Dr. Padmaji is a retired Professor of Nursing, with a Ph.D. in Public Health and a Master's in Psychology. She has written five textbooks and over 60 research articles, and in 2020 received the Leading Educationalist of India Award, the Florence Nightingale Award, and the International Achievers Award, among many other international and national awards.

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A. Padmaji

<h4 style="text-align:justify;">Six years ago, A. PADMAJI found herself confronting a frightening health diagnosis. Today she is in remission, and here shares her journey and her gratitude for the role allopathic and complementary medicine and Heartfulness played in her recovery. This uplifting story is a testament to her faith.</h4>On February 7, 2017, at 55 years of age, I was diagnosed with stage three bilateral breast cancer. Chemotherapy started immediately, and then a double mastectomy was done, with chemotherapy continuing after surgery. A total of 17 cycles were given, followed by medication and radiotherapy. During the treatment, I developed severe vomiting, loose motions, hair loss, weakness, hand-foot syndrome (hands and feet were black and dried), and I had drainage on both sides for nearly four months as a complication of the surgery. Due to weak immunity, I developed tuberculosis in the liver, and was kept on anti-tuberculosis medication for eleven months.&nbsp;I also took herbal medicines for six months, and my husband gave me vegetable juice daily, early in the morning. All my family members supported me with their love and affection.Then, on October, 2022, I had a PET scan and other blood tests. All the reports came back normal.I had come out of my turmoil successfully because of Heartfulness and the continuous communications and blessings of Daaji during each and every stage of my recovery. A Heartfulness trainer gave me sessions daily, using the Heartfulness Cleaning technique, which has done wonders in my life. Heartfulness Meditation improved my willpower, confidence, and positive thoughts, which in turn led me to come out of my problem successfully.Daaji’s guidance and support were marvelous throughout these difficult times, both regarding my spiritual practice, as well as his team’s referrals to specialist allopathic doctors and naturopaths in the field. The doctors and Heartfulness trainers worked together, and as a result, I am a living example of how a disease like cancer can be cured.One night I was feeling very distressed. At 5 a.m. I saw Babuji near the side of my head. He was sitting on a chair cross-legged, continuously looking at my chest for quite some time. Throughout the following day, and for many more days, even till now, I remember that blissful movement with tears.After my cancer was cured, I received an invitation to meet the Honorable President of India on November 7, 2022, to receive a national Florence Nightingale Award for nursing. I have no words to express my love and gratitude. &nbsp;<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Illustration by LAKSHMI GADDAM</h4><hr>&nbsp;

The miracle of life

Alan Alexander Milne (18 January 1882 – 31 January 1956) was an English writer best known for his books about Winnie the Pooh, as well as for children's poetry. Milne was primarily a playwright before the huge success of Winnie the Pooh overshadowed all his previous work. Milne served in both world wars, as a lieutenant in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Warwickshire_Regiment">Royal Warwickshire Regiment</a> in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_World_War">First World War</a> and as a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Captain_(British_Army_and_Royal_Marines)">captain</a>in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_Guard_(United_Kingdom)">Home Guard</a> in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_World_War">Second World War</a>.

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A.A. Milne

Listening to animals

Aavni is a sophomore at the University of Texas at Austin studying in the Electrical and Computer Engineering and Business Honors program. Her interests include baking, reading, and traveling.

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Aavni Kuppusamy

Dr. Abhay is a highly-valued spinal surgeon from Mumbai. After higher training in orthopedic surgery, he has been the recipient of various international awards throughout the course of his career.

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Abhay Nene

<h4>
 DR. ABHAY NENE is a spinal surgeon from
 Mumbai, India, who has been the recipient of
 various international awards throughout his career. He is interviewed here
 by
 DR. SNEHAL DESHPANDE
 of the Heartfulness Institute about back pain – why, how, and what to
 do?
</h4>

<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<h4>
 What Causes Back Pain?
</h4>


 Q: Dr. Nene, tell us about back pain. What does it
 encompass?



 AN: The world
 is made up of three kinds of people: those who are having back
 pain, those who’ve had back pain, and the rest who
 will have back pain.



 Back pain is one of the top three reasons to consult a doctor worldwide.
 That’s quite telling.&nbsp; It shows us how common it is.



 There is often a misconception that back pain is for the rich, or for the
 urban, but we’ve done a study where tribal Indians also voted back pain as
 their biggest problem after infant mortality and malnutrition. Back pain is
 a huge problem across communities, and across profiles of people.



 As a back surgeon, I define two categories
 of pain: The first comes from the
 physical structure. The pain comes from bones, joints,
 muscles, and ligaments. It is physical and mechanical in nature. It is not
 always urgent, but it is a nuisance.



 The second category of pain comes from the neural system,
 the nervous system. It is more urgent, and so a person often needs to seek
 medical help.


<h4>
 Posture
</h4>


 Q: What are the implications of having bad
 posture?&nbsp;



 AN: Take
 sitting as an activity. Most people are either leaning toward a computer
 monitor, looking at their mobile, snoozing at the table, or slouching. You
 might feel that you’re chilling in your chair, but you’re actually loading
 your back. Most of us load our backs over days, months, and years on end,
 without really servicing them. We use our backs for up to eighteen hours a
 day, and mostly we abuse them.



 There’s almost nothing that you do functionally where your back remains
 straight. That’s where posture comes in. If you load your back in a way that
 it was not designed to take loads, it’s gonna wear out faster. Posture is a
 neutral state in which your body takes loads.


<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<hr />

<h4 class="text-center">
 Most of us load our backs over days, months, and
 years on end,
 without really servicing them.
</h4>

<hr />

<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<h4>
 Sitting Versus Standing Desks
</h4>


 Q: Many people have been talking about standing tables
 while working from
 home. What are your views on that?



 AN: You have
 probably heard the statement, “Sitting is the new smoking.” The human body
 was designed to be upright, and the back consists of a central structure
 which is like the mast of a ship. The muscles around it are the dynamic
 supporters of the ship. Those two elements together give the back a
 shape memory. This shape memory loads the back at the disk
 level. These are the disks that lie between the bones of your back. They are
 like shape memory pillows. They’re supposed to absorb the load, but over
 time they degenerate.



 It is just like using a sofa for many months; eventually it loses its
 capacity to maintain shape. Similarly, the discs in the lower back begin to
 degenerate or dehydrate, so your back loses shape memory. When it’s put in
 an awkward shape, it doesn’t conform to it but adapts to that shape. If you
 sit on an old sofa, you sink in. A similar thing happens to your back when
 it’s loaded beyond its capacity.


<hr class="vertical-space1" />


<img decoding="async" width="450" height="676" alt="" class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/backpain_posture2_cebdae52d5.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-11T18:15:16.929Z" />


<hr class="vertical-space1" />


 Standing:
 Please stand
 up with your back against a wall, and your heels dug in. A neutral posture
 is when the central line of gravity is perfectly aligned to load your back
 the least. That’s the neutral position of the back.



 Sitting:
 When you sit, instantly the lower back curves forwards, because your pelvis
 tends to tilt forwards.&nbsp; As soon as that happens, the centerline of
 gravity moves forward and the load on your back doubles or triples,
 depending on how you’re sitting.



 The right way to sit is in an imitation of standing, where you’re still
 arching. Your lower back is upright, which is done by engaging your muscles,
 not sitting passively, but most of us don’t sit like that. So that’s where
 standing desks, bar stools or high chairs come into play.



 When you stand, you get tired, or your legs hurt, but eventually it’s good
 because it helps you to stand for longer periods. People spend so much money
 on fancy chairs, but the best chair is your muscles.


<h4>
 Can Shoes Prevent Back Pain?
</h4>


 Q: There are specific kinds of shoes designed for walking,
 running, and
 everyday use. Can wearing a particular type of shoe help us
 avoid backache?



 AN: For 95% of
 the population, there’s no shoe that can remove back pain. I’m gonna to tell
 you a little story. A company that is a famous sole manufacturer asked
 someone to jump from ten feet with a very well-padded shoe, and then asked
 the person to jump without any shoes at all. The load on the knee and spine
 was less when he was barefoot.



 Your foot is not one block. It’s designed with very small hinges. So, when
 you land barefoot, your feet nicely absorb the shock so almost nothing lands
 on the torso. Heavy padded shoes actually take away that movement. Even
 though they give you a lot of shock absorption, they take away the micro
 movement in your feet, and that can actually be counterproductive.


<hr class="vertical-space1" />


<img decoding="async" width="450" height="673" alt="" class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/backpain_posture3_1d3223fdbe.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-11T18:16:22.484Z" />


<hr class="vertical-space1" />


 So, there’s no magic shoe. There are, however, a few things that you may
 want to remember about shoes. People with flat feet and feet that hurt may
 do better with shoes that have inner padding which will align their axis
 together. People who wear tall heels for long hours push their center of
 gravity forward. They would be well advised to wear them for shorter
 periods.


