Barely Known Point

Date: 13 Jul 2011 21:06:41 -0000
From: "Subhash Deva"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Barely Known Point

Baba

"Tumi sudha'taraunge khelicho raunge saba'r saunge niyato..." (PS 700)

Purport:

Baba, since eternity You have been playing Your divine game. By Your
grace it is filled with the vibration of colour and nectar. You are
playing with one and all - blessing everyone. Baba, You never get tired;
You never stop; You go on working day and night. Your liila is eternal.
Baba, even when there was no creation, no planets, stars or galaxies,
and also when there was no existence of the vast sky, when there was
absolutely nothing, then in that great void You were ever-present,
remaining alone. Even before and prior to the beginning of the creation
You were there, emanating with Your divine vibration. Baba Your liila
cannot be expressed in words and language. Since eternity You have been
present and You will remain forever. You are the Supreme Nucleus of this
whole cosmic cycle...


                  == BARELY KNOWN POINT ==

Namaskar,
As we approach the full moon I felt this topic is most appropriate.

By Baba's grace, I had His darshan on a few occasions - one of which was
in Patna during the year 1971. Usually when in His Presence, I would
just watch and listen intently, mesmerized by His divine aura.

On this particular occasion, the idea came in mind to note down Baba's
words and ideas in my diary. So that is what I did.


           ACCURATE NOTATION, BUT NOT TRANSCRIPTION

The following is not an actual transcription for publication, but it is
an accurate review of what Baba discussed on that day. Afterwards, my
notes were checked with those of two different Dadas and PA Dada gave
his approval.

I have discussed this below topic on numerous occasions with margiis in
my unit and then I began to think that in this electronic era, more
should have access to this information. After all, everything is due to
His grace and He has come for the upliftment of all. In that case, how
can I rightfully keep this to myself or to my village locale.

I will feel especially graced if any or all of the below helps others on
the path, coming closer to His lotus feet.


         THE UNIQUE TOPIC FROM THAT DAY IN PATNA 1971

Specifically, that day was the unique occasion wherein Baba clearly
described why fasting is so important for our human growth and
development and how fasting counteracts the negative effects of the
celestial bodies during certain lunar days, or tithis.

What He told in this Patna darshan is not in any of the published
material (that I am aware of) about fasting. It is not in Caryacarya
part III nor in other publications.

I have since asked many acaryas about this and they too cannot tell if
or when Baba discussed this topic in other places. So this does seem to
be quite unique material.


                          PART 1:

             UPWARD PULL BY CELESTIAL BODIES

In this darshan, Baba began by telling that due to the pull or
attraction of certain celestial bodies like the moon and the sun, the
liquid portion of the earth rises. Baba was detailing how the tides of
the ocean and sea levels are affected by the pull of the moon on
particular lunar days, ekadhashii, or the 11th lunar day, pu'rn'ima',
and amavasya.

(Note: Of course, the modern day sciences of geology and physics have
verified this fact. The earth's oceans and tides are primarily 's
affected by the moon etc and can result in tidal waves and other
dangerous conditions.)

Then Baba began to systemically explain how even the liquid section in
our human body also gets affected on such lunar days (tithis).
Specifically the liquid portion rises up and disturbs the regular
functioning of the brain and other primary organs in the upper regions
of the body. One's thinking and sadhana are affected on these days.

(Note: As you may know, our bodies are 70% to 75% water / fluid, so when
the liquid portion of the body is affected, its affect is quite dramatic
and can even make people to do crazy things. That is why lunacy stems
from the root luna meaning moon. Due to the effect of the moon, people
lose their mental balance. This is also recognised in the common society)


                         PART 2:

                 THE EFFECT ON THE CAKRAS

In the next sequence, Baba began detailing the effects on the cakras.
Because when the liquid portion rises up then the upper cakras are
hampered.

Under normal conditions, the vishuddha cakra (5th cakra) to the
sahasra'ra cakra (7th cakra) are purely for subtle and sentient
pursuits. These cakras are totally sattvika or sentient.

The manipura cakra (3rd cakra) to anaha'ta cakra (4th cakra) deal with
both higher and lower works, both spiritual and physical activities.
Baba has classified these as being ra'jasik, a mixture of crude and subtle.

Then the two lower cakras - muladhara (1st cakra) and svadhisthana (2nd
cakra) - only deal with baser activities, as they are ta'masik in
nature. But as we all know certain crude works need to be attended to in
this life, so those lower cakras also have their purpose.

That is how Baba described it in this darshan.

Now here comes the key point:

On certain lunar days - tithis - like ekadhashii, or the 11th lunar day,
pu'rn'ima' (full moon), and amavasya (new moon), the liquid portion of
the body rises up and disturbs the functioning of the upper cakras -
i.e. the ra'jasik and sentient cakras, which means the manipur cakra all
the way up to the sahasra'ra cakra are all affected.

