Rajyoga is not merely a practice of sitting meditation for a few minutes each day; it's a way of life that integrates spiritual principles into every aspect of your existence. This holistic approach helps individuals, especially busy professionals, to manage stress and find peace by transforming their thoughts, actions, and perceptions.

Understanding the Self: The First Step

The foundation of Rajyoga lies in self-awareness. It starts with the understanding that "I am a soul, a peaceful being of light," not just a physical body. This is a subtle yet profound shift in consciousness. When you recognize yourself as a point of light, a tiny star located at the center of your forehead, you begin to see beyond the limitations of your physical form and ego. This awareness detaches you from the daily stresses and emotional turmoil, allowing you to operate from a place of peace.

Cultivating a Broader Perspective

One of the most powerful benefits of Rajyoga is the ability to see situations from a broader perspective. We often get caught up in our own point of view, which can lead to conflict and stress. Rajyoga teaches you to rise above the situation and view it from the perspective of a detached observer. This practice allows you to be an observer rather than a victim of circumstances. It helps you to be less reactive and more thoughtful in your responses, leading to better decisions and more harmonious relationships. This change in perspective shifts your focus from what others should do to what you can do, fostering a sense of personal agency and responsibility.

The Role of Thoughts and Habits

Rajyoga emphasizes the importance of managing your thoughts, which in turn saves you time and energy. When you are mindful and concentrated, you become more efficient, as your mind is no longer cluttered with wasteful thoughts or unnecessary conversations. The practice of being a peaceful being of light, even when sitting in front of a computer, allows you to approach tasks with a calm mind, increasing your focus and grasping power. This leads to doing more work in less time. Rajyoga also highlights the significance of daily habits, such as waking up early and maintaining a sattvic (pure) diet.

Mindful Eating and Lifestyle

Rajyoga places a strong emphasis on a vegetarian diet. This is not a mere dietary restriction but a spiritual principle. Non-vegetarian food, as a product of violence, carries peace less vibrations that conflict with the goal of achieving a peaceful mind. By choosing vegetarian food and eating mindfully, you nourish your body with pure energy and align your physical state with your spiritual aspirations. The practice of Rajyoga also extends to other aspects of a healthy lifestyle, such as sleeping early. Sleeping before midnight is scientifically proven to be more restorative, and a well-rested body supports a clear mind, further enhancing your spiritual practice and overall well-being. By integrating these simple yet powerful principles into your daily life, you can transform your routine into a continuous meditative practice, bringing peace and purpose to every moment.

BK SUDHA, DIRECTOR - BRAHMA KUMARIS, MOSCOW