<h4>
 Job-related Posture Problems
</h4>


 Q: There are some professions with repeated
 posture-related problems.
 What are these professions?



 AN: It’s very
 telling that an athlete who’s running every day, jumping, and doing
 heavy-duty loaded activities, rarely comes with back pain. But a
 white-collar professional, who’s sitting on a laptop all day is the most
 common candidate for back pain. During the pandemic, we all started sitting
 longer hours. Anyone whose work involves sitting for long hours is likely to
 suffer from back pain. Of course, athletes and people who engage in heavy
 lifting can get back pain, especially if they overshoot their capacity.



 Also, neck pain is a common postural problem because most people’s jobs
 involve looking down. That includes surgeons, diamond sorters, secretaries,
 and dentists; basically, anyone who tilts their neck for long hours will
 have neck problems.



 The most common professions are the most sedentary professions. The more
 active professions don’t come with back pain. Now, that’s counterintuitive!
 Something to think about!


<h4>
 Gym Injuries
</h4>


 Q: There is another group I also look at – gym
 enthusiasts. Some come to
 me with pulled muscles and other related injuries. What would you share
 with this group?



 AN: You have to
 be aware of your capacity, which means knowing your strain versus pain
 equation: if you do something that gives you strain, the next day you’re
 okay for another session. The minute you’ve got pain, you’ve overshot it.



 The other big problem in gyms is compound exercises. The machines are
 designed for ergonomic workouts, so the load on your back is not multiplied
 when you’re exercising your arms or legs.&nbsp; Compound exercise, in other
 words a free workout, for example, a weighted squat, will load your back,
 your legs, and your glutes. It’s a multi-muscle workout. If you’re not
 strong enough, which most of us are not, one of these will give way.



 When you’re doing a deadlift, for example, your hamstrings, quads, glutes,
 back, shoulders, arms, everything is loaded, and if they don’t all work in
 unison, the back gives way. The back gets the brunt of it.


<hr class="vertical-space1" />


<img decoding="async" width="450" height="453" alt="" class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/backpain_posture4_51b341ba91.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-11T18:17:16.633Z" />


<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<hr />

<h4 class="text-center">
 You have to be aware of your capacity, which means
 knowing your
 strain versus pain equation: if you do something that gives you
 strain, the next day you’re okay for another session. The
 minute you’ve got pain, you’ve overshot it.
</h4>

<hr />

<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<h4>
 Lumbar Belts and Cervical Collars
</h4>


 Q: I have seen many people with either a belt around their
 abdomen or a
 collar around their neck, while doing everyday activities like going for a
 walk. What is your viewpoint on the use of collars and belts for neck pain
 and backache?



 AN: A lumbar
 belt is like a corset, a fake abdominal muscle, which keeps your tummy in.
 In a way, it gives you the right posture, it keeps your mind on your back,
 so you’re upright. That’s okay in the early days, but if you keep using it
 for longer, two or three things happen: your muscles start to forget that it
 was their job to hold you up, the belt begins to loosen so it’s no longer
 protecting you, and eventually, you’re not able to survive without it.



 Long term, it’s good to create your own belt. That means having really good
 strong abs so they become your belt. It is a permanent free belt that stays
 with you. Learn to walk upright, walk tall, and tuck your tummy in.



 The same is true for a cervical collar. The neck has a fixed load of ten
 pounds, but that load can multiply significantly the minute you start
 tilting your head forward.



 A collar allows this distance to remain constant so your head doesn’t drop
 down. In a way it’s doing you a service, but things can go wrong, so we
 don’t recommend a collar. First, you get used to it, and without it you’ll
 stoop. Second, you get a universal-sized collar. Your neck isn’t a
 one-size-fits-all; you could have a collar that’s too small or too big. It
 gives you a false sense of security. So, I would also deter you from wearing
 a collar.



 Instead, walk with your chin and vision parallel to the floor, the back of
 your head in line with your shoulder blades. When you’re upright, your
 muscles will tire, but they will then learn to adapt to that posture.



 So, collars and belts are okay for a short time, but dump them in the long
 run. Unless you use your muscles, you lose your muscles. Also, if you depend
 continuously on the belt, you tend to become psychologically dependent.


<hr class="vertical-space1" />


<img decoding="async" width="450" height="453" alt="" class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/backpain_posture5_85899afd33.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-11T18:18:19.645Z" />


<hr class="vertical-space1" />


 Q: When is the right time to go for back surgery?



 AN: My
 professional opinion is that many people who have back pain are generally
 great candidates for rehabilitation, not surgery. Back pain comes from
 multiple sources, so you can tackle one or two at best. The surgery we do
 for back pain ends up stiffening the spine. It is going against nature’s
 principle of mobility. It makes your back stronger but less mobile. It does
 not necessarily fix your life. Surgery for back pain has a 50% success rate
 worldwide.



 In contrast, people who develop nerve pain are great candidates for surgery,
 and I would encourage them to have it, because often the pain goes down
 through the buttock into the leg, and that causes the leg to go numb or
 weak. It increases leg fatigue, weakness on walking, and so on.


<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<hr />

<h4 class="text-center">
 My professional opinion is that many people who have
 back pain are
 generally great candidates for rehabilitation, not surgery.
</h4>

<hr />

<hr class="vertical-space1" />


 Q: Which allied professionals can help with back
 pain?



 AN: First,
 there are physical therapists, because they know which muscles are weak, and
 which to strengthen to support the back. A physical therapist knows the
 physics of back pain, and they start enhancing the muscles without actually
 damaging the background.



 Next are nutritionists. A good nutritionist will help you cut down weight if
 necessary.



 Third, ergonomic experts can see how you place your computers, your
 workstations, and how you’re driving. They are often the lifestyle experts.
 Overall, I think these professionals help.


<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<hr />

<h4 class="text-center">Interview by DR. SNEHAL DESHPANDE</h4>

<hr />

Managing back pain and posture

abraham-maslow.webp

ABRAHAM MASLOW

Either forward or backward

Dr. Verghese is a renowned physician, author, and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. His best-selling books include My Own Country, The Tennis Partner, Cutting for Stone, and The Covenant of Water. He’s a member of the National Academy of Medicine, the American Academy of Arts &amp; Sciences, and was awarded the&nbsp;National Humanities Medal in 2015.&nbsp;

Abraham Verghese.webp

Abraham Verghese

The Covenant of Water

Aditi is from Pune in Maharashtra, India. She credits her mother and spiritual Master as her biggest influences in shaping her character. Aditi is a senior consultant for Infosys Technologies, and is also an athlete, representing her country as a Black belt, Dan 1, in Taekwondo and at the state level in other sports. She is a trained Hindustani classical singer and sitar player, and her band performs in and around Pune. She is also a Heartfulness trainer.