(Note: Baba also differentiates between lunar days known as tithis and
solar days known as din in Sanskrit. And it is these lunar days or
tithis which create this disturbance in the body.)

On those aforementioned lunar days or tithis (ekadashii, purnima &
amavasya), due to the adverse effect of the moon's pull and the ensuing
rise of the liquid portion of the human body, those higher cakras cannot
function normally. In turn, our entire existence is negatively affected.
Our regular and higher functioning of mind becomes impaired.


                           PART 3:

              HOW YOGIS ADDRESSED THIS PROBLEM

The ancient yogis - being practical scientists and researchers - knew
well that the upper cakras could not carry out their normal manner of
functioning on those tithis, so they came up with a solution.

And that solution was: fasting.

Then Baba revealed one very interesting idea. He told us that when one
fasts, a vacuum is created in the stomach - because there is neither
water nor food in the belly - and that vacuum pulls the liquid back
down. That brings relief to our entire system on these lunar days.

(Note: Many Wts familiar with Baba's discourses that this Patna
discourse is one of the few places, if not only place, where Baba
revealed this point about creating a vacuum in the stomach.)

In that case, when fasting during those lunar days like ekadashii, then
the higher organs are no longer hampered by the liquids which would
normally rise up on those lunar days. Hence, the lungs, heart, thyroid,
brain etc can work smoothly as usual.

That is the great benefit to the physical and mental body during fasting
days.

Baba also then gave proof of this theory. He told that those suffering
from arthritis and gout will experience worse conditions during
ekadashii and other tithis. They will not experience any remission on
these days. Because the liquid portions of the body rises up and creates
problems for such patients.

So for all these reasons and more, fasting is a necessity for human
health and vitality.


                             PART 4:

                  OUR PRACTICE IN ANANDA MARGA

Then in a very sweet manner Baba began to discuss about the fasting
system in Ananda Marga.

He explained that our fasting days occur on the following tithis:
eleventh moon (ekadashii), full moon (purnima), and new moon (amavasya).

Then He said how He did not prescribe four fastings to family people -
just two, i.e. the two fasting days of ekadashii. That will help them
greatly in their physical and spiritual life.

Wts are required to do four fastings as they need to engage in more
spiritual activities. Baba was careful to explain that Wts are not, by
definition, more spiritual or devotional than margiis, but clarified
that due to the nature of Wt life, they have more spiritually oriented
duties.

Finally, Baba added that all family people are welcome to fast 4 times
each month, but for them it is not a requirement. Should, however, any
family person adopt the practice of fasting on purnima and amavasya,
then they will not be questioned in any way. If they desire, they may
freely do.


                           PART 5:

                     UPA'VASA NOT ANANSA

Baba then clarified that our fasting days are more than just days where
we refrain from taking food. Not eating is known as anashana in Sanskrit.

But that is now our approach.

We call our fasting days as upa'va'sa. Then Baba explained the meaning
several times using various examples and definitions from the realm of
linguistics, and we all repeated and replied.

Upa' means "near", and va'sa means "sitting". Hence upa'va'sa means to
sit or reside or live near the Lord.

Here below is a quote from one of Baba's published discourses on
upa'vas'sa.

Baba says, "Upa” is a Sam'skrta prefix. In Sam'skrta there are twenty
recognized prefixes, and one of these prefixes is “upa”. “Upa” means
“proximity”. And “Va'sa” means “to live”, “to reside”. The word
“upava'sa” means then, “to live near the Lord”. “Upava'sa” – on these
days of fasting, what are all spiritual aspirants to do? Mentally they
should live near their Lord. On all other days they are to remain
balanced between objective adjustment and subjective approach. On these
days of fasting, however, on these days of upava'sa, one remains in
closer proximity to the Lord than to one’s mundane duties. That is why
these days are known as “upava'sa”. The word “fasting” does not
represent the proper sense or proper spirit. The Sam'skrta term for
going without food is “anashana” – “ana” means not, “ashana” means
eating – not “upava'sa”. But these eka'dashii, amavasya and pu'rn'ima'
days are days of upava'sa." (AV-6)

The above passage was given in a discourse from 1978. It nicely
complements what Baba told us that day in 1971 about upa'va'sa so I have
included it here.

Let's now return to what Baba told us in Patna (1971).

He told us that during fasting, one may encounter difficulty in doing
intense physical labour on that day. Some people may not experience any
hardship, but for others doing tough physical tasks may be beyond their
reach. It varies person to person.

In that case on upa'vasa', one should engage in more intellectual and
spiritual pursuits, and less in physical duties. One should goad the
mind toward higher echelons of philosophy, ideology, and devotional
life. On these days, one should sit near Parama Purusa. That is what
Baba repeats again and again.

Thus our fasting days are not just anashana (not eating), but upavasa as
we are to pursue maximally in the spiritual realm and remain with the Lord.


                        BABA'S BLESSING

So these are the chief notations that were in my diary from that day.
Because this posting is written in letter format and because it is an
email etc, I have adjusted my notes accordingly, but all the facts and
points are included.

