Boosting Your Immunity

Ojas is the final by-product of proper assimilation of food, and the glue that binds the body, mind and soul. Any foods that turn the food quickly into ojas are good for immunity. Ojas production will result in proper functioning of all organs and creates vitality which manifests as resistance to illness and disease.

Foods for enhancing immunity:

Sweet, ripe and organic fruit such as pears, mangoes, plums, peaches, grapes, cooked apples and pomegranate.

Foods like milk, ghee, almonds, mung dal/beans, rice, saffron, paneer, amaranth, aged basmati rice and quinoa are also immune-boosting foods. Soaked and peeled almonds, sesame seeds and walnuts are also good choices. Lassis are a good immune-boosting beverage.

Use spices in your cooking as they help in assimilation and absorption of nutrients. Turmeric, cumin, black pepper, ginger and garlic are some ama-burning spices. They also ignite your digestive fire thus helping with metabolism and strengthening resistance to disease.

Lifestyle:

Eat according to your doshic needs and season. Eat only three fourths of your capacity to leave room for proper digestion. Continue to maintain your daily routine, which includes meditation, exercise and abhyanga. Get adequate sleep as this is one of the fastest way to boost your immunity. Practice savasana for reducing stress, lowering your blood pressure, heart rate and for promoting deeper sleep. Doing panchakarma twice a year is highly recommended for cleansing and detoxifying the body/mind.

Ama-creating foods to avoid:

Canned, processed, foods with additives and preservatives are hard to digest and create ama in the body. Meat is considered an amagenic food in Ayurveda. Eating late at night is disruptive to liver function and causes sluggishness and creates ama in the body. White sugar and alcohol are some of the worst ama-producing foods. Ama impairs white blood cell activity and depresses the immune system.

Healthy relationships and self-discipline build immunity. Eat well, get plenty of rest, be happy and loving and you will have a strong immune system.

Mantras

Literally, Mrytunjaya means victory over death and certainly one of the most effective uses of this mantra is to ease the end of life transition. But it is also very effective for boosting our overall health and resistance.

The mantra is found in both the Rig Veda and Yajur Veda. There are two forms of the mantra; the first is the bija or seed version which holds the essence of the full mantra.
OM jum saha

The whole mantra is

Om Tryambakam Yajamahe
Sugandhim Pushthi Vardhanam
Urvar Ukamiva Bandhanat
Mrytyor Muksheeya Mamritatay

It sounds intimidating at first, but with very little practice you will be able to at least read the mantra comfortably. Just 27 times a day will bring noticeable results and you’ll have it memorized in no time.

The other mantra is for the Divine Physician, Dhanvantri, the form of Vishnu who emerges out of the ocean of milk holding the nectar of immortality.  His mantra is also a little on the long side, but still you can read it 27 times in under 10 minutes.

OM Namo Bhagavate
Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye
Amurta Kalasa Hastaya
Sarva Ama Vinashanaya
Thri Loka Nathaya
Sri Maha Vishnave Swaha

Essentially the mantra means that I honor Vishnu in the form of Dhanvantri who holds the nectar of immortality, he removes all fear and all diseases. He is the protector and sustainer of the 3 worlds.

New Year, New You

Good health is a life-long process.  Ayurveda offers us the inspiration and gift of a lifetsyle that can be sustained for an entire lifetime.  This year, commit to moving slower and giving every task and person your full attention.  Relish and savor your interactions and activities. Be present to yourself.

Consider the wisdom of doing less to accomplish more. Although this is contradictory to our social conditioning of constant activity, try it. Spend time taking care of yourself.  Meditate, buy new japa mantra beands, learn one new mantra and chant it.

Focus on right speech. Good communication reflects well on us and brings us joy. This is a good way to generate saatvic energy and it is good for cultivating emotional health.

No matter what task is begging for your attention, give sleep a chance. Get to bed early.  Adequate sleep is good for the nervous system and rejuvenates the body.

Eat vata pacifying food such as warm soup and sip ginger tea. Avoid dry foods such as popcorn, chips, crackers etc.

Relish in the healing fragrances of aroma oils. Vatas can use: basil, citrus, clove, lavender, frankinscence, jatamansi, vetivert and sage

Pittas will enjoy: ylang-ylang, sandalwood, rose, jasmine and neroli

Kaphas should favor: basil, ecalyptus, rosemary, tulis or holy basil, lemon and juniper

Do not skip meals because this aggravates both vata and pitta.

Spend some time learning pranayama. The breath can used to pacify the nervous system and to heat and cool the body depending on the technique you use.

Consider eating stewed apples each day for it is warm, nourishing and light. It has more fiber than a raw apple and is beneficial for elimination.

Continue to maintain your daily routine. Stay committed to being in alignment with cosmic rythmns. If your body experiences good routines, you will have better sleep, digestion and elimination.

Exercise everyday. 80% of all diseases are caused by stress. And exercising is one of the best way of reducing stress. Be in nature, talk a walk, go swimming, try doing yoga outdoors.

Give up coffee and stimulants or at least use in moderation. Commit to using fresh and organic foods as much as possible.

Stay motivated to make lifestyle changes. Go easy on yourself. One change a week is a good start and makes it easier to keep going with those good changes.

Spend time in silence reflecting on your experiences and life’s journey. Try to find ways to see it as a gift and treasure the wisdom you derived from it. And always remember to be grateful for what you have and enjoy it!

Mantras

Of course Ganesha is the best place to begin when you are starting something new and for the New Year we also need the blessings of Lakshmi to bring us wealth and abundance over the next 12 months.  There are numerous mantras that invoke both Ganesha and Lakshmi together.

A simple one is OM Gam Ganapataye Vara Varada Gam OM

And there is a specific form of this mantra that is of particular importance in the alleviation of debts.  It is intended to be practiced for 40 consecutive days in order to bear its full fruit.  So get our your japa beads!

OM Shreem Gam Runa Hartaye Gam Shreem OM Ganapatayae Namaha

OM Shreem is a mantra that invokes Lakshmi, the goddess of abundance, Gam is Ganesha in seed form, Runa is that which sticks to me…debts, Hartaye means to destroy, Gam is Ganesha again to remove obstacles, Shreem is Lakshmi again to bring wealth, OM Ganapayayae is Ganesha and Namaha means to honor or to bow down….in essence the way we say please in a mantra.