aditi.jpg

Aditi Saxena

<hr class="vertical-space1">
<h4>ADITI SAXENA holds a black belt in Taekwondo. She explains the beauty of this art form, and how it has given her the discipline, refinement of consciousness and moral fiber to live a life of purpose, with the balance of the spiritual and worldly aspects of existence.</h4>
<hr class="vertical-space1">
Raised on Bruce Lee films, I became interested in martial arts as a kid. I grew up practicing Taekwondo, becoming a black belt 2 (there are seven levels of black belt, which we call “dan”), winning and losing many matches at the national level. 
The biggest achievement I have attained with all this is understanding my spiritual side. My Taekwondo Master has played a very big role in shaping this bud into a flower, and I feel I am still blossoming as I continue to practice. I’ve tried to combine this with my spiritual life, and I realize that I was already seeded with a spiritual interest from the very first day I started practicing Taekwondo. It has not only boosted my self-confidence and made me an honest person, but has also helped in character formation by developing kindness, self-control and compassion.
The literal translation of Taekwondo is “The art (do) of kicking (tae) and punching (kwon).” It means “foot hand way.” Now, you must be wondering about the contradiction in terms; after all, the word “martial” in martial arts means “warlike” or “military.” So, how could it co-exist with the peaceful practice of spirituality? I was 7 when I insisted my parents put me in a Kungfu class in the garden opposite my society, and after two years I enrolled in Taekwondo. Since then, there has been no looking back! Even today, with work and family, I take time each day after morning meditation to practice Tai-kek and kicks, which keep me fit and fast with my reflexes.
<h4>Why learn a martial art?</h4>
There are many reasons why people turn to martial arts: Some want to defend themselves, and some join for spirituality. Everybody’s searching for meaning, as without an aim we are lost. When we fix a goal, the path appears, and to find the meaning of life we must walk the path and let life blossom from there.
<hr class="vertical-space1">
<hr>
<h5 style="text-align: center;">When we fix a goal, the path appears, 
and to find the meaning of life 
we must walk the path 
and let life blossom from there.</h5>
<hr>
<hr class="vertical-space1">
People often associate martial arts with combat, self-defense, and violence, but the combative craft is not just about flying kicks and flashy punches. The philosophy stresses peace and harmony. The real value of martial arts is helping individuals harness their natural strength.
<h4>Why is it called self-defense?</h4>
When we see someone being attacked, we don’t just think about our own safety and run away; we try to defend that person. But another aspect of martial arts is the inner dimension. You will notice that many martial arts end with the suffix “do”: Judo, Taekwondo, Aikido, Hapkido, Karate-do. Do is derived from the Chinese word Tao, which is the inner way. When someone studies martial arts, they are doing two things – learning a fighting technique and also learning mastery over the self. In the Korean art form of Taekwondo, do implies the philosophical approach to a way of life, a pathway to achieve enlightenment.
<h4>The spiritual angle</h4>
Have you ever wondered why martial arts masters always look calm and collected? The primary reason is that as they move from one level to the next, they don’t simply learn new skills to improve their movements and strength. They also begin to understand the energy flow of the body and the surroundings. They become one with the forces of life. They still face challenges, but they know how to overcome them. They know when to give due attention, patiently wait, and watch the situation, and to take action accordingly.
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<hr>
<h5 style="text-align: center;">“Empty your mind; be formless, shapeless – like water. 
Now you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup, 
you put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle, 
you put it into a teapot, it becomes the teapot. 
Now water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend.” 
—Bruce Lee</h5>
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<img alt="beauty-martialarts2" class="w-100 lazyload" src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/beauty_martialarts2_img_0293b1f247.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-06T04:47:44.829Z">
<hr class="vertical-space1">
It is not an aggressive game; it’s a spiritual art form. Humans have brought a bad name to these arts through their behavior and wrong usage. Martial arts are connected to inner peace, movement, awareness, observation and calmness. Only when the mind is settled can we foresee what will be the opponent’s next move, and that is why we have matches and practice fight. 
Over centuries, a variety of systems have been developed, practiced and spread by monks and nuns. Martial arts that are inspired by the philosophies of Hinduism and Buddhism incorporate meditation as part of the training. I grew up starting and ending each class bowing before our coach, then bowing before my seniors. It shows respect for the art, the coach, and fellow beings. It’s a sign of growing collectively together. 
The key aspects taught in the first month of Taekwondo are stands, posture, how to move correctly, and learning to hold a position for more than 100 counts, including many rounds of exercises. These practices develop patience and inner core strength before getting into the real field. We were called “lions that roar” and taught to defend only when attacked. But before that, we were taught to try every possibility of handling a situation patiently. I was constantly reminded by my coach to channel energy in the right direction, and once the vision is clear the wisdom to perform will automatically come at the right time. That is exactly what happened in competitions and matches. Remember Kungfu Panda and The Karate Kid? You know what I mean.
Inner peace is a regular theme and we know very well that inner peace is achieved through training and meditation. Another reference I would give here is the movie, Doctor Strange. When you watch it from this angle, you will realize the hidden gems this art form carries.
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<img alt="beauty-martialarts" class="has-img-center lazyload" src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/beauty_martialarts4_img_3f5ccd3fce.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-06T04:47:44.626Z">
<hr class="vertical-space1">
<h4>The physical aspects that lead to enlightenment:</h4>
The true value in learning a martial art is in exploring and nurturing the inner qualities that develop, such as:
Footwork: It teaches the student about qualities and flow of energy, developing both creative and destructive potential. Hard work patterns and exercises teaches the student about balance, patience, dynamics and how to follow the intuition of the natural spirit. 
Observing the opponent (looking into the eyes): This practice increases our ability to read the intention of the opponent, and helps understand body language and the next move. It increases willpower, and develops self-discipline and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The act of blocking, striking, and deflecting: It works on our energy flow, helps refine our senses and makes us alert. We develop 360-degree awareness as we start listening and communicating with everything around us, yet remain unaffected within. Energy manifests within each individual as spirit; spirit manifests in each individual as mind; and that’s how we attain stillness within.
When you see Bruce Lee’s fights, especially the blindfolded ones, so much stillness is infused in him, even when it’s a question of survival! He remains so focused without panic. His presence of mind clearly reflects in his behavior, expressions, actions, and being. It not only gives him a clear sight of who is attacking and from where, but also how to tackle the situation. Imagine if we all learned this art from an early age! Later on, when we start meditative practices, we would be prepared to continue our inner journey, as our consciousness has been refined over the years.
Taekwondo is not only an excellent method of self-defense but also a way of life to attain mastery of “Self.” Through experience, I would say it refines the ego so that we live in harmony with the living beings of this universe. Respect, humility and high morals are some of the beautiful concepts I have learned naturally as I gain more insights from this art form. Most importantly, it maintains a strong and healthy master-student relationship.
I remember receiving pearls of wisdom from my Master when he handed me the black belt certificate. It is a covenant that all serious students of Taekwondo are encouraged to live by:
Be willing to go where the going may be tough and do the things that are worth doing, even though they are difficult.
Be gentle to the weak and tough to the strong.
Be content with what you have in money and position, but never in skills.
Always finish what you begin, be it large or small.
Be a willing teacher to anyone, regardless of religion, race or ideology. Always be a giver.
Never yield to repression or threat in the pursuit of a noble cause.
Teach attitude and skill with action rather than words.
Always be yourself, even though your circumstances may change.
Radiate love and positivity through your words and actions. Know that body language and eyes speak more about the inner strength we carry. 
Be the eternal teacher who teaches with the body when young, with words when old, and by moral precept even after death.
My heart is filled with gratitude towards my Masters, and I feel amongst the most fortunate ones to have lived up till now, in strengthening my mind and realizing the beauty of the spirit. 
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<hr>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Article by ADITI SAXENA</h4>
<hr>

The beauty of martial arts

<h4>
 ADITI SAXENA
 is a Heartfulness practitioner and trainer. Here, she describes how a
 spontaneous backpacking trip during the pandemic both fulfilled her craving
 for community and taught her the beauty of generosity.
</h4>

<hr class="vertical-space1" />


 Backpacking becomes fun when outer exploration triggers inner exploration! It
 becomes meditative when the journey is embraced more than visiting touristic
 places, which is why I explore the roads less traveled, as they lead to many
 new discoveries, both inner and outer.



 One such experience changed my outlook toward life. Being a social person, I
 value and enjoy community living, as it brings variety and teaches us about
 people, unsaid acts of kindness, sharing and caring for one another, and the
 feeling of family, irrespective of what backgrounds we come from. During these
 times, we relate to one another with gentle hearts that wants to offer service
 or just be there to create a safe space for everyone who walks in.



 A friend from the ServiceSpace community shared something so profound and
 relatable when he posed a question: How can we unlock multiple forms of
 wealth? One type that touched my heart was community! We think of contributors
 as individuals, but actually one plus one is greater than two because the plus
 sign has value. How we relate and connect to each other can change the entire
 outcome. If you look at a piece of graphite and a piece of diamond, they’re
 both made of carbon atoms. The difference is in how they’re connected to each
 other.



 My spiritual guide often speaks about how our vision should be “one eye
 pointing within and the other eye pointing outside.” Physically it sounds
 funny, but it has a very beautiful meaning. Consciously, we can introspect on
 the learnings that we receive, by exploring the changes that occur within as a
 result of daily life.


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<hr />

<h4 class="has-text-align-center">
 We can introspect on the learnings that we receive, by
 exploring the
 changes that occur within as a result of daily life.
 
</h4>

<hr />

<hr class="vertical-space1" />


 This is exactly how I felt when I was backpacking for four months at Kulga
 Village in Himachal Pradesh, between December 2020 and March 2021. I learned
 that help comes in various forms, especially when you least expect it!



 I was exploring a place beyond Manikaran, just after Kasol and before Tosh in
 Parvati Valley. I was lost midway, it was getting dark, and there were no
 means of transport, so I had no clue where I would end up. I usually traveled
 with hostel mates, but this was something I wanted to explore by myself. I
 paused to think what I could do next when suddenly, from far off, I saw a
 family waving at me. With a sigh of relief, I walked toward them and they
 asked me if I have eaten anything. According to them, I seem to be lost! I ate
 the food at their small shop and asked them how much I should pay, but they
 refused and said, “Maybe this meal belonged to you, daughter.”


