Guest guest Report post Posted January 31, 2007 What is the proper way to meditate? For a while I would meditate in this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on when they meditate? Jai Maa Jai Swamiji Ryan Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted January 31, 2007 Hi Ryan, In the tradition I came from mantra meditation was the method of practice. Since meditation (samadhi) is defined as yogash chitti vritti nirodha (union is the cessation of all modifications, or waves, in the mind-stuff), the mind requires something to help this process. In mantra meditation the process is to allow, through repeated practice, the divine nature of the mantra to naturally unfold within the mind until there is only Divinity. Meditation is often described as one-pointed concentration. A dissipated mind has no power to control itself, but with a focus, especially a divine focus, the scattered mind is brought under control, and its shakti is intensified to a single point, which is bindu, the very seed of creation. In this tradition, Shree Maa has suggested we meditate after our puja or path, simply dwelling in the bhaava we just created. After puja or path practice there is a curious silence in the mind. It is my belief that the practice has already concentrated the mind. Following Mother's instructions, in this case I only resort to mantra when my mind looses its focus and begins to wander. Meditating without puja or path, I do mantra meditation. There is a difference between japa and meditation, and there isn't. It depends on your goal. Meditation is done, one assumes, in order to pierce the bindu and go beyond. Japa may be done for that same reason, or for other reasons. If for other reasons, then it is different than meditation. Remember, meditation is a state, not a practice, though we do "practice" it. If mantra repetition places you in that state, then it certainly is meditation. Jai Maa! Chris , "grajft" <ryangra wrote: > > What is the proper way to meditate? For a while I would meditate in > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on > when they meditate? > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > Ryan > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted January 31, 2007 It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only being here now, begins. grajft <ryangra > wrote: What is the proper way to meditate? For a while I would meditate in this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on when they meditate? Jai Maa Jai Swamiji Ryan Looking for earth-friendly autos? Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 1, 2007 Namaste: Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. Shanti Om, Shankari Kali Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008 > wrote: It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only being here now, begins. grajft <ryangra > wrote: What is the proper way to meditate? For a while I would meditate in this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on when they meditate? Jai Maa Jai Swamiji Ryan Looking for earth-friendly autos? Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. Never miss an email again! Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 1, 2007 This is a wonderful topic. Meditation is a continuum of actions and experience. If all you do is show up and then fall asleep, that is meditation...in time even weak efforts will ripen. Most commonly, meditation involves japa or repetition of mantras because we can all do it. It takes the mind back and back to one subject and curbs the monkey mind tendency to jump all about. Generally,. the longer you sit and do japa, the slower and more concentrated the mind becomes. When the vritties (mind fluxuations) are quite slow, light appears and you "go in." Even then japa is good because it keeps the astral or causal body from acting all out of character and losing discipline. Humility and some focus on Lord is always necessary... that practice becomes our focus so much that that desire to BE in devotion becomes what we ARE. In this way questions are answered because they do not arise, they are irrelevant to the devotion, and anyway the consciousness automatically becomes elevated so the questions and commotions lose meaning in the deep peace of meditation. After japa focuses the mind, the practice of dhyan is the excellent preferrred way of keeping the mind focused. This practice is optional and has the prerequisite of knowing what the beloved's presence/darshan ACTUALLY looks and feels like...not from photos or own generated mental concepts. More BEing with the beloved catches the attention, in meditation. Russell Sucker-punch spam with award-winning protection. Try the free Mail Beta. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 1, 2007 Hi Shankari Kali, Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the other. As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements inside. Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a difference. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Namaste: > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > Shanti Om, > Shankari Kali > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008 wrote: It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only being here now, begins. > > grajft <ryangra wrote: > What is the proper way to meditate? For a while I would meditate in > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on > when they meditate? > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > Ryan > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 2, 2007 Namaste Chris: Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred sound activating the chakras? Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling about the area, an energy if you will. I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if you do? I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when you give your mala beads to someone else. Sorry to have such a long post. Peace, Shankari Kali Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 > wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the other. As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements inside. Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a difference. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Namaste: > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > Shanti Om, > Shankari Kali > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008 wrote: It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only being here now, begins. > > grajft <ryangra wrote: > What is the proper way to meditate? For a while I would meditate in > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on > when they meditate? > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > Ryan > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 3, 2007 Hi Shankari Kali, I live in Tacoma. People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Namaste Chris: > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred sound activating the chakras? > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling about the area, an energy if you will. > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if you do? > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when you give your mala beads to someone else. > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > Peace, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > other. > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > inside. > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > difference. