Yoga and Meditation Archives - Stillchemy https://stillchemy.com/category/yoga-and-meditation/ Mon, 16 Jun 2025 08:09:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://stillchemy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cropped-cropped-cropped-stillchemy-logo-150x150.png Yoga and Meditation Archives - Stillchemy https://stillchemy.com/category/yoga-and-meditation/ 32 32 Experience the ‘Miracle of Mind’ with Sadhguru’s Free Meditation App in 2025 https://stillchemy.com/momapp-sadhguru/ https://stillchemy.com/momapp-sadhguru/#respond Tue, 25 Feb 2025 18:56:50 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=6228 Amid the mental health crisis that eclipses the world, Sadhguru, the highly revered and immensely popular spiritual mentor, has come […]

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Amid the mental health crisis that eclipses the world, Sadhguru, the highly revered and immensely popular spiritual mentor, has come up with a meditation app that works like magic to soothe a stressed soul.

It is called Miracle of Mind and aptly so, as it lets you tap into the miraculous potential of your mind. It helps you attain mental peace and experience life to its fullest by discovering the vibrancy and dynamism within.

Tap into Your Mind’s Potential with Just 7 Minutes a Day

Mental health challenges are becoming more common across the world. While some people seek help, many remain unaware of their own mental well-being. According to Sadhguru, if we don’t take charge now, we could be heading toward a mental health crisis, followed by a suicide pandemic. With the right tools and awareness, we can take small but powerful steps toward a healthier and a more balanced mind.

The newly launched Miracle of Mind app is here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier mind. Whether you’re looking to restore emotional balance or mental wellness, this app makes it simple and effortless.

In the words of Sadhguru, if your mind becomes a conscious process, it is the most miraculous thing in existence. The Miracle of Mind app helps you unlock your mind, overcome emotional lows, and embrace a life of joy, energy and balance.

Short on Time? Meditate Anytime, Anywhere

This app includes a 7-minute guided meditation with Sadhguru, thus giving you a simple way to include meditation into your daily routine. It has curated insights about mental well-being, by Sadhguru. As you proceed with the daily meditation practice, the app lets you track and share your progress about each milestone you achieve in your meditation journey. As the duration of this meditation practice is just 7 minutes daily, it easily fits in your schedule, and thus helps you to meditate even on the busiest or the most tiring days, thereby turning meditation into a daily activity.

A Movement to Get 3 Billion People to Meditate

The Miracle of Mind Movement was launched in 2024 with the intent to bring about a positive change in society in terms of mental wellness. Sadhguru said that he wishes that in the next 18-24 months, at least 3 billion people should ‘sit for 15 minutes daily with their eyes closed’, and this would result in a sea-change in the mental health condition of the world population at large.

According to Sadhguru, regular meditation with the Miracle of Mind app can help you cultivate a calm and positive state of mind, making peace and well-being a natural part of your daily life.

Key Benefits of the Miracle of Mind App

This app is absolutely free. Download it once and use it forever.

There is only a single meditation in this app, so you can stay focused on it and practice it more intensely.

It provides a way for everyone to meditate. You could be someone who has been meditating for years or you could be someone who is totally new to the idea, the guided meditation in this app, along with insights by Sadhguru are sure to help you unleash a more joyful and calmer you.

It is a thoughtfully designed app to help you build a daily meditation practice, with its theme, aesthetics, and core inputs personally guided by Sadhguru.

It lets you track your progress with streaks. Statistics like total meditation minutes and length of your streak give you an elaborate and detailed view of your meditation regimen.

It gives you an engaging experience through its milestones and rewards, and its reminders help you stay consistent.

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This app keeps you motivated to continue meditating daily. Every time you meditate, you earn coins that can be used for in-app purchases, exciting deals, or shopping with brand partners. Sounds too good to be true? But it’s real!
Who knew peace of mind could be this rewarding?

Sadhguru’s wisdom is here to help you unwind, find gratitude and bring more joy into your day. From audios and videos to inspiring quotes, get simple yet powerful insights on meditation and mental well-being, whenever you need them.

Wisdom from a living master doesn’t come every day – so why not take the first step? Miracle of Mind fits right into your schedule while helping you cultivate clarity, calm and vibrance. A powerful 7-minute practice can reap a lifetime of benefits!

The Miracle of Mind app was launched on the sacred night of Mahashivratri, February 26, 2025, at Isha Yoga Center! Here’s the exciting part—you can earn coins and badges not just for meditating, but also for referring others! Download the app now and start collecting rewards… along with a little extra peace, of course!
You can download it for free from the Play Store or App Store anytime.

Remember, by sharing this app, you’re offering a powerful, zero-cost tool for self-transformation—one that can truly make a difference. Every referral not only earns you rewards but also spreads peace, joy, and well-being to those you care about.

Imagine someone finding clarity, balance, and happiness — all because you introduced them to this app. This is your chance to gift a life-changing tool to your loved ones. Start sharing today and be the reason someone experiences a little more peace, joy and abundance!

In today’s fast-paced world, where technology overload, instant gratification, and the constant race to keep up are pulling us away from life’s deeper joys, Miracle of Mind brings a much-needed pause. This app helps you cultivate patience, build perseverance, and take charge of your mind.

With just 7 minutes of guided meditation each day, you can unlock more joy, tap into your true abilities, and experience life with greater clarity and balance.

