Satchittananda is one of the Sanskrit words that simply and clearly describes what is experienced in deep meditation beyond the mind, revealing our True Identity.
Sat means Truth or presence; Chitta means Consciousness; and Ananda stands for Bliss or Ever-New Joy, as Yogananda translated it.
“Meditate and you will always carry a portable paradise with you” – Yogananda
This being “always conscious, ever-present in an ever-new Joy” transcends duality; it is a state that does not depend on any positive or negative situation or event; it is free from opposites and the different high or low mental waves we may have. When we feel sadness, happiness, pain, or pleasure, we can still simultaneously experience and observe these sensations while also remembering the Calm Divine Ocean within.
In the state of Satchittananda, you perceive that where the darkness appears greatest, it is only because the light has also grown, and thus we can expand our consciousness into the Light with a capital “L,” beyond opposites…
The observer or Self that we are in our deepest and truest heart lives and experiences this world and therefore should not ignore it: we are here in these bodies to do our part, our role, without being alienated… At the same time, we should not expect anything from these actions.
In the Bhagavad Gita, chapter 2, verse 47, it is explained:
karmany evadhikaras te
ma phalesu kadacana
ma karma-phala-hetur bhur
ma te sango ‘stv akarmani
And its translation is:
“You should perform your prescribed duties, but don´t expect the fruits of your actions.
Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, and never try to escape your duty.”
In Satchittananda, “karma yoga,” as explained in the above verse from the Bhagavad Gita, comes spontaneously: right action is performed for the Supreme Good of all, with love, devotion, and surrender to the Divine, without expecting anything in return. This is because we realize the cosmic dream that is this life and become at least a little less involved, more at peace and free.
The yogi (he or she who practices yoga) focuses primarily on his or her own mission, which is where he or she contributes to making the internal and external world a little more beautiful and bright. He or she remembers that even in silence one can do so much… immensely… And, therefore, along with an action outside in the earthly world, he or she never forgets his or her duty to daily connect with the memory of Satchittananda.
Would you like to practice yoga, learn to meditate, and embark on this spiritual journey with me?
Then I have some invitations for you…
In October, I’ll be in Milan , always with the intention of endlessly continuing to spread and share these sacred teachings. From October 17th to the 21st I will be teaching a beautiful workshop and some other classes. Check it here: https://www.premakriyayoga.com/it/workshops-2/ or contact me on whatsapp +34 658213100.
For all online courses, private online lessons with Zoom, retreats, and teacher training, you can browse the website or contact me privately as well.
I await you with immense love in Milan and always online, wherever you are…
Lots of Light, Jyoti, and Divine Love, Prema
Jay Guru Jay
Raquel Bhavani www.premakriyayoga.com
¨What a dream this life is! Yet, when you look at your body now and see how it pulsates with life, you are convinced once again of the reality of this dream. You think you have to have this or that and then you can be happy. But no matter how many of your desires are fulfilled, you will never find happiness through them. The more you have, the more you want. Learn to live simply.¨
There are two types of environment: Internal and External. The external environment consists of the physical environment (noisy, quiet, and so on). Our internal environment is our state of mind.
No matter how disharmonious your environment may be, if you meditate, or at least sit in silence for a few minutes every day, and live in harmony with your inner Self, you will always live in paradise and carry your portable paradise with you everywhere.
It is man’s internal environment that is of primary importance.
Existing without peace of mind in this world is like dwelling in a kind of Hades. But the man with divine perceptions finds the earth a blissful abode.
Regardless of the form of spirituality, every religious ritual performed in a profound, sincere, and heartfelt way is, for me, equally powerful in the Divine connection. And the rituals I refer to are primarily internal, but also the daily actions and choices made in That Consciousness.
The Divine Self manifested as “Mother” can be venerated as Fatima, Medjugorje, or even as Kali, Durga, Tara, or Anandamohima, the Indian saint imbued with Joy.