Again I will say that perhaps the two unique points from that darshan are:
(1) A main function of fasting is to free the upper cakras from the
negative effects of liquids rising up in the human body.
(2) The way this happens is that a vacuum is created in the stomach due
to a dearth of food and water and that vacuum pulls those liquids back
downward.

The principles - both physical and spiritual - of our fasting days allow
us all to progress, despite the inherent difficulties of living on this
earth. It is truly Baba's grace that He has given a method and solution
for overcoming every problem.

By Baba's grace He has given us all the opportunity and practices to
live eternally at His lotus feet.

Namaskar,
Subhash

For Optimal Health-- Part V

From: "Mirabai _Devii"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: For Optimal Health-- Part V
Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2011 19:44:25

Baba

                       NATURAL WAY OF LIVING-- PART V:

                  CLEANSING TOXINS FROM THE BODY

Namaskar,
Note: One WT has published "tips" how to break fast and those are reviewed
in this below posting.


                     ALL WANT TO BE HEALTHY

All around the globe there is a growing interest, and even fascination, in
human health & wellness. People are trying innumerable types of tonics,
diets, pills, surgeries, procedures, and remedies to increase their quality
of life. But unfortunately most of the public guidelines are improper and
push innocent people in the wrong direction.

By Baba's divine grace we Ananda Margiis are in a unique position. Because
He has graciously bestowed on us all the inner secrets and special tips for
living a long and prosperous life. Among these many wonderful guidelines,
one very helpful process is Baba's unique system of fasting & breaking
fast-- as it cleanses and purifies the entire body.

In the general society most have never even heard of fasting, or never
tried it. And those who have done it often proceed via improper
instructions, thus causing more harm than good. However in Ananda Marga
Baba has blessed us with the perfect and ultimate system.


                       BABA'S GOLDEN SYSTEM

As every Ananda Margiis is well aware, Baba's expressed teaching is to fast
from sunrise to sunrise-- thus giving the body's organs ample time for
complete rest and rejuvenation. This is one unique aspect.

And another speciality of the AM system of fasting is the special emphasis
which Baba places on breaking fast properly. On numerous occasions Baba
Himself has told that animals know how to fast but only humans know how to
break fast. The point being that there is a definite and proper way to
break fast-- and this is how the toxins get removed. Thus a wrong technique
such as haphazardly breaking fast or prematurely filling the body with food
will ruin the entire detoxification process.

Hence Baba has put forth the idea that everyone should follow a rational
and systematic approach for breaking fast. And as a review here are a few
of those teachings.


         A FEW OF BABA'S GUIDELINES FOR BREAKING FAST

[A] Baba guides us that we should give ourselves plenty of time the morning
of breaking fast to attend to our spiritual practices as well as for
the actual process of breaking fast. Doing everything in a rushed or
hurried manner and then running off to the office or catching a bus is not
at all advisable. Instead that will just create more problems as the body
is in a very delicate state and needs proper time to be re-hydrated and
energized. Hence as most of us require less sleep the night of fasting we
should rise early the next morning to give ourselves a maximum amount of
time.

[B] Another invaluable guideline which Baba has given us is the great
emphasis He places on drinking water and hydrating the body.

Baba says, "To maintain the internal functions of the body without
hindrance and to maintain the internal liquid balance, everyone should
drink a sufficient quantity of water." (YT, Appendix A)

And Baba continues to explain that on normal day a healthy person should
drink 3-4 liters as a baseline. So on breaking fast morning when the body
is dehydrated it is obvious that we should also drink a very "generous"
amount of water-- and not just a single glass.

And, as we have all experienced, on the morning of breaking fast drinking
an ample amount of water fulfills two distinct purposes. Firstly by
ingesting a minimum of 2-3 liters of lemon salt water then the body is able
to cleanse itself from top to bottom. The toxins are pulled from the
entire body and the entire length of the digestive track is made sparkling
clean.

Thereafter by drinking fresh water the second task is accomplished.
And that is to re-hydrate the body because after a 36 hour dry fast the
body is in need of water. Thus after cleaning the body with lemon salt
water one must drink another liter or two of fresh water to properly
hydrate the body. As others have described before, this two-fold process of
water drinking has to be completed prior to taking any solid food.

[C] When the body is cleansed and hydrated then one can eat a few ripe
bananas by chewing them properly to promote smooth and easy digestion. This
will give some calories to energize the body and when these bananas have
properly settled in the stomach (approximately 20-25 minutes) one should
again drink water before taking a light meal of well hydrated rice and
vegetables or other food commonly available in your locale.

[D] So these are some of the key points yet no doubt there are various
other detailed steps about breaking fast that others have already written
about.


                          GREAT RESULTS    
          
The grand outcome of all of this is a dynamic and wonderful cleansing
process which consumes the entire body.