So, download the app now and share it with those you care about—because something this powerful is meant to be experienced together. Let’s make well-being a way of life! Link – Here

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Say Goodbye to Meditation Challenges with These Simple Hacks! https://stillchemy.com/meditation-challenges-hacks/ https://stillchemy.com/meditation-challenges-hacks/#respond Sat, 22 Feb 2025 17:41:10 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=6205 Meditation is a magical way to get rid of stress and anxiety, find calm, build focus, enhance concentration, sleep better, […]

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Meditation is a magical way to get rid of stress and anxiety, find calm, build focus, enhance concentration, sleep better, and most importantly, experience true happiness and inner peace. Magical because, at first a meditative state is difficult to achieve, but once you attain it, the practice can transform your life. It works wonders in your personal and professional life, as it raises self-awareness, takes you closer to self-realization and over time, turns you into a better, more stable and a more grounded person.

Initially meditation looks challenging, and it is common to face difficulties like restlessness, discomfort, boredom, distress, and doubt among others. However, it is important to persist even if you feel like giving up on meditation, because in the long run, this practice is sure to be rewarding.

Here we will look at some commonly faced meditation challenges and useful tips to overcome them.

#1 You’re too busy to meditate

Meditation Challenges Tips

The first and most common difficulty in meditation is that you cannot find time for the practice. Know that it’s actually the impetus that you don’t have and not the time. Affirm to yourself the benefits of meditation and infuse yourself with the energy to start meditating.

Understand and assure yourself that you are going to reap some amazing advantages of meditation if you practice it daily. Once you are convinced of the importance of meditating, you will automatically find time. If you are a very busy person, start with a 1-minute breathing exercise or a 5-minute guided meditation. Even a few minutes spared daily for meditation can give you good results.

#2 You’re having trouble staying motivated

Meditation Challenges Hacks

Go through books or online sources that describe the benefits of meditation. Tell yourself again and again that only a few minutes of meditation can change you for the better. Select something you want to achieve as your motivation behind meditation.

You want some time with yourself? Meditate. You want a sounder sleep? Meditate. You wish to gain clarity of thought? Meditation can help. You are undergoing a lot of stress? Meditation could work like medicine. The fact that meditating daily improves overall health, should itself serve as a motivation for meditation.

#3 You’re unsure if you’re meditating correctly

Meditation Challenges Tips

There is no correct or wrong way to meditate. Do not entertain thoughts of self-doubt about whether you are meditating correctly or not. Let the thoughts or doubts come and go, keep meditating irrespective of the thoughts and emotions that may enter your mind during the practice. If you are meditating on a certain object or a mantra, get your focus on the object or the words of that prayer (or japa), so that you channel your mind in the right direction.

#4 You’re experiencing physical discomfort

Meditation Challenges Tips

It is natural to feel uncomfortable if your posture is incorrect or if you are not sitting at a proper place. Know that you are going to be sitting still for some time and select a suitable place accordingly.

Take a comfortable position. While someone may prefer sitting cross-legged on a mat, someone else may be more comfortable sitting on a chair or sofa. See that the air quality and light in your meditation space is as per your preference. While someone may like to sit by the window where there’s cool breeze and sunlight, someone may like to meditate in an air-conditioned room with dim light. Go by your own definition of comfortable and set up your meditation space accordingly.

#5 You find it hard to settle into the right mindset

Meditation Challenges Tips

The moment you start meditating, or even before that, just when you sit still to meditate, worry, anxiety, sadness, anger and such other negative emotions may start entering your mind. When busy with some activity, these emotions seem to take a backseat, but the moment you sit still, they crop up from somewhere and start disturbing you. Let the thoughts and emotions flow in their own way.

If, while meditating, you get tears in your eyes, let them flow. If worry about something in the future just doesn’t go from your mind, let the feeling be. If you suddenly feel angry about something and feel like you can’t in that state of mind, just accept your emotion and continue meditating. You cannot wait until you are in a so-called correct mental state to meditate. Emotions, positive and negative are bound to come, don’t blame yourself meditate or feel discouraged to meditate. In fact, meditation is about accepting your feelings and ultimately reaching a point where you are not affected by them.

#6 You find it difficult to sit in one place for too long

Meditation Challenges Hacks

Know that when the body is moving, even the mind finds it difficult to calm down. Stillness of the body helps with stillness of the mind. So, it’s important to not move while meditating. Initially, it will be difficult but over time you will achieve the patience and concentration to sit still while meditating. You may get the sensation of an itch or feel a slight pain in the body. Decide to not react to it, and watch it fade away in some time.

You may feel fidgety and restless, but that’s because you are not used to sitting without moving for that long. At the start, even a few minutes may look difficult, but with practice you will overcome achieve sitting still for a longer time. If the itch or pain is serious and you cannot resist it, resolve it and get back to meditating.

#7 You’re having trouble with visualization

Meditation Challenges Hacks

Visualization is a great technique to help you focus while meditating. Some people find it hard to visualize on their own. To this challenge, opt for a guided meditation in which there is vivid description of the visual and it is easy for you to paint that picture before your eyes. Once you learn to visualize while meditating, other difficulties like wandering thoughts, negative emotions or restlessness are also resolved.

#8 You feel sleepy while meditating

Meditation Challenges Hacks

It is natural to feel sleepy during meditation, because you are practically not engaged in any work that time. We tend to stay awake while working, studying or when actively busy with something. We are not used to sitting still, just observing our thoughts and letting them traverse our mind. So, while meditating, you may feel sleepy and even bored. It is fine to feel so, accept your feeling and continue meditating. If you are falling asleep during meditation, use practical tips like splashing water on your face, meditating in a seated or standing position, and being in a well-lit room or outdoors. Avoid using the couch or bed to meditate. You could meditate on a prayer, on an object or on an image of a deity, or use a breathing or visualization technique, to help prevent dozing off during meditation.

#9 You get lost in your thoughts

Meditation Challenges Hacks

It is very common to experience shift of attention while meditating. The mind starts wandering, and you get lost in thought during meditation, which can hinder the process of feeling calm and relaxed. However, understand that you cannot stop thinking and if your mind wanders during meditation you should just observe your thoughts and let them go.

