Some Observances Recommended by Amma

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Children, the shore checks the waves of the sea. In spiritual life,

the observance of vows controls the waves of the mind. - Ammachi, For

My Children, p75

 

On certain days (ekadasi, full moon, etc.), the atmosphere is

completely impure. At these times, to observe a vow of silence and eat

only fruit is a good practice. Since fruit is covered by peel,

atmospheric impurities do not affect it very much. These days are

favorable for sadhana. Whatever thought we may have, spiritual or

worldly, more concentration can be attained on these days. - Ammachi,

For My Children, p75

 

It is good for a seeker to purge the stomach at least twice a month.

Once a week, with a vow of silence and a diet of fruit, devote the day

to dhyana and japa. This will be beneficial for the body and sadhana.

- Ammachi, For My Children, p76

 

A seeker who does regular sadhana can make his mind and body fit for

meditation by observing a fast. Those who meditate and do other work

side by side should never fast. They should take the required quantity

of food; fruits are very good. - Ammachi, For My Children, p76

 

The effect of talking right after meditation is like spending all

one's hard-earned money to buy peanuts. The power acquired through

meditation will be completely exhausted. - Ammachi, For My Children, p76

 

A seeker should utter every word carefully. He should speak sparingly

and in a subdued tone so that the listener will hear only when his

mind and sense organs are very attentive. - Ammachi, For My Children, p77

 

A sick person should observe restrictions in order to be cured. A

seeker should also accept restrictions until he reaches the Goal.

Minimal conversation, a vow of silence, controlled diet, are the

restrictions. - Ammachi, For My Children, p77

 

To observe vows is not a weakness. Wooden planks are useful in

building a boat only if they can be bent. In order to bend them, the

shipwright heats them. Likewise, by observing spiritual discipline,

the sadhak can bring his mind under control. Without taming the mind,

the body cannot be controlled. - Ammachi, For My Children, p77