On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee World Yoga Convention 2013. Munger. Bihar School of Yoga is pleased to present the golden collection a compilation of the first publications of Sri Swami Satyananda Saraswati. Originally published in Booklet format during the 1960s and 1970s their modest nature made the wealth of the ancient science of yoga accessible to one and all. The depth in both knowledge and experience that is contained within these teachings is in itself unique and furthermore has paved the way for an entirely new understanding and approach towards the system of yoga. The collection of talks, lectures and letters is a truly historic contribution to the spiritual library of humankind.
Volume I of the Golden “collection is a shining example of Sri Swami Satyananda’s methodical approach to the practice of asana, health management and the cultivation of a yogic lifestyle. Ahead of his time, he unveiled historical gems, scientific description , detailed comments on health and practice notes for novices and adepts. He further recognized the importance of yoga in the holistic development of children, alongside the growing need for qualified yoga teachers of a high calibre. These classic teachings continue to be relevant, inspiring and uplifting for both yoga practitioners and teachers around the globe fifty years one.
In the early 1970s and 1980s, the devotees of Sri Swami Satyananda carefully printed and published his lectures, discourses and class transcripts in small booklets, preserving and disseminating these important teachings. The booklets were their first contribution to their guru's mission of 'spreading yoga from door to door and shore to shore'. For many years these gems from the past have been out of print and unavailable. On the occasion of the Bihar School of Yoga's Golden Jubilee 2013 celebrations, these lost works have been compiled into a set of volumes aptly named The Golden Collection, so that once again the classic words which launched a yoga movement can inspire spiritual aspirants around the world.
In reproducing the booklets the original language has been kept intact, conveying the flavour of the time. The language shows the care that Sri Swami Satyananda took to make his teachings clear to his audience, never compromising clarity for fashion or style. His ability to present and adjust any topic to any audience is proof of the versatility which enabled him to convey his deep understanding of the potential of yoga to meet the needs of all.
A pioneer of his time, Sri Swami Satyananda gave a new dimension to the practice of asana, stating clearly that it can take the practitioner far beyond physical wellbeing. He often guided his disciples through letters brimming with snippets of wisdom, which are as valuable and pertinent today as they were almost fifty years ago. The Golden Collection also includes a systematic introduction to the various meditation practices expounded by Sri Swami Satyananda. No step is missed and no precaution left out, allowing the aspirant to safely travel the journey of yoga and spiritual life. For each practice, whether antar mouna, ajapa japa or nada yoga, precision and clarity are the key. The branches of yoga are concisely elucidated, making them relevant to the daily life of each yoga aspirant.
Much that is taken for granted today was unknown or misunderstood at that time: it is the great achievement of Sri Swami Satyananda to have brought yoga to the general public and mainstream of society, truly making yoga a household word the world over.
The extraordinary quality of his being and spiritual attainments was recognized early in his life. While living in Rishikesh in the ashram of his guru, Swami Sivananda Saraswati, the young swami received glowing appreciation and admiration from guru-bhais, visitors and guests. To this day, tributes continue to express love and a sense of profound gratitude from all who have been touched by this modern day saint and his teachings. Sri Swami Satyananda, however, remained a disciple throughout his life and fulfilled his guru's mandate by making it his life's mission.
The Golden Collection is a true testimony to the wealth and depth of yoga and to its master exponent, Sri Swami Satyananda. In his early teachings he set the tone, purpose and aim of his mission. The reader is able to discover and connect with the roots of Satyananda Yoga, whilst appreciating its evolving contemporary nature, a trademark of this tradition.
Indeed, Sri Swamiji's prophecy, "yoga is the culture of tomorrow", has come true. His tomorrow is our today.
Inverted poses affect the entire psycho-physiological body to an almost extraordinary degree. Non-practitioners of yoga are quite often given descriptions of the benefits of inverted asanas, which consist of a long list of superlatives. It is consequently difficult for these people not to believe that the claims are highly exaggerated. The only positive method of discovering the truth is for these people to practise these asanas for themselves. We, however, urge that they are performed correctly; otherwise the benefits will not be substantial, if they occur at all.
The inverted poses are almost indispensable for the majority of people of all age groups and all strata of society since they effectively improve and maintain good physical and mental health. They can produce an immediate and powerful sedation of the nervous system and are especially recommended for those people leading sedentary lives, who do a lot of brain work and who are bombarded by the stresses of present-day life.
One or more of these poses should be practised during times of tiredness, nervousness and unhappiness or when the brain feels dull or is unable to concentrate. Regular and diligent practice allows moods and emotions to be controlled and disciplined, can improve meditation and awaken spiritual awareness. Scientists believe that much of the capacity of the human brain is unused by most people. Yoga agrees completely with this idea and further says that man has latent faculties untapped by the average person, which can give powers of clairvoyance, telepathy, clairaudience, and so on. Whilst the nature of inverted poses will not allow any person to merely 'stand on his head' to obtain these powers, they can be of immense assistance in unleashing these faculties.