To help yourself concentrate during meditation, you could use techniques like body scan meditation or breath counting. In body scan meditation, you have to focus on one body part at a time while breathing slowly and notice the sensations in that region, then proceed to the next body part, thus progressing from your head to the toes or the other way around. In breath counting, you have to count each time you exhale, then pause for some counts, then exhale while counting. These techniques help you stay focussed and stop yourself from getting lost in thought during meditation.

These were 9 common meditation challenges and tips to overcome them. Basically, why people struggle with meditation is because it’s difficult to stay focused without any active engagement and observing the thoughts and allowing them to come and go while just staying focused on the breath, sounds uninteresting to most of us.

So, meditation challenges range from feeling sleepy to feeling restless and from feeling physical discomfort, to experiencing emotional distress. Apart from using the tips given here, convince yourself of the amazing benefits of meditation and know that you will reap them only after giving substantial time to this practice. So, start meditating daily and transform yourself.

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Powerful Infinity Meditation Guided by Sadhguru https://stillchemy.com/infinity-meditation-sadhguru/ https://stillchemy.com/infinity-meditation-sadhguru/#respond Sat, 22 Feb 2025 16:42:14 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=6201 Infinity meditation is a guided 15-minute meditation that helps you get stability and balance in life. It is created by […]

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Infinity meditation is a guided 15-minute meditation that helps you get stability and balance in life. It is created by Sadhguru. With the help of this meditation, you may be able to direct your energies so as to experience your life to the fullest. This meditation can be practiced anywhere.

Infinity Guided Meditation

Usually, people link the term infinity with the universe, the energy, or the number system, but seldom think of it as a possibility to balance our lives. Sadhguru explains that infinite is not a number, it is something out of the number system, it means boundless or something beyond our grasp or scope of understanding.

He says that when our experiences are boundless, our energies start moving in the shape of the infinity symbol, while on other times, our energies are moving spirally, as if in a controlled circle. According to him, to attain the state of understanding nothingness, or infinity, which, in a way, means nothing, one requires to be in a highly meditative state.

In this guided infinity meditation, Sadhguru asks you to follow a dot which traverses across the infinity sign. It takes 4 and a half minutes for the dot to complete one round along the line of the infinity sign, during which you have to visually and mentally follow the moving dot, then close your eyes and you will experience a sense of calm and stability. This guided meditation concludes with a prayer by Sadhguru.

Practitioners of infinity meditation say that it helps them get a sound sleep, apart from letting them experience a sense of balance and stability in life. Infinity meditation, like some other types of meditation, can reduce stress, uplift your mood, lower blood pressure and relieve anxiety. Befitting its name, infinity meditation lets you experience limitlessness and helps you channelize your energies in such a way that you are able to get a boundless experience of life.

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The Healing and Transformative Benefits of Full Moon Meditation https://stillchemy.com/full-moon-meditation-benefits/ https://stillchemy.com/full-moon-meditation-benefits/#respond Tue, 10 Dec 2024 12:07:55 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=6032 Moon, the Earth’s natural satellite, reflects sunlight on her and brightens up her nights. It goes through different phases, one […]

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Moon, the Earth’s natural satellite, reflects sunlight on her and brightens up her nights. It goes through different phases, one of which is the full moon when it looks the most vibrant, is a complete circle and appears closer as compared to other times. Astronomically speaking, full moon is when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon, which means the lunar hemisphere facing the Earth is completely lit by the sun and appears as a circular disk.

Cultural Significance of Full Moon (Poornima)

Occurring once a month, Poornima marks the exact instant at the conclusion of the waxing and beginning of the waning phase of the moon. Every full moon holds cultural significance, as certain festivals or important occasions are celebrated on this day. For example, Ashadha Poornima is celebrated as Guru Purnima, Shrawan Poornima as Raksha Bandhan, and Falgun Poornima as Holi.

Spiritual Energy of the Full Moon

The full moon is believed to exude a unique energy that creates an atmosphere conducive to meditative practices. In its fullest dimension, the moon’s glow is said to enhance the meditative experience, helping focus the mind and achieve balance and mental peace.

Importance of Full Moon Meditation

Full moon meditation holds spiritual importance as it aligns with the heightened energy of this phase. The serene ambiance created by the moonlight is considered ideal for deepening meditative practices, fostering inner clarity, and nurturing a sense of harmony.

Symbolism of the Full Moon

The fully illuminated state of the moon during the full moon phase symbolizes wholeness, completeness and self-awareness. It is associated with finding hidden truths and serves as a reminder to see the light within. This makes it an ideal time for meditative practices that foster personal and spiritual growth.

Harnessing Lunar Energy for Transformation 

Meditating during a full moon helps harness its abundant energy to accelerate personal growth, healing, and transformation. This lunar phase is conducive to reflecting on life’s goals, dreams and desires, allowing one to visualize them with clarity and manifest them effectively. 

Emotional Healing and Letting Go

The full moon’s energy is believed to enhance positive emotions, heal old wounds and empower us to overcome obstacles. Meditating during this phase can help release emotional baggage, enabling catharsis, inner healing and mental peace. This process of letting go opens the door to deeper self-awareness and spiritual growth. 

Enhanced Mental Clarity and Awareness 

Full moon meditation promotes greater awareness, heightened intuition and mental clarity. It allows individuals to explore their deepest desires, identify life opportunities and obstacles, and gain a fresh perspective for informed decision-making. 

Stress Relief and Relaxation 

Exposure to moonlight, particularly on a full moon night, can relieve stress and enhance relaxation by triggering melatonin release. According to Ayurveda, moonlight exposure can also improve fertility in women. Meditating during this time reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing a sense of calm and inner balance. 

