the family, due to which is was his parents favorite son. Even his own brother Lakshmana asked him to rebel against his father and step mother, but he did not.He obeyed the people in his kingdom when they commented on his wife.

Compassionate
He was compassionate towards all, he treated everyone same human, other tribes or animals. He was compassionate towards his brother Bharat during his exile. Though brother Lakshmana was angry, he calmed him and decided to come back after 14 years to rule. When his opponent Ravana lost all his weapons in the battle, he asked him to return back with weapons.

Sacrificing
In Suryavansh, family name and respect come first. They are ready to sacrifice anything for family honor and this honor was gained by ancestor’s king by following path of dharma and lot of sacrifices. He spent 14 years in the forest just to satisfy his father’s wishes. He gave equal respect to his brothers and mother and step mothers. He sacrificed his subjects, his wife Sita and missed the best years of his sons.

Righteous
He was the only Indian king who refused to marry more than one woman. All other Hindu kings married more than one woman according to the rules for the kings. He never spoke untruth! He gave enough chances to avoid war with Ravana. He sent Hanuman as ambassador. Wherever he won land, he did not rule those places. He gave them back to Vibhisana. The guilt of watching his loving pregnant wife leave while knowing there was no one purer than her anywhere in the universe would have killed him every single day, but all of these immense hardships and personal emotions did not deter him from the path of righteousness.

Courageous
He defeated all the demons from his teenage days. When it was time for Sita to choose her bridegroom, at Swayamvara ceremony, the princes were asked to string a giant bow. No one else can even lift the bow, but as Rama bends it, he not only strings it but breaks it in two. Sugreeva, the semi-ape king, wanted to test Rama’s strength to determine if he could overcome King Vali, Sugreeva’s elder brother and rival for the throne. Lord Rama was required to shoot an arrow through a holy Sal tree, but his power was so great that he shot through seven trees with one arrow. He defeated the most feared hero Parasurama.

Resilient
He is truly resilient as he faced series of adversities and still he stood strong. He lost the kingdom that was duly his and ended up in exile. Then his wife Sita gets kidnapped and he has to fight a war to get her back without no much backing. Then when he gets her back, he has to suffer comments about her from his own people in kingdom. So he takes his dear wife, who was pregnant with two children, and leaves her in the forest and finally ends up in a battle against his own children and then finally loses his wife.

I know you will certainly watch Ramayana, one of the Sanskrit epics which has so many characters to learn life lessons.

Influence and Persuasion change our virtue

I have always felt that influence has great power the way we see our lives as well has how the world has really transformed from age old traditions. Certain important people whose actions and behaviors have led us to form a vision in our lives. The whole world follows it and changes itself from time to time. I always wonder when I follow certain leaders, teachers, friends; what behavior is likable, is it the way they speak, the way they dress, the way they are fit, the way they possess the knowledge, the way they change other people’s lives. This reminds me of an incident.

Once I was in a cab and the driver started the conversation which led to a discussion. Then I came to know that he was an entrepreneur. I asked him “Why are you driving a cab ?” for that he replied “I am looking for future or prospective clients”. On the way home he gave good book recommendations too. I was very much influenced by the way he saw the world where he said there can be only 2 outcomes whatsoever in things we deal. That totally changed the way I used to think. I began reading the books he recommended.

Our daily lives have so many people by accident or by virtue we meet them get influenced and our destiny is changed. I know there are people who let us down too. It is always said that Influence is one tool to win any situation, any righteous action. However, we need to use this in correct way in our life. But there are again two sides to this. Either we get influenced by other’s action or either you deliberately influence other people to get your job done. That is persuasion.

In my view every product we buy in market is marketed in unique way to influence us. At a given situation when we choose to speak certain words at right time is how people persuade us. Say example, when you are thinking to buy a Car at the same time your friend or colleague or a sales person puts the ideas of buying or offering you the right product making it more attractive and beneficial to you. That is when you get more influenced to buy the Car. Persuasion is when you heed to whose advise. Last month I thought I would buy a laptop. But I ended up buying an expensive mobile phone just because the idea of buying that product was persuaded but the advantages of that product and a good offer influenced me to do so. Few words of attraction was enough.

