How did you get introduced to Yoga and Vedanta?
In my childhood, I was exposed to cultural practices like doing pooja and chanting. However, back then, I
saw it as a means for disciplining, and I did not have an understanding of “for what and why”. I always felt comfortable spending time in temples, even in my childhood. I was introduced to Yoga through Yoga Vidya Gurukulam and Swamiji after my marriage.
When and how did you first come to know about Swamiji?
I met Swamiji through my husband in 2014. I still remember the discussion with Swamiji during the very first meeting. Swamiji put forth so many questions for me, to think through and understand what is ahead of me, which I didn’t at that time. When I think of those moments now, I see how Swamiji realized what was ahead in my life for me, and helped me prepare for the same. After that meeting, I used to regularly
visit Yoga Vidya Ashram for class and contributed in my way for the Light Of East magazine.
How is Swamiji’s teaching helping you in your personal life?
I always had a question of “why” when it comes to rituals. During my adolescence, I even ridiculed a few practices saying that those were meant to keep us disciplined or hygienic and nothing more. My perspective was in that way, rather than understanding the core meaning of it. I was “spiritual”, but in the way I wished, and not the way it was meant to be. From Swamiji, my “Why’s” were all answered and my spiritual understanding got strengthened and my perspective changed. With his teachings, I became less ignorant. I was able to see my limitations and was able to embrace them which helped me to be a better person and emotionally grow. Swamiji’s teachings were not just an explanation of the texts, but were so relatable and relevant to current situations. I am forever grateful for his teachings.
How does Vedanta help you in your professional life?
Vedanta and the teachings have helped me to be more systematic in my life and career. Consistency is something I am still working on. Nitya Karma helped me sharpen my mind and has shaped my attitude towards work. I had a habit of blaming myself for everything that goes wrong. The Teaching has helped me understand “Karta and Bhokta” and to do what has to be done, rather than projecting or dwelling on the end results.
Namaste