The concept of God, for me and in yoga, is immensely universal and can be perceived both in daily life and in the subtle depths of immersion in the cave of the heart.
I sense it within and consequently see it in nature, in plants, mountains, rocks, flowers, animals, rivers, waterfalls, stars, the sea, in every person and living being; in all that is created; and also in the entities who have reached, through intense spiritual exercises and devotion, extremely elevated consciousnesses and who are therefore called masters and saints.
We all have this power within us; and we can all access it, if we wish. Doing so requires practice along with an open mind and heart.
In my humble opinion, whether you are Muslim or Christian, Jewish or Hindu; Umbanda or Buddhist… all beliefs, in essence, merge in yoga, which I have practiced with such love for 25 years and who knows how many more lifetimes. I think that even those who believe in nothing, in the inner meditative experience, cannot deny the incredible Presence and Consciousness they encounter within the Self, beyond thoughts and limitations.
Every song, every prayer, every gesture performed with deep attention, in love and for the greater good of all creatures, is always pure spirituality and harmony with God, or whatever you want to call Him or Her.
“May God be with us. He/She is among us.”
“Hearts lifted up. Our hearts are in God.”
Meditation is the direct path to Self-realization. In the internalization of the senses, the mental waves (chitta vritti) remain on the shore as we enter the depths and stillness of the Infinite Cosmic Ocean.
Prema Kriya Yoga Teacher training 250 hours and workshop online or in Italy
For those who wish to deepen their studies and practices, join us on the transformative journey of “Prema Kriya Yoga Teacher Training 250 Hours with Yoga Alliance Diploma.”
This is a one-year course, with one intensive weekend per month plus a 50-hour retreat week. It will be held entirely online, live on Zoom, with all practices and theories recorded and in PDF format. 50% of the total course will also be held in person in Milan with Marta Sclafani at her “Peace Love Yoga” center.
The first weekend will be September 27th and 28th, online!!!
So there’s still time to register… There are still spots available and registration is still open…
For the second meeting, I look forward to seeing you at the in-person workshop at Peace Love Yoga, October 18th and 19th. Save the date!!! But it will also be online, as the complete course…
All Teacher Training workshops will also be open to outsiders, who can attend individual sessions (online or in person). Let me know if you have any interest, so I will send you all the information.
Live (or recorded) online classes on Zoom will resume regularly starting September 15th.
Private online sessions are also available. Or in Tenerife as well.
Affirmations and inspirations from Master Yogananda
“I will seek the kingdom of God in the joy that comes from constant, long, deep, uninterrupted meditation. I will conscientiously seek to contact God within me, and will not be satisfied with the small imaginary inspirations that arise from brief, restless silences.”
A prayer he recommended:
“Teach me to contemplate Your face In the mirror of my inner stillness.”
And with this inner vision, His presence everywhere:
“Finding You within me, I will also find You outside me, in all people and circumstances.”
Dharma – What does it mean? How can we discover what we were truly here on earth to do… What is our purpose? What is our mission in this world? Is it possible to creatively express our natural talents and live in this state of grace and freedom?
I begin with the words of Master Yogananda, taken from Autobiography of a Yogi, ananda editions.
These are profoundly current words, of immense inspiration and encouragement for all of us:
“While mankind and its works may disappear without a trace because of time or bombs, the sun does not change its course in the least and the stars continue their invariable vigil.
Cosmic law cannot be suspended or unaltered and the human being would do well to put himself in harmony with it. If the cosmos is against the exercise of force, if the sun does not go to war with the planets but withdraws in due time to let the stars exercise their small supremacy, what is the use of our armed fist? Can peace ever come from it? Not cruelty, but good will, nourishes universal vigor; a humanity at peace will know the inexhaustible fruits of victory, sweeter to the taste than any another fruit grown on bloodstained soil.