Inverted asanas, as described in this book, can be beneficially performed for spiritual purposes, maintenance of general good health and to relieve or cure the following ailments:
• Headache and migraine
• General fatigue or lack of vitality
• Loss or greying of hair
• Bad facial complexion
• Eye, nose and throat illnesses
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Visceroptosis
• Malfunctioning of the sexual organs
• Varicose veins and haemorrhoids
• Diabetes
• Rheumatism
• Neurasthenia
• Insomnia
• Tension and anxiety
• Depression
• General psychological problems and other ailments.
Letters written by Sri Swami Satyananda to his close disciples between the years 1961 and 1962 are compiled in Volume 2 of the Golden Collection today, these letters continue to uplift readers who, though living a lifestyle different from the young aspirants, find themselves confronted with the same human dilemmas. Included are thirteen lectures delivered during the First All India Yoga Convention 1964 Munger. They are a superb tribute to both the vast storehouse of Yogic science and philosophy, and to Sri Swami Satyananda, a master interpreter.
Volume 3 of the Golden Collection id dedicated to the tantric practices of meditation expounded by Sri Swami Satyananda. Kwith masterful simplicity of language, he explains the meaning benefit and method of each practice. The practices of ajapa japa, antar mouna, mantra, yantra and chidakasha dharana are invaluable fruit and offering of Sri Swami Satyananda to the inner growth of any sincere practitioner.
What is meditation? is a question in the minds of limitless people all around the world. Meditation is an intellectual and practical quest which is being examined through the medium of classical texts within the ancient literature of the yogis, Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Zen Buddhists and a host of many other religious cultures and spiritual sciences. Now meditation is being practised in every country of the world by people old and young, male and female, renunciates and householders, married and unmarried, sick and healthy, pious and atheistic, celibate and non-celibate alike.
Brought about by the necessity of the modern age, meditation has become a household word. For the religious it is a means to communicate with the Lord; for the philosophical meditation is the means to realize the unity of that essence of life, the soul, with the universe; for the agnostic meditation is a means to experience the reality beyond the scope of the thinking facility of mind. The psychiatrist uses meditation therapy for the cure of neuroses, nervous tensions and many mental disorders. Many people practise meditation with a view to attaining siddhis, or psychic powers. Now it is universally accepted that meditation is a practice which brings about peace and harmony within the individual.
According to the science of yoga, meditation is a practice and a revelation of the science of the human body, the various personalities which go to the very depth of the mind, and the science of the soul. How to accomplish such lofty aims is the subject matter of this book. The overwhelming interest in meditation has now reached the laboratories of famous universities and research institutions in America, England and France. Scientists and research scholars are now probing into the reactions of the human mechanism brought about by meditation. These experiments are being conducted on the most exact bases so that even the most sceptical critic of the experiment results could not conclude that the results were false. This topic of meditation, which has for thousands of years connoted mysticism, blind faith and belief without knowledge, is now being probed with modern electronic devices, which graphically record results arid remove the possibility of human error or individual opinion. nowadays it is well known that meditation has specific effects on the physiological and mental make up of man. The findings of these electronic probes have proved the great yogis, seers and saints of the past correct.
In one experiment in California, USA, the technique of japa meditation was put under the electronic eye of the electro-encephalograph, commonly known as EEG. This instrument measures the state of mind or level of consciousness. It involves placing small metal contacts at various places on the skull which connect the brain to the EEG through wires. The energy level in the brain is then automatically recorded on a graph in the form of waves. The state of mind is known by the brainwave velocity, which is measured in the unit cycles per second.
The experimental subjects were a random selection of people who had been practising japa meditation for times varying from three months to many years.
The results showed that within a few minutes of the commencement of practice, every person showed a new characteristic wave in the brain, which is known as alpha wave (a-wave). This a-wave is about one third of the normal conscious state brainwave velocity. The researchers concluded that a-wave is the characteristic of a relaxed and tranquil mind. Moreover, this degree of tranquillity cannot be achieved by other means such as sleep or hypnosis.
These results agreed with other experiments conducted on yogis in India who, at the beginning of their meditation, emitted characteristic conscious state wave formation, after a short time a-waves and after this an even slower wave called theta-waves. This shows that by meditation a state of relaxation is reached, which is increasingly tranquil, according to the length of the sitting and the experience of the practitioner.
It was found that when the brain emitted a-waves some physiological changes in the body were also brought about. These had the characteristic of tranquillity, serenity and perfect relaxed functioning. The heartbeat slowed, and blood pressure, oxygen metabolism and electrical resistance of the skin decreased. Blood lactate level decreased and the breathing rate slowed down. When the researchers examined each of these changes one by one, they came to an interesting conclusion.