Baba says, "As a result of fasting, the poisonous and unproductive waste of
the body gets destroyed and expelled." (CC-3)

Thus by Baba's complete system of fasting and breaking fast all the toxins
get removed and the body becomes vibrant and pure.


                         ONE BLACK SPOT

Unfortunately in one small corner of our present day AM society, one WT is
preaching and publishing something different which runs counter to Baba's
perfectly prescribed system and guidelines. For the awareness of all and to
clear the matter entirely, we should all be aware about the defective
approach being advocated by this WT.

                                                           
                     FAULTY RECOMMENDATION #1

Our WT wrote: "Break the fast the next morning after sunrise with a glass of lemon juice
(about 1/4 of a fresh lemon in a glass of water), with a little salt or honey."

Needless to say drinking only a single glass of lemon water on the morning
of breaking fast will never ever suffice. That is like placing a tiny drop
of water in the desert. Because a mere small glass of water is nothing
compared to what the body really needs. Not to mention that one cannot
cleanse the body with that paltry amount of fluid either. In which case all
the toxins, previously undigested food, and other waste material will just
sit and linger in the body. And those dirty substances will release their
negative microvita throughout the entire body since they could not get
expelled from the body. Thus on multiple accounts this incorrect guideline
of drinking only 1 glass of water is totally wrong and harmful as it goes
against Baba's expressed teachings. So no one should do like this and we
should warn others also. Because unfortunately one WT published this faulty
suggestion in their book.


                     FAULTY RECOMMENDATION #2

Then that same WT wrote: "Then eat 1/2 or a whole banana slowly, biting off
small pieces and swallowing them whole without chewing."

So after drinking only 8 ounces or 1/4 liter of water, now this WT is
recommending to eat a banana without chewing it.

Yet for sound health, Baba's explicit teaching in Yogic Treatments book is
that all the food taken into the body must be digested properly. And part
and parcel of this process is chewing since this act of chewing awakens and
stimulates the digestive enzymes and produces saliva in the mouth-- thus
allowing for proper digestion.

But on this most sensitive time of taking the first solid food after a
fast, our WT is putting in black and white that one must not chew their
food. So this is another "faux pas" or negative guideline given that is
contrary to Baba's teaching.


                     FAULTY RECOMMENDATION #3

The WT writer then recommends: "If possible, wait a 1/2 hour and then eat your
breakfast."

So lastly, after not cleaning or hydrating at all, and after not chewing a
banana, now the guideline has come to eat breakfast after just a short gap
of time, or even right away if one does not have an adequate amount of
time. Without question, this type of thing will create one "train-wreck" in
the stomach. Because in that dehydrated state unchewed food is being mixed
with a full meal of new food and that is all getting mixed into one mass
along with the toxins and waste that never got released from the system.
All of which spells disaster for any human being. No doubt this is not what
Baba means when He says that we should break fast in a proper way.


                           BABA'S WARNING

This WT erred from the path because they tried to invent their own way that
was not at all consonant with Baba's guidelines. Otherwise what can be the
cause. And even worse is that they put those things in print-- thus
misguiding all. So before following anyone's professed recommendations we
should always evaluate how far those things are truly proper or not. This
is Baba's warning.

Baba says, "Whatever people learn from the external world-- be it from a
book of facts or a learned discourse, or any source of knowledge-- is
'prapta vakya' or 'relative knowledge'. It is sometimes correct, sometimes
incorrect." (PNS-18, p. 6-7)

Thus in the world there a countless books full of wrong information like
the section of that book about breaking fast written by our WT.


                    ONLY BABA'S TEACHINGS ARE BEST

Baba's teachings are best. They are the Supreme Guideline. Thus whether in
the realm of sadhana or fasting, by following His way we will always
proceed along the road of progress and welfare.

Baba says, "Knowledge directly from the Cosmic Mind is true and beneficial
for all people in all ages and in all countries. It is called 'apta vakya'
or absolute knowledge. The books in Ananda Marga [i.e. Baba's books] are
all absolute knowledge." (PNS-18)

Namaskar,
Mirabai


Note 1:       OVER-EATING THE NIGHT BEFORE SPELLS TROUBLE

As a general rule, it is important not to overeat and stuff oneself the
night before fasting. Certainly we have all seen how this is a common
tendency; but this type of overeating is to be avoided as it delays or even
disturbs the body's cleansing process and makes it difficult or even
impossible to break fast properly. So to maximize the benefits of a fast
one should take care about the quantity of food taken the evening prior.


Note 2:  MISREPRESENTING ANANDA MARGA ON THE PUBLIC PLATFORM

It is highly unfortunate that the involved WT has written these misguided
ideas in a published book that has been translated into multiple languages
and circulated all around the globe. Hence the problem or tragedy is
two-fold, at minimum.

Firstly, hundreds or even thousands of readers have already been
misinformed and anyone following those printed suggestions has been taught
the wrong technique for breaking fast-- thus causing them harm and
difficulty. So the book was written to help others yet here the opposite
effect is happening.