Physical and Mental Health Benefits 

Beyond its spiritual advantages, full moon meditation is linked to improved sleep, better digestion, lower blood pressure, enhanced concentration and boosted confidence. These benefits collectively support overall well-being and personal growth. 

A Catalyst for Spiritual Growth 

The full moon symbolizes deep emotions and spiritual expansion. Engaging in meditation during this phase aligns one with the moon’s energy, fostering transformation, positive change and a deeper connection with oneself. 

Preparing for Full Moon Meditation

Choose a comfortable and quiet place to sit, free from distractions. Sit on the floor with a pillow or cushion, or use a chair for added support.

Keep all electronic devices away to ensure an undisturbed meditation experience.

Centering Your Mind and Body

Begin by taking deep breaths, inhaling and exhaling slowly. Focus on your breathing and allow your thoughts to come and go without clinging to them.

Acknowledge any emotions that arise with self-compassion. Accept them without resistance as part of your journey inward.

Harnessing the Moon’s Energy

Visualize the full moon’s radiant energy rejuvenating your body, mind and soul. Let its brilliance infuse you with positivity and strength.

Use this time to reflect on your intentions, gain clarity about your goals, and imagine your dreams transforming into reality. Allow the moonlight to illuminate your thoughts and empower your aspirations.

Overcoming Challenges

The full moon’s energy can intensify emotions and make it harder to concentrate. Bright moonlight might also be a distraction. To navigate these challenges, consider using guided meditations to maintain focus and ease restlessness.

Building Your Practice

Start with 5–10 minutes of meditation and gradually extend your sessions to 20–30 minutes. Regular practice helps you attune to the moon’s tranquil and vibrant energy over time.

So, if you are captivated by the full moon’s brilliance and tranquillity, or believe in its power to inspire spiritual growth, full moon meditation can be a transformative experience. Begin your journey and witness the serenity and positivity it brings to your mind and life.

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Science and Health Benefits of Yoga Nidra  https://stillchemy.com/yoga-nidra-benefits/ https://stillchemy.com/yoga-nidra-benefits/#respond Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:20:46 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=4929 Yoga nidra or Yogic sleep is a meditation technique and a yogic practice in which the practitioner rests in savasana […]

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Yoga nidra or Yogic sleep is a meditation technique and a yogic practice in which the practitioner rests in savasana (corpse pose) and traverses through the 5 layers of self (or panchamaya kosha). Yoga nidra gives you a sense of wholeness; and anyone irrespective of their age or gender, can practice this beautiful combination of yoga and meditation.

Yoga nidra lets you reflect on yourself, relieves stress, and eventually leads to self-realization. It can easily be included in your daily routine. So, ‘what is yoga nidra?’ or ‘what happens during yoga nidra?’ if you ask, the answer is that you move into a deep state of conscious sleep, which means you are in a deep state of relaxation while also being aware. It is a powerful yoga and meditation technique since it leads to deep rest and relaxation, in turn reducing stress, calming the nervous system, and promoting overall health.

Science Behind Yoga Nidra

Yoga nidra helps awaken the eyebrow centre (or agna chakra), which is believed to govern the pituitary gland function. Proper functioning of the pituitary gland is instrumental in the overall working of the mind and body. Since the practice of yoga nidra has a positive effect on the pituitary gland, it can boost wellness.

Yoga nidra is a powerful means to correct your mental impressions. During yoga nidra, you reach a borderline state between sleep and wakefulness, during which messages reaching you directly affect your subconscious. Thus, yoga nidra can be used to remove negativity, bad behaviour, wrong habits and even disease. This can be accomplished in a visualization stage where you resolve something and then listen to positive messages that can change your attitude and behaviour.

Yoga nidra helps maximize the receptivity of your subconscious mind while also establishing a state of awareness. This way, it has a positive impact on the brain’s ability to absorb information and its capacity to recall stored information. These form the two aspects of memory, which are positively affected by yoga nidra.

Yoga nidra balances the brain hemispheres as it employs the conscious as well the subconscious faculties of the brain. During the practice of yoga nidra, messages are received by the subconscious and reorganized in such a way that the whole mind receives them. So, almost the total brain is a part of the learning experience.

A daily practice of yoga nidra leads to an increased self-awareness, greater autonomic stability, better emotional control and enhanced consciousness.

What is the theory behind yoga nidra? Is yoga nidra scientifically proven? As per research, the practice of yoga nidra leads to decreased sympathetic nervous activity and increased parasympathetic activity, which means reduced excitation and enhanced relaxation. Clinical studies have revealed that yoga nidra practice results in improved blood counts, better regulation of blood sugar levels and proper secretion of hormones.

Stages of Yoga Nidra

Yoga nidra consists of eight stages, which include the following:

Stage 1: Settling

At this stage you start withdrawing inwards. All the tension is released and you focus on your breath.

Stage 2: Intention

At this stage, you have to create a short statement or resolution based on what you aim for or what you wish to achieve. This resolution or sankalpa has to be repeated a few times to train the mind.

Stage 3: Rotation of Consciousness

At this stage, your consciousness is rotated through all parts of the body, and all parts that were previously tensed are released, thus leading to the relaxation of the whole body.

Stage 4: Breath and Energy Awareness

During this stage, you draw attention to your breath and your energy centres. Higher energies are awakened at this stage and you go into a state of deeper relaxation.

Stage 5: Sense Perception

Here the two brain hemispheres are activated, and you train yourself to experience opposite emotions without judging or reacting emotionally.

Stage 6: Visualization

Here you are instructed into visualizing positive images, which in turn helps you relax and feel positive.

Stage 7: Sankalpa

During this stage, the resolution created initially, is reinforced, whereby the resolve is internalized and the subconscious mind now has the responsibility of encouraging you towards attaining the set goal.

