breathing awareness

As I sit at my desk, penning down my thoughts, I am reminded of the essence of who we are and how we grow. At SaiSankalpam.com, our mission revolves around a transformative journey toward holistic health and well-being. This journey is deeply rooted in what I believe are the Four Pillars of Success: Physical Well-being, Mental Clarity, Emotional Balance, and Spiritual Growth. Today, I am excited to share with you how the T.E.A.R. Formula — Thoughts, Energy, Action, and Results — can guide us from good health to profound spiritual awakening.

Holistic health is not merely an absence of illness. It is experiencing life with zest and equilibrium. When we talk about the Four Pillars of Success, we must start from the foundation: our physical self. Imagine your body as the temple in which all other pillars stand. It is here that our journey with the T.E.A.R. Formula begins.

Conscious Eating

“Eating is not just about fueling the body; it’s an appreciation of the cycle of life.” One evening, I found myself having dinner with friends. Instead of rushing through the meal, we decided to engage in conscious eating. Each bite was savored, each flavor examined — it was a meditative experience. Conscious eating connects us back to the present, making us aware of our physical need and spiritual connection with nature. By appreciating what we consume, we align our thoughts with gratitude, generating energy that forms the basis for positive actions and results.

Rest: The Bedrock of Growth

Physical well-being also involves adequate rest, a luxury often neglected. In our fast-paced world, rest is revolutionary. One personal practice that has transformed my rest habits is the “breathing pause.” Taking intentional, deep breaths several times throughout the day calms the mind and resets our inner rhythm. This form of active rest prepares the body for deeper sleep, allowing restorative forces to rejuvenate the body and mind.

The Power of Gratitude

When I talk about gratitude, I am reminded of a profound teaching by Sathya Sai Baba: “Gratitude is a sacred duty.” Every day, I engage in a gratitude walk — a simple yet effective technique where I walk amidst nature, reflecting on my blessings. This daily ritual not only anchors me but boosts emotional balance by releasing endorphins and aligning positive thoughts that translate into energy for constructive actions.

Breathing for Balance

Breath is the bridge between the mind and body. Through disciplined breathing exercises, or pranayama, we nurture mental clarity and emotional stability. Take a moment every day for focused breathing — inhaling deeply through the nose, holding for a count, and exhaling slowly. This practice is a cornerstone in stress reduction, enabling you to approach life with a calm and focused mind.

Discipline and the Spiritual Path

Swami’s message has always emphasized self-discipline as a portal to spiritual growth. Discipline in maintaining health appointments, exercise routines, and mental hygiene is crucial. When I committed to a nightly routine of reflection and meditation, my discipline evolved into a pathway for spiritual insight. The simple act of reading a passage from a spiritual text or reflecting on my day offers insights that bridge physical efforts with spiritual development.

Now, let us explore how the T.E.A.R. Formula forms a bridge between our efforts and spiritual growth through the metaphor of two triangles. In the first triangle — Thoughts, Energy, Action — each element supports the next. Thoughts forge the energy needed for action. When aligned with purpose, our thoughts naturally generate energy, prompting actions that are in harmony with our spiritual and physical aspirations.

In the second triangle — Action, Results — the cycle completes itself as disciplined actions yield results. When our actions are aligned with spiritual principles, we achieve results that nurture our soul, forging unity between physical health and spiritual growth.

Practical Techniques for Daily Health Care

1. Mindful Meal: Dedicate one meal a day to silence and mindfulness. Focus on each texture, aroma, and taste, enhancing digestion and grounding your spirit.

2. Gratitude Walk: Spend 15 minutes walking outdoors, focusing on five things you’re thankful for. This simple practice enhances mood and perspective.

3. Breathing Pause: Implement a 5-minute breathing exercise three times a day. Deep inhalations followed by slow exhalations help find equilibrium amid daily stressors.

4. Nightly Reflection: Spend 10 minutes before bed reflecting on your day. Note what went well and what could be improved, fostering mental clarity.

5. Morning Discipline: Start the day with a set routine: stretching, hydration, and 5 minutes of meditation, setting a positive tone for the day.

Finally, remember that transformation is a journey, not a destination. By embracing the Four Pillars of Success and the T.E.A.R. Formula, you are embarking on a path that bridges the physical to the spiritual. As we align our thoughts and actions with love and purpose, we build a foundation that not only supports holistic health but also extends our consciousness, reaching the realms of spiritual fulfillment.

For more insights and guidance on this journey, stay connected with SaiSankalpam.com.

In love and light,

Dr. Ravindranath G
Founder, SaiSankalpam.com