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Namaste: > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > Shanti Om, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > being here now, begins. > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > What is the proper way to meditate? For > a while I would meditate in > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on > > when they meditate? > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 3, 2007 Chris, You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. How do you recite that? Thanks, Shankari Kali Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 > wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, I live in Tacoma. People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Namaste Chris: > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred sound activating the chakras? > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling about the area, an energy if you will. > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if you do? > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when you give your mala beads to someone else. > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > Peace, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > other. > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > inside. > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > difference. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Namaste: > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > Shanti Om, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > being here now, begins. > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > What is the proper way to meditate? For > a while I would meditate in > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on > > when they meditate? > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from real people who know. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 3, 2007 Hrim There is a lot of difference between Japa and Meditation. Japa is Prayer. Japa does not need a Guru. What we have been emphasizing in this group is Japa. We have the weekly prayer club where we do The Mahamrintjaya Japa. Japa is the path of Devotion. Japa when said with Nyasa and other rituals comes in the path of Karma. Since this involves rituals you need a Guru. Meditation also falls in the path of Karma. Since the experience with Meditation varies from individual to individual, you need someone to guide you. So a Guru is a must. I have tried various forms of Meditation for more than 30 years. Unfortunately I have never stuck to one path and persevered long enough. I have now found the path of Devotion (Bhakthi Marga) to be the best. This involves a lot of Japa but not much of Meditation. (That is what I am doing) Many people think Japa is inferior to Meditation. It is not so. They are different paths. Sri Ramakrishna preferred to be a Bhaktha and emphasized the importance of Bhakthi. Even though he was an advanced Tantrik, Saint Ramprasad Sen was a Bhaktha supreme. Earlier there was a discussion about Ajapa Japa. After sometime the difference between Mantra and Deity disappears and your Mantra becomes the Deity. Please do not bother to analyze intellectually about what is happening. Chakras, Kundalini et all. Your Kundalini will automatically raise as you progress spiritually. Navakshari/ Navarnava Mantra. This is one of the most powerful mantras. Though it can be used for other purposes, it is mainly for Spiritual advancement. My Diksha Guru warned me when I was given this Mantra. This Mantra purifies your soul. It acts like an enema on the soul. But as most of us know, taking an enema is not a pleasant experience. Similarly cleaning the soul is a long term and difficult process. But the results are worth the trouble. Every line of Sri Sri Chandi is a Mantra. It is to be recited in full. We have been advised different methods of reciting Chandi in this group. It is specifically meant for bringing Universal peace. The prayers are all for the welfare and happiness of everyone. Look at the fourth chapter prayer –Sulena Pahi…. It ends with Raksha Sarvadah --- Protect everyone. About the reason for people being afraid of Chandi Path. The answer is power. You keep away from Lightning though it is also Electricity. Only when you know how to harness and control Electricity, you are comfortable with it. Similarly with Chandi Path. Swamiji has taught us how to harness the power of Chandi Path for spiritual advancement. We explore the ways in this group under his guidance. Jai MAA !!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 3, 2007 Wow, that's interesting. What would be interesting to know is; Has your friends depresion lessened or gone away since you gave them the mala? Shankari Kali <shankari_kali > wrote: Namaste Chris: Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred sound activating the chakras? Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling about the area, an energy if you will. I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if you do? I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when you give your mala beads to someone else. Sorry to have such a long post. Peace, Shankari Kali Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 > wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the other. As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements inside. Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a difference. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Namaste: > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > Shanti Om, > Shankari Kali > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008 wrote: It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only being here now, begins. > > grajft <ryangra wrote: > What is the proper way to meditate? For a while I would meditate in > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on > when they meditate? > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > Ryan > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. Cheap Talk? Check out Messenger's low PC-to-Phone call rates. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 3, 2007 As long as we have Maa and Swamiji's blessing to do so, and we do, there is no danger at all with any of the sadhana's we do; Chandi, Navarna Mantra, etc. We are safely protected from any negativities by their blessings. We must just be sure to keep only pure spiritual goals for the fruit of our sadhana, such as more love and pure devotion to God. Jai Maa. Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 > wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, I live in Tacoma. People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Namaste Chris: > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred sound activating the chakras? > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling about the area, an energy if you will. > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if you do? > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when you give your mala beads to someone else. > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > Peace, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > other. > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > inside. > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > difference. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Namaste: > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > Shanti Om, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > being here now, begins. > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > What is the proper way to meditate? For > a while I would meditate in > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes closed > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the mantra > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked them > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else focus on > > when they meditate? > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > Never miss an email again! Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 3, 2007 Hi Shankari Kali, Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place each piece according to the meaning. Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Chris, > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. How do you recite that? > > Thanks, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > I live in Tacoma. > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred > sound activating the chakras? > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > you do? > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > Peace, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > > other. > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > > inside. > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > > difference. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > What is the proper way to meditate? For > > a while I would meditate in > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > closed > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > mantra > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked > them > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > focus on > > > when they meditate? > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from real people who know. > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 4, 2007 A Kavach also is a type of deity specific talisman that is worn or placed somewhere, as she is referring to. It normally contains one or more of the following: a yantra, numerical magic square, mantras. Jai Maa! Surya - Chris Kirner Saturday, February 03, 2007 3:44 PM Re: [www.ShreeMaa.org] How to meditate? Hi Shankari Kali, Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place each piece according to the meaning. Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Chris, > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. How do you recite that? > > Thanks, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > I live in Tacoma. > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred > sound activating the chakras? > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > you do? > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > Peace, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > > other. > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > > inside. > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > > difference. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > What is the proper way to meditate? For > > a while I would meditate in > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > closed > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > mantra > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked > them > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > focus on > > > when they meditate? > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from real people who know. > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 4, 2007 Chris, I wonder if there are any other Shree Maa devotees in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Maybe we could all get together sometimes. That sounds great! Peace, Shankari Kali Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 > wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place each piece according to the meaning. Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Chris, > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. How do you recite that? > > Thanks, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > I live in Tacoma. > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred > sound activating the chakras? > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > you do? > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > Peace, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but these > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > > other. > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the mantra > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > > inside. > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > > difference. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind wanders. But > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > What is the proper way to meditate? For > > a while I would meditate in > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > closed > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > mantra > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it this way > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that japa is > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked > them > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > focus on > > > when they meditate? > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from real people who know. > We won't tell. Get more on shows you hate to love (and love to hate): TV's Guilty Pleasures list. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 4, 2007 It would be nice to have satsanga, like they do at the Mandir. There may well be a few of us hiding in the woodwork, and others who might like to come and learn and share in the bhaava, and I have thought about trying to rally folks, but never having been to the Mandir, there's a lot I don't know. I don't know any songs, for instance, and I don't have any instruments either. Though I don't question the intentions of my heart or my experience of the divine as I do the practices, I do question whether I do them properly enough to demonstrate them for others, even in the context of a satsanga. In all honesty, I have been praying for a suitable satsanga, but I feel very unprepared to try to start one myself. As you can see, right now I am seeing only the obstacles. Perhaps that will change. I will keep at least some part of my mind open to the possibility, and, who knows... Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Chris, > > I wonder if there are any other Shree Maa devotees in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Maybe we could all get together sometimes. > > That sounds great! > > Peace, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various > deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva > Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in > Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place > each piece according to the meaning. > > Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Chris, > > > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. > How do you recite that? > > > > Thanks, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > I live in Tacoma. > > > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't > > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing > > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji > > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I > > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred > > sound activating the chakras? > > > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling > > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > > you do? > > > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. > > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt > > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an > > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) > > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when > > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > > > Peace, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but > these > > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > > > other. > > > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the > mantra > > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > > > inside. > > > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > > > difference. > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > Chris > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind > wanders. But > > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > > What is the proper way to > meditate? For > > > a while I would meditate in > > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > > closed > > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > > mantra > > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it > this way > > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that > japa is > > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked > > them > > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > > focus on > > > > when they meditate? > > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green > Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check > it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from > real people who know. > > > > > > > > > > We won't tell. Get more on shows you hate to love > (and love to hate): TV's Guilty Pleasures list. > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 4, 2007 Close your eyes. sit in Padasana mudra. concentrate on the agya chakra and say aloud or inside ur mind Ommmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 4, 2007 Namaste Chris: If it helps, I'm a total novice myself. There are probably a number of us who would love to get together and do something once or twice a month. I have no idea how to do things either. Maybe Swamiji and Shree Maa can give us ideas for starting our own group in their honor. I know Amma has groups around here, and I think they just gather in each other's houses. Maybe we could do something simple. Peace, Shankari Kali Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 > wrote: It would be nice to have satsanga, like they do at the Mandir. There may well be a few of us hiding in the woodwork, and others who might like to come and learn and share in the bhaava, and I have thought about trying to rally folks, but never having been to the Mandir, there's a lot I don't know. I don't know any songs, for instance, and I don't have any instruments either. Though I don't question the intentions of my heart or my experience of the divine as I do the practices, I do question whether I do them properly enough to demonstrate them for others, even in the context of a satsanga. In all honesty, I have been praying for a suitable satsanga, but I feel very unprepared to try to start one myself. As you can see, right now I am seeing only the obstacles. Perhaps that will change. I will keep at least some part of my mind open to the possibility, and, who knows... Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Chris, > > I wonder if there are any other Shree Maa devotees in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Maybe we could all get together sometimes. > > That sounds great! > > Peace, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: Hi Shankari Kali, > > Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various > deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva > Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in > Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place > each piece according to the meaning. > > Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Chris, > > > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. > How do you recite that? > > > > Thanks, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > I live in Tacoma. > > > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you don't > > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the throwing > > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from Swamiji > > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi Paath? > > > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that after I > > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the sacred > > sound activating the chakras? > > > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different feeling > > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > > you do? > > > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala beads. > > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in salt > > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very much an > > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for years.) > > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens when > > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > > > Peace, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have expressed > > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but > these > > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and Swamiji. The > > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. Swamiji > > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an aspect of > > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one after the > > > other. > > > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the > mantra > > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating externally by > > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's movements > > > inside. > > > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the back of > > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you notice a > > > difference. > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > Chris > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am saying the > > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the mantra. > > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. (I'm not > > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind > wanders. But > > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, and the > > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, only > > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > > What is the proper way to > meditate? For > > > a while I would meditate in > > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > > closed > > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > > mantra > > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it > this way > > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that > japa is > > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have asked > > them > > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > > focus on > > > > when they meditate? > > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green > Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check > it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from > real people who know. > > > > > > > > > > We won't tell. Get more on shows you hate to love > (and love to hate): TV's Guilty Pleasures list. > Get your own web address. Have a HUGE year through Small Business. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 5, 2007 Yep, that would be cool! Jai Maa! Chris , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali wrote: > > Namaste Chris: > > If it helps, I'm a total novice myself. There are probably a number of us who would love to get together and do something once or twice a month. > > I have no idea how to do things either. Maybe Swamiji and Shree Maa can give us ideas for starting our own group in their honor. I know Amma has groups around here, and I think they just gather in each other's houses. Maybe we could do something simple. > > Peace, > Shankari Kali > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956 wrote: It would be nice to have satsanga, like they do at the Mandir. There > may well be a few of us hiding in the woodwork, and others who might > like to come and learn and share in the bhaava, and I have thought > about trying to rally folks, but never having been to the Mandir, > there's a lot I don't know. I don't know any songs, for instance, and > I don't have any instruments either. > > Though I don't question the intentions of my heart or my experience of > the divine as I do the practices, I do question whether I do them > properly enough to demonstrate them for others, even in the context of > a satsanga. > > In all honesty, I have been praying for a suitable satsanga, but I > feel very unprepared to try to start one myself. > > As you can see, right now I am seeing only the obstacles. Perhaps that > will change. I will keep at least some part of my mind open to the > possibility, and, who knows... > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Chris, > > > > I wonder if there are any other Shree Maa devotees in the > Seattle-Tacoma area. Maybe we could all get together sometimes. > > > > That sounds great! > > > > Peace, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various > > deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva > > Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in > > Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place > > each piece according to the meaning. > > > > Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Chris, > > > > > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > > > > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. > > How do you recite that? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > I live in Tacoma. > > > > > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you > don't > > > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > > > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > > > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > > > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > > > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > > > > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > > > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > > > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the > throwing > > > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > > > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > > > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > Chris > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > > > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from > Swamiji > > > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi > Paath? > > > > > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that > after I > > > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the > sacred > > > sound activating the chakras? > > > > > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different > feeling > > > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > > > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > > > you do? > > > > > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala > beads. > > > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in > salt > > > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > > > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very > much an > > > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for > years.) > > > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens > when > > > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > > > > > Peace, > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have > expressed > > > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but > > these > > > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and > Swamiji. The > > > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. > Swamiji > > > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an > aspect of > > > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one > after the > > > > other. > > > > > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the > > mantra > > > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating > externally by > > > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's > movements > > > > inside. > > > > > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the > back of > > > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you > notice a > > > > difference. > > > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > > Chris > > > > > > > > , Shankari Kali > <shankari_kali@> > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am > saying the > > > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the > mantra. > > > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. > (I'm not > > > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > > > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind > > wanders. But > > > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, > and the > > > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, > only > > > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > > > What is the proper way to > > meditate? For > > > > a while I would meditate in > > > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > > > closed > > > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > > > mantra > > > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it > > this way > > > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that > > japa is > > > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have > asked > > > them > > > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > > > focus on > > > > > when they meditate? > > > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green > > Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check > > it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from > > real people who know. