How Can Advancers Select Sadhana(s) in Sadhana App?

Before commencing advanced sadhanas, one has to be regular and consistent in spiritual practices. One should have a good knowledge of the meaning and significance of mantras, correct pronunciation, and understanding the power and transformative potential of sound vibrations. Understand the gods or goddesses you are interested in through their stories and what they represent e.g. deity's qualities, symbolism, and their relationship with the practitioner so that a strong bond can be built up.

At this stage, one should be well aware of the mantra compatibility. If you can perform the sadhana for 30 days or more and can easily sit like a rock for 45 minutes then you can increase the time for 40 days to some years and for one hour or more long sadhana per day.

You can do sadhanas with the mantras which have two or more seed syllables.

1. Surya Tantra Sadhana with mantra ‘Om Hrim Ghrini Surya Aaditya Shrim’ for Lord Surya in Amaravati.

2. Navarna Sadhana with mantra ‘Om aim hrim klim chamundayai vichche’ for Ma Durga in Kadamba Forest.

3. Ma Siddhalakshmi Tantra Sadhana with mantra ‘Om Shrim Hrim Klim Shrim Siddhalakshmyai Namah’ for Ma Laxmi in Golden Palace.

4. Dwadashakshari Tantric Sadhana with mantra ‘Om hasphrem khphrem hasaum haskhphrem hasaum hanumate namah’ for Lord Hanuman in Kishkindha.

5. Dwadashakshari Mantra Sadhana with mantra ‘Om ham hanumate rudratmakaye hum phat’ for Lord Hanuman at Kishkindha.

While doing these sadhanas dietary restrictions are almost compulsory. Take light food, eat fruits, vegetables, curd and milk which are easily digestible in less quantity. Whatever you eat, eat it slowly while chewing it very well with total mindfulness. Increase the time gap between the two meals so that the stomach is empty while doing the sadhana. In ‘Kundalini : An Untold Story’ Om Swamiji has mentioned, 'In any case, avoid spicy, oily and deep-fried foods. Being a vegetarian will greatly help your cause because vegetarian food infuses you with sattvic energy.'

If you still have any doubt you can drop a mail at chandrikashubham@gmail.com

How Intermediates Can Select Sadhana(s) in Sadhana App?

After progressing in sadhana practices when one can sit for quite a long time and can continue the practice for more than 11 days at a stretch then one can shift to a higher level. This extended duration and commitment help deepen the practice, foster discipline, and cultivate a stronger connection with the chosen mantra or deity. Progressive practitioners can experience heightened benefits and spiritual growth through this extended sadhana period.

In the intermediate stage, practitioners have the option to continue repeating the same mantras mentioned for beginners or focusing on sadhana with a single beej mantra or seed syllable. Choosing a single seed mantra helps in building up concentration by repetition and deepening the vibrational energy of the mantra. This practice enhances focus, spiritual progress, and attunement to the essence of the chosen syllable. It provides an opportunity for practitioners to develop the profound effects of a specific seed syllable and further improve their mantra sadhana.

In Sadhana App following are the sadhanas with one seed syllable:

1. Om gam ganapataye namah for Lord Ganesha as Ganapati Sadhana in Gajakarna.

2. Om hrim ashvatejasya adhovani svaha for Lord Surya as Kartik Sadhana in Amaravati.

3. Om hrim durgayai namah for Maa Durga as Durga Tantra Sadhana in Kadamba Forest.

4. Shrim for Ma Laxmi as Mahalakshmi Sadhana in Golden Palace.

5. Om klim krishnaya namah for Lord Krishana as Krishna Tantra Sadhana in Gokula

6. Hum janakivallabhaya svaha for Lord Rama as Rama Tantra Sadhana in Ayodhya.

The intermediate stage is designed for progressive practitioners who can sustain a 30-minute or longer sitting practice and maintain a routine for more than 11 days like 21, 25 or 30 days. 

At this stage, it is beneficial to practise dietary restrictions, such as avoiding non-vegetarian food, alcohol, fried food, spicy food, garlic, onion, coffee, tea or any other dietary restriction one wishes to impose on oneself. It helps in building up discipline and self-control, which are necessary for long-term advancement in sadhana. By consciously observing dietary guidelines, practitioners cultivate purity, clarity, and a healthy balance between body and mind. These restrictions help to improve one's energy, enhance focus, and develop a right environment for penance. However, the decision to follow specific dietary restrictions during sadhana is a personal choice, and individuals should consider their own beliefs and well-being in determining what aligns best with their spiritual practice.