Psychologist Robert B. Cialdini’s says that thousands of different tactics are employed by compliance professionals to produce ‘yes’ or persuade people but majorly six of them are used.

• Reciprocity Principle – Obligation to give when you receive.
  If you do something good for me, I’ll do something good for you. You may be using this principle almost in your life daily. Emotionally too, you may praise people and they may feel to tell you something nice. Physically too, do you help family member during their chores, they will surely help you back. But hurt may sometimes get us hurt back.
  
• Scarcity Principle – You want things which are in short supply or hard to obtain. If a rare opportunity is presented then you may go for it or you miss out. So sometimes we want to buy those limited edition sales.
  
• Authority Principle – The more authority figure, the more you trust and obey.
  A title figure is enough to persuade us. It may be a doctor, a army man or a police man we simply believe they are right. A doctor with lab coat can sell us toothpaste and we believe him.
  
• Commitment and Consistency – You honor commitments and consistency.
  We all fool ourselves to keep our thoughts and beliefs consistent with what we have done already or what we have decided. Like we chose a marriage partner, already bought a product online etc. Once we know that there is a commitment you try to be consistent with that to show that you honor commitment.
  
• Liking Principle – You are more influenced by person you like.
  If a person is more attractive or knowledgeable or has a good sense of humor or a great personality then you may be influenced and get persuaded.
  
• Social Proof – We follow the crowd or the herd.
  Following the crowd is best when you are buying expensive stuff. You need multiple reviews or joining the best college or eating at best restaurant.
  
  Do think about these and at the same time, be aware. Getting persuaded for good purpose is wise but falling a prey is foolish. I think we need to make judgments to make right decisions and the same time to get influenced only by people knowing the difference between good and bad.
  

Gyan of the day: Speech

​केयूरा न विभूषयन्ति पुरुषं हारा न चन्द्रोज्ज्वलाः
न स्नानं न विलेपनं न कुसुमं नालङ्कृता मूर्धजाः।
वाण्येका समलङ्करोति पुरुषं या संस्कृता
धार्यतेक्षीयन्ते खलु भूषणानि सततं वाग्भूषणं भूषणम्॥

The armlets do not suite the man nor do the bright necklaces like the moon, nor the bath, nor the sandalwood, nor the flowers nor the adorned hairstyle adorn them. Only a speech worn in a cultured manner adorns it beautifully. Ordinary jewelry is destroyed, Speech is the eternal jewel.

True Colors of Yourself

Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash

It has always been my thought that why people in society were divided into castes. Even today when I see people around, who ask “Where are you from and what caste you are?”. The perception of caste is utterly misused by our society such that it creates a division between people the way they looks and feel about other people and then differentiate with their own likable ones. So I went deep into this to understand what actually happened.

According to Veda’s there are different varnas (meaning color in Sanskrit) or types of people with fundamental way of being. Brahmins took interest in learning more and they became priests, scholars and teachers. Kshatriyas were rulers, warriors and administrators who protected the borders. Vaishyas were related to commerce and were involved in business they became agriculturalists and merchants. Shudras were the backbone of followers of leaders who liked to work which is assigned to them they became laborers and service providers.

Even today when we think of ourselves where we are born we come from a particular family whose past may be in any of the professions and as we started to evolve we liked a different profession. That is why Food, Mind and Body are all linked and the way we eat and conduct ourselves, we may attract to those people and that profession which becomes our interest. There are many people who look for job and work even though they don’t like it due to the lack of job opportunities. So looks like the people did not want the future generation to break the rules and they created caste. They imposed caste on each and every human being even though fundamentally the person wanted to change his qualities from a Shudra to a Brahmin. A Brahman is nothing but knowledgeable. Today, when I see many middle class people relying on a job, they look nothing but Shudra. I see the Business Class right people as Vaishyas and the Army men and people with uniform as Kshatriyas and Brahmans as Spiritual People or a Guru who follows the true of selfless karma yoga. The world with help of technology is going through the knowledgeable path. There may be people misusing the technology too.