First, the high heartbeat rate is the sign of an excited and mentally uncontrolled state. When the effort of doing the simple necessary tasks of life becomes a strenuous burden, the heartbeat rate is high. The scientists stated that meditation is the cure for this.
Second, high blood pressure is also the work of a worried mind, excited and anxious about the future prospects of career, business, livelihood, or the possible failure or success in life. The scientists stated that meditation is the cure for this.
Third, the oxygen metabolism is a measure of the oxygen requirement of the body cells. By practising meditation, not only the breathing rate decreased (this is normal for any relaxed or sleeping state), but also the actual requirement of the body cells for oxidation of nutrients decreased. This indicated the actual chemical reactions within the body slow down, the body requires less energy to maintain vitality and is, therefore, a more efficient mechanism. concluded that a-wave is the characteristic of a relaxed and tranquil mind. Moreover, this degree of tranquillity cannot be achieved by other means such as sleep or hypnosis.
First, the high heartbeat rate is the sign of an excited and mentally uncontrolled state. When the effort of doing the simple necessary tasks of life becomes a strenuous burden, the heartbeat rate is high. The scientits stated that meditation i the cure for this.
Third, the oxygen metabolism is a measure of the oxygen requirement of the body cells. By practising meditation, not only the breathing rate decreased (this is normal for any relaxed or sleeping state), but also the actual requirement of the body cells for oxidation of nutrients decreased. This indicated the actual chemical reactions within the body slow down, the body requires less energy to maintain vitality and is, therefore, a more efficient mechanism.
Volume 4 of the Golden Collection provides an Illuminating glimpse into the world of ancient scriptures. Sri Swami Satyananda’s introduction to tantra shastra and interpretation of several chapters of the Bhagavad gita bear testimony to his ability to bring the wisdom of the scriptures within the reader’s grasp. A series of lectures by Sri V.V. Baxi on the subject of the Bhagavad Gita. Along with a discourse by Sri U. Baxi on the concept of Samadhi in the Yoga sutras of sage Patanjali, are included in this volume.
Volume 5 of the Golden Collection presents Sri Swami Satyananda’s lectures given during his European tours throughout the sixties, expounding upon the theories and practical applications of tantra and yoga. Throughout his lectures, he highlights the importance of identifying and adopting an approach that is appropriate to the personality and needs of the practitioner. These interpretations will no doubt leave the leaders of today as spellbound as they left the audience so many years ago.
Volume 6 of the Golden Collection, is the tribute paid to a young sannyasin. In 1954, on the occasion of Sri Swami Satyananda’s thirty-first birthday, gurubhais, guests and visitors of the ashram in Rishikesh published a volume of tributes, The Life and Work of Swami Satyananda. They speak of the qualities of this young swami who expressed his spiritual awareness in the excellence of his day-to day activities of ashram life. It is clear that even at this young age, his greatness was recognized for he was an inspiration to all who came into contact with him.
On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee World Yoga Convention 2013, Munger, Bihar School of Yoga is pleased to present the golden Collection, a Compilation of the first publications of Sri Swam Satyananda Saraswati, Originally published in booklet format during the 1960’s and 1970’s their modest nature made the wealth of the ancient science of yoga accessible to one and all.
Some volumes of the Golden Collection are of a different nature. They Present tributes paid to Sri Swami Satyananda over a period of fifty-five years. From 1954 onwards people expressed their recognition, gratitude and love. These volumes are a chronicle of devotion to the extraordinary man and his mission.
Volume7 of the Golden collection is a tribute to tribute to Sri Swami Satyananda, spanning almost fifty years of his life, From 1963 to 2009, Yoga magazine became the forum of an unceasing flow of recognition and admiration which came from all corners of the world. These tributes are true Testimonies of love dedicated to the yogi, guru and master who inspired all through his radiant personality and practical teachings. The variety of tributes allows the reader of today to renew their connection and commitment to the path shown by Sri swami Satyananda.
On the occasion of its Golden Jubilee, the Bihar School of Yoga presents a collection of tributes paid to its founder, Sri Swami Satyananda Saraswati. From 1963 to 2009, Yoga magazine was the medium where people from around the world expressed their feelings for the yogi, the guru and guide. They recognized the value, novelty and depth of his teachings. Personal tributes, messages of gratitude and simple declarations of love were printed in the magazine. Some tell of a personal encounter that changed lives, others testify of yoga practices which helped deal with mental or physical difficulties, other tributes spesk of the inspiration received to lead a spiritual life.