If you still have any doubt you can drop a mail at chandrikashubham@gmail.com

How Beginners Can Select Sadhana(s) in Sadhana App?

For people who are starting their spiritual journey, there are two important practices recommended by Om Swamiji are Ganesh Sadhana and Gayatri Sadhana.

Ganesh Sadhana in Gajakarna Temple involves connecting with Lord Ganesh, who is known as the remover of obstacles. This practice helps us overcome challenges and brings blessings and success to our spiritual journey. It is often done through chanting a specific mantra or engaging in rituals dedicated to Lord Ganesh.

Gayatri Sadhana in Vedic Forest involves chanting and yajna of the Gayatri Mantra, one of the most sacred and powerful mantras in Sanatan Dharma. This practice helps to purify the mind, awaken inner wisdom, and enhance spiritual growth. Focusing on Gayatri Mantra with devotion and understanding its meaning can bring clarity, peace, and spiritual illumination.

During the occasion of Navratri, it is recommended to engage in the nine-day practice of Navarana Mantra Sadhana in Kadamba Forest, as it yields manifold benefits such as it amplifies its potency, invoking the Goddess's protection, strength, and Her blessings. The Navarna Mantra, ‘Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayai Vichche’ is a powerful mantra associated with Mother Divine. It is considered as an auspicious time of intense spiritual practice and devotion, allowing devotees to connect deeply with the divine energy.

For those embarking on the path of mantra sadhana, it is often recommended to undertake Kartik Sadhana in Amravati Temple in Sadhana App. Kartik Sadhana involves dedicated practice and chanting of the Siddha Surya Mantra, a potent mantra dedicated to the Sun God. This sadhana is believed to invoke the blessings of the Lord Surya, promoting vitality, clarity, and spiritual growth. Chanting the Siddha Surya Mantra during Kartik month aligns one with the divine solar energy, enhancing inner radiance, wisdom, and positive transformation. It serves as a way to build connection with the lineage for beginners and to seek their blessings.

It is recommended to undertake Panchakshari Sadhana in Kailasha by chanting ‘Om Namah Shivaya’. This practice deepens the connection with Lord Shiva, fostering devotion and aligning with transformative energies. The Panchakshari mantra invokes the essence of Lord Shiva, representing inner peace and liberation. By engaging in this sadhana, individuals purify the mind, surrender to the divine, and experience the profound presence of Lord Shiva in their spiritual journey, amplifying the transformation and progression on the spiritual path. When you worship Mother Divine, it is believed that paying homage to Lord Shiva alongside her reinforces the balance between the divine feminine and masculine energies. It signifies the recognition that power and protection are best channelled through a harmonious union of both aspects.

For beginners, practising these five sadhanas (Ganesh, Gayatri, Panchakshari, Navarna Mantra, and Kartik) provides a strong foundation. These sadhanas encompass diverse aspects of spirituality, offering a well-rounded start to the journey of mantra practice and spiritual growth. These sadhanas are considered foundational practices, and can be performed in Sadhana App by the beginners as they provide a strong spiritual base and prepare individuals for deeper and more advanced sadhana practices in the future. It is recommended to approach these practices with sincerity, devotion and respect.

As a beginner in the path of sadhana, it is important to understand that you have the flexibility to practise sadhana in Sadhana App while travelling and that dietary restrictions are not mandatory. Still, if you can incorporate them into your daily life while engaging in sadhana, it can be beneficial and supportive to your spiritual journey. However, it is essential to remember that sadhana is a personal practice, and you have the freedom to adapt it to your specific circumstances and needs, ensuring that it remains a source of inspiration, growth, and inner connection for you. Remember that the intention and commitment you bring to your practice are paramount, regardless of external factors or dietary choices.

A beginner is encouraged to start with shorter durations of sadhana, such as 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 9 days, 11 days, to gradually build spiritual stamina and discipline, allowing them to adapt to the practice at a comfortable pace and experience its benefits while minimising the risk of exerting oneself physically, mentally, or emotionally. This approach recognizes the need for patience, gradual progression, and the importance of finding a sustainable balance in one's spiritual journey.

If you feel that shorter durations of sadhana are not sufficient, it is absolutely alright to repeat those short sadhanas multiple times to extend the overall duration and deepen your practice, allowing you to gradually increase your spiritual engagement and experience the desired benefits at a pace that feels comfortable and fulfilling for you. The focus is on finding a balance that suits your individual needs and capabilities while nurturing a consistent and dedicated spiritual practice.