Stage 8: Externalization

During this stage, you are guided into gradually coming out of the meditative state, where you are gently awakened from the state between sleep and wakefulness which was achieved during yoga nidra.

How to Practice Yoga Nidra

  • Lie down in a comfortable position, so that your spine is straight and your head, neck and shoulders are relaxed.
  • Close your eyes and take some deep breaths.
  • Focus on your breath and let go of all distractions. Release all your stress and tension.
  • Once relaxed, focus on each part of your body, starting from your feet working your way up to the head.
  • Imagine yourself in a peaceful and beautiful place like a beach or garden. Experience the calmness and positive vibe of that place.
  • Gently move your toes and fingers and gradually awaken yourself. Then slowly open your eyes.

Benefits of Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra Benefits

  • It provides relief from depression and anxiety.
  • It reduces stress levels.
  • It releases tension from the mind and body.
  • It is a good way to get a sound sleep.
  • Yoga nidra is known to regulate heartbeats, reduce blood pressure, and thus improve heart health.
  • It increases receptivity of the mind, whereby you are more prepared to learn and absorb new things.
  • It increases mental focus and concentration.
  • Since yoga nidra reduces stress and enhances overall well-being, it can help reduce cravings for unhealthy foods.
  • Yoga nidra includes visualization wherein, the practitioner is guided into imagining him/herself in a certain environment. This results in greater appreciation of beauty and enhancement of positive feelings.
  • Practicing yoga nidra daily leads to greater awareness of the self.
  • Yoga nidra allows you to access delta brainwaves, which are instrumental in healing and restoration. The activation of delta waves also lets you rest even while you are awake.
  • As yoga nidra induces deep relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety, it is effective in uplifting the mood and promoting a sense of well-being.

A daily practice of yoga nidra can be a life-changing experience. It helps you realize your life’s goals, it trains the mind to achieve what you intend to, it keeps you relaxed and calm, it enhances positive feelings and by having a positive effect on your heart rate, hormone function, and brain activity, yoga nidra has the power to boost your overall health.

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Patanjali’s Ashtanga Yoga: The Eight Limbs Of Yoga Explained https://stillchemy.com/patanjalis-eight-limbs-of-yoga/ https://stillchemy.com/patanjalis-eight-limbs-of-yoga/#respond Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:34:44 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=4805 Patanjali describes yoga as having 8 limbs, namely, yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. According to Patanjali, […]

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Patanjali describes yoga as having 8 limbs, namely, yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. According to Patanjali, yoga is an eight-fold path, following which, one can lead a purposeful life. The 8 limbs when seen serially, pave the way from one’s outer self to his/her inner self, thereby helping the practitioner achieve good physical health, emotional well-being, and ultimately, attain the highest state of consciousness.

8 LIMBS OF YOGA

Yamas

They are restraints, vows or disciplines which include Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya and Aparigraha. According to BKS Iyengar, Yamas are unconditioned by time, place and class, which means irrespective of factors like who we are, where we come from or how much yoga we practice, we can still imbibe the yamas within us. Ahimsa means non-violence. Satya means truthfulness. Asteya is non-stealing. Brahmacharya refers to the correct use of energy and Aparigraha refers to the absence of greed or the practice of refraining from hoarding.

Niyamas

They are positive duties or observances. Ni in niyama refers to ‘inward’ which is why niyama translates to internal duties or our duties towards the self. There are 5 niyamas which include saucha, santosha, tapas, swadhyaya and iswarapranidaha.

Saucha is cleanliness. Santosha means contentment. Tapas is the burning of one’s desires. Swadhyaya refers to the study of self or attaining self-realization through the study of spiritual texts. Iswarapranidaha refers to the act of surrendering oneself to the higher power. Niyamas are linked with koshas which are the layers that lead us from our outer physical body towards our inner self. Inculcating the niyamas in ourselves can help us understand the truth within.

Asanas

Although asanas commonly refer to yoga poses, asana as a limb of yoga refers to ‘seating’, which according to Patanjali, should be comfortable, a position in which you can sit comfortably and motionless, a position which is ideal for meditation. Various sources say that Virasana or Padmasana are suitable for meditation. However, Patanjali states that the ideal position for meditation is the sthira sukham asanam (a posture in which you are steady and comfortable). While meditating, the idea is to take a position in which you can sit still for some time, so the aim should not be to achieve a particular difficult posture.

Pratyahara

Pratya means ‘to withdraw’ and ahara means ‘to take in or consume’. The act of withdrawing refers to looking inward which may mean focusing on one’s breathing. Pratyahara should not be misinterpreted as losing the ability to take in through our senses. It is rather the ability to focus within, without being bothered by what is outside, which includes people or things in our surroundings. One could also understand pratyahara as being so present in the moment that external factors do not distract the mind.

Dharana

This term means focused concentration. The term translates to collection or concentration of the mind. It is a step ahead of Pratyahara, and refers to ekagrata or single-pointed concentration and focus. It is the first step of deep concentration meditation wherein the object being focused on is held in mind without letting the consciousness get distracted from it. According to Patanjali, this sixth limb of yoga refers to concentration of the mind by fixing the mind on a certain external object like a symbol or deity or internal concentration on a chakra or a mantra. Through the practice of dharana, one gains mental strength that is useful in attaining the further steps of Dhyana and Samadhi.

Dhyana

This is the 7th limb of yoga and translates to meditation. It is a meditative practice that requires great concentration. It builds upon the earlier limbs of yoga, and at its final stage, the practitioner does not identify it as meditation, but is rather so greatly absorbed in the act, that he/she is unable to differentiate the self from it. Practising dhyana helps in increasing concentration, boosting memory and confidence, and reduces fatigue.