<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<div class="block-image">
 <figure>
 <img decoding="async" width="700" height="350" alt="act-of-generosity2-700x350"
 class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/act_of_generosity2_700x350_302aa58ba0.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-10T12:00:36.823Z" />
 </figure>
</div>

<hr class="vertical-space1" />


 I was touched, but insisted on paying, so they said it would be helpful if I
 could teach their son the 9 times table. I smiled and asked if they could help
 me find a guest house or hostel to spend the night, but they mentioned that
 there was nothing around. Instead, they invited me to stay in their house! I
 had no other choice but to accept, as I didn’t know where else to stay. So, we
 started walking, and on the way I taught their son (I am good at math so
 thankfully could be of some help here.)



 We climbed a mountain and reached their place after two hours!&nbsp;It was a
 very small room and they had just two mattresses with three people
 sharing.&nbsp;I had my sleeping bag but still they offered me one mattress
 saying that they would share the other one. I was touched. They said,
 “You are our guest tonight. Just this afternoon we were thinking of our
 daughter (who is no more) and wanted to feed a few more daughters who might
 cross our path. God heard our call, as you reach us. It fulfilled our
 wish.” I asked them how they could sleep as it was -1 degree outside. They
 mentioned that it was okay, “because you have come to us as a gift. It’s like
 letting our daughter sleep comfortably one last time on her mattress. That
 would give us more peace than anything else!” They refused to use my sleeping
 bag, saying, “It is Covid time, and you shouldn’t share the sleeping bag with
 anyone. Rest assured, we haven’t used this mattress and just keep it as is,
 but now after you, we will use it.” I was in tears that night. So much
 love and so much care. These were definitely angels in human form!



 The next morning, I prepared Marathi poha for them. We had a meal
 together and they bid me goodbye saying, “Beta, shine through your
 goodness and always help people who cross your way. You will never know what
 contentment and joy you will receive in return, as we are feeling this
 morning. We experienced having our daughter beside us, as this is how she may
 have been ten years from now.”



 That entire day I was in some different world. The incident shook me from
 within and reminded me of what my spiritual teacher says: “Even when a flower
 is hidden in crevices between stones, the honeybee will find where it is
 blooming.” How can we make our hearts like the beautiful flowers of this
 family?


<hr class="vertical-space1" />

<hr />

<h4 class="has-text-align-center">Illustrations by ANANYA PATEL</h4>

<hr />

An act of generosity

<h4>ADITI SAXENA considers the importance of teachers and role models in how we create our destiny and personality.</h4><hr>Have you ever wondered how we grow as personalities? How does our value system build, ultimately reflecting the same through our actions, behaviour and character?While I was thinking about this, I went back to my childhood days and saw myself standing there as a third person, observing how this journey of life has been so far. Immediately my heart was filled with gratitude towards my mentors and teachers, without whom I wouldn’t be the personality that I am today.Teachers play a very crucial role. They help in shaping character and also act as role models to achieve those personal goals that they have already walked through.I had a disciplined and goal-oriented lifestyle as a kid. My Taekwondo trainer and my spiritual guide have both been my mentors. They gave me the best childhood and fruitful college days by helping me to develop both physical and mental strength to face and accept every one of life’s challenges with faith and confidence.When I look back, I can’t imagine a single day without them. It is as if every brick is important in building the wall. Similarly, every effort of theirs has made me saner and wiser. The love they have given is shown in many ways: in the challenges they have made me face, and in the hours of practice for tournaments maintaining a calm and composed stature, even when the opponent wins.<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Teachers play a very crucial role. They help in shaping character and also act as role models to achieve those personal goals that they have already walked through.</h4><hr>Having a balanced state of mind is of utmost importance to me, and this was being honed through Taekwondo. Moving forward, that is also how I developed a profound interest in meditation with a spiritual teacher; the grounding was being prepared throughout all those years of childhood.In a physical discipline like Taekwondo, anger, ego, grudges and prejudice can only bring downfall, with which no player can succeed; for when that happens sportsmanship is missing and it is directly linked with mental fitness. I remember that winning tournaments was not difficult when I was mentally fit and free from anger. My Taekwondo teachers helped me develop an attitude of respect towards the opponent and moreover a respect for the opponent’s Master.In all this, I developed the capacity to think out of the box. I learnt to be creative in self-defence techniques, and discovered smart ways to finish off the match without creating any barrier with the other competitors.Developing the qualities of brotherhood, care and empathy, respecting each individual – their views, attitude towards situations and people – and still maintaining humility is a never-ending learning process.All this has helped me to grow in all ways. It has kept me fit, healthy and hearty. I encourage everyone to go out and explore life. Let your teachers guide you and shape you. It is only after going through a lot of moulding and churning that they make us that which we could never imagine.

Be Guided

Aditya-Barrela.jpg

Aditya Barrela

<hr class="vertical-space1">

<div class="row">
 <div class="col-md-4"><img decoding="async" class="lazyload has-img-center" 
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/q1_2e47a30f8e.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">
 
 <h4 style="text-align: center;">What is 
 consciousness?</h4>
 </div>
 <div class="col-md-4"><img decoding="async" class="lazyload has-img-center" 
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/q2_4475b4698e.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">
 
 <h4 style="text-align: center;">How do you personally explore the subconscious and superconscious parts of your
 consciousness spectrum?</h4>
 </div>
 <div class="col-md-4"><img decoding="async" class="lazyload has-img-center" 
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/q3_c61a336fdc.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">
 
 <h4 style="text-align: center;">What defines today’s collective human consciousness?</h4>
 </div>
</div>

<hr class="vertical-space1">



<hr>
<hr class="vertical-space1">
<h4><img decoding="async"
 class="lazyload img-float-left has-img-center-in-mobile"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Karen_O_Neill_2fdf08b917.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">KAREN O’
 NEILL 
 Heartfulness Fellow 
 New Delhi, India
</h4>
‘Consciousness’ is derived from the Latin words conscius, meaning ‘to know’ or
 ‘to be aware’, and conscrire, meaning ‘to be mutually aware’. Consciousness extends beyond oneself and includes
 awareness of our environment and our connection with others.
I believe in Swami Vivekananda’s saying that consciousness is a mere film between two
 oceans, the subconscious and the superconscious. This film becomes more permeable as I delve further into those
 parts of my consciousness that usually exist outside my spectrum of awareness. I have also found that this
 permeability continues throughout the night and I am able to recall my dreams in vivid detail. Keeping a dream
 journal alongside my meditation-diary has also helped me to explore parts of my consciousness which were otherwise
 unknown.
There are events in our history, especially violent and traumatic ones, which weigh
 heavily on human memory and consciousness. I believe that through methods such as the cleaning process, we are
 actively preventing the formation of new impressions and creating an egregore of peace, love and joy. We are aiming
 for the purification of consciousness to its highest, and this is what is shaping the collective human consciousness
 today.
<hr>
<hr class="vertical-space1">
<h4><img decoding="async"
 class="lazyload img-float-left has-img-center-in-mobile"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Manav_Beniwal_89f45d042e.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">MANAV
 BENIWAL 
 Pre-med Student 
 Dayton, Ohio, USA
</h4>
Consciousness is the depth of human understanding. We think on a conscious level, from
 where we see and understand the real world. But outside that we have our conscious self, which we do not know or
 fully understand but can listen to. So in my mind, consciousness is something we can get in touch with by looking
 inside of ourselves.
I look inside myself and try to listen to the voice of my heart, and while doing so I
 can feel the intricacies of the subconscious and the superconscious. The subconscious is where we have all of our
 thoughts and predilections, whereas the superconscious is where we have to go, where our ultimate destination is. In
 meditation I am learning to understand both better.
At first I think of our collective consciousness as everyone in the entire world – not
 only our intentions and thoughts, but our general attitude towards the world, towards ourselves and our fellow human
 beings. But when I think deeper, it’s the idea that you, I and everyone else in this world are one. We are all One.
 If we are all part of that same inner consciousness, then the collective consciousness is just our need and desire
 to move back towards It.
<hr>
<hr class="vertical-space1">
<h4><img decoding="async"
 class="lazyload img-float-left has-img-center-in-mobile"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Elodie_Requillar_T_efed9f192f.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">ELODIE
 REQUILLART 
 Product Manager 
 Lille, France
</h4>
Consciousness is awareness, and it is also intuition and vision. Also, with experience,
 I have noticed that the more I meditate the more my consciousness opens. For example, earlier, in the same
 situation, I would not have reacted in the same manner as I do now.
I think I am able to explore my subconscious and superconscious really through intuition
 and meditation, because intuition comes from the heart. I feel that the collective human consciousness is moving.
 People are more and more aware of their heart, and they want to go deep into their heart. Many young people have
 this awareness today.
<hr>
<hr class="vertical-space1">
<h4><img decoding="async"
 class="lazyload img-float-left has-img-center-in-mobile"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Kaushalendra_Pratap_Singh_8139379987.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">KAUSHALENDRA
 PRATAP SINGH 
 Management Student 
 Lucknow, India
</h4>
Consciousness is the foundation on which anything happens, has happened, or will happen
 in the future. I have a very small glimpse of my subconscious when my intuition tells me the truth or when I see
 dreams. I’m still exploring superconsciousness.
I believe in a collective consciousness where each and every individual contributes in a
 very large way. The environment of a place changes with the mindsets of people. For example, a hospital may have a
 very shocking or fearful environment. In a very serene place, like a hill station, we can feel joyfulness and
 peacefulness because of this collective consciousness to which we all contribute. The intention with which we do or
 pursue things contributes to that environment. Our thoughts and intentions make up the collective consciousness,
 which is seen or perceived or known by the environment around.
<hr>
<hr class="vertical-space1">
<h4><img decoding="async"
 class="lazyload img-float-left has-img-center-in-mobile"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Aditya_Barrela_783642d5c3.jpg" alt="consciousness-2">ADITYA
 BARRELA 
 Investment Promotion Consultant 
 Hyderabad, India
</h4>
The simple answer is that consciousness is our awareness, but I think consciousness is
 much more than simple awareness. It is part of us; it’s part of our subtle body. It’s also an agent for us to think,
 move, act and make decisions with too.
Impressions are deep-rooted within us because of our childhood and conditioning by the
 environment. Our interactions leave an impression on us, which takes place in our subconscious. Superconsciousness
 is something that I personally didn’t know exists until I started meditation. When we dive deep within ourselves,
 the consciousness that we have, which is our natural state, expands and reaches new heights. That condition becomes
 the new normal, our new consciousness; it becomes natural to us. Then there is a new level of superconsciousness
 waiting for us, and that’s what is interesting.
Consciousness evolves in nature. It can devolve in rare cases, but I think collectively
 as a species we’re going through major changes, shifts, leaps in our perception. We’re waking up to the truth that
 happiness is not outside but inside us. There is a saying that “We are drowning in information, while starving for
 wisdom.” I think that also summarizes today’s collective consciousness. We’ve so much information and data, but we
 don’t know how to make use of it, how to intuitively navigate through the chaos, through the VUCA world we have
 created for ourselves (VUCA means Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous). We also have a VUCA world inside us,
 and unless we simplify the inside, our collective consciousness is burdened, it cannot evolve.
<hr class="vertical-space1">


