SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA - HQ Full Books

By: Sri Swami Sivananda
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  • SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA: The Wisdom of a Yoga Master - HQ Full Books.Welcome to Sri Swami Sivananda: The Wisdom of a Yoga Master - HQ Podcast, where we dive deep into the timeless teachings and transformative wisdom of one of the greatest spiritual masters of the modern era, Sri Swami Sivananda. Through this podcast, we will explore his profound insights on various aspects of yoga, meditation, spirituality, and personal development. Drawing on his extensive works, each episode brings to light key lessons that will help you achieve inner peace, mental clarity, and a higher state of consciousness.Swami Sivananda’s teachings are vast and cover a wide range of topics, from the control of the mind and the development of virtues, to the pursuit of self-realization and liberation. This podcast will explore his essential writings, giving you practical tools and wisdom for navigating life’s challenges with a calm, balanced, and spiritual mindset.Here’s a brief description of the key books featured in the podcast, which are designed to help you overcome obstacles and discover the deeper truths of existence: 1. Conquest of Anger: Highly Practical Methods for the Control of Anger In this insightful book, Swami Sivananda addresses the destructive force of anger and offers practical, spiritual methods for overcoming it. Anger, a common human emotion, often leads to stress, conflict, and harm to both ourselves and others. Swami Sivananda outlines how anger arises, its impact on our physical and mental health, and how we can cultivate patience, self-control, and compassion to master this powerful emotion. The book provides simple yet effective tools such as self-reflection, the power of silence, and the practice of forgiveness, guiding listeners to a state of emotional balance and peace. 2. Conquest of Fear: The Causes of Fear and Its Eradication Fear is one of the greatest barriers to personal growth and spiritual development. In Conquest of Fear, Swami Sivananda delves into the root causes of fear—whether it’s fear of the unknown, fear of failure, or the fear of death—and offers practical steps to eliminate it from our lives. He teaches that fear arises from attachment to the material world and ignorance of our true nature. The path to freedom from fear lies in cultivating faith, surrendering to the Divine, and realizing the impermanence of worldly troubles. Through meditation, introspection, and self-discipline, we can conquer fear and achieve true peace of mind. 3. How to Get Vairagya (Dispassion) In this work, Swami Sivananda explores the concept of Vairagya, or dispassion, which is one of the key principles of spiritual growth. Vairagya is the ability to detach oneself from the fleeting pleasures and distractions of the material world, leading to a deeper connection with the soul. Swami Sivananda explains that true dispassion arises not from renouncing the world, but from understanding its impermanence and the futility of attachment to it. He offers practical steps to cultivate Vairagya through mindfulness, selfless action, and meditation, allowing us to focus on the eternal truths of life rather than temporary desires. 4. Karmas and Diseases In this book, Swami Sivananda draws a connection between karma—the law of cause and effect—and the onset of physical and mental diseases. He explains that many of the ailments we experience in life are the result of our past actions, whether from this life or previous ones. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of karma in our health and wellbeing, and how by cultivating good karma through righteous actions, selfless service, and positive thoughts, we can improve our overall health. The work offers practical advice for those looking to heal themselves, both physically and spiritually, by aligning with the Divine will. 5. Life and Teachings of Lord Jesus Swami Sivananda’s work on the life and teachings of Lord Jesus provides a spiritual perspective on one of the most revered figures in history. In this book, he explores the core message of Jesus: love, compassion, and selfless service. Swami Sivananda delves into the spiritual lessons from the life of Christ, highlighting his teachings on humility, forgiveness, and devotion to God. The book also illustrates how the practices of meditation and prayer, as exemplified by Jesus, can lead to a deep connection with the Divine. For listeners seeking spiritual guidance, this book offers valuable insights into the universal message of love and peace. 6. Light, Power, and Wisdom Light, Power, and Wisdom is a powerful exploration of the essential elements that drive human evolution: inner light, divine power, and universal wisdom. Swami Sivananda describes how these qualities are interconnected and present in each of us. By tapping into the divine light within, cultivating spiritual power through prayer and discipline, and embracing wisdom, we can elevate our lives and experience true ...