For beginners while doing sadhana, it is advisable to keep the duration of chanting of mantra relatively short, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. It's important to note that when accounting for preparatory rituals and concluding ritual steps, the overall duration of sadhana may increase by approximately 15 to 20 minutes, summing up a total of 30 minutes to 50 minutes. It is recommended for ensuring a balanced and comprehensive practice for newcomers as they may not be accustomed to sitting for extended periods and may experience restlessness or difficulty in maintaining focus. By starting with shorter durations, individuals can gradually develop a habit of regular practice by achieving short term goals. 

The emphasis lies on establishing a steady routine and strengthening the qualities of endurance and mindfulness through dedicated practice. The concept behind this is very simple: when the mind acknowledges its limitations and accepts that certain things cannot be done for a specific period of time, it helps build patience, resilience, and an opportunity for personal growth. 

Do not forget to donate in the Sadhana App after you have completed the Sadhana.

May this article provide valuable insights and support in your spiritual journey. In case you are still confused, you can contact me at chandrikashubham@gmail.com.

My Spiritual Experience of Rama Nama Japa in Sadhana App

Tinde (round gourd) veg is delicious! 

I used the basic ingredients to cook the usual veg but today it tastes divine. Generally, I ate very small portion of humble vegetables such as tinde (round gourd), tori (ridge gourd), giya (bottle gourd), kaddu (pumpkin) and chappan kaddu (squash) as I did not relish them much.  I had found these vegetables mundane as they taste mild and slightly bland, their texture soft and slightly mushy when cooked. But as my sadhana progressed, I observed a newfound appreciation for their simplicity and subtle flavours.

When I was young, I only somewhat forcefully gulped these vegetables when they were given to me when I had fever by my mother because they are light and easy to digest. They have a weird slimy texture. As I grew up my taste buds changed a bit with the result, I did not hate any food rather thank God for each bite I took.

  

In the pursuit of spiritual growth, I recently embarked on the practice of Rama Nama Sadhana in Ayodhya of Sadhana App, a simple yet profound discipline centred around the repetition of the mantra ‘Rama, Rama, Rama, Rama………..’

Sadhana App informs that this potent mantra of one single word is enough to carry one across the ocean of samsara. In fact, Lord Shiva says to Ma Parvati, ‘rama rameti rameti, rame rame manorame, sahasranama tattulyam, ramanama varanane.’ That, O Goddess, I eternally and blissfully chant the name of Rama, for this one name is the equivalent of one thousand divine names. Chanting of this mantra invokes the bhakti of Lord Rama in the devotee’s heart. 

Recognizing that Rama Nama holds the essence of a divine chant, I incorporated it into my daily routine with the help of the sadhana practice in the Sadhana App.

Unexpectedly, I began to notice subtle shifts occurring within me. One remarkable change was a transformation in my culinary preferences, particularly in relation to humble vegetables such as tinde (Round gourd), Tori (Ridge gourd or angled luffa), Giya (Bottle gourd or calabash), Kaddu (Pumpkin), Chappan Kaddu (Squash). Previously, I had found these vegetables unremarkable, their taste mild and slightly bland, their texture soft and slightly mushy when cooked. But as my sadhana progressed, I observed a newfound appreciation for their simplicity and subtle flavours.

My usual practice involved dividing cooked vegetables into two portions—one for immediate consumption and the other to be stored for the following day. However, on this particular day, the tinde ki sabzi (round gourd veg) had captivated my senses to such an extent that I devoured both portions in a single sitting. This occurrence seemed unusual to me, but I attributed it to my devotion to Lord Rama, who, known for his simplicity, finds joy in uncomplicated living.

As I delved deeper into my spiritual journey, I began to comprehend the profound connection between deity and devotee. When we focus our attention on a particular deity, we gradually assimilate their qualities into our own being. Marjana, also called (Coronation or abhishekam), a ritual performed in the closing part of sadhana to honour oneself and carry the energy of the mantra, reflects this concept. It is believed that the number of offerings made in marjana is one-tenth the number of libations. By offering ourselves the same treatment as is meted out to gods, we elevate our own spiritual energy.

The tale of Lord Rama's encounter with Shabri exemplifies this phenomenon. Shabri offered Lord Rama nothing but simple berries, and he, in turn, savoured them with humility and grace. Similarly, through my Rama Nama japa and unwavering focus on Lord Rama, I started to experience a sense of simplicity and gentleness within myself, even though it had only been a week since I commenced the Rama Nama Sadhana.