Next, when this point of breaking fast is wrong then simple readers may
think that all the points in the book are wrong. This would be a natural
conclusion to arrive at. In which case the common people may also blame
that the book's recommendation of a vegetarian diet is also harmful. Thus
this is another negative outcome or possibility.

And worst of all is that these mistakes committed by this WT were done in
the name of Ananda Marga. Because the book itself was printed by AM
Publications; and not only that but Baba's name appears in countless places
throughout the book. So naive readers will be misled to believe that the
faulty recommendation given by the WT for breaking fast is consistent with
or part of Baba's divine teachings of AM. Thus the public will form a poor
opinion in that regard also. Means the sloppy and misguided work of this WT
reflects negatively on our Marga. This is the yet another tragedy.

When in fact in all the spheres from relief work to meditation to human
health we are trying to project Baba's Supreme and seamless teachings to the
general society in the best way possible yet this WT's book is going against.


Note 3:      WHICH WT IS WRITING LIKE THIS

The WT who has given these "recommendations" for breaking fast is Didi
Ananda Mitra. She is the one who is misguiding others on this sensitive
issue of breaking fast. Because it is in her book "Food for Thought" ('91
Edn, pp. 78-9) that contains all these wrongful and indeed harmful directives.




Note 4:        EARLIER LETTERS ON THIS TOPIC: PARTS 1 - 4
http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/01/for-optimal-health.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/01/for-optimal-health-ii.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/02/for-optimal-health-iii.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/02/for-optimal-health-iv.html


                           PRABHAT SAMGIITA

"Iisha'n toma'r vis'a'n' bejeche, alasata' dure sare geche..."   (P.S. 2496)

Purport:

 Baba, Your divine call and thundering voice is resonating all around &
has removed the staticity, dogma, and lethargy from everyone's mind. Those
negative things which were impeding the path of human progress have
disappeared into the far distant horizon. Now the degenerated state of
dogma cannot remain any longer. Living beings have gotten new life, smiles,
and joy due to the rejuvenating spirit of Neo-Humanism.
 The world which was sleeping in the past is getting awakened. New leaves
and flowers are beautifying the green vegetation and trees. Everything has
been filled with the colours of flowers & fruits-- ensconced in the feeling
of service to one and all.  
 Now there are no narrow sentiments or dogmatic thoughts which can hinder
our forward movement. Now there is no one to create obstacles on our path
towards our cherished Goal.
 The time has come that, under this free sky and beautiful environment, I
should go on marching forward undauntedly towards You. O' Parama Purusa...


         ********************************************
                      Need of the Day

Baba says, "The newly awakened humanity of today is anxious to herald the
advent of one universal society under the vast blue sky. The noble and
righteous persons of all countries, bound by fraternal ties, are eager to
assert in one voice, with one mind, and in the same tune that human society
is one and indivisible." (AFPS, pt 2 p.25)

Note: Nowadays in our Marga society, a few are forgetting this truth. They
should understand that this is not in the favour of dharma. Rather the call
of dharma is to form one human society.                   
        ********************************************

For Optimal Health IV

Date: Sat, 12 Feb 2011 12:57:41 +0530
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From:
Subject: For Optimal Health IV

Baba

              == FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH PART IV ==

Namaskar,
Each and every Ananda Margii understands that Baba has blessed us with all
the gifts for a fruitful life. He has graciously bestowed upon us the
needed tools, guidelines, and "know-how" for a pristine and sweet
existence. And while so many of His teachings lead us in this direction,
certainly His divine guidelines about fasting are also an essential
ingredient. For it is by this wonderful process of regular fasting that our
whole entire being gets cleansed and purified-- in all the realms of life:
physical, mental, and spiritual. And that propels us forward towards our
cherished Goal.


                  PURIFYING THE PHYSICAL BODY

On the physical plane, fasting plays a direct and significant role. Because
the whole health and balance of the physical body revolves around the
stomach. Non-sadhakas may raise their eyebrows about such a statement, but
those with just a little inner understanding about their bodily systems and
functions recognise that the stomach is the nucleus and the most integral
organ for maintaining human health on a day to day basis.

Because only in the case of the stomach does something from the external
environment actually enter inside the body. And that "something" which
enters is of course food which gets deposited directly into the stomach;
and then in turn the various nutritional (and not-so-nutritional)
components get distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. But the
stomach is the starting point.

So if the stomach is not in good working order and if it cannot do its job
properly, then the immediate effect is that the limbs and the various body
parts and organs get adversely affected and diseased.

And what results are problems like: Acidity, gout, rheumatism, obesity,
skin diseases, and ultimately cancer, heart disease, and more. All of this
starts with the initial onset of difficulties in the stomach. And in
numerous chapter of Yogic Treatment book, Baba clearly describes this.
Yet, as we may have experienced, the practice of regular fasting naturally
controls all these problems. Because before any real difficulty develops
the health of the human body is restored. That is why most sadhakas do not
suffer from the aforementioned physical ailments and diseases. Instead we
enjoy a strong state of health.