Spices and Cooking the Ayurvedic Way

Spices are revered in Ayurveda for their concentrated form of intelligence.  Spices help with digestion, asssimilation, cleansing and healing.  Spices are always cooked in oil or ghee and added to the grain or vegetable.  Spices can be used in preparing teas or in the morning in stewed apples or oatmeal.

Spices to add to your cooking include:

Warming spices:

cardamom, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin, black pepper, sea salt, ginger, cayenne, saffron, mustard seeds and asafetida

Cooling spices:

coriander, turmeric, fennel

Spices have a shelf-life of about 6 months. Becuase they are potent in medicinal and flavor properties, you want to use fresh and organic spices.  Store them in stainless steel containers so they have minimal exposure to light and air.

Mantras for Empowering Spices

The process of cooking is very much one of  imparting prana or energy into the food.  The three forms of the goddess; Durga, Kali and Saraswati represent the three elements of air, fire, and water, and Vata, Pitta, and Kapha respectively.  So this mantra begins with the bija or seed mantra for each.

OM A-eem Hreem Kleem Chamundayai swaha

or if you prefer

OM A-eem Hreem Kleem Chamundayai namaha

You can start with OM or not as you like.

The Why’s and How’s of Vedic Cooking

We eat to sustain the body and to create balance in the physical, mental and spiritual states. Ayurvedically speaking, food purifies the body and prepares us for spiritual awakening. Vedic food is medicinal in nature while being delicious and pleasing to the senses.

In general, saatvik food supports spiritual practice. Saatvik food gives us strength, creates happiness and is nourishing to the heart. Examples of saatvik foods include organic milk, whole grains, ghee, almonds, saffron, mangoes and coconuts.

Rajasic foods are stimulating in nature, thus disturbing the relationship between the body and mind. Rajasic foods can agitate the mind and make one restless. Examples include garlic, onions, cayenne, coffee, black tea, fermented foods and chocolate.

Tamasic foods, it is said, benefits neither the mind nor the body. It creates a foggy mind, sluggish digestion and inertia. Examples include alcohol, meats, leftovers and stale food.

Practical tips:

Bathe before you cook. Cook in a clean kitchen. Light a candle and offer gratitude for the food you are about to cook. Cook in peace and leave worries or negative thoughts behind.

Offer your food to the divine as “prasadam,” and bless it. Be thankful for the food that you have.

Eat with loved ones. Eat slowly, chewing carefully, savoring each bite. Talk about pleasant topics or eat in silence. At the end of the meal, sit down for a few minutes.

Have adequate staples in your kitchen pantry. You are more likely to cook a fresh meal if you have all the ingredients. Organize it so it pleasing to the eye and functional.

Proper digestion is vital for good health. Eat a sliver of ginger before the meal with a few drops of lime and sea salt. This enhances your digestive agni or fire. Eat seasonally, and according to your dosha and eat only about half your capacity. If you must eat out, make healthy choices and order hot water with lemon for a beverage. Remember that your digestion can turn nectar into poison or poison into nectar.

Mantras for Annapurna, the goddess of food

So each time you eat or drink you can say “Annapurnayai namaha” It just means I offer gratitude to Annapurna.

Or if you want something more elaborate, you can use a longer mantra that includes some of the bija mantras for extra power:
“OM Hreem Shreem Kleem Namo Bagavatae Maheshwari Annapurne Swaha.”

The meaning is simply that I honor the goddess who is the wife of Shiva and who feeds the world.  To her I offer my thanks for this food.