This metamorphosis extended beyond the realm of taste preferences. From my mother's perspective, this transformation represented a profound spiritual experience. She witnessed how I, once particular and finicky about my food choices, had now become content and appreciative of whatever was served to me. In contrast to my childhood self, who exhibited fussiness and selectiveness, I now relished each meal, finding satisfaction in every dish that graced my plate.

Is this a spiritual experience? While some might debate its classification, the significance of this journey transcends such labels. The power of Rama Nama Sadhana and the ensuing transformation of my perception demonstrate the profound impact spiritual practices can have on our day-to-day lives. By immersing ourselves in the devotion of our chosen deity, we open ourselves to a world of subtle yet profound changes—a world where even the simplest of vegetables can become a source of delight and nourishment.

In less than a week's time, performing Rama Nama Sadhana has unlocked a deeper understanding of myself and Lord Ram. The interconnectedness between spirituality and everyday existence has increased many folds. It has taught me that profound spiritual experiences can manifest in the most unexpected ways, weaving their influence into the tapestry of our lives and guiding us towards greater simplicity, contentment, and gratitude.

Unleashing the Power of Ganesh Sadhana in Sadhana App

Ganesh Chaturthi, the auspicious occasion that celebrates the birthday of Lord Ganesha, is an ideal time for spiritual seekers to deepen their connection with the divine. And what better way to do that than through the practice of Ganesh Sadhana? The Sadhana App in Gajakarna Temple offers three distinct practices – Ganapati Tantra Sadhana, Ucchishtha Ganapati Sadhana, and Ganapati Sadhana – each with its unique benefits to help you navigate your spiritual journey. Choosing the right practice can make a significant impact on your progress, and with the right approach and devotion, Lord Ganesha's blessings can help you overcome obstacles and achieve success, knowledge, and happiness.

Ganapati Tantra Sadhana is a tantric practice ideal for those who wish to explore the path of tantra sadhana. This practice is considered the first tantric sadhana of Lord Ganesha and invokes the energy of Mahaganapati, paving the way for all future sadhanas. The Mool mantra for this practice is 'Om Vakratundaya Hum', and it comes with the blessings of lineage. It is a great way to start your spiritual journey and develop a deeper understanding of tantra sadhana.

Ucchishtha Ganapati Sadhana is a very powerful sadhana that blends both Vedic and tantric methods of invocation. This practice is called Ucchishtha Ganapati because it is generally done at night without rinsing your mouth. However, to keep the Vedic tradition alive, the standard purification is enabled in this sadhana. Its mool mantra is 'Hastipishachilikhe Svaha'. It is done generally by practitioners who wish to do advanced tantric practices. This practice is recommended for those who have a strong foundation in spiritual practices and are looking to deepen their practice. Om Swamiji says this is a very special sadhana which brings remarkable effects.

Ganapati Sadhana, on the other hand, is a simple and easy practice that is perfect for beginners. This practice uses one of the most popular and energised mantras of Lord Ganesha – 'Om Gam Ganapataye Namah'. This mantra evokes intense feelings of devotion in the heart and mind of the sadhaka towards the ever-benevolent Lord Ganesha. It is an easy mantra to chant and is generally done by beginners who are just starting their spiritual journey.

It is essential to choose the right practice that resonates with you the most to ensure a successful sadhana. The auspicious date to start Ganesh Sadhana is Ganesh Chaturthi itself, this year which falls on 19th September, 2023. It is also important to remember to mentally feed Lord Ganesha with ladoos and modakas as a gesture of devotion. :) 

In conclusion, Ganesh Sadhana is a powerful tool for spiritual seekers, and the Sadhana App provides three distinct practices in the Gajakarna temple to cater to different spiritual needs. Choosing the right practice can make a significant impact on your spiritual progress, and it is important to approach it with devotion and sincerity. May Lord Ganesha bless you with success, knowledge, and happiness on your spiritual journey.

In case you need any help or guidance, you can always send me an email at chandrikashubham@gmail.com.  

How can Advancers Select a Mantra for Chanting in Sadhana App?

If you have practised the mantra(s) with one beej mantra for sometime and you feel like you can move ahead then you must select the mantras which have two or more beej mantras in it.  

e.g. 1. For Lord Surya you can chant ‘Om hram hrim hraum sah suryaye namaha’. 

