Wellness Column

By fine-tuning yourself through spiritual sadhana or yogic practice, you can spread the positive habits you have cultivated here out into the world by being a good person. Here are suggestions by Sri Swami Sivananda to add to your spiritual tool chest. They are called:

The Science of Seven Cultures or Sadhana Tattva

1. Health Culture

• Have a balanced diet and give thanks to the creator for the food you have been given Avoid putting toxic foods, drink or other into your body.
• Practice yoga asanas for 10-20 minute a day.
• Take a long walk or play some vigorous games daily.

2. Energy Culture

• Observe silence for at least 2 hours a day. (Sleeping, FB, texting, TV and movies don’t count. Try to live without media for 2 hours a day)
• Practice moderation in all aspects of life.

3. Ethical Culture

• Speak the truth, think before you speak and when you speak, be kind and compassionate.
• Do not injure anyone in thought, word or deed. Be kind to all and avoid gossip.
• Be sincere and honest when you communicate and in all action you take.
• Work hard, and work well for all your earnings.
• Show patience, mercy, love and tolerance. Be accepting and adaptable.
• Forgive others. Maintain boundaries.

4. Will Culture

• Try to go without sugar for a day, a week or a month.
• Keep good company, avoid being swayed or influenced by those who are not healthy for you.
• Go towards your dreams and think positively.

5. Heart Culture

• Do good for others, practice karma yoga (Volunteer), be selfless in your efforts.
• Give to charity.
• Be humble, include others and always be a friend, particularly to those who are left out or need a friend.
• Remember to always be thankful.

6. Psychic Culture

• Read some uplifting writings everyday!
• Always seek good company (Sanga) and positive guidance from a trusted teacher.
• Keep your inner faith.

7. Spiritual Culture

• Get enough rest, eat right and take care of yourself.
• Practice Silence, a deliberate pause (Meditate) and practice attention to you breathing (pranayama) daily.
• Sing (and chant) every day.
• Be regular and consistent with all your undertakings. Making mistakes is part of learning, have courage to try and learn from your efforts.

May you be showered with peace and light as you go on your way.