]]> http://www.puja.net/wordpress/7-ayurveda-and-cooking/feed/ 0 The Why’s and How’s of Vedic Cooking We eat to sustain the body and to create balance in the physical, mental and spiritual states. Ayurvedically speaking, food purifies the body and prepares us for spiritual awakening. Vedic food is medicinal in nature while being delicious and pleasing to the senses. In general, saatvik food supports spiritual practice. Saatvik food gives us strength, creates happiness and is nourishing to the heart. Examples of saatvik foods include organic milk, whole grains, ghee, almonds, saffron, mangoes and coconuts. Rajasic foods are stimulating in nature, thus disturbing the relationship between the body and mind. Rajasic foods can agitate the mind and make one restless. Examples include garlic, onions, cayenne, coffee, black tea, fermented foods and chocolate. Tamasic foods, it is said, benefits neither the mind nor the body. It creates a foggy mind, sluggish digestion and inertia. Examples include alcohol, meats, leftovers and stale food. Practical tips: Bathe before you cook. Cook in a clean kitchen. Light a candle and offer gratitude for the food you are about to cook. Cook in peace and leave worries or negative thoughts behind. Offer your food to the divine as “prasadam,” and bless it. Be thankful for the food that you have. Eat with loved ones. Eat slowly, chewing carefully, savoring each bite. Talk about pleasant topics or eat in silence. At the end of the meal, sit down for a few minutes. Have adequate staples in your kitchen pantry. You are more likely to cook a fresh meal if you have all the ingredients. Organize it so it pleasing to the eye and functional. Proper digestion is vital for good health. Eat a sliver of ginger before the meal with a few drops of lime and sea salt. This enhances your digestive agni or fire. Eat seasonally, and according to your dosha and eat only about half your capacity. If you must eat out, make healthy choices and order hot water with lemon for a beverage. Remember that your digestion can turn nectar into poison or poison into nectar. Mantras for Annapurna, the goddess of food So each time you eat or drink you can say “Annapurnayai namaha” It just means I offer gratitude to Annapurna. Or if you want something more elaborate, you can use a longer mantra that includes some of the bija mantras for extra power: “OM Hreem Shreem Kleem Namo Bagavatae Maheshwari Annapurne Swaha.” The meaning is simply that I honor the goddess who is the wife of Shiva and who feeds the world.  To her I offer my thanks for this food. Aparna Khanolkar is an Ayurvedic lifestyle and culinary coach in Santa Barbara and travels throughout the LA region to teach workshops. She offers Vedic cooking classes in Santa Barbara and is always available for phone consultations.  Contact her at 805-698-5630 or aparna@themistressofspice.com. Aparna’s new cookbook, Happy Belly, Happy Soul is available here. The Why’s and How’s of Vedic Cooking We eat to sustain the body and to create balance in the physical, mental and spiritual states. Ayurvedically speaking, food purifies the body and prepares us for spiritual awakening. Vedic food is [...] Ben Collins 0:00:01 The Why’s and How’s of Vedic Cooking We eat to sustain the body and to create balance in the physical, mental and spiritual states. Ayurvedically speaking, food purifies the body and prepares us for spiritual awakening. Vedic food is medicinal in [...] The Why’s and How’s of Vedic Cooking We eat to sustain the body and to create balance in the physical, mental and spiritual states. Ayurvedically speaking, food purifies the body and prepares us for spiritual awakening. Vedic food is medicinal in nature while being delicious and pleasing to the senses. In general, saatvik food supports spiritual practice. Saatvik food gives us strength, creates happiness and is nourishing to the heart. Examples of saatvik foods include organic milk, whole grains, ghee, almonds, saffron, mangoes and coconuts. Rajasic foods are stimulating in nature, thus disturbing the relationship between the body and mind. Rajasic foods can agitate the mind and make one restless. Examples include garlic, onions, cayenne, coffee, black tea, fermented foods and chocolate. Tamasic foods, it is said, benefits neither the mind nor the body. It creates a foggy mind, sluggish digestion and inertia. Examples include alcohol, meats, leftovers and stale food. Practical tips: Bathe before you cook. Cook in a clean kitchen. Light a candle and offer gratitude for the food you are about to cook. Cook in peace and leave worries or negative thoughts behind. Offer your food to the divine as “prasadam,” and bless it. Be thankful for the food that you have. Eat with loved ones. Eat slowly, chewing carefully, savoring each bite. Talk about pleasant topics or eat in silence. At the end of the meal, sit down for a few minutes. Have adequate staples in your kitchen pantry. You are more likely to cook a fresh meal if you have all the ingredients. Organize it so it pleasing to the eye and functional. Proper digestion is vital for good health. Eat a sliver of ginger before the meal with a few drops of lime and sea salt. This enhances your digestive agni or fire. Eat seasonally, and according to your dosha and eat only about half your capacity. If you must eat out, make healthy choices and order hot water with lemon for a beverage. Remember that your digestion can turn nectar into poison or poison into nectar. Mantras for Annapurna, the goddess of food So each time you eat or drink you can say “Annapurnayai namaha” It just means I offer gratitude to Annapurna. Or if you want something more elaborate, you can use a longer mantra that includes some of the bija mantras for extra power: “OM Hreem Shreem Kleem Namo Bagavatae Maheshwari Annapurne Swaha.” The meaning is simply that I honor the goddess who is the wife of Shiva and who feeds the world.  To her I offer my thanks for this food. Aparna Khanolkar is an Ayurvedic lifestyle and culinary coach in Santa Barbara and travels throughout the LA region to teach workshops. She offers Vedic cooking classes in Santa Barbara and is always available for phone consultations.  Contact her at 805-698-5630 or aparna@themistressofspice.com. Aparna’s new cookbook, Happy Belly, Happy Soul is available here. Ayurveda Benjamin C. Collins no no http://www.puja.net/wordpress/6-kapha-dosha/ http://www.puja.net/wordpress/6-kapha-dosha/#comments Sun, 20 Dec 2009 23:41:19 +0000 BenCollins http://www.puja.net/wordpress/?p=2274

Kapha Dosha
Kapha brings the stability and solidity of earth and water to the body/mind. Kapha is responsible for immune function, strength and vitality, lubrication and structure.

Symptoms of Kapha imbalance:
Sluggish digestion, weight gain, respiratory illnesses, sinus problems
Mental fog, depression
Excessive sleep and inactivity

Diet for Kapha:
Favor light, pungent, warm and easy to digest foods such as salads, soups and leafy greens. Avoid sweets, meats and cheese
Good grains are moderate amounts of brown rice, barley, corn and millet
Good vegetables are bitter melon, leafy greens, cabbage and cauliflower
Small amounts of fruit such as pomogrenate, cherries, grapefruit

In general:
Avoid naps and heavy foods
Exercise regularly including brisk walking and several rounds of surya namaskar.
Be motivated and have a project to work on with a deadline that you are comfortable with.

Mantras for balancing Kapha dosha

Ganesha mantras are wonderful for balancing kapha.  You can use the simple mantra from out earlier podcast “OM Gum Ganapataye Namaha” or if you’d like something a little stronger, Ganesh Gayatri can be used.

“OM Tat purushaya vidmahae
Vakratundaya deemahee,
thanno dandi prachodayat”

In this show Penny brings together the planets or grahas, the houses or bhavas, and the signs or rashis in a way that starts to show the Jyotish chart as a cohesive whole. This integrated vision forms the basis for the systematic interpretation of the chart and thus the individual’s life experience.

Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net.

Pitta Pacifying Tips

Pitta is the manifestation of fire and water. It governs digestion, metabolism and vision.

Symptoms of Pitta imbalance:

Hyperacidity, inflammation, rashes, and feeling overheated
Anger, jealousy, and critical emotions
Too much activity, overly task-oriented and exhausted from feeling compelled to work

Diet for Pitta:

Eat cooling foods such as cucumber, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, peas, potatoes and leafy greens
Favor sweet ripe fruits such as blueberries, dark grapes, melons, pears, raisins, mangoes, figs, and coconut
Eat grains such as barley, basmati rice, wheat and quinoa

Avoid beets, carrots, eggplant, garlic, hot peppers, onions, spinach and tomatoes
Avoid sour or unripe fruits

In general:

Avoid being too focused on lists of tasks
Meditate regularly and rest more.
Spend time in nature – especially greenery
Eat on time and avoid activities that heat up the body/mind such as hot yoga,
being the sun for lengthy periods of time and running

Fig and Date Almond Drink

Ingredients:
3 figs soaked in ½ cup water overnight
5 dates soaked with the figs
1 ½ cups almond milk
1 tsp vanilla

Preparation:
Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend for 3 minutes. Serve chilled.

Fresh Almond Milk

Ingredients:
½ cup raw almonds
3 cups water

Preparation:
Soak the almonds in water overnight or in hot water for about 30 minutes. Peel the almonds. Grind it with water and till the almonds are blended finely. You may have to do this in two batches. Place a bowl on the counter and carefully pour the nut milk from the blender into the straining bag or a fine mesh strainer. Discard the almond meal and enjoy the milk in teas, or drinks.

Mantra for Balancing Pitta

This mantra is for Narasimha, the incarnation of Vishnu with the head of a lion.  His mantras are uniquely powerful for being calming and helping to maintain harmony especially in the family environment.