Samadhi

This is the 8th limb of yoga, during which the practitioner attains complete stillness of the mind and unites with the universal consciousness. In this final stage of Ashtanga yoga, the individual unifies with the cosmic, which means that the self, the mind and the object of meditation merge into one.

Samadhi is referred to as the highest state of consciousness that one can achieve and while practicing it, the individual achieves spiritual enlightenment. In Hindu texts, it has been said that samadhi can be experienced in three stages, namely Laja samadhi, Savikalpa samadhi and Nirvikalpa samadhi. Laja samadhi is a trance-like state of deep meditation. In savikalpa samadhi, the practitioner has the power to control his/her thoughts without being affected by them. In nirvikalpa samadhi, the practitioner is totally absorbed and experiences the unification of the body, mind and the object of meditation.

The 8 limbs of yoga described by Patanjali in Yoga Sutra, entail the principles of righteous behaviour and serve as guidelines on how to lead a meaningful life. Ashtanga Yoga (the 8 limbs of yoga) reflect Patanjali’s wisdom is integrating a broad range of values like self-discipline, ethical conduct, attainment of overall health through exercise and achievement of self-realization through meditation. Thus, the eight limbs explained in Yoga Sutra aptly capture the real essence of a fulfilling life.

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Adiyogi Rudraksha Diksha by Isha Foundation: 13 FAQs, Benefits and Guidelines https://stillchemy.com/isha-rudraksha-diksha-faqs/ https://stillchemy.com/isha-rudraksha-diksha-faqs/#respond Sat, 02 Mar 2024 12:06:13 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=4682 Rudraksha Diksha is an effective means to gain the blessings of Lord Shiva. You could register online for Adiyogi Rudraksha […]

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Rudraksha Diksha is an effective means to gain the blessings of Lord Shiva. You could register online for Adiyogi Rudraksha Diksha through Isha Foundation’s website.

Upon form submission, you’ll receive a complete Rudraksha Diksha package using which you can add an element of spirituality into your lives and also reap the benefits that Rudraksha has, on your overall health and well-being. Here is a compilation of some of the commonly asked questions about Rudraksha Diksha, and their answers.

Rudraksha Diksha registrations have been closed in 2025.

1. What is Rudraksha Diksha?

Rudraksha Diksha Sadhguru Quote

Rudraksha Diksha is a powerful instrument to become accessible to the grace of Adiyogi.” –Sadhguru.

Receiving the Rudraksha diksha is a way to receive the grace of Adiyogi and be more conscious and receptive to Shiva’s blessings, with the use of tools and a specially designed sadhana. Rudraksha Diksha presents you with the opportunity to immerse yourself in the divine grace of Lord Shiva.

2. Who can receive the Rudraksha Diksha?
Anyone can receive the Rudraksha diksha.

3. What Do We Receive in the Rudraksha Diksha Package?

Adiyogi Rudraksha Package Contents

The package consists of the following:

Rudraksha: These holy beads, believed to be the tears of Shiva, are known to benefit the wearer’s physical health and mental well-being and also help the wearer in his/her spiritual journey.

Isha Vibhuti: It is the holy ash which is consecrated in the presence of Dhyanalinga.

Abhaya Sutra: It is a specifically consecrated thread which is of help in removing fear and fulfilling the wearer’s ambitions.

Adiyogi image: An inspiring image of Lord Shiva which serves as a reminder of the fact that ‘In is the only way out’.

4. What is the importance of Isha Vibhuti?

Vibhuti is sacred ash, and a representation of the mortal nature of life. As the realization of one’s mortality is the basis of spirituality, the vibhuti serves as a powerful tool for the seeker. This holy ash is also an effective medium for transmission of energy. Isha Vibhuti is imbibed with the energy of Dhyanalinga. It is supposed to be held between one’s thumb and ring finger and applied on various parts of the body, such as between the eyebrows, at the pit of the throat, and the centre of the chest. The application of vibhuti on the body is said to help in gaining clarity and enhancing the feelings of love and devotion.

5. How to use the Abhaya Sutra?

It is a consecrated thread which is to be tied around the wrist. Abhaya means ‘without fear’ and sutra aids individuals to conquer their fears and realize their dreams. The Abhaya Sutra is made of cotton thread. Women should wear it on their left hand while men should wear it on their right hand. To dispose this sacred thread, it should be burned or buried in wet soil, or you could tie it on the branch of a flowering or fruit-bearing tree. It should not be cut, and if disposed by burning, the ashes should be applied on the body.

In the Rudraksha Diksha package, you would receive two threads. The longer one is the Abhaya Sutra, to be used as mentioned above, while the shorter one should be used to string the Rudraksha and worn around the neck.

6. What is the significance of the Adiyogi image received in the package?

Adiyogi is believed to have provided humanity with the methods to evolve consciousness. He transferred the science of yoga to his 7 disciples (Saptarshis). His knowledge is a guide to humans on how to overcome their limitations and reach their ultimate potential.

7. What are the benefits of Adiyogi Rudraksha?

Rudraksha beads are sacred, and the wearer can benefit from them in multiple ways.

  • Rudraksha balances all the chakras of the body and thus serves as a support for physical and mental balance.
  • It improves alertness, focus and concentration, and has a positive effect on nervous system function.
  • Rudraksha beads are immensely helpful in meditation.
  • Rudraksha protects the wearer from negative energies, cleanses the user’s aura, and helps him/her maintain overall wellness.

8. How can I register for Rudraksha Diksha?

Rudraksha Diksha registrations have been closed in 2025.

Refer to the Rudraksha Diksha Registration section on sadhguru.co/rd and follow the steps to register online for the same. This facility has been opened only in India. Once you register for Rudraksha Diksha, you will receive two Rudrakshas.