“In the beginning, some people try to appear that everything about them is “in black and white,” until later their true colors come out.”
― Anthony Liccione

The above quote does not only go through how a person today is appearing but his fundamental way when he was at birth and now how he has transformed and changed his varna. When I was going through a transition in my life and I was thinking that what qualities I have in me fundamentally which is my strength and based on which what profession I needed to go. At present, what profession I am in and based on what I incorporated later on in my life. Did I follow the herd and I did become that due to which I am missing my fundamental being. Each time I want to get out of my job or get out of my profession or may be change my college stream I chose.

Have you changed your fundamental being or are you still acting like being in one?

Gyan of the day: On Life

“How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.”

George Washington Carver

Speak Slowly

I thought many of us speak faster after this personal experience. On number of occasions I found my client asking me to repeat. I observed that he could not get some of the words as I spoke quickly. I repeated my sentence slowly and he quickly understood and appreciated it. I sometimes get excited to put forth my ideas forward, I tend to motormouth. And vice versa, in the airport most of the time I experience it that I don’t understand what they speak. I ask them to repeat it. I guess speaking fast costs time. This is one of the most important lesson I learnt. It is annoying and takes a lot of time to correct.

Also, I found that some of my mentors and leaders were slow speakers. Also, I went ahead to see some of the interviews of famous personalities and they have a clarity in voice which makes them better speakers and people listen to them attentively. They have a vocal presence. Talking too slowly will annoy the listeners. Speech need to be at such a pace which all the audience can connect to.

Image Courtesy: Pixabay

Reasons why we talk fast – 

• Native language, it is natural tendency to speak fast.
• Excited to put forth an idea faster brain processing.
• To sound more confident and brilliant.

Negatives of talking fast – 

• Listeners loose your clarity, attention and causes misunderstanding.
• You may loose authority, influence.

Positives of talking slow –

• Listeners gain clarity.
• You think effectively, gain attention, authority and influence.

How to talk slowly –

• If you talk too fast reduce pace of your voice, lower your pitch,
• Pause during phrases.
• Punctuation act like speed breakers.
• Practice well.

Do let me know your tips on speaking slowly. Thanks!

Silence the best language

A farmer lost his watch and he asked the kids playing near his barn to search for him. They searched for a while and left the barn clueless of the watch. After sometime a little appeared and asked the farmer that he can search it for him. In few minutes he found the watch and handed over to the farmer. The farmer was surprised and he asked how did he found it so soon. The boy replied he sat on the ground listening the ticking of the watch. The boy was rewarded handsomely. This is a old story but this has a deep meaning in our life. In silence we can find many answers.

“Speak only if it improves upon the silence” – Mahatma Gandhi

This is one of the common problems I too face that I don’t understand how to respond to certain people and odd situations. But when there is lot of chaos I too agree silence opens up our mind. Possibly when conversing there are many situations where we need to keep our mouth shut.

When no one wants to listen 

• Many times we come across extroverts who really want to puts forth their idea but does not care to listen. So there is no point in arguing. Better to be silent listener.

When someone criticizes constantly

• The other day my friend told me that he was constantly being criticized by his mentor. He felt the stress within and noise all around. He tried to respond kindly. It did not work. He reacted angrily. It did not work. He took a break for sometime to understand it. He took a different approach to respond. That too did not work.  Finally he remained mute. That worked fine. The mentor stopped criticizing he offered solutions, he discussed his own problems and finally the stress and noise was over. Silence help.

When you have no knowledge

• Many conversations are like you are interested in a topic that other party is not. It is better to listen and gain knowledge rather than give false information on that topic.

When a dumb argues

• There may be many occasion where you find the other party is fool and it simply bluffing or talking rubbish. It is better to not argue. But it is good to save some energy by being a silent observer.

The Ideal Daily Routine

According to Ayurveda, a daily routine is recommended based on body types Vata, Pitta, Kapha. But it is interesting to know that Vata, Pitta, Kapha cycles twice during 24 hours. This routine is like a manual for the body is well devised.

