Living a Yogic Life: Rediscovering Our Essential Nature

The first session of Satsanga999 began on the sacred occasion of Jyeshtha Purnima, a full moon associated with the divine energies of Lord Mahavishnu and Sri Mahalakshmi. Welcoming participants to this nine-week journey of self-discovery, Guruji Rishiputra Balayogi Dr. Anandaji explained that this auspicious day was chosen to mark the beginning of a deeper exploration into Yogic Living. After invoking the blessings of the Guru Parampara, he encouraged everyone to participate with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to enquire.

Drawing upon the teachings of Param Pujya Swamiji, Guruji shared an important reminder: "Be childlike, but never childish." A child naturally approaches life with wonder, curiosity, and enthusiasm. Unfortunately, as we grow older, much of that inquisitiveness is replaced by rigid beliefs and conditioned thinking. The spiritual path asks us to regain that openness while developing maturity and discernment.

Guruji then posed the central question: What does it truly mean to live a yogic life?

Yoga, he explained, is often reduced to physical postures or breathing exercises. While these practices are valuable, they represent only a small part of the yogic tradition. Practising Yoga for an hour each day does not necessarily make one a yogi.

Yogic living is reflected in our thoughts, attitudes, relationships, actions, and our awareness of who we really are.

To explore this deeper understanding, Guruji introduced the Mahāvākyas, the great declarations of the Upanishads. Teachings such as Tat Tvam Asi ("Thou art That") and Ayam Ātmā Brahma ("This Self is Brahman") remind us that our essential nature is not limited to the body or mind but is one with the infinite universal consciousness. Guruji pointed out that these are not merely philosophical ideas but truths meant to be realised through direct experience.

Referring to the philosophy of Sankhya and the teachings of Maharishi Patanjali, Guruji explained that our inability to experience this reality is due to Avidyā, or ignorance. Because of this ignorance, we identify ourselves with our physical body, emotions, thoughts, and personality, forgetting our deeper identity.

Using a humorous analogy, Guruji observed that people constantly search for Wi-Fi wherever they go, while forgetting to reconnect with the deepest source of connection already present within themselves. Yoga, he said, helps us rediscover that forgotten connection.

He quoted a popular observation:

"If only trees gave Wi-Fi, we would be planting them everywhere. Too bad they only give us oxygen."

Quoting Patanjali's teachings, Guruji explained that the systematic practice of Yoga gradually removes the impurities that veil our inner wisdom. The eight limbs of Yoga are not goals in themselves but practical tools that help us rediscover our true nature.

Another important aspect of Yogic Living, Guruji emphasised, is living fully in the present moment. We may not yet be perfect, but each one of us possesses the potential to realise our highest nature. This understanding naturally brings humility, gratitude, and compassion.

Yogic living also transforms the way we relate to the world. Human beings are not owners of the Earth but custodians of creation. Every living being has an equal right to exist, and recognising this interconnectedness inspires kindness, responsibility, and unconditional sharing.

Guruji contrasted this yogic perspective with the competitive mindset encouraged by modern society. Instead of constantly comparing ourselves with others or participating in the endless "rat race," Yoga invites us to cultivate inner harmony and contentment.

Even if you win the rat race you are still just a rat!

One of the most memorable ideas shared during the session was Sukhasthānam, a term often used by Param Pujya Ammaji. Sukhasthānam refers to that inner space where we feel completely at ease with ourselves—a state of balance, peace, and harmony. The purpose of Yoga is to discover this inner stability, strengthen it through practice, and express it in every aspect of life.

The session concluded with Guruji reminding participants that spiritual knowledge must become lived experience. Reading scriptures or attending talks has little value unless the teachings begin to transform our daily lives. Every relationship, every challenge, and every moment becomes an opportunity to remember our true nature and live with greater awareness.

Ultimately, Guruji left everyone with a simple yet profound message: Yoga is not merely something we practise—it is a way of being. Through sincere practice, self-enquiry, and conscious living, we gradually remove the veil of ignorance and allow our essential nature to shine forth. This is the heart of Yogic Living and the foundation upon which the journey of Satsanga999 unfolds.