9. Do I need to pay for Rudraksha Diksha?

No, you can receive an energized Rudraksha at your nearby city for free.

10. I already received a Rudraksha in a previous Mahashivratri. Can I still register for Rudraksha Diksha?

If you have registered and received Rudraksha diksha already, it is not necessary to register again for a new package.

11. How long does it take to receive the Rudraksha Diksha package?

Due to the huge number of orders, it can take a few months after Mahashivaratri to receive the package. The shipping takes place through India Post. Once you have registered for the package, you get a consignment number, using which the shipment can be tracked.

12. Who can I contact in case of issues?

For any queries regarding the registration or receiving of the Rudraksha Diksha package, you can write to: rudrakshadiksha.support@mahashivarathri.org

13. What should I do when I first receive the Rudraksha?

The Rudraksha you receive should be first conditioned before using it (Here is the post about Conditioning). This means, when you receive the Rudraksha, you need to follow the conditioning regimen every six months thereafter.

These are some of the things you must know about Rudraksha Diksha, to get the most out of this highly effective package. The best part is that you can get it for free, but that does not define its value. It is rather invaluable, which is probably why it does not have a price tag. So, register for the Rudraksha Diksha and brace yourself to receive the energy and bliss that comes along!!

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Rudraksha Types & Benefits of Wearing Rudraksha https://stillchemy.com/rudraksha-types-benefits/ https://stillchemy.com/rudraksha-types-benefits/#respond Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:57:02 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=4359 Rudraksha is one of those items that have a very unique type of reverberation. – Sadhguru Rudraksha is linked with […]

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Rudraksha Sadhguru Quote

Rudraksha is one of those items that have a very unique type of reverberation.

– Sadhguru

Rudraksha is linked with Shiva (the beads are believed to be Shiva’s tears), and are commonly used as it helps in prayer & meditation.

Rudraksha meaning - Tears of Shiva

A Rudraksha mala (Rudraksha beads strung together into a garland) is worn by devotees of Lord Shiva and popularly used for japa and meditation. There are many types of Rudraksha, mainly classified on the basis of their number of faces or mukha. For example, a one-faced Rudraksha bead is called ek mukhi while a five-faced Rudraksha is known as panchmukhi.

Rudraksha provides several physical and spiritual benefits, and certain types of Rudraksha have their own specific advantages for their user. These sacred and powerful beads are known to affect the wearer’s energy field, provide the wearer with protection from evil, enhance the user’s overall health, and also help the wearers on their spiritual journey. Commonly asked questions about Rudraksha have been compiled here -> Rudraksha FAQs

Why Wear Rudraksha and Its Multifaceted Benefits

Rudraksha Mala Benefits

Rudraksha can be used to check the purity of food and water. When a Rudraksha is held above water, if it goes clockwise, the water can be considered as good for drinking. If it goes anti-clockwise, the water can be considered as poisonous or contaminated. Similarly, when held over food, if the Rudraksha goes clockwise, it is a positive pranic substance, hence good for consumption. If it goes anti-clockwise, the food is considered to be a negative pranic substance and thus not advisable for consumption.

If you are constantly moving, which is to say, you are always staying at different places, having a Rudraksha with you can help you get comfortable in a new place, as it lets you create a field of your own energy around you, thus helping you stay unaffected by the energies in that new place.

Rudraksha serves as a protective shield against negative energies. It radiates a certain energy that has a positive effect on the body, mind and soul.

Rudraksha is believed to calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety.

It reduces the effects of negative karma and helps usher peace and harmony into life.

It balances the chakras in the body and can help in removing potential diseases.

It helps enhance spiritual growth and self-awareness.

It has positive effects on the nervous system. It can improve concentration, memory and give you mental clarity.

It is believed to help in cleansing your aura and assist in sadhana.

Benefits of Gauri Shankar Rudraksha

Helps you on your spiritual path by making you available to grace.

It is said to help in activating and balancing your Ida and Pingala.

It is believed to get you prosperity.

It is said to be of help in maintaining personal and professional relationships.

It can help you be successful.

It is said to have a positive influence on every sphere of your life.

Benefits of Panchmukhi Rudrakasha

Five-faced beads or panchmukhi is safe and good for everyone – man, woman and child.

– Sadhguru

It is said to improve your inner awareness and lead you towards your Higher Self.

It helps enhance overall health and well-being.

It can help you experience a sense of freedom.

It lowers your blood pressure and helps you sense calmness.

It aids in keeping your nervous system alert.

It improves the functioning of your respiratory system.

The five-mukhi Rudraksha is believed to be of great help in spiritual pursuits and can be a good aid on your path towards enlightenment.

Though the Panchmukhi (or five-faced) Rudraksha beads can be worn by men, women and children, kids aged below 14 should preferably wear the six-faced beads. This Rudraksha can help children stay more focused and achieve calmness. Six-faced beads also help you achieve overall balance and improve emotional stability.

You can find authentic Panchmukhi Rudraksha available for purchase at Isha life online store.

Benefits of Ek Mukhi Rudraksha

This Rudraksha changes your energies in such a way that you wish to be alone.

It can help in enhancing your awareness of the supreme consciousness.

It is advisable to purchase Rudraksha beads from a reliable source and seek expert guidance to know what type of Rudraksha would suit you best. There are certain instructions to be followed pertaining to conditioning the Rudraksha beads and their maintenance and care.

So, it would be best to know about all these aspects of Rudraksha before you start using them. May you find your Rudraksha and may these holy beads of Shiva get you closer to what you are seeking.