The authors had different experiences: a personal meeting, a yoga course, a lecture to an enraptured audience, or just a single fleeting glimpse of Sri Swamiji. Whatever the occasion, life was not to be the same again. Some relationships lasted for decades, others ended shortly after the first encounter. Yet the impact was undeniable, and everyone was aware that something of great importance had occurred in their lives.
Inspiration never ceased to flow through Sri Swamiji's work and being. People met him in Munger, in cities and towns of India, on every continent of the globe and in the hamlet of Rikhia. Everywhere, he was the same dynamic messenger of wellbeing, peace and hope for a better world. People from all walks of life, at home and abroad, were able to connect to this Indian yogi who brought them yoga and a new way of living life. The tributes highlight of his skill to adjust to one and all, to clearly deliver his message and teachings in an accessible way" and to instil courage and motivation in the hearts of those who came into contact with him.
In the last twenty years of his life, Sri Swamiji's teaching expanded even more, and Rikhia became the nucleus of another revolution. After yoga, seva, service, and yajna, sacrificial rites, opened the doors to a new understanding of life and its purpose. This teaching was welcomed with open arms, admiration and gratitude. Again Sri Swamiji had filled the need of the time by showing how to use the benefits of yoga, seva and yajna for the upliftment of humankind.
Over the many decades, Swami Niranjanananda too paid tribute to Sri Swamiji in Yoga magazine. He elucidated the depth and intention of Sri Swamiji's teaching and mission. His explanation gave perspective; he placed Sri Swamiji in the context of the ancient spiritual traditions of India and the yogic renaissance of the 20th century. In this way, Swami Niranjan gave people an understanding which allowed them to grow and to embrace change and innovation.
Hardly a year went by without tributes printed to Sri Swamiji, expressing sincere appreciation of an exceptional being and his exceptional mission. A selection of those published in Yoga magazine are presented in this volume and continue to inspire and encourage the reader to follow the path shown by a true Master.
Volume 8 of the The Golden Collection is tribute to Sri Swami Satyananda, his life and teaching. After his Mahasamadhi in 2009, devotees and disciples expressed their love and gratitude to the man who change their lives foreer. Tributes to a Saint were published in Yoga magazine in 2010. They recognize the profound the profound impact Sri Swamiji had on people from all walks of life and all corners of the globe. He dedicated his life to the upliftment of humankind, and those who knew him personally or through his teachings are forever grateful to him.
Yoga - Tributes to a Saint
On the occasion of its Golden Jubilee, the Bihar School of Yoga presents a collection of tributes paid to its founder, Sri Swami Satyananda Saraswati, which were published in Yoga magazine in 2010.
After Sri Swamiji attained Mahasamadhi, on 5th December 2009, at Rikhiapeeth, Jharkhand, devotee and disciples, associated with the Bihar School of Yoga, expressed their respect and thanks to the saint who gave direction and meaning to their lives. He willingly and consciously ended his earthly life, but his presence in the lives of all those who knew him will never come to an end. This volume is proof of the everlasting connection of sincere affection between seeker and master.
Disciples and devotees talk of the profound guru-disciple relationship which changed their lives, opening doors to a new understanding of their place and purpose here on Earth. They describe the impact of his teachings, which many experienced as practitioners and teachers of yoga. For some, a book picked up in a bookshop made a student an ardent teacher eager to share the wealth of Satyananda Yoga - Bihar Yoga. Sri Swamiji offered himself and his teachings to the world unconditionally, giving whatever was the need of the day to whoever asked. With hi radiant personality he taught a yoga that was accessible to people of all creeds and nations. It was a yoga that could be practised, fully embraced and made part of one's day-to-day life. Hi ceaseless commitment to present yoga as a science of life was welcomed by all who recognized the need for such a practical yet holistic tool.
Another means to enhance the quality of one's life was born in Rikhia where Sri Swamiji applied Swami Sivananda's teaching of 'serve, love, give'. The practical implementation of these three words spread to hundreds of villages around Rikhia and around the world. This work is testimony of Sri Swamiji's pledge to involve himself in the upliftment of the individual and society. His teaching of seva, service, and yajna, sacrificial rites, was welcomed as a natural continuation to his mission of yoga, and people came in large numbers to Rikhia ready to follow the visionary, Sri Swamiji.
On the occasion of the Shodashi and Saptanjali ceremonies, conducted in December 2009 at Rikhiapeeth and Ganga Darshan respectively, tributes in honour of Sri Swamiji were paid by the kanyas and batuks of Rikhia, government dignitaries, Swami Niranjanananda, Swami Satyasangananda and sannyasins. One common theme transpires through each expression of homage: Sri Swamiji left his bodily frame but he is alive in the hearts of those he touched with his presence and grace. His memory will be kindled forever by a deep sense of gratitude and the promise to uphold with dignity the path he has mapped out for all to walk upon.
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