<hr>

Consciousness

<h4
 class="block-heading"
 id="h-aditya-barrela-is-inspired-by-the-recent-rising-with-kindness-international-youth-conference-in-kanha-shanti-vanam"
 >
 ADITYA BARRELA
 is inspired by the recent “Rising with Kindness” international youth
 conference in Kanha Shanti Vanam.
 </h4>

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

 
 When a student asked the renowned archaeologist Margaret Mead to share
 the earliest evidence of civilization in our history, she did not refer
 to tools, religious idols, or clay pots. She instead referred to a
 15,000-year-old broken female femur bone that had been healed. She
 advocated that this healed femur is the first evidence in recorded
 history that a person was taken care of and protected by others.
 Kindness is an inherent trait, helping humanity thrive. But it is more
 than that. Kindness is behind some of the greatest inventions of
 mankind, be it agriculture, medicine, or otherwise. Generosity is also
 resplendent in nature when we take a closer look.
 

 
 Since the pandemic lockdowns, we have stepped out into a world marred
 with unprecedented challenges – climate change, health-related crises,
 economic volatility, and conflict. Unfortunately, we are increasingly
 conditioned to prioritize self-interest, rendering kindness as an
 unaffordable luxury.
 

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

 <div class="block-image">
 <figure>
 <img
 alt="kindness-matters5"
 class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/kindness_matters5_700x467_9fad04872f.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-12T11:01:46.915Z"
 />
 </figure>
 </div>

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

 
 Deep in our hearts, we are acutely aware that we need kindness toward
 ourselves, toward each other, and toward nature. It is time to reconnect
 with the intrinsic quality of kindness, and to refocus our attention on
 the many invisible acts of kindness, unity, and friendliness seen around
 the world as we rise together from disruptive global events. Thankfully,
 millennials and Gen Z seem to know this.
 

 
 Today’s youth truly and deeply care about human society and ecology like
 never before, and we do something about it. Celebrities and sports stars
 like Emma Watson, Leonardo DiCaprio, BTS, Virat Kohli, Deepika Padukone,
 P.V. Sindhu, and hundreds of others have championed causes and
 role-modeled kindness. Young activists like Greta Thunberg, Malala
 Yousufzai, Tahsin Uddin, and HaaziqKazi have demonstrated the power of
 youth. Thanks to such inspiration, and the unprecedented awareness of
 broader social and ecological issues, today’s youth are proactively
 kind.
 

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

 <div class="block-image">
 <figure>
 <img
 alt="kindness-matters2"
 class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/kindness_matters2_700x379_a8756d2d17.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-12T11:02:18.357Z"
 />
 </figure>
 </div>

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

 
 While kindness is naturally the right thing to do, it is not the easy
 thing to do. For a start, we cannot be kind to society or nature without
 first being kind to ourselves. Kindness is not a source of weakness but
 rather a sign of true strength and resourcefulness. And kindness toward
 ourselves does not come easy. Often we hold ourselves to very high
 ideals and are merciless with ourselves. While such ideals are good for
 self-development, without contemplation and willpower to change the very
 same ideals can become a barrier. Self-destruction instead of
 self-transformation is the result.
 

 
 This is where practices like Heartfulness, Mindfulness, etc. come into
 the picture to bring clarity, compassion, and courage. We realize that
 when we dive into the depths of the love and light in our hearts we find
 infinite resources we can share with the world. Meditation gives us the
 equanimity to respond to life rather than react.
 

 
 Only in times of crisis do the compassion and unity of humanity stand
 tested. To celebrate kindness, foster camaraderie, and learn to
 “self-care,” the Heartfulness Institute in association with AICTE and
 UNESCO MGIEP hosted the Rising with Kindness International Youth
 Conference at Kanha Shanti Vanam from August 12 to 14, 2022. 15,000
 students attended in person, and an additional 20,000 attended virtually
 from 55 countries.
 

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

 <div class="block-image">
 <figure>
 <img
 alt="kindness-matters3"
 class="lazyload has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/kindness_matters3_700x466_c41ae88655.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-12T11:02:50.146Z"
 />
 </figure>
 </div>

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

 
 They were inspired by luminaries, learned yoga and meditation, and were
 able to scale-up their impact, network with like-minded people, and
 enjoy the kindness concert by Ricky Kej. The event was free of charge
 and so accessible to many youth. Food and accommodation costs were
 sponsored for all delegates.
 

 
 We have witnessed millions of incredible acts of empathy and compassion
 that have brought relief, created and strengthened bonds, and helped
 build lasting solutions as the world accepts a new normal. Together,
 let’s continue that momentum by Rising with Kindness.
 

 
 To watch videos of the activities during the conference, go to
 <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/Heartfulness/videos"
 >www.youtube.com/c/Heartfulness/videos</a
 >
 

 <hr class="vertical-space1" />

Why kindness matters

defualt-profile-image.png

African proverb

It takes a village

Alain-de-Boton.jpg

Alain de Boton

Work-life balance

Alain is a co-founder and CEO of Amarenco Group, a leading European solar photovoltaic infrastructure investment company based in Ireland. His 20-year career has focused on international development and investment in water and low carbon energy infrastructure. Previously, he led Solon France, was a General Manager of Samsung Green Energy, and worked as a Business Unit Director of Engie water portfolio company. He has an MBA from INSEAD and a Master’s degree in Water &amp; Environmental Sciences from ENGEES. He is President of the Heartfulness Institute France.

Alain-Desvigne.jpg

Alain Desvigne

<h4>ALAIN DESVIGNE asks why we have been so unsuccessful in implementing the 17
 Sustainable Development Goals that officially came into force in 2016, and proposes an 18th SDG that will allow us
 to fulfill all the others. This paper was first presented at the conference for “The Elevation of Consciousness
 Through Meditation for Global Harmony” in August 2019, at the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, India.</h4>
The concept of sustainability was popularized in the Brundtland Report, published in
 1987. This document, which was also referred to as Our Common Future, was elaborated for the United Nations
 in order to warn the world about the negative environmental consequences of economic development and globalization,
 with the aim of offering solutions to the problems arising from industrialization and population growth.
The concept of sustainability aims at achieving global well-being for present and future
 generations. In the report, the means to achieve that goal were provided and detailed around three essential
 pillars:
1. Environmental protection 
 2. Social development 
 3. Economic growth
It was on 1 January 2016, that the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030
 Agenda for Sustainable Development – adopted by world leaders in September 2015 at an historic UN Summit –
 officially came into force: a call to action to protect the planet and guarantee the global well-being of people.