2. Navarna mantra for Maa Durga is ‘Om aim hrim klim chamundaye vichche’.

The third option of mantra in the Japa Section in the Sadhana App is generally for advanced practitioners.

You can also check the elemental compatibility (Kula-Akula Chakra) between you and your chosen mantra using the insights from the book 'The Ancient Science of Mantras’ by Om Swamiji. It is explained in great detail on page no. 93 and 94 of paperback. By examining the first letter of your mantra and the first letter of your name and determining if they belong to the compatible element, you can enhance the effectiveness of your practice and invoke the mantra with greater resonance. This extensive and meticulous table offers profound insights on choosing a mantra and considers it is an indispensable act for your mantra selection process.

Exploring the elemental compatibility between you and your mantra allows for a deeper understanding of how the specific elemental qualities embodied in the mantra can positively influence your personal growth, spiritual practice and overall well-being. 

If a deity's mantra contains the word ‘namah’, the aspirant must visualise touching the soft feet of their deity while chanting it as it symbolises complete surrender to the divine. In case the seeker is still confused and can’t decide which mantra to chant then he/she can chant the Siddha Surya mantra to connect with the lineage or the Navarna mantra to connect with the Divine Mother without any hesitation.

Do not forget to donate in the Sadhana App after you have done the chanting.

May this article provide valuable insights and support in your spiritual journey. In case you are still confused, you can contact me at chandrikashubham@gmail.com.

How can Intermediates Select a Mantra for Chanting in Sadhana App?

If you have chanted the simple mantras for quite some time and now you feel comfortable to increase the difficulty level then you can select any mantra which has one beej mantra in it. 

Seed syllables, or beej mantras, hold immense spiritual power. They represent the essence of deities’ energies. While chanting, the syllables resonate and align the seeker’s energy with the divine, invoking blessings and guidance. Seed syllables connect us to transformative spiritual energies, facilitating growth and realisation.

Beej mantras have specific seed sounds which produce profound effects on one’s materialistic and spiritual life. List of some well-known beej mantras are included below:

1. oṃ: The universal sound representing the essence of creation and divine consciousness.

2. āiṃ: Invokes the nurturing and creative aspect of the divine feminine energy. It signifies the commencement of spiritual knowledge, as it denotes the grace of Maa Saraswati

3. hrīṃ: Enhances inner strength, harmony, and abundance in all aspects of life. It is not related to but also destroys the illusory nature of existence.

4. śrīṃ: Attracts wealth, prosperity, abundance and auspiciousness into one's life. It is Maa Lakshmi’s mantra.

5. klīṃ: Activates the transformative power of the divine feminine and fosters spiritual growth.

Some of the examples are as follows :-

1. When we pray to Lord Surya in Amaravati using the Siddha Surya Mantra which has one seed syllable; ‘Om hrim ashvatejasya adhovani svaha’.

2. In the Golden Temple, Maa Laxmi’s chant is ‘Om shrim mahalakshmyai namah’. 

3. In Gukula, Lord Krishna’s chant is ‘Om klim krishnaya namah’. 

There are some mantras which become mantras when anuswaar is being placed on the consonant. The use of anuswaar in mantras and spiritual practices is believed to enhance their potency and invoke the divine vibrations associated with the specific syllable or mantra. It is considered a powerful tool for concentration, meditation, and chanting, as it adds a mystical and transcendental element to the sounds produced. 

e.g. When we place the anuswaar over the letter ‘g’ then it becomes a one letter mantra called gam.

1. For praying to Lord Ganpati the mantra is ‘Om gam ganapataye namah’. 

2. For worshipping Gurudev the mantra is ‘Om gam gurave namah’.

The other examples are

3. For worshipping Maa Durga the mantra is ‘Om dum durgayai namah’. 

4. For praying to Lord Ram the mantra is ‘Hum janakivallabhaya svaha’.

5. For worshipping Lord Hanumana the chant is ‘Om ham hanumate namah’. 

The middle one option out of the three options displayed in the Japa section in Sadhana App is generally for intermediates. In summary, the repetition of seed syllables in mantras creates a vibrational resonance, activates the concentrated essence, and focuses the mind and intention of the practitioner. This process establishes a connection with the divine energies represented by the seed syllables, enabling practitioners to access and embody the qualities, blessings, and transformative powers associated with the respective deities or energies. I hope the information provided above along with mantras will help you select the desired mantras and encourage you to continue your spiritual journey.

To be continued ……