“OM Narasimha Ta Va Da So Hoom”

You can repeat this mantra either using a mala to count in multiples of 108, or use the clock so you repeat the manta for 10 minutes at a time.  Mantras should be repeated easily and you can have eyes open or closed, as you prefer.  This is not mental exercise!  Relax into your practice and try to be consistent for 3-4 weeks.  Don’t over do it, a little bit each day will work wonders.

Vata Dosha:

Vata is the Queen of the three doshas (Vata, Pita, and Kapha) because she is main vehicle of transportation of energies. Vata is the manifestation of air and space (of the 5 elements) and is responsible for a wide variety of physiological functions that involve movement.

Symptoms of Vata imbalance:

Constipation, insomnia, varying appetite, gas, bloating
Mental agitation, inability to pay attention, fast thoughts, impaired memory

Light or not restful sleep.

Diet for Vata:

Favor warm, moderately heavy foods and  use ghee.  Avoid cold and very dry food such as crackers, popcorn and dry cereal.
Good grains are rice, wheat, quinoa
Good vegetables are carrots, asparagus, yams, beets
Good fruits are Bananas, cherries, coconut, dates

In general:
Avoid excessive stimulation from  television, alcohol, tea and coffee.
Take a stroll in nature, barefooted if your climate allows it, preferably in the morning as this is grounding for vata.
Maintain a consistent schedule.  Don’t stay up too late.

Mantras for Balancing Vata Dosha

“Ram” or “Ram Namaha”  - invokes divine protection

“Hoom” or “Hoom Phat Swaha” – wards off negative influences, awakens agni, and opens the nadi channels

“Sham” or “Sham Namaha” – is very good for anxiety or depression.  This is an extremely soothing mantra.

You can repeat these mantras either using a mala to count in multiples of 108, or use the clock so you repeat the manta for 10 minutes at a time.  Mantras should be repeated easily and you can have eyes open or closed, as you prefer.  This is not mental exercise.  Relax into your practice and try to be consistent for 3-4 weeks.  Don’t over do it!  A little bit each day will work wonders.

Dinacharya – Ayurvedic Prescriptions for Daily Routine

“Dina” means day and “acharya” to follow or be close to. Dinacharya is a simple way to enhance your health and well-being. When you practice dinacharya, you will be aligned with cosmic rhythms and experience greater bliss or “ananda.”

Simple tools for your daily routine:

• Wake up before sunrise at vata time. This time has the most saatvik energy. It is also a good time for elimination. Do not suppress urges to eliminate—this includes yawning, sneezing and flatulence etc.
• Washing the body is a way to purify the senses and to purify the soul. After brushing the teeth, scrape the tongue and then swish 2 tbsp of sesame oil in your mouth for 5-8 minutes. Wash your eyes with rose water.
• Exercise or vyayama is an important aspect of your dinacharya. Exercising regularly strength and stamina, and strengthens immune function, improves circulation and reduces fat. Exercise 50% to your capacity. Yoga, swimming and walking are great forms of exercise.
• Then follows a self-abhyanga. Abhyanga is one of the best ways to ground yourself and to enhance your immunity. Take a warm shower or bath afterwards. And wear clean clothes and use essential oils for fragrances.
• Meditation is one of the most important aspects of your dinacharya. Practice some form of meditation for 20 minutes each day. After this, you can have a light breakfast. Fruit is a great way to break your fast.
• After your breakfast, you are ready to practice your dharma. During this time, take time to nurture your relationships and cultivate gratitude.
• Lunch should be the heaviest meal of the day. Eat slowly, consciously, and savor your food. Enjoy the company of people you love.
• Continue on with your dharmic duties till evening. Do your prayers and meditation at sundown. This is a time for reflection and silence. Dinner should be light such as soup and rice. Finish dinner by 7p.m.
• It is best if lights are out by 10p.m. Listen to soft music or read inspiring books after dinner or talk a brief stroll. Massage your feet with warm oil if you are unable sleep.

Remember, great health and bliss comes from a foundation of discipline and self-awareness. Connect to the divine each day and practice your dinacharya and enjoy greater well-being and happiness.  Most of all, enjoy your life!

Tips for Stress-free Eating During the Holidays

Food is an universal part of celebrations. So how do we incorporate more consciousness in our eating during this holiday season?

• Be conscious of why you are eating. Do not eat when you are stressed out, tired or to numb yourself from stressful situations with family or social obligations.

• Do not skip meals during the holidays. Eat at least small portions while you are busy with preparations.

• Continue to maintain your daily routine which includes exercise, meditation and adequate rest.

• Include all six tastes in your meals – sweet, salty, sour, pungent, astringent and bitter. You will be satiated with a meal which includes all six tastes and will have fewer cravings.

• Slow down – whether it is with activities or while eating. Eating slowly ensures that you eat less and digest better. You will also have a more pleasurable dining experience as you purposefully and mindfully savor each bite.

• To have a more enjoyable holiday eating experience, cook your own dishes to contribute to the dinner. Your cooking will be infused with love and good energy even if it is a simple dish.
• Shop at farmer’s market, if available and buy organic.

• Avoid artificial foods and flavors as they desensitize your palate and encourage cravings.

• Remember that you are what you eat. Choose saatvic foods to enhance your state of consciousness.

• Lastly, food is medicine. Bless it, cook with reverence and enjoy and relish it with the knowledge that it is nourishing your body and mind.

Khicidi with steamed vegetables is a great way to regain balance after the holidays.

Ingredients:

¾ cup white Basmati rice

¼ cup moong dal or red lentils

4 cups water

1 tsp salt

For the spice mix:

3 tbsp oil or 3 tbsp ghee

¾ tsp cumin powder

¼ tsp turmeric

½ tsp black pepper powder

½ tsp fennel powder

¼ tsp cinnamon powder

½ tsp grated ginger

2 tsp chopped cilantro

Preparation:

Soak the dal for one hour. Wash and drain completely. Wash the rice in three changes of water. Drain completely. Add the measured water and salt and bring to a boil. Once it comes to a rolling boil, place a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 25 minutes. In the meanwhile, heat the oil or ghee in a small pot and add all the spices. Sauté for about 45 seconds and then add the ginger. Sauté for about a minute and add the spice mix to the cooked rice and dal mix. Mix well and garnish with the chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with one teaspoon of ghee for each bowl of kichidi.