Although the concept of sustainability was acknowledged by the world community back in
 the 1980s, and despite the fact that global awareness of sustainable development has been growing over the years,
 actual tangible results still fall short of any of the set goals.
Why is it so? One possible explanation is our lack of a sense of urgency.
As a species, do we realize that the crisis we face is unprecedented and represents
 potentially the greatest challenge humanity has ever faced? Do we realize that the impact on each one of us, i.e.
 individuals, families, communities and ultimately nations, is absolutely key to shaping our collective destiny?
I doubt we do. And why is that so? It seems that our current level of collective
 consciousness does not allow for this sense of urgency to emerge. Now what if we are actually missing one core SDG –
 the fundamental goal that will allow the 17 current goals to manifest?
What if we add “The Evolution of Consciousness” as our very first SDG? My proposal is
 very simple: it is to add this goal as the 18th SDG to the existing list of 17 SDGs.
Let us imagine for a moment that we reach a level of collective consciousness that is a
 tipping point in uniting us all in one conscious and sustainable force. The 17 SDGs would automatically become an
 absolute priority for individuals, organizations and governments. This would secure the stability of our future,
 environmentally, economically, and socially.
Therefore, identifying and implementing the means to accelerate the evolution of our
 collective consciousness should be the main task and absolute priority of our current generation.
How can we do this? The main challenge lies with the fact that the expansion of
 collective consciousness depends on the evolution of each and everyone’s individual consciousness. And in order to
 undertake the journey of individual consciousness, we need to understand its prerequisites: What drives or inhibits
 the expansion of individual consciousness?
The evolution of consciousness depends on the evolution of our mind – thinking,
 intellect and ego. Indeed, our thinking has far more effect on our environment than we could ever imagine. We are
 actually constantly polluting the environment with our unregulated thoughts, without actually being conscious of it,
 and this level of pollution is the major obstacle in the individual and therefore collective evolution of
 consciousness.
<hr>
<h5 style="text-align: center;">Identifying and implementing the 
 means to accelerate the evolution 
 of our collective consciousness 
 should be the main task and 
 absolute priority of our current 
 generation.</h5>
<hr>
It is easier to grasp intuitively the impact of our thoughts on our inner environment to
 begin with. Take the simple instance of a moment when we are at rest and let our minds roam. After a while, that
 will take us to the shores of a memory, perhaps to a joyful moment when we were reunited with a loved one. That
 simple thought will change our internal environment and raise a new inner state within us, a state of joy.
 Conversely, that same wandering mind may take us to the shores of a very different memory, the terrible loss of a
 loved one, leaving us in a state of great sadness. Our inner state will then be a state of sorrow, pain and
 distress.
Our thoughts are creating, nurturing or destroying our inner environment.
<div class="text-center">
 <img alt="the-18th-sustainable-development-goal" class="lazyload has-img-center mb-4"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/18th_sustainable2_65e5cb7737.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-05T07:25:08.534Z">
</div>
There is an increasing number of scientific publications pointing to the average number
 of thoughts per day: it seems a human being has on average 10,000 to 70,000 thoughts per day with more than 95% of
 them being exactly the same as the day before and with more than 80% of them being negative!
These facts are staggering: they illustrate that our inner environment is polluted most
 of the time by negative and repetitive thoughts. So how can consciousness evolve in such an inner climate?
In contrast, what happens when the mind is still? Take the example of the way we feel
 when we are plunged into wilderness, into pristine nature unspoiled by human activities: a mountain forest just
 after it has snowed; deep-sea diving, free diving or scuba diving; the desert around a campfire under a night sky.
 Are our feelings any different? A deep feeling of completeness emerges within our heart.
When we are engrossed in such external environments, we live a moment of profound
 completeness. Everyone can share this experience. External nature has the capacity to act upon our inner
 environment. At such times, our inner natural environment is perfectly in tune with the external nature. It is Union
 Time, a moment when we are one with nature.
<hr>
<h5 style="text-align: center;">The evolution of
 consciousness 
 depends on the evolution of our mind – 
 thinking, intellect and ego. 
 Indeed, our thinking has far 
 more effect on our environment 
 than we could ever imagine. </h5>
<hr>
External nature has real powers, including the power to silence our thoughts. Thoughts
 are suspended for a while. We are in a state of wonder, paying attention to what is happening in the moment. We are
 present.
Meditation, when focused on the heart, and especially when supported by yogic
 Transmission, has the same power. It uses one simple thought – that the source of light is present within our hearts
 – and silences all the other thoughts that disturb our natural internal environment. That single thought we sow then
 creates a state similar to the “pristine,” “preserved,” external nature, a nature we could also label as “perfect.”

<div class="text-center">
 <img alt="the-18th-sustainable-development-goal" class="lazyload has-img-center mb-4"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/18th_sustainable3_fefdfa158b.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-05T07:26:55.233Z">
</div>
And when the mind is perfectly still, we arrive at the state the yogic literature refers
 to as Samadhi. But this is not the end, because various states and dimensions of Samadhi start
 unfolding. There are indeed deeper and deeper levels of Samadhi on this journey to the Center of ourselves.
 While making the journey beyond the stillness of the mind, into the depth of our heart space, our inner environment,
 expansion of consciousness really takes off. When we reach this inner escape velocity, our consciousness is no
 longer pulled by the gravity of thoughts – it is not bound by any thoughts or patterns. It is set free. This is what
 I personally call the real moksha, which is often referred to in the yogic literature.
When we master the technique of meditation, we then learn to master our thoughts during
 our daily activities. We pursue our daily activities while remaining in a meditative state with open eyes. This is
 also called Sahaj Samadhi or the Turiyatit state: we are fully absorbed within and fully aware at the same
 time, so that our consciousness continuously expands. This is the ultimate goal of the yogi. When we succeed in
 remaining in a constant meditative state, what happens next?
We master our thinking activities, and the stillness of our inner environment starts
 affecting our external environment as well. When our thoughts are not under control, if we are angry for instance,
 even if the anger is not expressed the entire external environment suffers. In contrast, when joy is prevailing in
 our hearts, or when we are profoundly calm, serene, bathing in a state of profound completeness, our external
 environment will draw the biggest benefits from it. We experience these effects every day at work and when we come
 back home in the evening: if we carry an inner environment of joy, our family members and our colleagues
 reciprocate.
With the world’s population projected to reach 10 billion people in the next decades,
 there will be on average more than 100 trillion thoughts affecting the global environment every single day! Given
 that 80% of these thoughts are negative and 95% of them are repetitive, the level of pollution we live in is really
 alarming! And with such a level of environmental pollution, how can our individual and collective consciousness
 evolve without a practice to silence the mind?
Imagine for a moment the impact of one person in a state of Sahaj Samadhi on
 the external environment. When other individuals benefit from the joy carried in the depth of the person’s heart,
 imagine the ripple effect of a being in that community who is constantly expanding their consciousness. Now imagine
 the ripple effect of a nation on the world when all the citizens of that particular country are in Sahaj
 Samadhi.
<hr>
<h5 style="text-align: center;">Imagine for a moment the impact of 
 one person in a state of Sahaj Samadhi 
 on the external environment. 
 When other individuals benefit from the joy 
 carried in the depth of the person’s heart, 
 imagine the ripple effect of a being 
 in that community who is constantly 
 expanding their consciousness. 
 Now imagine the ripple effect of a nation 
 on the world when all the citizens of 
 that particular country are in Sahaj Samadhi. </h5>
<hr>
Austrian Professor Peter Drucker says: “If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it.”
 It is relatively easy to assess the ecological footprint and carbon footprint of an individual, an organization or a
 nation. The indicators used measure the impact of our activities on nature. When these indicators are measured and
 mapped, we can then identify means and formulate strategies to reduce the footprint thanks to technological
 developments, energy efficiency improvements, better processes, product management etc.
<img alt="the-18th-sustainable-development-goal" class=" lazyload has-img-center "
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/18th_sustainable4_330947d460.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-05T07:27:41.419Z">

In the industry in which I operate, it is necessary to specify the carbon footprint of a
 solar energy infrastructure project presented in a public tender in France. It is a way to ensure the products and
 design of the proposed solar power plant will have a minimum ecological impact. And the score of the bid
 significantly depends on the carbon footprint of a proposed solution.
In the context of thinking activity, however, it is a real challenge! There is
 unfortunately no indicator that captures and maps what I call the “Thought Footprint.” Such an indicator would
 reveal the impact of human thinking activities on a specific location, a community, and much more. If we could find
 a way to implement this indicator, we could aim at setting up the ultimate goal of “Zero Thought Footprint” at the
 individual and community level, as the landmark to reaching the proposed 18th Sustainable Development Goal within
 our current lifetime.
This is thus an invitation to the whole scientific community to take up the challenge of
 measuring our thoughts footprint analysis, so that we can pave the way to a sustainable world!
But here comes the good news: we don’t need to wait for science to find ways to measure
 and track this indicator, because we can work towards achieving the proposed 18th SDG here and now, very easily,
 thanks to the practice of meditation with the support of yogic Transmission. Accessible to all, such a simple
 practice can help us dive into the depths of our hearts, beyond the stillness of our minds, and take on the journey
 of perpetual expansion of consciousness, so that one day, undoubtedly very soon, we shall together achieve the other
 17 SDGs and thus achieve global well-being for the present and future generations.
<h6 style="text-align: justify;">Reprinted with permission from Consciousness in Management, 2019. 
 Edited by E. Denley and T. Kaur, Heartfulness Education Trust, India.</h6>
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">Article by ALAIN DESVIGNE 
 Illustrations by ANANYA PATEL</h4>
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The 18th sustainable development goal