And if per chance any problem does arise, then in numerous chapters of His
Yogic Treatment book, Baba prescribes fasting as a cure. Hence fasting is
an excellent resource and remedy for various physical ailments and diseases
as it helps purify the entire body.

Baba says, "Fasting is also included in the scope of Pramitaha'r, because
it gives rest to the digestive organs and frees the body from so many
ailments." (AV-14)

Baba says, "During fasting the body's organs get a good rest, and the
healing process is more rapid." (YT, p.95)

Thus those who fast regularly maintain a healthy and vibrant existence and
find that the body becomes completely habituated and adjusted to this cycle
of fasting. Such that the body is anxious and ready for the next fasting as
the day approaches. This is the common experience of many sadhakas. And by
this way the body keeps itself neat and clean.


                  MENTAL CLARITY AND SHARPNESS

In addition, on the mental plane also fasting has a tremendous effect.
Because we have all experienced that after a big meal we tend to feel
sleepy, tired, and even a bit dull. This is the common problem and the
reason behind this is that when we ingest food then that blood has to race
to the stomach to help in digestion. And in that way less fresh oxygenated
blood goes to the brain.

So during fasting none of the body's crucial resources get diverted towards
the stomach. In which case the body can better support one's mental
functioning.

That is why on fasting day sadhakas experience a distinct clarity of
thought and mental freshness. The mind is flexible and sharp as it is not
dragged down by the comparatively crude bodily functions such as digestion.

Another everyday example of this phenomenon is that just before an exam or
important meeting or debate, then no student or professional person will
eat a large meal. Otherwise their mental faculties will be significantly
hampered.

That is why in numerous traditions people proclaim that a light stomach
equals a light mind. And fasting is an exceptional method for enhancing
mental concentration and energy.


                     BENEFITS IN SPIRITUAL LIFE

And of course the benefits of fasting in spiritual life are well known to
all. No doubt initially at the very beginning one may feel that it is
difficult to do sadhana on fasting days. But with just a little effort many
sadhakas experience very good sadhana on those days since all of the body's
energy can be utilised for spiritual pursuits. And Baba's guideline below
is pointing in this same direction.

Baba says, "As a result of fasting, the poisonous and unproductive waste of
the body gets destroyed and expelled. Moreover, the energy that is not
expended in digesting food can be utilised for other purposes. Therefore, a
fast day is an excellent time for sadhana." (CC-3)


              FASTING IS NOT JUST FASTING BUT UPAVASA

Here below Baba colorfully describes how we are to spend our fasting days.

BABA says, "'Upa' means proximity. And va'sa means to live, to reside. So
the upava'sa word means to live near the Lord.  In these days of fasting,
what the aspirants are to do? Mentally they should live near their Lord. On
all other days there remains a balance between external objective
adjustment, and subjective approach. An adjustment between objective
adjustment and subjective approach. But on these fasting, or upava'sa, the
aspirant remains more in proximity to the Lord than in other mundane
duties. That's why these days are known as "upava'sa". The word 'fasting'
doesn't carry the proper sense or the proper spirit of the term 'upava'sa'.
To go without food, for this the proper word is anasan. 'An' means not,
'asan' means eating. And not upava'sa. So these ekadashii, amava'sya, and
purnima they are, upava'sa. Do you follow?" (BABA)

And Baba's next guideline further details how fasting days are perfect for
an enhanced spiritual routine.

Baba says, "These fixed [fasting] days are called upavasa since during
these days people keeping their minds engaged in spiritual matters 'live
closer' to God, and any possibility of mental degradation is averted: their
humanity is not endangered by the lengthening shadows of annihilation."
(NSS, p.188)

By all this we an understand that on fasting days one can enjoy heightened
spiritual awareness and thus deepen their devotional link with Parama
Purusa-- Baba.


                      CLOSING AND REQUEST

We have all experienced how our AM practices produce a beneficial effect.
Thus when fasting itself has such a direct link with one's physical,
mental, spiritual development, then others are encouraged to share some of
the things they have experienced by this important practice. It will be
inspiring to hear other's stories and reflections.

Namaskar,
Manjit


Note 1:        LINKS TO OTHER LETTERS ON THIS TOPIC

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/02/for-optimal-health-iii.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/01/for-optimal-health-ii.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/01/for-optimal-health.html


Note 2: Here following Baba says more about the process of upavasa.
Baba says, "Upavasa in the sense of fasting is also useless...if one does
real upavasa that can do a lot. The scriptural meaning of uspavasa is-- by
derivation-- upa which means "near", and va'sa, which means "to stay".
Upa'vasa therefore means "to make the mind stay near Parama'tma'". In other
words, it means to withdraw the mind from thoughts of physicalities and
keep it near Parama'tama'. The sanskrit word for fasting as such is
anashana [remaining hungry / starving]." (AVM 23, p. 36-7)