Moong dal is available at your local Indian store. A three to five day kichidi diet with steamed vegetables is useful for giving your digestive system a break. Try it after your Thanksgiving festivities and be sure to drink hot water with lemon each day.

Cook and eat in perfect health!

Food Mantra from Anapurni Ashtakam
by Adi Shankara

OM Anapurne sadapurne, Shankhara prana vallabhe;
Gyana vairagya siddhyartham, biksham dehi cha Parvati;
Mata cha Parvati devi, Pita devo Maheshwara;
Bhandava shiva bhaktashcha, svadesho bhuvana trayam

Apapurni, you are the beloved power, the shakti of Shiva.  You are fullness and have manifested yourself as this food.  Mother of the universe, nourish us with this gift of food so that we may gain knowledge and spiritual perfection.  Parvati is my mother, Shiva is my father, All of God’s devotees are my family.

Join me and Aparna Khanolkar as we discuss ways to live a vedic lifestyle from the perspective of  Ayurveda and the Vedic tradition of  Spirituality. Each episode will present insights into the foundations of healthy blissful living as found in the vedic literature. Aparna will present practical Ayurvedic suggestions that are easily and quickly implemented.  I will present the vedic perspective on spirituality and each episode will include a vedic mantra and instructions on its use.

In this episode Aparna presents the fundamental concept of the three Ayurvedic dosas; kapha, pitta, and vata.  She explains how they  need to be properly balanced in order to live a life free from disease, and gives specific suggestions on how to accomplish this.

I present the concept of mantra japa and suggest that a daily routine of reciting the following Ganesha mantra results in a more balanced subtle nervous system.

The mantra is OM GUM GANAPATAYE NAMAHA.

Aparna’s Simple Ways of Balancing the Doshas

Everyone can benefit from a daily meditation practice. Whatever form you choose, do practice each day and will experience the benefits of your practice.

Vata imbalances can be corrected by using warm sesame oil for self-massage. If you can’t massage the whole body, at least apply warm oil on the feet and scalp. Maintaining a regular routine in terms of eating, sleeping and other activities will also help you feel grounded and stable.

Pitta imbalances can be quickly corrected by spending time in nature, and doing less. Because pitta people are goal-oriented, they can benefit from going from a swim or simply enjoying some hours of rest. Drinking rose lassi or using sandalwood or rose oil for aromatherapy is also essential for cooling the heat of pitta.

Kaphas can benefit from a brisk walk or a yoga class. Because a kpaha imbalance can lead to rapid weight gain, eating less and being more active can being kapha back to balance. Using fresh ginger in your meals and avoiding sweets will also help balance kapha.

Be mindful when you feel the symptoms of over-activity, stressor lethargy. Slow down and remember to maintain your connection to the divine. This will give meaning to everything you do.

Ayurveda states that what we do each and every day for our health and well-being is more important than taking some herbs or medicines once in a while. So, pay attention to yourself when you feel overwhelmed, irritated or unmotivated and use these simple tools to bring your body/mind back to balance.

In the last few podcasts, Penny and I have looked at the way the Jyotish birth chart represents the heavens at the time of birth, and how the planets are placed in the constellations (signs).  Then we explored the concept of planetary strength and weakness, how that is determined, and what that might mean in terms of an individual’s life experience.

In this podcast Penny presents her insights into the intrinsic nature of each planet, what the planet represents, and how those determinations were made on the basis of both inner and outer observation by the ancient vedic rishis.

Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net.

]]> http://www.puja.net/wordpress/21-planets-and-chart-interpretation/feed/ 0 In the last few podcasts, Penny and I have looked at the way the Jyotish birth chart represents the heavens at the time of birth, and how the planets are placed in the constellations (signs).  Then we explored the concept of planetary strength and weakness, how that is determined, and what that might mean in terms of an individual’s life experience. In this podcast Penny presents her insights into the intrinsic nature of each planet, what the planet represents, and how those determinations were made on the basis of both inner and outer observation by the ancient vedic rishis. Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net. In the last few podcasts, Penny and I have looked at the way the Jyotish birth chart represents the heavens at the time of birth, and how the planets are placed in the constellations (signs).  Then we explored the concept of planetary strength [...] 37:06 0:37:06 In the last few podcasts, Penny and I have looked at the way the Jyotish birth chart represents the heavens at the time of birth, and how the planets are placed in the constellations (signs).  Then we explored the concept of planetary strength and[...] In the last few podcasts, Penny and I have looked at the way the Jyotish birth chart represents the heavens at the time of birth, and how the planets are placed in the constellations (signs).  Then we explored the concept of planetary strength and weakness, how that is determined, and what that might mean in terms of an individual’s life experience. In this podcast Penny presents her insights into the intrinsic nature of each planet, what the planet represents, and how those determinations were made on the basis of both inner and outer observation by the ancient vedic rishis. Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net. Benjamin C. Collins no no http://www.puja.net/wordpress/saturn-mantras/ http://www.puja.net/wordpress/saturn-mantras/#comments Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:30:48 +0000 BenCollins http://www.puja.net/wordpress/?p=2234

By tradition, the day that a planet is changing signs is ideal to perform pujas for that planet and to listen to mantras and slokas.  This file contains recordings of:

-Vedic slokas for Sani, the Sani Gayati mantra, the Sani Vyasa mantra, and a few of the names of Sani.
-A complete Saturn puja
-Sani Stotram (about Sani)
-Sani Kavacham (armor)
-Sani Preethi (to make Sani happy)

This podscast presents a few quick insights into the nature of Saturn from an astrological perspective.  This is particularly relevant because Saturn is moving from Leo into Virgo on September 10th.

A series of stories about Saturn are presented, followed by a collection of slokas and mantras for Saturn.

The Brahmanaspati Suktam is a collection of 62 hymns from the Rig Veda that are associated with Ganesha and speak about the nature of Brahman.  This was recorded in the Kanchipuram yagya house with two of our Rig Veda pundits.

Daksha was a highly knowledgeable King and a son of Brahma the Creator.  As the story goes, he decided to have a big yagya and invited all the gods and goddesses with the notable exception of Shiva, because Daksha considered him to be wild and unpresentable.  But of course Shiva was married to Daksha’s daughter Sati.