1. 2AM-6AM -> Vata
   1. Rise (4AM-6AM-Best)
      
2. 6AM-10AM -> Kapha
   1. Rise (6AM-8AM is also fine)
   2. Drink warm water without brushing teeth as saliva is alkaline.
   3. Clear your bladder and bowels.
   4. Oil pulling.
   5. Brush your teeth and clean tongue.
   6. Massage your body with warm oil (Coconut/Sesame oil)
   7. Bathe
   8. Sandhyavandanam (If you follow it)
   9. Exercise ( Suryanamaskar, Yoga asanas, Pranayama, Meditation)
   10. Breakfast
   11. Plan your day Ahead!
   12. Work or Focused Activity (8AM-10AM)
3. 10AM-2PM -> Pitta
   1. Work or Focused Activity (10AM-12PM)
   2. Lunch (12PM-1PM)
   3. Short Walk (10-15Mins)
   4. Work or Focused Activity (1PM-2PM)
4. 2PM-6PM -> Vata
   1. Work or Study or Mental Activities (2PM-6PM)
5. 6PM-10PM ->Kapha
   1. Light Dinner (6PM-7PM)
   2. Short Walk (10-15mins)
   3. Pleasure Activities
   4. Sleep(9.30PM-10.30PM)
6. 10PM-2AM -> Pitta

Don’ts:

• Sleeping in daytime or getting up late beyond 8AM increases Kapha ( Affects – Depression, Arthritis, Laziness)
• Skipping Lunch at noon increases Pitta (Affects – Anger, Aggression, Acidity)
• Sleeping at late night increases Vata (Affects – Anxiety, Insomnia, Constipation, High Blood Pressure)

For more detail on body types

Lessons learned from the movie – The Karate Kid

I watch fewer movies, but of some of those moved me and I have gathered a few life lessons which could be useful to us. The Karate Kid 2010 movie was the one which made me travel through without distraction. I also watched the 1984 version on the same storyline. Both were good. There were many dialogues which I couldn’t forget.

The Karate Kid 2010 – Official Trailer

Respect the CHANGE

When Dre asks his mother “I want to go home”.

His mother replies – ” This is home”

The kid Dre was new to China. He left his friends, relatives to travel with his mom for her work. He made an effort to make friends quickly. But he still had to adapt to the new culture, language, food, and school.

Lesson
We may move to the different city, state or country. It is we who have to adapt to the environment and respect the people, language and culture. It may be difficult in the beginning but we need to adapt ultimately.

Fight for your RESPECT

Dre came across bullies in his community. He was frustrated and unhappy as he would be physically hit. He tried to escape from them from time to time and sometimes hide. He had to face them anyway in school. He took a stand to fight. He started practicing karate at home watching TV. He did not ever discuss this with his mother but wanted to kill his problems on his own.

Lesson
Always tackle your problems on your own and face it. Weakness is the first step to strength. Always fight for your respect. Build yourself such that nobody can bully you.

Find a Good TEACHER

Dre came across a situation where he saw bad teacher teaching bad things to a student. He desperately wanted to learn Kung-fu. This made him find a good teacher. If a teacher is bad, a student could be messed up. Dre asked his teacher to teach Kung fu and later on, he says you are the best friend I ever have.

Lesson
As individuals, we need a guru or teacher in early life in order to succeed. We may find our Guru in parents, teachers, friends, any mentors in office. We need to know a Good Teacher and learn good things which we cherish it forever.

Keep never say die ATTITUDE

These two scenes in the movie where both the teacher and student realized their situation and stood up for their respect, I was personally moved by it and it is very powerful.

In a scene, Mr. Han is very emotional due to his past incident where he lost his family. It is Dre who feels that he needs to get up in life.

Mr. Han says “You have taught me a very important lesson, Xiao Dre. Life will knock us down, but we can choose whether or not to stand back up.”

In a scene, Dre is about to lose after his leg injury in the final match. He wants to fight badly.

Mr. Han asks “Just tell me, Xiao Dre, why? Why do you need to go back out there so badly?”