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Episodes
  • MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 30. HOW TO CONTROL THE MIND - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control

    MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 30. HOW TO CONTROL THE MIND - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control
    Dec 15 2024
    MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 30. HOW TO CONTROL THE MIND - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control - HQ Full Book.In Chapter 30 of The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control, Swami Sivananda provides a detailed roadmap for mastering the mind—a critical step for spiritual growth and self-realization. The chapter serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the nature of the mind and the practical techniques to bring it under control. Swami Sivananda emphasizes that controlling the mind is not just a spiritual necessity but also the key to a peaceful, harmonious, and purposeful life.The Nature of the MindSwami Sivananda begins by elucidating the mind's dual nature. It is both a friend and an enemy, depending on how it is trained and disciplined. The mind, by its very nature, is restless, unsteady, and prone to distractions. It tends to wander and attach itself to external objects, creating desires, fears, and anxieties. However, when controlled and focused, the same mind becomes a powerful tool for self-discovery and spiritual advancement. The mind's strength lies in its thoughts. Every thought is a seed that has the potential to grow into action, shaping one’s character and destiny. Unchecked thoughts lead to chaos, while disciplined thinking cultivates inner peace and clarity. Thus, controlling the mind begins with controlling one’s thoughts.Techniques for Mind ControlSwami Sivananda outlines a variety of methods for controlling the mind, emphasizing that no single approach suits everyone. Each individual must choose techniques that align with their temperament and spiritual goals. 1. Discrimination (Viveka) Discrimination is the ability to distinguish between the real and the unreal, the permanent and the impermanent. By cultivating discrimination, the aspirant can avoid being trapped by fleeting desires and illusions. Instead, they can focus on higher, eternal truths. This clarity helps the mind stay grounded and prevents it from being distracted by trivial matters.2. Detachment (Vairagya) Detachment is essential for mind control. By practicing Vairagya, one learns to remain unaffected by worldly pleasures and pains. Detachment doesn’t mean renouncing the world entirely but developing a sense of non-attachment to outcomes and possessions. This attitude reduces mental agitation and fosters inner calm.3. Practice (Abhyasa) Consistent and sustained practice is crucial for mastering the mind. Swami Sivananda highlights the importance of regular meditation, concentration, and mindfulness exercises. The mind, like a muscle, becomes stronger and more disciplined with regular practice.4. Control of Thoughts Thoughts are the building blocks of the mind. To control the mind, one must monitor and regulate their thoughts. Positive, constructive thinking leads to a harmonious mind, while negative, destructive thoughts create turmoil. Swami Sivananda advises replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations and maintaining a vigilant awareness of the mind’s activity. 5. Satsanga (Company of the Wise) The company of wise and spiritually advanced individuals has a profound influence on the mind. By associating with people who embody calmness, wisdom, and positivity, the aspirant absorbs these qualities. Satsanga also provides inspiration and guidance for overcoming the mind’s restlessness.The Role of MeditationMeditation is one of the most effective techniques for controlling the mind. Swami Sivananda explains that meditation helps the mind detach from external distractions and focus inward. Regular meditation fosters concentration, clarity, and a sense of inner peace. Steps to Effective Meditation:Preparation: Create a calm and distraction-free environment. Sit in a comfortable posture, keeping the spine erect.Breath Regulation: Focus on slow, deep breathing to calm the mind and body.Focus on a Single Point: Choose an object of focus, such as a mantra, an image of the Divine, or the breath. Concentrating on one point prevents the mind from wandering.Persistence: Meditation requires consistent effort. Over time, the mind becomes steadier and more receptive to higher truths.The Challenges of Mind ControlSwami Sivananda acknowledges that controlling the mind is not easy. The mind resists discipline, often reverting to its restless and distracted state. However, he reassures aspirants that perseverance and faith are the keys to success. Common Obstacles:Laziness: The mind often resists effort, leading to procrastination.Distractions: External stimuli and inner desires pull the mind away from its focus.Doubt: Lack of faith in the process can undermine one’s efforts.Ego: The mind’s attachment to pride and self-importance creates resistance to change.Overcoming Obstacles:Willpower: Strengthening the will through small, consistent acts of discipline builds the capacity to control the mind.Faith: Trust in the teachings of sages and the efficacy of spiritual practices helps sustain ...