That sets the stage for one of the vedic tradition’s most widely known stories.  There are a number of different versions, but essentially, when Sati heard about the yagya she wanted to go so she could see her mother and father and enjoy the festivities. Shiva discouraged her from attending, although she went anyway and what happens next is the subject of this podcast.  Shiva gets angry and creates Virabhadra to destroy Daksha’s festivities.

Central to the analysis of a chart is the determination of the relative strength or weakness of a particular planet.  A weak planet will not be able to protect his significations and will therefore become a source of difficulties.  Penny Farrow presents the different types of planetary weakness and shows how this affects the nature of the chart and in turn, the life experience.

Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net.

In this podcast we look at the role that strong planets play in bringing good results and success.  Penny Farrow presents the concept of planetary strength and the different forms that it takes.  She relates the concept of strength to specific astronomical events such as retrograde motion and the brightness of a planet in the sky.

Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net.

The focus of the August yagya series is Ganesha.  The following file contains almost 2 hours of mantras and slokas for Ganesha.  To download just click “download” to the right of the media player.

The file contains:

- Ganapati Suprabhatam
- Ganapati Gayatri
- Ganesha Dhyanam
- Ganapati Kavacham
- Ganesha Upanishad
- Ganapati Pratasmaranam
- Ganapati Sthavaha
- Ganesha Aarti
- Ganesha Pancharatnam
- Ganesha Sharanam
- Ganapathi Sthavam
- Ganesha Sloka
- Ganesha Ashtakam
- Ganesha Bhujangam
- Ganesha Sthuthi
- Maha Ganapathi Pancharatnam
- Sankashtanasana Ganesha Stotram
- Shodasaganapathi Dhynam
- Visgneshwara Ashtotram
- Ganesha Sahasranam (1008 names)
- Vigneshwara Lagu Puja
- Ganesha Puja

Ganapati Upanishad

Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious;

May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship !
May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas,
Praising them with our body and limbs steady !
May the glorious Indra bless us !
May the all-knowing Sun bless us !
May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us !
May Brihaspati grant us well-being !
Om ! Let there be Peace in me !
Let there be Peace in my environment !
Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !

Auspiciousness to those who hear.
1. Om Gam. I bow to Ganapati.
2. You clearly are the tattva. You alone are the creator. You alone are the maintainer. You alone are the destroyer. Of all this you certainly are Brahman. You plainly are the essence.
3. Always I speak amrta. The truth I speak.
4. Protect me. Protect the speakers. Protect the hearers. Protect the givers. Protect the holders. Protect the disciple that repeats. Protect that in the east. Protect that in the south. Protect that in the west. Protect that in the north. Protect that above. Protect that below. Everywhere protect! Protect me everywhere!
5. You are speech. You are consciousness. You are bliss. You are Brahman. You are being-consciousness-bliss. You are the non-dual. You are plainly Brahman. You are knowledge. You are intelligence.
6. You create all this world. You maintain all this world. All this world is seen in you. You are earth, water, air, fire, ether. You are beyond the four measures of speech. You are beyond the three gunas. You are beyond the three bodies. You are beyond the three times. You are always situated in the muladhara. You are the being of the three Saktis. You are always meditated on by yogins. You are Brahma, you are Visnu, you are Rudra, you are Agni, you are Vayu, you are the sun, you are the moon, you are Brahma, bhur-bhuvah-svar.
7 Ga is the first syllable, after that the first letter, beyond that m, then the half-moon all together. Joined with m, this is the mantra form.
8 The letter ga is the first form, letter a the middle form, m the last form. Bindu the higher form, nada the joining together, samhita the junction. This is the vidya of Lord Ganesa.
9 Ganaka is the seer, nricad-gayatri the metre, Sri Mahaganapati the devata. Om ganapataye namah.
10 Let us think of the one-toothed, let us meditate on the crooked trunk, may that tusk direct us.
11. One tusk, four arms, carrying noose and goad, with his hands dispelling fear and granting boons, with a mouse as his banner.
12. Red, with a big belly, with ears like winnowing baskets, wearing red, with limbs smeared with red scent, truly worshipped with red flowers.
13. To the devoted a merciful deva, the maker of the world, the prime cause, who at the beginning of creation was greater than nature and man.
14. He who always meditates thus is a yogin above yogins.
15. Hail to the lord of vows, hail to Ganapati, hail to the first lord, hail unto you, to the big-bellied, one-tusked, obstacle-destroyer, the son of Siva, to the boon-giver, hail, hail!
16. He who studies this atharva text moves towards Brahma. He is always blissful. He is not bound by any obstacles. He is liberated from the five greater and the five lesser sins. Evening meditation destroys the unmeritorious actions of the night. At both evening and morning he is liberated from the bad and he attains dharma, artha, kama and moksa.
17. This atharva text should not be given to those not pupils. If from delusion a person so gives, he is a bad person.
18. He who wants something may accomplish it by 1,000 recitations of this. He who sprinkles Ganapati with this becomes eloquent. He who recites this on a fourth day becomes a knower of vidya. This is an artharva saying: ‘‘He who moves towards Brahmavidya is never afraid.’’ He who worships with fried grains becomes famous and becomes intelligent. He who worships with sweet-meat (modaka) gains the desired fruit. He who worships with samit and ghee by him all is attained, all is gained by him. He who makes eight brahmËnas understand this becomes like the sun’s rays. In a solar eclipse, in a great river, or in front of an image having recited (this) he gets accomplished in the mantra. He becomes liberated from great obstacles. He is freed from great misfortunes.
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious;
May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship !
May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas,
Praising them with our body and limbs steady !
May the glorious Indra bless us !
May the all-knowing Sun bless us !
May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us !
May Brihaspati grant us well-being !
Om ! Let there be Peace in me !
Let there be Peace in my environment !
Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !

The vedic tradition offers many tools to increase the level of harmony between us and the universe.  One of them is to listen to, or recite the 108 names of a particular deity or planet.  This technique relies on the intimate relationship between name and form (nama rupa) that is present in the Sanskrit language.  The theory being that by experiencing the names of the Sun, we naturally become more sensitive attuned to those qualities as the mantras resonate in our own awareness.  So by listening to the namas (names) of the Sun, we attract those qualities into our awareness.  With sufficient repetition, the effect becomes more and more profound and permanent.