&nbsp;<h4>ALAIN DESVIGNE is the CEO of a leading solar company, the Amarenco Group. He strives to contribute to sustainability in every field of life. Here he explores the nature of reducing and minimalizing our use of resources in the world, by working on our reaction emissions and inner climate changes.</h4>&nbsp;<h4>What has led us to this point?&nbsp;</h4>The Industrial Revolution marks a major turning point in the history of the world. Indeed, almost every aspect of daily life was influenced in some way. The population growth and GDP per capita had been broadly stable for thousands of years, and suddenly the average income and the size of the human population began to exhibit unprecedented growth during this new era. However, it is a growth that we acknowledge now, 200 years later, as being harmful to the overall fragile balance of Nature.&nbsp;The unsustainable model of development associated with the Industrial Revolution has led us to where we are today – a “house on fire.” But how could the trajectory of one single species succeed in hijacking the journey of millions of others and even jeopardize life itself?&nbsp;The core underlying principle of the Industrial Revolution was based on more, more and more. Adding new basic materials, chiefly iron and steel, adding the use of new energy sources, including fuels and motive power such as coal and petroleum, adding new machines … The list goes on and on to lead us to the ever-increasing accumulation of carbon and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, more growth, more shareholder value, etc.&nbsp;<h4 style="text-align:justify;">Can we simply reverse the problem?&nbsp;</h4>Thus, at first glance, unravelling the devastating effect of the past seems very simple. The answer lies in fixing the source of the problem that created it: we just need more of less and less! Less of harmful sources of energy, less of harmful lifestyles, less of harmful pollution, etc. In short, less of anything that is contributing to an unsustainable model of development.&nbsp;This is why the mantra these days of every conscious leader, including conscious policy makers, is to set “zero objectives” – zero emissions, zero carbon economy, zero carbon footprint, zero waste, zero environmental impact, zero pollution, zero poverty, zero hunger, zero unemployment, etc. Zero objectives are promoted everywhere as the path to restoring the original balance, to re-establishing a model of development that preserves life and contributes to well-being, starting with ours, not only for the current generations but for all upcoming ones.&nbsp;Having said that, resetting the current trajectory is extremely challenging.&nbsp;<hr>Zero objectives are promoted everywhere&nbsp; as the path to restoring the original balance,&nbsp; to re-establishing a model of development that preserves life &nbsp;and contributes to well-being.&nbsp; Having said that, resetting&nbsp; the current trajectory is extremely challenging.<hr>To begin with, it requires huge amounts of capital. Net emissions have grown by 40% over the past 30 years. Meeting the 2015 Paris Agreement goal related to climate change will necessitate a 90% fall of carbon emissions from the current COVID-struck levels over the next 30 years. Meanwhile, the world’s human population is expected to rise by two billion, and the gross product may triple over the same period. In practice, with our global economy still generating over 80 to 85% of its energy consumption from fossil fuels, the transition away from fossil fuels will require $1.5 trillion extra annual investment in the power system alone, according to the International Energy Agency. That is more or less 1% of today’s global GDP.&nbsp;The good news is that the outbreak of COVID-19 has proven to be a major turning point for ESG1 investing (ESG1 is the highest rating a company can achieve for strategy that considers Environmental, Social and Governance ratings alongside traditional financial metrics). Sustainable funds attracted record inflows in 2020 amid the market turmoil, according to data from Morningstar, and many of these funds have outperformed the broader market for the year. Also, some industry leaders of polluting technologies are moving away from their original business practices. For instance, Toshiba and Siemens both announced they were moving away from coal in November 2020. Toshiba is committed not to take any new construction orders for coal-fired power plants, while Siemens stated it would stop selling turbines for new coal-fired facilities.&nbsp;Unfortunately, this is very far from being enough.&nbsp;The “21st Century Power” edition of The Economist (October 2020) confirms that all current and planned investments drastically fall short of what is needed to keep temperatures within 2°C of pre-industrial levels, let alone the 1.5°C required to limit the environmental, economic and political turmoil of climate change.&nbsp;<hr>Beliefs that make smart people dumb&nbsp; include the belief that intellectual ability is fixed,&nbsp; that current performance measures long-term potential,&nbsp; and that people who are truly gifted&nbsp; don’t need effort for their achievements.<hr><h4>Our belief systems are making us dumb</h4>So what is missing? Why is the required change not taking place, or, let’s say, not fast enough?&nbsp;When I was doing my MBA at INSEAD, back in 2007, one of my favorite classes was “The Social Psychology of Management,” conducted by Professor Allan M. Filipowicz. I still remember an article he shared with us called “Beliefs That Make Smart People Dumb.¹” Carol Dweck identifies both the beliefs that make smart people dumb and the more adaptive beliefs that make people smarter. Beliefs that make smart people dumb include the belief that intellectual ability is fixed, that current performance measures long-term potential, and that people who are truly gifted don’t need effort for their achievements. More adaptive beliefs include that intellectual potential can be developed, that current performance simply tells you where you are and what you need to do now, and the belief that everyone needs sustained effort to realize their potential.&nbsp;We can apply these principles to everything related to change management. It is our own belief system that is the first obstacle, and that obstacle is definitely not a small one! When we talk about changing ourselves rather than changing others and our external environment, there is immediate resistance from within. We react and fight with all possible arguments: “I am just a drop in the ocean, so why should I change?” or “How can my own change really make a difference?”&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/toward_zero_beyond2_be70513977.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-12T10:58:34.467Z" alt="toward-zero-beyond2">&nbsp;&nbsp;So the first belief we need to remove from our database is that we are who we are, and we can’t do anything about it. And the first belief we need to add to our database is that every change does make a difference, because the ocean is made of drops!&nbsp;When we don’t change beliefs, we are destined to fail individually and, therefore, collectively. While Dweck’s article focuses on the belief that our intellectual potential is fixed, the same misconception extends to our emotional structure, our mental patterns, and our habits and lifestyle. In short, our whole character! The most amazing thing is that we have no problem believing that it is within our power to change our external environment, including other people in our lives, like our children. In fact, we spend so much time trying to change them! Isn’t it funny that we believe we have more control over the outside than what is inside us?<h4>Change begins within</h4>If the old adage is right, that “change begins with me,” and change starts with changing my own belief system, where to begin? Assuming we have successfully understood the fact that we can truly “in-power” ourselves to change, then we have the capacity to impact our inner climate as much as we are impacting our external climate.When we look at the nature of our relationships, and the decisions we make or don’t make, resulting in action and inaction, they are all the result of our inner fabric. Thus, changing our inner fabric leads to fundamental changes in how we make decisions, and the way we navigate relationships. This ultimately is translated into our actions and how we build human rapport. Our personal inner changes impact all the people with whom we are connected, and this is how the world is constantly evolving, for better or worse!&nbsp;If we are to start owning this inner transformation, my personal take on the very first step is the following: We need to start by curbing our reaction emissions. That is a bold statement given that many of you may not initially see the correlation between climate protection and curbing reaction emissions!&nbsp;<h4>Reaction emissions</h4>Reactions are expressions of our untrained ego. Every time we react to a situation, it is the noise the ego makes because the “I” is reacting. The moment the “I” reacts, we lose our natural state of balance. Losing balance creates a separation from the original state. And because of the inner climate change caused by a reaction, we usually end up emitting reactions around us which impact the climate of our relationships like a butterfly effect.&nbsp;<hr>Every time we react to a situation,&nbsp; it is the noise the ego makes because the “I” is reacting.&nbsp; The moment the “I” reacts, we lose our natural state of balance.<hr>How many times have we felt miserable after our negative reaction affected someone dear to us, such as a family member, a friend or a colleague? Every time we react negatively with someone we love, we fall into the trap set by the ego. The inner trigger resulting from an external input ends up being a major climatic event, which alters the balance of the relationship with the person we love. We end up with regret and remorse, but still we continue with the same pattern again and again.At first, a reaction to any situation creates bubbles within, which then convert into waves when they reach the surface. The waves can be simple ripples on the surface of the water, or they can turn into a tsunami if the reaction taking place within becomes an inner earthquake.&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/toward_zero_beyond3_a98dbee710.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-12T10:58:34.287Z" alt="toward-zero-beyond">&nbsp;&nbsp;<h4>The need to pause</h4>My experience with reaction management, with varying levels of success, is to avoid the bubbles reaching the surface by pausing. That pause is the critical element in tackling a reaction. It gives time for my heart to identify the appropriate response to the external situation. Instead of a devastating ego-driven reaction, I shift my focus towards a heart-driven response. And this pause can be a few seconds or minutes, or even a few days sometimes!&nbsp;<h4>Zero reaction</h4>The next level is to develop the capacity of not letting even one bubble form. That’s the ultimate goal. We can call it a “zero reaction emissions” goal, implying a “zero reaction footprint.”&nbsp;Zero reaction requires absolute nothingness within, absolute vacuity. It is only when we have achieved that state of nothingness within that we are able to welcome any input cheerfully as there is nothing within to react upon.When is this possible? When the ego is totally subdued. When it takes the backseat. “I” still exists, but the heart takes the front seat. To reach and maintain such a state 24 hours every day is a life goal, for sure, but we need to start somewhere and be fully convinced that we can get there one day.&nbsp;What I have personally learnt in this journey toward a zero reaction footprint is one very precious lesson: To bring my ego to a state of constant awe so that it is completely subjugated by the heart’s wisdom. Step by step, when I give the heart the chance to respond and take decisions, and observe the result, I am filled with wonder and accept to “in-power” it more and more: “Yes, please do respond because you have much more wisdom than I have.” The more we give our heart a chance to guide and notice its capacity to make the appropriate responses and decisions, the more we learn to trust the heart and the more we let it run the show.&nbsp;<h4>Beyond zero</h4>And then what? Is there more to it? Does anything exist beyond zero?High up in the Eastern Himalayas is one of the greenest countries in the world. The Kingdom of Bhutan has not only achieved zero carbon emissions but is already carbon negative, meaning that it takes more greenhouse gases from the atmosphere than it emits. Sandwiched between China and India, Bhutan spans approximately 14,800 square miles, with vast woodlands covering approximately 70% of the country that act as a natural carbon sink. With around 750,000 people, Bhutan removes nearly three times as much CO2 as it produces.So when we reach a constant zero reaction footprint, I do believe we can go even beyond and become reaction sinks. We can develop the heart so that we absorb reaction emissions from others with whom we interact.&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/toward_zero_beyond4_e4bb98c1df.jpg?updated_at=2023-04-12T10:58:34.376Z" alt="toward-zero-beyond">&nbsp;&nbsp;<h4>Possibilities</h4>But back to the bold statement: How are carbon and reaction sinks related to each other?&nbsp;A life where the ego is cheerfully “in-powering” the heart to take the front seat is an integrative life, an inclusive life. It is a life in which the responses we make, the decisions we take, and the actions we carry out are not based on reactions but on the wisdom of the heart. This means they come from the highest planes of consciousness. This applies equally to situations where our families are involved, our communities, the organizations we lead, or the governments we run.&nbsp;Now imagine the world we could shape! Thanks to the ripple effect of responses to situations and interactions with others, as well as decisions we take as leaders of organizations and nations, what if we are able to remain balanced and thus fully inclusive with such an approach? We would find new and creative solutions to our current global and local challenges without the unnecessary pollution of our untamed egos. We could nurture relationships with each other, including nations, based on trust and respect, thus yielding sustainable collective peace. We could integrate in our decision making long-term shareholder value and GDP growth with all the other dimensions that are at stake to preserve life today and tomorrow, thus yielding sustainable prosperity for all.&nbsp;The possibilities arising from such a shift of approach towards life itself are only limited by our capacity to transform our old inner fabric. So the only question that we are left with is the following one: Are we willing to try it out and convert imagination into action?&nbsp;&nbsp;¹ Dweck, C.S., 2002. “Beliefs That Make Smart People Dumb,” in Why Smart People Can Be So Stupid. Ed. R. J. Sternberg, pp. 24–41. Yale University Press, USA.&nbsp;<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Illustrations by ANANYA PATEL</h4><hr>