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    56 mins
  • MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 29. CULTIVATION OF VIRTUES - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control

    MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 29. CULTIVATION OF VIRTUES - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control
    Dec 15 2024
    THE MIND: ITS MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 29. CULTIVATION OF VIRTUES - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control - HQ Full Book.In Chapter 29 of The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control, Swami Sivananda offers profound insights into the cultivation of virtues as the cornerstone of a harmonious and spiritually enriched life. This chapter underscores the necessity of nurturing pure mental qualities to attain peace, happiness, and ultimately, spiritual liberation. By integrating virtues such as friendliness, compassion, forgiveness, and cosmic love into daily life, the aspirant transcends the ordinary and aligns with the divine essence.The Pure Qualities of the MindSwami Sivananda highlights virtues like friendliness, compassion, kindness, cosmic love, forgiveness, patience, endurance, and tolerance as the purest attributes of the mind. These virtues not only elevate individual consciousness but also foster collective peace and happiness. Cultivating them is imperative for spiritual aspirants and seekers of truth.Compassion: The Softening of the HeartCompassion, or pity, is portrayed as a transformative quality that softens the heart and inspires action to alleviate suffering. True compassion arises from the inability to tolerate the sight of another’s pain, coupled with an innate desire to mitigate that pain. Compassion embodies harmlessness and promotes universal well-being. However, Sivananda warns that failure to cultivate compassion may lead to sorrow, as the inability to act on one’s empathetic impulses creates inner turmoil. Love: The Foundation of Universal HarmonyCosmic or universal love transcends the limitations of ego and individuality. It is the binding force that unites all beings in a shared web of existence. Love, coupled with pity, nurtures an unshakable foundation for the cultivation of other virtues, like patience and forgiveness. Through love, the aspirant experiences a profound interconnectedness with all life, paving the way for spiritual growth.The Role of Patience and EnduranceSwami Sivananda places significant emphasis on patience, tenacity, perseverance, and determination as indispensable virtues for spiritual realization. The spiritual path, often fraught with challenges, requires immense fortitude and resilience. Without these qualities, the aspirant risks faltering before reaching the ultimate goal of Self-realization.Patience: The Virtue of Inner CalmPatience is described as the steady resolve to endure difficulties without losing composure. It reflects the aspirant's ability to maintain balance amidst trials and tribulations. Patience fosters mental stability, which is crucial for sustained spiritual practice. Fortitude: Courage in the Face of AdversityFortitude, a form of courage, represents the mental power of endurance. It is the strength to face dangers and adversities with firmness and resolve. Swami Sivananda extols fortitude as the power of resistance that helps the spiritual seeker navigate the inevitable obstacles on the path of Truth. Meditation and Strength The practice of meditation, especially on sacred syllables like “Ohm,” helps the aspirant cultivate inner strength and courage. Morning meditations, during which one asserts their identity as Brahman—the Supreme Cosmic Spirit—infuse the mind with the resilience necessary to progress on the spiritual journey.The Ten Qualities of Righteous LivingDrawing from ancient Indian wisdom, Swami Sivananda elaborates on the ten qualities of Dharma or righteous living as enumerated by Manu, the ancient lawgiver. These virtues form the ethical foundation for a life aligned with divine principles:PatienceForgivenessControl of the MindControl of the SensesNon-StealingPurityKnowledge of the Holy BooksKnowledge of the Self (Atman)TruthfulnessNon-ViolenceTruthfulness: The Power of SpeechAmong these, truthfulness occupies a special place. Sivananda states that if one practices truthfulness consistently for twelve years, they attain the power of speech—wherein whatever they speak comes to fruition. Truthfulness aligns thoughts, words, and deeds, promoting inner peace and moral clarity. Purity: External and Internal Purity encompasses both external cleanliness and the internal sanctity of thoughts and emotions. It elevates the aspirant’s mental vibrations and aligns them with the divine.Spiritual Practice: A Test of DeterminationThe spiritual path, as Swami Sivananda acknowledges, is not for the faint-hearted. It demands sustained effort, unyielding determination, and profound faith. Patience, perseverance, and an unshakable focus are the cornerstones of spiritual practice. The aspirant must cultivate interest, faith, zeal, enthusiasm, and devotion, which serve as noble thought waves to free the mind from bondage. The Rarity of Spiritual Success Swami Sivananda poignantly observes that few embark on the spiritual path, and fewer still achieve the ultimate goal of Self-realization. This rarity underscores...