Surya-astottara-shata-nama-vali
(The 108 names of Surya)

Om arunaya namah
Om sharanyaya namah
Om karuna-rasa-sindhave namah
Om asmanabalaya namah
Om arta-raksa-kaya namah
Om adityaya namah
Om adi-bhutaya namah
Om akhila-gamavedine namah
Om acyutaya namah
Om akhilagnaya namah
Om anantaya namah
Om inaya namah
Om visva-rupaya na mah
Om ijyaya namah
Om indraya namah
Om bhanave Namah
Om indriramandiraptaya namah
Om vandaniyaya namah
Om ishaya namah
Om suprasannaya namah
Om sushilaya namah
Om suvarcase namah
Om vasupradaya namah
Om vasave namah
Om vasudevaya namah
Om ujjvalaya namah
Om ugra-rupaya namah
Om urdhvagaya namah
Om vivasvate namah
Om udhatkiranajalaya namah
Om hrishikesaya namah
Om urjasvalaya namah
Om viraya namah
Om nirjaraya namah
Om jayaya namah
Om urudvayavirnimuktanijasarakrashivandyaya namah
Om rugdhantre namah
Om kraksacakracaraya namah
Om krajusvabhavavittaya namah
Om nityastutyaya namah
Om krukaramatrikavarnarupaya ujjvalatejase namah
Om kruksadhinathamitraya namah
Om pushakaraksaya namah
Om luptadantaya namah
Om shantaya namah
Om kantidaya namah Om dhanaya namah
Om kanatkanaka sushanaya namah
Om khalotaya namah
Om lunit-akhila-daityaya namah
Om satya-ananda-svarupine namah
Om apavarga-pradaya namah
Om arta-sharanyaya namah
Om ekakine namah
Om bhagavate namah
Om sushtisthityantakarine namah
Om gunatmane namah
Om dhrinibhrite namah
Om brihate namah
Om brahmane namah
Om esvaryadaya namah
Om sharvaya namah
Om haridashvaya namah
Om shauraye namah
Om dashadiksam-prakashaya namah
Om bhakta-vashyaya namah
Om ojaskaraya namah
Om jayine namah
Om jagad-ananda-hetave namah
Om taya janma-mrtyu-jara-vyadhi-varji
aounnatyapadasamcararathasthaya-asuraraye namah
Om kamaniyakagaya namah
Om abjaballabhaya namah
Om antar-bahih prakashaya namah
Om acintyaya namah
Om atma-rupine namah
Om acyutaya namah
Om amareshaya namah
Om parasmai jyotishe namah
Om ahaskaraya namah
Om ravaye namah
Om haraye namah
Om param-atmane namah
Om tarunaya namah
Om tarenyaya namah
Om grahanam pataye namah
Om bhaskaraya namah
Om adimadhyantara-hitaya namah
Om saukhyapradaya namah
Om sakalajagatam pataye namah
Om suryaya namah
Om kavaye namah
Om narayanaya namah
Om pareshaya namah
Om tejorupaya namah
Om shrim hiranyagarbhaya namah
Om hrim sampatkaraya namah
Om aim istarthadaya namah
Om am suprasannaya namah
Om shrimate namah
Om shreyase namah
Om saukhyadayine namah
Om diptamurtaye namah
Om nikhilagamavedhyaya namah
Om nityanandaya namah

According to the vedic tradition during an eclipse, mantras can be very effective.  But repeating the same mantra over and over for 2+ hours can get a little boring.  So I have made a compilation of Sun Mantras that is 1 hour and 18 minutes in length.  You are welcome to listen on-line or click where it says download and copy to your own computer.

Surya Mantras:

Ganesha Dhynam
Surya Dhyana Mantra
Surya Gayatri Mantra
Surya Veda Mantra
Surya Mangalam
Surya Stotra
Surya Namavali (108 names)
Surya Ashtakam
Surya Vandanam
Aditya Hridayam
Aditya Kavacham
Surya Bagavan Pooja
Surya Pooja
Rahu Pooja
Ketu Pooja
Mantra Pushpam

Saraswati is the goddess of wisdom and learning.  She is supposed to be shy and difficult to reach, presumably like wisdom itself.  She is the wife of Brahma the Creator.

The Saraswati Suktam is very nice, and some of the translation follows:

Paavakaa na Saraswathi
Vajebhi vajnivathi
Yagnam vasthu dhiyaavasu.

Saraswathi is the purifier,
Giver of plenty and opulent life,
Who is rich in thought and intelligence.

Chodayathri soonruthaanaam,
Chethanthi sumathinaam,
Yajnam dadhe Saraswathi.

She blesses one with good speech,
She brings good thoughts to mind,
And let her bless this Yagna (sacrifice).

Maho arnaah Saraswathi,
Prachethayathi kethunaa,
Dhiyo vishva virajethi.

Oh Saraswathi, please awaken the truth in me,
By helping me to perceive the consciousness,
And illuminate my entire thought.

Prano devi saraswathi,
Vajhebhir vajinavathi,
Dhinam avithri avathu.

Oh Saraswathi, be pleased,
To give me a plenty and opulent life,
And become the protector of our thoughts.

Dakshinamurti, sometimes also known as Jnana Dakshinamurti, is the form of Shiva associated with the Guru who removes ignorance through jnana (knowledge).

While most deities in a temple will face east towards the rising Sun, Dakshinamurti always faces south, the direction of death.  Shiva is known as the victor over death (Mrytunjaya).  So this placement of the murti in the temple is meant as a reminder of the power of knowledge to conquer even the most powerful limitation; the bondage of ignorance that causes us to be subject to death and suffering.

Dakshinamurti is generally shown seated under a tree, with one foot resting on an apasmara (demon), who represents ignorance.  Hi sfour hands are arranged in various mudras of blessing.

As the first form of the divine to teach and guide others to enlightenment,  Dakshinamurti is regarded as the ultimate Guru.  From that perspective, any Guru who teaches successfully is simply radiating the the essence of Dakshinamurti in his consciousness.

Adi Shankara wrote a beautiful eight verse ashtakam about Dakshinamurti.  A few verses in translation follow.

The universe is the reflection of a mirror. Truth is Brahman, one without a second. The mind, senses and intellect can only discern the reflection of Atman. The identity of Brahman and Atman are apparent only after self-illumination. I offer my profound gratitude to the auspicious Guru, who is an embodiment of Dakshinamurti, and whose grace is responsible for my illumination.