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > We won't tell. Get more on shows you hate to love > > (and love to hate): TV's Guilty Pleasures list. > > > > > > > > > > Get your own web address. > Have a HUGE year through Small Business. > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 5, 2007 Namaste Chris I asked Swami about your desire to have sat sangha This is his response. "Spend some time in the mandir first, learn the bhava, the music, the information, and then think about starting a sat sangha." I hope this helps you. Jai Maa Jai Swami vishweshwar , "Chris Kirner" <chriskirner1956 wrote: > > It would be nice to have satsanga, like they do at the Mandir. There > may well be a few of us hiding in the woodwork, and others who might > like to come and learn and share in the bhaava, and I have thought > about trying to rally folks, but never having been to the Mandir, > there's a lot I don't know. I don't know any songs, for instance, and > I don't have any instruments either. > > Though I don't question the intentions of my heart or my experience of > the divine as I do the practices, I do question whether I do them > properly enough to demonstrate them for others, even in the context of > a satsanga. > > In all honesty, I have been praying for a suitable satsanga, but I > feel very unprepared to try to start one myself. > > As you can see, right now I am seeing only the obstacles. Perhaps that > will change. I will keep at least some part of my mind open to the > possibility, and, who knows... > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > wrote: > > > > Chris, > > > > I wonder if there are any other Shree Maa devotees in the > Seattle-Tacoma area. Maybe we could all get together sometimes. > > > > That sounds great! > > > > Peace, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various > > deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva > > Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in > > Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place > > each piece according to the meaning. > > > > Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Chris, > > > > > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > > > > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. > > How do you recite that? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > I live in Tacoma. > > > > > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you > don't > > > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > > > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > > > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > > > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > > > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > > > > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > > > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > > > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the > throwing > > > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > > > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > > > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > Chris > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > > > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from > Swamiji > > > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi > Paath? > > > > > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that > after I > > > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the > sacred > > > sound activating the chakras? > > > > > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different > feeling > > > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > > > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > > > you do? > > > > > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala > beads. > > > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in > salt > > > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > > > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very > much an > > > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for > years.) > > > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens > when > > > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > > > > > Peace, > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have > expressed > > > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but > > these > > > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and > Swamiji. The > > > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. > Swamiji > > > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an > aspect of > > > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one > after the > > > > other. > > > > > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the > > mantra > > > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating > externally by > > > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's > movements > > > > inside. > > > > > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the > back of > > > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you > notice a > > > > difference. > > > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > > Chris > > > > > > > > , Shankari Kali > <shankari_kali@> > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am > saying the > > > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the > mantra. > > > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. > (I'm not > > > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > > > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind > > wanders. But > > > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, > and the > > > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, > only > > > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > > > What is the proper way to > > meditate? For > > > > a while I would meditate in > > > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > > > closed > > > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > > > mantra > > > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it > > this way > > > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that > > japa is > > > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have > asked > > > them > > > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > > > focus on > > > > > when they meditate? > > > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green > > Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check > > it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from > > real people who know. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > We won't tell. Get more on shows you hate to love > > (and love to hate): TV's Guilty Pleasures list. > > > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 5, 2007 Dear Chris, When two sadhus happen to meet, and recognize each other as "family", they do so, not because of the songs they know or the books they have read, but by the fire of the love of God which resides in their Hearts. Respectfully, Tanmaya , "Chris Kirner" <chriskirner1956 wrote: > > It would be nice to have satsanga, like they do at the Mandir. There > may well be a few of us hiding in the woodwork, and others who might > like to come and learn and share in the bhaava, and I have thought > about trying to rally folks, but never having been to the Mandir, > there's a lot I don't know. I don't know any songs, for instance, and > I don't have any instruments either. > > Though I don't question the intentions of my heart or my experience of > the divine as I do the practices, I do question whether I do them > properly enough to demonstrate them for others, even in the context of > a satsanga. > > In all honesty, I have been praying for a suitable satsanga, but I > feel very unprepared to try to start one myself. > > As you can see, right now I am seeing only the obstacles. Perhaps that > will change. I will keep at least some part of my mind open to the > possibility, and, who knows... > > Jai Maa! > Chris > > > , Shankari Kali shankari_kali@ > wrote: > > > > Chris, > > > > I wonder if there are any other Shree Maa devotees in the > Seattle-Tacoma area. Maybe we could all get together sometimes. > > > > That sounds great! > > > > Peace, > > Shankari Kali > > > > Chris Kirner chriskirner1956@ wrote: > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various > > deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva > > Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in > > Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place > > each piece according to the meaning. > > > > Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or something. > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Chris, > > > > > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > > > > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. > > How do you recite that? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > I live in Tacoma. > > > > > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you > don't > > > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > > > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the Chandi that > > > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji says > > > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > > > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > > > > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. There is > > > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > > > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the > throwing > > > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > > > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > > > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > Chris > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > > > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from > Swamiji > > > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi > Paath? > > > > > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that > after I > > > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the > sacred > > > sound activating the chakras? > > > > > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different > feeling > > > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed to give > > > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What happens if > > > you do? > > > > > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala > beads. > > > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in > salt > > > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that happened I > > > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very > much an > > > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for > years.) > > > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens > when > > > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > > > > > Peace, > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have > expressed > > > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but > > these > > > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and > Swamiji. The > > > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. > Swamiji > > > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an > aspect of > > > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one > after the > > > > other. > > > > > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the > > mantra > > > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating > externally by > > > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's > movements > > > > inside. > > > > > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the > back of > > > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you > notice a > > > > difference. > > > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > > Chris > > > > > > > > , Shankari Kali > <shankari_kali@> > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am > saying the > > > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the > mantra. > > > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, and it > > > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim Hrim Klim > > > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a funny > > > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there was a > > > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. > (I'm not > > > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > > > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind > > wanders. But > > > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, > and the > > > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, > only > > > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > > > What is the proper way to > > meditate? For > > > > a while I would meditate in > > > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, with eyes > > > closed > > > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus on the > > > mantra > > > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it > > this way > > > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that > > japa is > > > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have > asked > > > them > > > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone else > > > focus on > > > > > when they meditate? > > > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green > > Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check > > it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from > > real people who know. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > We won't tell. Get more on shows you hate to love > > (and love to hate): TV's Guilty Pleasures list. > > > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted February 6, 2007 Good. It is as I thought it should be. Thank you, Vish, for bringing this to Swamiji's attention. Jai Maa! Chris , "inspectionconnection108" <inspectionconnection108 wrote: > > > Namaste Chris > > I asked Swami about your desire to have sat sangha This is his response. > > "Spend some time in the mandir first, learn the bhava, the music, the > information, and then think about starting a sat sangha." > > I hope this helps you. > > Jai Maa Jai Swami > > vishweshwar > > > > > > > > > > > > > , "Chris Kirner" > <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > > > It would be nice to have satsanga, like they do at the Mandir. There > > may well be a few of us hiding in the woodwork, and others who might > > like to come and learn and share in the bhaava, and I have thought > > about trying to rally folks, but never having been to the Mandir, > > there's a lot I don't know. I don't know any songs, for instance, and > > I don't have any instruments either. > > > > Though I don't question the intentions of my heart or my experience of > > the divine as I do the practices, I do question whether I do them > > properly enough to demonstrate them for others, even in the context of > > a satsanga. > > > > In all honesty, I have been praying for a suitable satsanga, but I > > feel very unprepared to try to start one myself. > > > > As you can see, right now I am seeing only the obstacles. Perhaps that > > will change. I will keep at least some part of my mind open to the > > possibility, and, who knows... > > > > Jai Maa! > > Chris > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > wrote: > > > > > > Chris, > > > > > > I wonder if there are any other Shree Maa devotees in the > > Seattle-Tacoma area. Maybe we could all get together sometimes. > > > > > > That sounds great! > > > > > > Peace, > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > Kavach just means armor. There are various armors for the various > > > deities. I only have the Shiva, which is