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    3 mins
  • MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 28. EVIL THOUGHTS & THEIR ERADICATION - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control

    MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 28. EVIL THOUGHTS & THEIR ERADICATION - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control
    Dec 15 2024
    MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 28. EVIL THOUGHTS & THEIR ERADICATION - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control - HQ Full Book.Sri Swami Sivananda’s chapter *Evil Vritties and Their Eradication* from *The Mind: Its Mysteries and Control* delves deeply into the concept of mental modifications, or *vritties*, that hinder spiritual growth. The chapter emphasizes the identification, understanding, and eventual elimination of these detrimental mental tendencies to achieve a state of inner peace and spiritual liberation. The Nature of Evil VrittiesSwami Sivananda defines *vritties* as the various thought patterns or waves in the mind. When these vritties are influenced by ignorance (*avidya*), egoism (*asmita*), attachment (*raga*), aversion (*dvesha*), and fear of death (*abhinivesha*), they become “evil vritties.” These vritties cloud the intellect, disturb mental tranquility, and trap the individual in the cycle of worldly bondage. The chapter identifies specific negative tendencies such as anger, lust, greed, jealousy, pride, hatred, and delusion. Each of these vritties acts as an obstacle on the path to self-realization. Swami Sivananda emphasizes that these tendencies do not arise externally but are deeply rooted in the mind due to past conditioning and karmic impressions (*samskaras*). The Importance of AwarenessThe first step in eradicating evil vritties is to cultivate awareness. Swami Sivananda explains that individuals often remain unaware of the subtle workings of their own minds. He advocates for constant self-observation and introspection to identify recurring negative thought patterns. By shining the light of awareness on these vritties, their hold over the mind begins to weaken. The text underscores the need to remain vigilant, as these tendencies can manifest in seemingly innocuous ways. For instance, pride may disguise itself as self-confidence, and attachment may masquerade as love. Without awareness, these vritties continue to operate unchecked, perpetuating suffering and ignorance. Techniques for EradicationSwami Sivananda offers practical strategies to overcome evil vritties, emphasizing discipline, self-effort, and spiritual practices. The key techniques include: **Self-Analysis and Introspection** - By analyzing one's thoughts, emotions, and actions, individuals can trace the roots of their negative tendencies. - Daily introspection helps uncover hidden vritties that influence behavior and decisions. - Swami Sivananda recommends maintaining a spiritual diary to document progress and identify areas for improvement. **Opposite Thinking (“Pratipaksha Bhavana”)** - Cultivating opposing positive thoughts to counteract negative tendencies is a powerful tool. - For example, anger can be neutralized with thoughts of forgiveness, greed with generosity, and hatred with love. - This method gradually weakens the grip of evil vritties and replaces them with virtuous qualities. **Meditation and Concentration** - Regular meditation helps calm the turbulent mind and allows practitioners to observe their thoughts without attachment. - Concentrating on uplifting ideas, divine forms, or mantras purifies the mind and diminishes the power of negative tendencies. - Swami Sivananda suggests meditating on concepts like peace, purity, and universal love to dissolve the vritties. **Association with the Wise (“Satsanga”)** - Surrounding oneself with spiritually inclined individuals creates a positive environment that fosters personal growth. - The influence of the wise helps individuals recognize their flaws and inspires them to adopt virtuous habits. **Self-Restraint (“Yama” and “Niyama”)** - Adherence to the ethical principles of *yama* (non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, non-possessiveness) and *niyama* (cleanliness, contentment, austerity, self-study, surrender to God) strengthens the willpower required to overcome negative tendencies. - Regular practice of self-discipline fosters a virtuous and harmonious mindset. **Devotion and Surrender** - Bhakti, or devotion to God, serves as a powerful antidote to evil vritties. - By surrendering the ego and seeking divine grace, practitioners develop humility and detachment from worldly desires. - Chanting the names of God and engaging in devotional practices elevate the mind and reduce its susceptibility to negativity. The Role of WillpowerSwami Sivananda stresses the importance of strong willpower in eradicating evil vritties. He explains that the mind often resists change, clinging to familiar patterns even when they cause suffering. Overcoming this inertia requires determination, persistence, and faith in the transformative power of spiritual practices. He compares the process of overcoming vritties to battling a persistent enemy. Just as a warrior must remain resolute and ...
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    1 hr and 1 min

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