Dre replies – “Because I’m still scared. And no matter what happens, tonight, when I leave, I don’t want to be scared anymore”

Deal or no deal

This fall, I was in process of buying a used car, but the hard part was price agreement between me and seller. This was a new challenge for me. In past, I did negotiate but this time I lost my energy to get a price agreement. A great experience though. I always believe that creating a win-win situation is good for both parties. For me, a car is a utility rather than a luxury so I fixed a fair price according to model, year, usage. The journey began, I went to third-party dealers as I was not much aware of car features. But the dealers were 30-40% above any fair price. Negotiation was tough for me since each dealer is not same. I thought I would get a used car from an actual buyer rather than a third party dealer. So I tried my hand negotiating with actual sellers multiple times. I got a seller who needed to sell his car in 2 weeks and I finally got an opportunity to make best out of the deal and cracked it.

Win-Win

In this real time exercise there were several observations and learning’s I took back from negotiation.

1. There were different types of people whom I came across. Some were detail oriented, energetic but not technical oriented, some were no nonsense action oriented, some were good listeners but not decision makers. My take – Personally it was hard to converse with all qualities or mix of qualities. But it was a great experience to tackle all these kinds of people especially when the product and price too were different.
2. Communication Style matters for each of different kind of people. My take – Being confident and firm helps. I did my home work well before each of the deal to know features and issues of the car in advance. Also, listening to all seller stories gives a trust to a seller.
3. For each type of people the negotiation could have been win-win or win-lose (or compromise is lose-lose if money is involved). My take – It is always good to create a win-win but price or product (in my case car) made few deals as win-lose.
4. During negotiation, both parties have a base price and profit price. Both party negotiate for a profit price. They won’t go below their base price else they lose. My Take – Price comes with quality of product and its depreciation cost, current maintenance and condition. If you think the product is good then it is good to know the base price of the seller to get a good buy. During few of my conversations when the deal did not take place I did ask for base price from seller. Usually sellers won’t tell that.
5. Sometimes I had alternate deal and sometimes I did not. My take – To make the deal win-win, always have an alternate deal in hand so that you create a win for yourself for sure.
6. Few bad experiences were like I did initially was I did not have an alternate deal with me so I agreed on the price and later I got a better deal. I disagreed on the first deal. There was a deal when a seller was kind of forcing me to buy his car at his price although every time I asked for time and negotiated, he would feel bad and cycle would repeat.My take – Bad experiences are learning experiences. It makes us more strong and remind to take care for next deal.

Do let me know your comments on this post. Also comment if you have any negotiating tip!

Game of Life

Below are few lessons learnt from the great teacher Chanakya a.k.a Kautilya or Vishnugupt.

He was insulted by King Dhanadand of Nanda Dynasty. He identified Chandragupta Maurya and trained him to fight against Dhananad. He recognized the invasion of Alexander in India and made attempts to plan with Kings to fight them. His policies and lessons are great to a personal and professional level.

Here few of his practical life lessons-

When nothing is happening/ when it is frustrating:

A pessimist will find difficulties in every problem, an optimist finds opportunity in every problem. Lucks every opportunity is hibernating in our souls. We just have to patiently wait for the right time. We are in the fetus of time. We believe that those opportunities will come. We respective time and wait patiently. A change will come and it will come in such a way that you will never forget the future. Time ticking like a heart is a potential. People may underestimate you and your abilities today. But when the time comes they will listen to you and they will support you. Just wait patiently for the right time.

Every dream takes birth with a man who dreams. The man who dreams should always remember one thing that willpower and diligence is inside him. They can reach planets and stars to change the whole universe. For every dream or goal, there should be an exercise to be patient enough because destiny when stops the occurrence of certain events in our goal, we should understand that it wants us to wait for the right time. So never leave your patience because it will take you to right opportunity at the right time.

But foolish people think and get false conclusion before the right time comes in.

Negative thinking:

Negative thinking is bad. It is like a disease which spreads and also make people around us a pessimist. We should get rid of it by thinking positive. Even when you want to get rid of oldest tree you need greater strength.