Note 3: THERE ARE MANY IMPORTANT POINTS REGARDING FASTING

This is the fourth part of this series on the benefits and importance of
fasting and how to break fast. Because as we know fasting itself is not
enough; as sadhakas it is essential that fast be broken in a complete yet
gentle manner. Otherwise the health benefits of the fasting will be lost.
Thus for a complete view of fasting please also reference the other
postings on this topic noted above


                           PRABHAT SAMGIITA

"Toma'y khunje khunje priyo, din je ket'e ja'y..."     (P.S. 3982)

Purport:

 Baba, my most adorable One, with deep longing in search of You my days
are passing in vain. In the absence of getting You my whole life is
gradually getting wasted. O' my dearmost, where have I not looked for You.
I have wandered around and searched in the seven oceans, on the mountain
peaks, as well as on the earth, and also in the caves-- in every nook and
corner of this world, but alas I could not get You.

Baba, day and night, secretly I also searched You in the flower garden
and in various holy lands and tiirthas-- all done in hopes of getting a
glance at You. Baba I searched everywhere with the hope that one day I will
find You. But, in the end, all my efforts were for naught.

Baba, with deep longing in my heart, I have also searched You in the
galaxies, meteors, nebulae, and in the stars-- all around & everywhere.
Also I searched for You in the dark, black coloured clouds on the rainy
days, in the scorching heat of the summer season, as well as in the shade
of the tree in springtime. Baba, I have searched for You with a deep
yearning and longing in my heart; I have looked for You everywhere.

 Baba, by Your grace on one colourful golden dawn saturated in the
effulgence & aroma of a newly blossoming flower, You advented in my heart.
Your grand arrival came after a long, deep, dark, & painful night of
searching for You. But in the end You graced me and advented in my mind.
Baba, You are so gracious...


          ***************************************
                    Life is For Baba

                 "This life is for Him..."
 "... His universe we will serve in coordination team..."                                                             
                       (PS 5009)

Note: In Baba's above divine teaching, He is guiding us that we should work
unitedly. However, demonic groupist leaders are trying to ruin this. To
please Baba, our collective duty is to save this situation in a united way.
          ***************************************

For Optimal Health

Date: 28 Jan 2011 10:04:29 -0000
From: "Mahesh  Rastogi"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: For Optimal Health

Baba

"Toma'r raune raun mishiye cale, yete ca'i sumukhe..."  (P.S. 2368)

Purport:

 Baba, by surrendering all the colours of my mind-- all the attractions and
attachments of my mind-- by surrendering everything to You, I want to move
on and on, by Your grace. Baba, I want to offer all my colours, desires,
and longings at Your alter. My only desire is to move on the path, dancing
according to Your rhythm, Your melody. But somehow always I am losing its
tune.
 Baba, by Your grace, I am holding Your flag in my hand. You have given
me the desire, energy, and duty to follow and spread Your ideology, Your
teachings. You have instilled the feeling within me that even if no one
else is coming along, still I will go on marching ahead on Your path. Baba
Your grace is ever-showering on my entire existence. Baba, You are always
along with me. And You are always giving me strength in my heart to march
forward. By Your grace, You have filled my heart with Your inspiration and
grace. For this reason, obstacles and hindrances are meaningless-- they
never obstruct my forward movement.
 Baba, I was never alone in the past nor will I be alone in the future.
By Your grace You are always along with me. And when You are along with me,
then there is no question of fear. Baba, by doing Your work and singing
Your song, I will go on moving on Your path of effulgence-- keeping You in
my heart. Baba You are always with me, You are eternally sweet and
gracious...


                      == FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH ==

Namaskar,
As we all know, fasting, or upava'sa, is one of the significant and
important gifts which Baba has graciously bestowed upon us for maintaining
human health and leading a spiritual life. This entire letter discusses
numerous aspects of the practice of fasting-- including the all-important
point & practical method of how to break fast.

Here following are many of the topics contained in this entire subject:

Universal and Natural Law ~ Animal Existence vs Human Life ~ Nature's
Perfect Remedy: Fasting ~ Animals follow Natural Law, Human Eat Mostly out
of Greed ~ Fasting for Health: A Purifcation Process ~ AM's Approach to
Fasting ~ Fasting and Longevity ~ Humans Know How to Break ~ System of
Breaking ~ Wrong Breaking Invites Harm ~ Water Needed for Digestion & Whole
Body System ~ Work of the Small and Large Intestine ~ Proper Cleaning
Necessary ~ Use of Lemon Water ~ 'Rounds' for Breaking ~ Individual Needs ~
Gentle Process ~ Maintain Prama when Breaking ~ Warning and Guidelines ~
Stages of Cleaning ~ What and When to Eat ~ Taking Banana ~ Baba's Special
Blessing ~ Baba's Complete System ~ Proper Interest and Care Needed ~
Optimal Health ~ Suggestions from Others ~ Healthy and Happy in All the
Realms.