very short (found in Shiva > > > Puja and Advanced Yajna), and the Chandi, which is much longer (in > > > Chandi Path). It is a kind of nyasa. You recite the verses and place > > > each piece according to the meaning. > > > > > > Perhaps sometime we can arrange to get together for homa or > something. > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > Chris > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Chris, > > > > > > > > You live in Tacoma?? I live in Federal Way. Wow! > > > > > > > > What is a Kavach? I thought a Kavach was a medallion of some sort. > > > How do you recite that? > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > > > I live in Tacoma. > > > > > > > > People are afraid because of the traditional belief that if you > > don't > > > > have the grace of a gurudeva the shakti of certain mantras and > > > > practices will do you harm. There is also a curse in the > Chandi that > > > > applies to anyone who chants it without understanding. Swamiji > says > > > > there is no danger if anyone chants, whether they understand it or > > > > not, as long as they are doing it for spiritual purposes. > > > > > > > > As far as the mantra is concerned, I'm afraid I don't know. > There is > > > > so much I don't know about dangers and negativities. You read bits > > > > about such things here and there, sorcery, mind control, the > > throwing > > > > off of negativities, or even illness, where others can unknowingly > > > > pick them up, etc. Swamiji strongly recommends reciting a kavach > > > > (divine armor) every day. I don't do it, but I'm sure I should. > > > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > > Chris > > > > > > > > , Shankari Kali <shankari_kali@> > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Namaste Chris: > > > > > > > > > > Thank you so much for your response. Of course, I know that I > > > > should have a meditation teacher, but I live so far away from > > Swamiji > > > > and Shree Maa. (I live in Washington State by the way.) > > > > > > > > > > Just out of curiousity, why are people afraid of the Chandi > > Paath? > > > > > > > > > > You try to take the mantra inside of yourself? I notice that > > after I > > > > say a mantra for awhile I feel a sort of vibration. Is that the > > sacred > > > > sound activating the chakras? > > > > > > > > > > Also when I meditate in a certain area, I notice a different > > feeling > > > > about the area, an energy if you will. > > > > > > > > > > I have one more question. I heard that one is not supposed > to give > > > > away one's mala beads to someone else. Is this true? What > happens if > > > > you do? > > > > > > > > > > I have a friend who wanted to meditate, but did not have mala > > beads. > > > > I gave her some beads that I do not use much. I soaked them in > > salt > > > > water, put sandalwood oil on them; yet, right after that > happened I > > > > became extremely depressed. (I never have depression. I'm very > > much an > > > > optimist. My friend, however, has had extreme depression for > > years.) > > > > Was this the wrong thing to do? Can someone explain what happens > > when > > > > you give your mala beads to someone else. > > > > > > > > > > Sorry to have such a long post. > > > > > > > > > > Peace, > > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > > > Chris Kirner <chriskirner1956@> wrote: > > > > Hi Shankari Kali, > > > > > > > > > > Through the years many people outside this tradition have > > expressed > > > > > various fears about the Navarna Mantra and the Chandi Path, but > > > these > > > > > have always been soothed by the reassurances of Maa and > > Swamiji. The > > > > > Navarna is a very powerful shakti, but it is a true friend. > > Swamiji > > > > > has always recommended doing puja, and mantra japa is an > > aspect of > > > > > puja, to as many of the deities as one can or desires, one > > after the > > > > > other. > > > > > > > > > > As to your practice, it seems to me the desire is to bring the > > > mantra > > > > > inside. This can be accomplished even when repeating > > externally by > > > > > connecting with the vibration inside and the vibration's > > movements > > > > > inside. > > > > > > > > > > Just as an experiment, try bringing the mantra back to the > > back of > > > > > your throat as you say it - into the spine, and see if you > > notice a > > > > > difference. > > > > > > > > > > Jai Maa! > > > > > Chris > > > > > > > > > > , Shankari Kali > > <shankari_kali@> > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Namaste: > > > > > > > > > > > > Actually this is another good topic. Usually when I am > > saying the > > > > > mantra, I try to focus on the here and now while saying the > > mantra. > > > > > Sometimes my mind wanders. Sometimes I am saying a mantra, > and it > > > > > buzzes or vibrates throughout my body for some reason. > > > > > > > > > > > > Last night at sunset after I had completed the Om Aim > Hrim Klim > > > > > Chamundayei Vicce , and I was beginning the peace mantra, a > funny > > > > > thing happened. I suddenly was totally focused. Then there > was a > > > > > silence that was thick. The silence kept going on while I was > > > > > chanting, and then I began to see a blue light around me. > > (I'm not > > > > > sure whether or not I should be saying muliple mantras or not.) > > > > > Actually I could use some coaching in my meditation. > > > > > > > > > > > > Shanti Om, > > > > > > Shankari Kali > > > > > > > > > > > > Nirmalananda Saraswati <nirmalananda1008@> wrote: > > > > > > > It seems that mantra is a tool to GET to > > > > > meditation, or as you say, to get back to it if the mind > > > wanders. But > > > > > for meditation to come, it seems the mantra will fade away, > > and the > > > > > clear light of meditation - nothingness, no thought, no mind, > > only > > > > > being here now, begins. > > > > > > > > > > > > grajft <ryangra@> wrote: > > > > > > What is the proper way to > > > meditate? For > > > > > a while I would meditate in > > > > > > this fasion: get into a comfortable seated position, > with eyes > > > > closed > > > > > > do japa for a set amount of malas or time keeping focus > on the > > > > mantra > > > > > > and returning to the mantra when my mind wanders. Doing it > > > this way > > > > > > definately has an effect on me but someone once told me that > > > japa is > > > > > > one thing and meditation is another. I guess I should have > > asked > > > > them > > > > > > but I didn't, so I'm asking you guys. What does everyone > else > > > > focus on > > > > > > when they meditate? > > > > > > Jai Maa Jai Swamiji > > > > > > Ryan > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Looking for earth-friendly autos? > > > > > > Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Autos' Green > > > Center. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Never miss an email again! > > > > > > Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check > > > it out. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels > > > > > in 45,000 destinations on Travel to find your fit. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Have a burning question? Go to Answers and get answers from > > > real people who know. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > We won't tell. Get more on shows you hate to love > > > (and love to hate): TV's Guilty Pleasures list. > > > > > > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