Destiny:

Destiny says to acquire success. To get successful take greater risks.Some people don’t take risk and just go around as the way life takes them.

People who really want to be successful, and go up in the ladder take risks in life without fear. Probably they might fail and do nothing. The way they courageously perform this effort to risk and achieve the goal. This attitude differentiates successful people with common people. Even if they fail, their soul would be happy that they gave a try.

On Anger/revenge:

Even successful people fail when they loose consciousness for action in excitement or passion. Always remember to choose your war – where, when and with whom. Always attack when the right time comes.

In Difficult times or Pain:

In difficult times, remember to concentrate because sometimes we loose courage, fear starts over taking us and mind puts lots of questions to you. But always concentrate on goal patiently even if it is far enough.

If you take control of your body and mind, even a common body can do uncommon wonders. What if your mind does not accept the pain? In history, there are many heroes who fought the war even when their head was chopped off but they kept fighting until last drop of blood.

To learn from a Guru:

Whatever you learn, learn with concentration from the guru. In simple terms do your job religiously well. This can impress the guru and get the things you need.

If there is any difference between man and the animal, it is the divine-knowledge which can be had only during human life. That is what makes man superior to all other creatures even if they had great strength than human. If you want to achieve your goal, concentrate. The power of mind can do wonders.

Disappointment due to Failure:

It is important to learn a lesson from failure. But we should not repeat the same mistake. If we repeat it again, remember that it is error. Something is wrong.

Failures plays a great role in our life. It makes us courteous and it also makes us respect our enemy. We need to develop the desire to learn from failures or mistakes we commit. So always consider failure as an opportunity to learn.

What is Leadership?

Having respect even for an enemy. A good king is not only the one who attacks, a good king is the one who also takes a step backward. There is no shame in taking a step backward. He takes time, prepares well and attacks with fresh mind.

Hope you like this thoughts.

Thought, Decision, Action

This post is continuation of Selfless Deeds : Karma

The timer of Karma(Action with intent) keeps ticking as we are in action all the time. Be it selfish or selfless thoughts, decision or actions. Once that is sorted out, emotions come to picture like cloud.

Decision – Tolerate or Face or Walk away

Have you wondered if we handle situations and apply key decisions conciously?

On one occasion I was in a heated situation with a senior relative. I was provoked to speak against my family. I was asked to take decision spontaneously. My mind as usual started with hundreds of thoughts and questions to tackle that moment. At times emotions emerged too. Anger too visited me. Taking stock of that situation I was thinking of Karma – the Action, like what Arjuna faced in Kurukshetra. Since my mind was not in control, fortunately I tried to resolve it by ignoring the response for the words hurled at me. As it involves issue of a senior family member and if I heat up I could tear the conversation apart and make it worse. This is what something which was appreciated by another relative that you faced it well.

Then something stuck to me that I ignored and faced it at the same time. But the perspective changed for many.

Atleast now what I see is three ways to live a life or handle a situation or communicate –

1. Tolerate whatever comes through.
2. Be courageous, take responsibility and change it.
3. Run Away or Ignore.

Example: Career, Marriage etc.

Note: In all situations you should be in control.
I may not be a master in all these as these need to be applied in different situation or different people. But one thing is for sure your decision making will have an impact on Selfless Duty only if you look long term to see what the situation may look like after it is applied. That far sightedness may only come after you are attentive and concious of situation or conversation. Plus tons of experience handling people.

Once the thought is decided you cannot take the intention back. Once you have taken the decision, you can review your self if that is right or wrong. But once action is done you cannot take it back. You only have to review the consequences of it and note it down in your memory. Apply it next time as a correction.

This is also Ambiguity of Duty (Dharma Sankat) when a decision is done. Sometimes we want to speak truth but we hestiatate because a question arises in us what if we hurt them ? What if we make them angry? We fear with this thought. And we take decision to speak false. According to Bhagwat Gita, Lord Shri Krishna says no matter what we need to speak the truth. That is the moment when we conquer our fears and overcome Ambiguity of Duty.

Do let me know your thoughts too.