Knowledge is an important component of our spiritual growth.
Over the period of some 30 years, I have written these articles to illustrate a variety of spiritual ideas and principles.
Knowledge can guide us in our practices, let us know what to expect along the way and support us in times of doubt. However, knowledge alone can only take us so far. Direct experience is equally as important so I encourage you to choose the practices which resonate with you and make them part of your daily life.
These articles have been grouped by categories to help you select the ones that may be of greater interest to you.
Edited versions of some of these articles have been published in other places, including the Chopra Center Lifestyles Newsletters.
I have always tried to fully research each topic and apologize for any inaccuracies. Unlike scientific “facts”, spiritual wisdom is open to interpretation. These articles reflect my understanding of the subjects. Please read them with an open mind and find the path that best suits you.
India
The Mumbai Opportunity
The Mumbai Opportunity - written for the tenth anniversary of the Mumbai, India terrorist attack. There are only two emotions, fear and love. All the emotions we judge as negative have their basis in some fear, whether superficial or deep rooted and everything wonderful in our lives stems from love. Everything painful, toxic and life-damaging comes from fear, whereas all pleasurable, beautiful, expansive and life-supporting emotions come from love. Fear constricts, limits and distorts, while
Tips for Traveling in India
People often ask me for advice about traveling to India, how to stay safe and healthy. Just like anywhere else, there are no guarantees but, by using common sense, most people can and do have a great time when visiting India. India is one of the most fascinating places on earth, where your senses are constantly being filled with every imaginable experience. While India moves forward to take its place in the modern world, much
Lessons from the Ashram
The word ashram comes from the Sanskrit word, "srama," which means "religious exertion." However, in more recent times the term "ashram" is used to describe any facility used by a spiritual community. They can vary in size from a small hermitage housing just a few people to multiple building complexes which are home to hundreds, including whole families. Ashrams have existed in India for thousands of years and, more recently, many ashrams have been established
Festivals of India
India loves to celebrate. You could probably find a festival of some sort going on somewhere in India every day of the year! Festivals are the celebration of togetherness in India, often joining people of different traditions and religions in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation. There are many auspicious days in India, most of which are celebrated with great zest and full-blown sensory experiences. Some last for a day, others go on for
A Glimpse of India
India is a total sensory experience, a plethora of sights, tastes, smells and sounds. The mundane or the bizarre, the chaotic or the silent, the profane or the profound can be waiting around any corner. Sooner or later, those of us who study and practice the teachings of Vedanta, get drawn to visit India. The Land of the Veda calls us home. Whether you answer her call or prefer armchair travel, here’s a small glimpse of what