…

He whose light gleams through the senses like the light emanating from a pot with holes (in which a lamp is kept), He whose knowledge brings the state of knowing (I am That), He whose brightness makes everything shine – to that Dakshinamurti, who is embodied in the auspicious Guru, I offer my profound gratitude.

…

The brillance of sun exists even when intercepted by Rahu during eclipse. The power of cognition remains suspended during deep sleep. The Self exists as pure being even though unrecognized due to the veil of Maya. A person on awakening becomes aware that he was asleep earlier and the dream was unreal. A person who awakens to the consciousness of the Self recognizes his previous state of ignorance as unreal. He by whose grace alone does one awaken to the consciousness of the Self – to that Dakshinamurti, who is embodied in the auspicious Guru, I offer my profound gratitude.

You can listen to Dakshinamurti Ashtakam being chanted in a rather modern style.  Hardly traditional, but still enjoyable.

After creating the north or south indian chart and locating the ascendent, (the constellation that was on the eastern horizon), we have set the stage.  We associate the ascendent with a specific constellation or sign, and thus can know the rest of the houses and their associated signs.  The stage is set!

The next step is to add in the actors; the planets.  Having done this, we will be ready to begin to access the relative strength and weakness of the grahas (planets) as they are placed in the chart.

Penny Farrow discusses the way that the South Indian style of chart differs from the northern style.  In the south, the signs are fixed in the same place and the lagna moves, unlike the north indian style.  In our conversation we explore the features of this style of chart and how it aids in the interpretation of an individual’s destiny.

Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net.

]]> http://www.puja.net/wordpress/the-south-indian-chart/feed/ 0 Penny Farrow discusses the way that the South Indian style of chart differs from the northern style.  In the south, the signs are fixed in the same place and the lagna moves, unlike the north indian style.  In our conversation we explore the features of this style of chart and how it aids in the interpretation of an individual’s destiny. Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net. Penny Farrow discusses the way that the South Indian style of chart differs from the northern style.  In the south, the signs are fixed in the same place and the lagna moves, unlike the north indian style.  In our conversation we explore the [...] 40:42 0:40:42 Penny Farrow discusses the way that the South Indian style of chart differs from the northern style.  In the south, the signs are fixed in the same place and the lagna moves, unlike the north indian style.  In our conversation we explore the feat[...] Penny Farrow discusses the way that the South Indian style of chart differs from the northern style.  In the south, the signs are fixed in the same place and the lagna moves, unlike the north indian style.  In our conversation we explore the features of this style of chart and how it aids in the interpretation of an individual’s destiny. Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net. Benjamin C. Collins no no http://www.puja.net/wordpress/16-the-north-indian-chart/ http://www.puja.net/wordpress/16-the-north-indian-chart/#comments Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:07:20 +0000 BenCollins http://www.puja.net/wordpress/?p=2243

Penny Farrow discusses the way that the North Indian style of chart reflects the position of the planets in the zodiac. In our conversation we explore the features of this style of chart and how it aids in the interpretation of an individual’s destiny.

Penny practices and teaches Jyotisha full-time having been trained primarily under the expert tutelage of Hart deFouw.  She is also a teacher and tutor for the American College of Vedic Astrology. Her website is www.vedicchart.com and she can be reached via email at info@vedicchart.com or pennyaf@comcast.net.

The Sage of Kanchi is a wonderful video on Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati who was the 68th Shankaracharya in Kanchipuram from 1894 until his passing in 1994 at the age of 100.  He was profoundly influential and this video captures both the simplicity and power of his presence.  For those of us in the west, the video is a rare insight into the traditional life of a sanyasi in the vedic tradition.

Many of the priests who perform the yagyas for our puja.net group worked in the Shankar Mutt when Chandrashekharendra was there, and Seetharama Shastry in particular served him for quite a few years.  Without exception everyone speaks of him with awe and admiration.

The video is presented in two parts.  It can be viewed here or downloaded if you prefer.

Part 1:  

Part 2:  

]]> http://www.puja.net/wordpress/the-sage-of-kanchi-part-1/feed/ 0 The Sage of Kanchi is a wonderful video on Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati who was the 68th Shankaracharya in Kanchipuram from 1894 until his passing in 1994 at the age of 100.  He was profoundly influential and this video captures both the simplicity and power of his presence.  For those of us in the west, the video is a rare insight into the traditional life of a sanyasi in the vedic tradition. Many of the priests who perform the yagyas for our puja.net group worked in the Shankar Mutt when Chandrashekharendra was there, and Seetharama Shastry in particular served him for quite a few years.  Without exception everyone speaks of him with awe and admiration. The video is presented in two parts.  It can be viewed here or downloaded if you prefer. Part 1:   Part 2:   The Sage of Kanchi is a wonderful video on Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati who was the 68th Shankaracharya in Kanchipuram from 1894 until his passing in 1994 at the age of 100.  He was profoundly influential and this video captures both the [...] 0:00:01 The Sage of Kanchi is a wonderful video on Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati who was the 68th Shankaracharya in Kanchipuram from 1894 until his passing in 1994 at the age of 100.  He was profoundly influential and this video captures both the simpli[...] The Sage of Kanchi is a wonderful video on Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati who was the 68th Shankaracharya in Kanchipuram from 1894 until his passing in 1994 at the age of 100.  He was profoundly influential and this video captures both the simplicity and power of his presence.  For those of us in the west, the video is a rare insight into the traditional life of a sanyasi in the vedic tradition. Many of the priests who perform the yagyas for our puja.net group worked in the Shankar Mutt when Chandrashekharendra was there, and Seetharama Shastry in particular served him for quite a few years.  Without exception everyone speaks of him with awe and admiration. The video is presented in two parts.  It can be viewed here or downloaded if you prefer. Part 1:   Part 2:   Video Benjamin C. Collins no no http://www.puja.net/wordpress/varadaraja-abishekam/ http://www.puja.net/wordpress/varadaraja-abishekam/#comments Tue, 23 Jun 2009 21:52:05 +0000 BenCollins http://www.puja.net/wordpress/?p=2077 The Varadaraja temple, which is located about 1 block from our Kanchipuram yagya facility, is the 2nd largest Vishnu temple in all of India (after Srirangam). It is a magnificent place to visit and feeling inside the temple grounds is very soft and welcoming. This video (found on YouTube) shows the traditional tirumanjanam, or abishekam being performed. It is fairly rare to see these rituals on video.