Having been born and raised in Poland, which at that time was still developing, my family's move to the affluent landscape of Canada was a stark contrast. Like many, I initially held the common belief that wealth equates to happiness. However, after a decade of observing life in this materially rich environment, I arrived at a surprising and profound realization: the more affluent people seemed, the less content they often were. This sparked deep introspection within me. What, then, is the true path to happiness if material abundance falls short? If the comforts of life don't bring lasting joy, what does?

My introduction to yoga came unexpectedly through a friend in Canada. I witnessed a remarkable transformation in him as he began practicing. Intrigued, I inquired about the source of this change, and he simply replied, "I'm practicing yoga." This encounter opened a door to a world I had yet to explore, leading me to the ultimate discovery of the profound wisdom emanating from India.

With yoga, I'm referring to a deeper connection, a divine connection, rather than solely the physical practice of Hatha Yoga. My friend was practicing Raja Yoga meditation. I discovered a center in Toronto where he had begun his journey, and that's where my own practice took root.

The realization that outer richness doesn't guarantee inner happiness resonated deeply with my early observations. I also recognized my innate inclination towards positive qualities like love and kindness, yet I couldn't reconcile this with the inconsistencies I observed in the world around me.

As a Raja Yogi, I've come to understand these issues through the lens of spiritual wisdom. My time in Canada, exposed me to the reality that a significant majority of the world's population doesn't experience the same level of material comfort as those in Canada, America, or Western Europe. This raised a profound question: why do so many people live in poverty and struggle with the basic necessities of life?

The wisdom inherent in Raja Yoga provided answers. Raja Yoga meditation offers profound self-knowledge. I discovered my true identity as a living energy, a soul, distinct from the physical body. This realization addressed a deep-seated fear I had since childhood – the fear of death. The explanations offered by Christianity regarding the afterlife felt incomplete and often instilled fear rather than understanding. My initial experiences with Raja Yoga meditation were unlike anything I had encountered before.

I experienced a connection and a sense of peace that surpassed any religious service or other practice. It was in Toronto that I encountered a true embodiment of yogic principles – Dadi Janki, a powerful wisdom keeper from India who visited for a lecture.

Looking at her, I was struck by three qualities: her profound spiritual insight, her inner power, and her radiant happiness. Unlike many other spiritual figures, she conveyed the empowering message that we too could cultivate these qualities within ourselves. This was a pivotal moment for me, and I dedicated myself to the practice.

Dadi Janki lived a life devoid of material possessions and spoke limited English, yet she communicated volumes through her presence, her radiant smile, and her deep connection with others. She touched souls simply by looking at them. What truly attracted me to Dadi Janki was her mind, shaped by years of Raja Yoga practice, which was solution-oriented. For her, no problem seemed insurmountable. Whoever sought her guidance received a solution.

In today's world, with its constant stimulation and distractions, our attention and energy are easily drawn outwards. Raja Yoga offers a powerful method for restoring balance between our external engagements and our inner world. And as we know, it is our inner world that ultimately shapes our outer reality.

The practice of Raja Yoga meditation, particularly in the early morning hours of Amrit Vela, is a truly enjoyable and enriching experience. It's not a strenuous effort but a time when the mind naturally inclines towards bliss. Waking up in the early hours becomes easier as one embraces a yogic lifestyle, naturally shedding unnecessary aspects and focusing on what truly nourishes us.

Sharing this understanding and guiding others on their own spiritual journeys brings immense joy and contentment.

The early morning meditation of Amrit Vela, around 3:30 or 4:00 AM, becomes a cherished time. While there may be occasional challenges, the strength gained through consistent meditation empowers us to navigate the day with greater clarity and understanding.

While wisdom may be found in scriptures worldwide, the true essence lies in embodying those teachings in our daily lives. The practice of waking up early for spiritual nourishment is vital, but equally important is maintaining awareness throughout the day, ensuring we don't deplete our energy or absorb negativity, making that sacred morning time more challenging.

The yogic practice of reviewing the day at night, releasing all burdens, and entering a deep, detached sleep, akin to resting in the Soul World, can significantly enhance the ease and power of our morning awakening.

Today, there's often a pursuit of relaxation and late mornings, which are mistakenly perceived as life's luxuries. Perhaps the true luxury lies in the awakening, both literally and spiritually.

Halina Paradela
National Coordinator, Brahma Kumaris, Poland