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Benefits of Chanting Sanskrit Mantras https://stillchemy.com/benefits-of-chanting-sanskrit-mantras/ https://stillchemy.com/benefits-of-chanting-sanskrit-mantras/#respond Sat, 10 Feb 2024 16:34:02 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=4256 When Sanskrit is taught, it has to be learnt by rote. The sound is important, not the meaning. – Sadhguru […]

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When Sanskrit is taught, it has to be learnt by rote. The sound is important, not the meaning. –

Sadhguru
Sanskrit language Mantras Sadhguru Quote

Sanskrit is an ancient language of India and the base language from which several words from many other languages have been derived. Sanskrit serves as the language of Hindu scriptures, scientific texts and poetic compositions like mantras, shlokas, and stotras. Sages and saints have made use of Sanskrit to transmit their teachings across generations.

Throughout the ages, people have been chanting Sanskrit mantras for various reasons—some as a form of meditation, others to express their devotion towards a particular deity, and many to gain spiritual benefits. Here is a look at the incredible benefits of this practice.

Mantras are believed to be highly effective in their ability to influence and resonate with specific energies. Mantras come in various types, each activating specific energies in different body parts. Even modern science supports the Vedic science behind mantras, acknowledging the power of sound vibrations on the human brain.

Chanting mantras isn’t simply uttering words; it’s about becoming the essence of the mantra itself. It requires practice, concentration and faith in one’s guru and initiation.

Hidden Benefits of Chanting Mantras

Sanskrit Mantras health Benefits

The practice of chanting involves the repetition of a certain phrase with utmost concentration, which in turn has a meditative effect.

The vibrations created by Sanskrit shlokas are known to help you experience a sense of calm. Their sound reduces the release of stress hormones like cortisol.

Chanting Sanskrit mantras is said to help reduce stress, lower blood pressure and help you stay happy and calm. A daily practice of chanting certain mantras can give you internal strength and enhance your overall well-being.

Chanting of Sanskrit shlokas, when combined with the understanding of their meaning, can help you develop compassion and empathy, and give you mental peace.

With frequent or daily chanting of Sanskrit mantras, they are retained in memory, which in turn helps in boosting memory.

The process of understanding the meaning of these mantras improves cognitive function.

The practice of understanding and chanting mantras introduces you to a new language and learning new languages helps in brain development and increases neuroplasticity.

The pronunciation of Sanskrit words requires certain movements of the tongue which improves speech abilities and pronunciation skills.

Aum chanting is popularly used to raise self-awareness and attain inner peace. Research says that the chanting of Aum affects the vagus nerve in a way that gives you clarity of thought.

In a certain study, those who practice chanting Sanskrit mantras have been found to have more grey matter across their cerebral hemispheres and increased cortical thickness.

The vibrations generated through the recital of certain Sanskrit shlokas are known to trigger the hypothalamus which, in turn, improves the functioning of various body organs.

Spiritually speaking, chanting mantras can help kindle the light within you and raise your alertness and awareness of the self.

Sanskrit Shlokas Examples and Their Powerful Effects

Some Sanskrit shlokas are said to have a specific effect on your physical or emotional well-being. Here are some examples.

Sanskrit Mantras Nirvana Shatakam Vairagya Chant

Nirvana Shatakam, composed by Adi Shankaracharya, consists of six verses in Sanskrit. It explores the formless nature of the true Self. Chanting Nirvana Shatakam can promote inner peace, reducing anxiety and fostering identification with Shiva.

If you’re interested in learning the Nirvana Shatakam from Project Sanskriti Alumni, you can do so through their platform.

The recital of the Ramraksha strotra is said to help you get rid of fears and serve as a protective shield during difficult times.

Chanting the Gayatri mantra generates pressure on the tongue, lips, palate and vocal cord in such a way that the hypothalamus function improves, in turn boosting immunity and other bodily functions.

Reciting the mantra Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha is believed to help remove obstacles from your path and lead you towards success.

Chanting of Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi is the means to invoke peace into your life.

Om sarve bhavantu sukhinah, sarve santu niramayah, is a prayer which seeks peace and harmony for everyone. By reciting this mantra you are wishing good for everyone, and thus expressing a broad perspective of looking at the world.

A mantra like Samudra vasane devi, which is traditionally chanted before starting your day, is a way to ask for forgiveness to the Earth for touching her with your feet.

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra holds immense significance in Hinduism. It is revered for its powerful nature and is often recited in times of distress, illness, or during spiritual practices to seek the blessings and protection of Lord Shiva.

Nada Yoga Classical Music- Sadhguru Quote

Indian classical music is an evolution of the fundamental process of Nada Yoga. It has the power to make one transcend human limitations and arrive at an ultimate possibility. – Sadhguru

Mantras, being energy-based sounds, create physical vibrations that align with the spiritual energy of the chant. Mantra chanting focuses more on sound than meaning, as it directly connects with the essence of existence. This principle forms the foundation of mantra yoga, also called nada yoga.

Nada Yoga – allows you to utter the sounds that create an inner atmosphere of joy, making it a natural way to be.

– Isha foundation

This exemplifies how shlokas and mantras help imbibe in you, good values like humility, empathy, gratitude, forgiveness and love, which means the fostering of good values is another important benefit of chanting Sanskrit mantras.

Thus, you can see that chanting Sanskrit mantras has physical, emotional and spiritual benefits. So include the ones you like, in your daily routine and see the positive change they bring about in you.

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Beginner’s Guide to Breathwork and Its Benefits https://stillchemy.com/breathwork-and-its-benefits/ https://stillchemy.com/breathwork-and-its-benefits/#respond Sun, 28 Jan 2024 14:33:35 +0000 https://stillchemy.com/?p=4177 Deep breathing changes the chemistry of the body by bringing oxygen into the tissue. – Wim Hof What is Breathwork? […]

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– Wim Hof
Wim Hof Quote Breathwork

Breathwork Benefits

Nadi Shuddhi Sadhguru Quote

Breathwork Benefits Sadhguru Quote

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