Toward zero and beyond

Regenerative business

<h2 style="text-align:center;">&nbsp;</h2><h2 style="text-align:center;">LESSONS FROM THE DOLOMITES</h2><h4 style="text-align:justify;">ALAIN DESVIGNE explores the Dolomites, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009. This stunning mountain range in the north-east of Italy is the highest and most extensive mountain range in Europe, stretching approximately 1,200 kms across eight Alpine countries: Monaco, France, Switzerland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Germany, Austria and Slovenia.</h4>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow2_04915d2762.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow2.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow2_04915d2762.jpg 171w," sizes="100vw"></figure>This series of photographs captures the same mountain over a 24-hour period from a fixed vantage point in Alpi di Siusi, Europe’s highest Alpine meadow in the Dolomites, at over 2,000 meters. The images beautifully reveal the constant play of light and color, as well as the shifting moods of weather across the mountain range.&nbsp;<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow3_91d24dfd6d.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow3.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow3_91d24dfd6d.jpg 117w," sizes="100vw"></figure>&nbsp;One of the Dolomites' unique features is the famous alpenglow. Indeed, twice a day, at sunrise and sunset, the mountains turn a pinkish colour, then deep red and finally purple, before disappearing into the darkness of the night. Alpenglow can be explained by the composition of the dolostone, also known as dolomite rock, which contains calcium and magnesium. When the sun's rays hit these two elements at just the right angle, it turns the mountains a beautiful pinkish-red.&nbsp;<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow4_43e8f70f23.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow4.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow4_43e8f70f23.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw"></figure>&nbsp;At times, the mountain seems completely invisible during a particularly clouded moment, as if it doesn’t exist at all. Yet, those who have witnessed its presence when bathed in light know it’s always there, hidden only by the passing veils of nature. From this, we learn a profound lesson: things are not always as they seem. Rushing to conclusions based on incomplete information can lead to misunderstanding. True insight requires time, patience, and the willingness to observe carefully.&nbsp;<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow5_69ea048bea.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow5.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow5_69ea048bea.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw"></figure>&nbsp;<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Things are not always as they seem.&nbsp; Rushing to conclusions based on incomplete information&nbsp; can lead to misunderstanding. True insight requires time, patience,&nbsp; and the willingness to observe carefully.</h4><hr>This series of photographs also beautifully reflects the essence of meditation. While the mountain seems to change with the shifting “weather,” in reality, it remains unchanged.&nbsp;<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow6_913494f884.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow6.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow6_913494f884.jpg 209w," sizes="100vw"></figure>&nbsp;Our inner landscape evolves constantly, influenced by the fluctuating “meteorological conditions” in our heart space-the subtle emotions, thoughts, and feelings that arise. Each meditation experience is unique, shaped by these internal variations.&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow7_3bb8805c74.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow7.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow7_3bb8805c74.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow8_6e13ce9312.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow8.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow8_6e13ce9312.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/dance_of_light_shadow9_ea8308f754.jpg" alt="dance-of-light-shadow9.jpg" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_dance_of_light_shadow9_ea8308f754.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw">&nbsp;Yet, amidst this constant flux, there is an unwavering presence within us—our inner core, our “inner mountain”—which remains still and silent, witnessing it all without being swayed. This stable core, like the mountain beneath the clouds, is the heart within our heart, the foundation of our being, a place that endures through every storm and sunshine.The teachings of Father Seraphim Rose, a 20th-century Russian Orthodox hieromonk, resonate here. He urged practitioners to “meditate like a mountain,” welcoming all the inner weathers—both the storms and the calm. As he beautifully put it, “To sit like a mountain means to welcome all weather—good and bad, rainstorms, sunshine, and mist. The mountain always has one side bathed in light and another in shadow.”This imagery reminds us that, like the mountain, we too can remain steady and grounded in the core of our heart, embracing every experience with equanimity and grace.The lessons of the mountain, then, are not only about observation but also about acceptance—of light and shadow, of joy and difficulty—just as they are.<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">“To sit like a mountain means to welcome all weather —good and bad, rainstorms, sunshine, and mist. The mountain always has one side bathed&nbsp; in light and another in shadow.”</h4><hr>To me, the Dolomites can certainly be described as one of the most "spiritual" mountain ranges in Europe. Their breathtaking verticality with cathedral-like spires, dramatic cliffs, and towering rock formations evokes a feeling of humility and reverence as well as a sense of uplifting, much like the soaring architecture of sacred spaces.<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Photography by ALAIN DESVIGNE</h4><hr>&nbsp;

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