                  A WELL-ORDERED UNIVERSE

Parama Purusa has created this world in a well-balanced way. And within
this creation there is both animal existence and human life, with a unique
difference separating the two.

Animals are fully bound by natural law. They have no option but to strictly
adhere to the rules of prakrti; whereas human beings have been given
freedom or dominion to make choices and exercise their will, within a
certain degree.

Yet nature itself has been made in such a perfect way that animals always
advance and benefit from following natural law. In that sense animals are
comparatively more fit and healthy than common human beings because animals
are forced to follow nature's ways, while humans have some scope to go
against natural law, should they desire. And this whole equation, with
regards to animal life and human life, is especially true with regards to
food and fasting.


                   FASTING: A NATURAL LAW

For example, when an animal gets sick, then in their natural way they
refrain from taking food until they regain their health. And this
refraining from ingesting food-- or fasting-- is the very tool by which
animals heal themselves and recover from their sickness. So animals do not
eat food for taste per se, but as a means of survival and recovery
according to the dictates or laws of nature.

So Parama Purusa has created this beautiful universe in such a way that
everything goes on according to natural law. And within all this one system
is there that if the body is not functioning properly then to cure oneself
one special method is there known as fasting.


         HOW HUMANS DO-- IMPROPER AS WELL AS PROPER

However humans are not bound by natural law, and in this materialistic era
especially, common persons eat food excessively out of greed. When they see
food, they like to eat it-- whether it suits them or not.

But those human beings who are sensitive and following the codes of yogic
life then they develop an inner sense of when to take food and when not. So
when the body is sick then they do not like to eat food. And that is the
natural system to cleanse the body, enhance its functioning and make it
perfect and pure. And for thousands of years yogis have been following this
approach.

So by fasting, toxins and waste are removed; and the body is given
opportunity to recover and ultimately reach to a higher state of
functioning and wellness.


                 FASTING IN OUR MARGA

Hence in our AM yogic style of living, Baba has given the system of fasting
whereby He directs us to observe ekadashii fasting. And some also fast on
purnima and amavasya as well. And in both cases, whether 2 or 4 times per
month, fasting creates a beneficial effect on the entire body.

And by following this system of regular fasting the body gets conditioned
to it. And then just before the next ekadashii arrives one can internally
feel that another fasting is needed.

But those who do not do fasting are deprived of the unique health benefits
and instead their health breaks down and diseases crop up and their
health problems get multiplied.

So in the end they have no choice but to submit themselves to a local
doctor and begin the process of taking medicine on a regular basis.
So Baba has given fasting as part of Sixteen Points and Baba has also said
that by following 16 Points one will increase the length-- and quality-- of
their life. So there is a big difference between those who follow Sixteen
Points and those who do not. Those strictly following points like fasting
will get an extra 15, 20, or even 30 years of quality living. Thus, for
optimal health fasting is needed.


                   ONE FINAL DIFFERENCE

So in their own ways, both animals and proper human beings do fasting. But
one vast difference exists between the two on this topic. And that is that
animals do not know how to properly break their fast whereas humans have
been given the technique.

And it is by breaking fast properly that the body is able to maximize the
benefits of the fast. Unfortunately some are not aware how to break fast.
Here the letter is getting long and the hour is late so this topic of how
to break fast shall be taken up and emphasized in the very near future.
Along with that these other points will also be raised:

~ System of Breaking ~ Wrong Breaking Invites Harm ~ Water Needed for
Digestion & Whole Body System ~ Work of the Small and Large Intestine ~
Proper Cleaning Necessary ~ Use of Lemon Water ~ 'Rounds' for Breaking ~
Individual Needs ~ Gentle Process ~ Maintain Prama when Breaking ~ Warning
and Guidelines ~ Stages of Cleaning ~ What and When to Eat ~ Taking Banana
~ Baba's Special Blessing ~ Baba's Complete System ~ Proper Interest and
Care Needed ~  Optimal Health ~ Suggestions from Others ~ Healthy and Happy
in All the Realms.


               GREAT SIGNIFICANCE OF FASTING

Baba has included fasting as its own exclusive point in Sixteen Points.

     Baba says, "Observe fast as prescribed." (Point no. 8 of 16 Points)

And in His supreme 'Secrets for a Long Life', Baba lists fasting as its own
entry.

    Baba says, "Fasting at Intervals." (Point no. 5, 'Secrets Long Life')

And furthermore in Yogic Treatment pointedly remarks how fasting helps
restore the body to it balanced and natural condition.

    Baba says, "During fasting the body's organs get a good rest,
     and the healing process is more rapid." (YT, p.95)


Namaskar,
Mahesh


          ***************************************
                    Value of Nation

Baba says, "Preach the theory of one spiritual inheritance-- that every
living being is the child of the Supreme Entity and that all the people of
the world belong to the same family. This will have to be explained to
all-- that there will be a clash between different nations so long as the
feeing of nationalism exists." (PNS-4, p. 45)
          ***************************************