The True League of Nations will be a spontaneous and anonymous league of human hearts. The broad understandings and deep discernment needed to heal earthly afflictions cannot come from a mere intellectual consideration of human diversity, but from the recognition of the one trait that unites men, namely, their affinity with God. In view of the realization of the highest ideal of humanity, peace through brotherhood, may yoga, as the science of personal contact with the Divine, spread in time among all men in all lands.”
Despite the upside down world we live in, I hope you are well, healthy, with a clear mind and in Peace.
I am increasingly convinced and feel with greater intensity the importance of a spiritual path for every human being. Whatever this path is… The yoga and integral Kriya Yoga that I follow is one of many; and if you are interested in taking this path; I am here for you.
Going deep inside ourselves is not a simple “to escape from the world”, but it is to not get sick by it…
I perceive that withdrawing ourselves into the superconsciousness every day is an act of courage and is highly altruistic. If the world outside is a reflection of what we have inside, then there is a great need to look at ourselves, don’t you think? If we do not recognize our internal wars and violence, even against ourselves, how can we help for a more loving and peaceful vibration and world? This harmony must be born from within us. Spiritual practices such as yoga make us immerse ourselves in this inner Light.
Prayer and introspection for some may seem like “ignoring” others, the world, or one’s duties in the world… But, in reality, it is the opposite: both actions – internal and external – do not contradict each other… Meditation makes us realize the uniqueness in everyone and gives us even more strength, energy, vitality and will to do what is necessary when it is necessary and to remain in our Dharma and mission, daily.
Feeling Peace within us is, minimally, a beginning for a higher, wiser, more welcoming and united collective consciousness.
immense Love, Prema
Raquel Bhavani
I await you with immense Joy to practice yoga and meditation online with me. Write to me privately to find out more. Anyway, I leave you the link with all the information here: https://www.premakriyayoga.com/practices/#yemo
I also have 2 other special invitations to make to you
1. Starting from September/2025 until September/2026 a new group of “Darshan, the vision of Light: Prema Kriya Yoga Teacher training 250 hours with yoga alliance diploma” will begin the immersion.
It will be completely online on zoom and will remain recorded on YouTube private to all participants.
50% of the course will also be in presence in Milan at “Peace Love Yoga” by Marta Sclafani and there will also be a 50-hour retreat that we will do in July/2026.
Beyond this, you will also receive more than 500 pages of theoretical – practical handouts, very complete!!!
This is a really beautiful and interesting path for yoga teachers or if you have been practicing for a while and would like to go deeper into your studies, practices and meditations; to bring this knowledge into your daily life and also be able to pass on these sacred teachings to others.
A poem by Yogananda that inspires, moves and reminds us that if we want, we can be guided Home by a deeply enlightened Soul who is this beloved Guru
God’s Boatman
“I want to ply my boat, many times,
Across the gulf-after-death,
And return to earth’s shores
From my home in heaven.
I want to load my boat
With those waiting, thirsty ones
Who are left behind,
And carry them by the opal pool
Of iridescent joy
Where my Father distributes
His all-desire-quenching liquid peace.
Oh, I will come again and again!
Crossing a million crags of suffering,
With bleeding feet, I will come —
If need be, a trillion times —
So long as I know
One stray brother is left behind.
I want Thee, O God,
That I may give Thee to all.
I want salvation, That I may give it to all.
Free me, then, O God,
From the bondage of the body,
That I may show others
How they can free themselves.
I want Thine everlasting bliss
Only that I may share it with others;
That I may show all my brothers
The way to happiness Forever and forever, in Thee.”
In such a difficult world; the spiritual path is a balm.
Today I want to reflect with you on a wonderful teaching of Paramahansa Yogananda that says this:
“Do not look for a new spiritual flower every day. Plant the seed, water it with prayer and the appropriate commitment. When it sprouts, take care of the little plant, uprooting the weeds of doubt, indecision and indifference that may sprout around it. One morning, suddenly, you will see the spiritual flower of realization, which you have waited so long, bloom.”
According to Yoga philosophy, the process of reincarnation occurs due to karmic effects (cause and effect actions); especially due to unfulfilled desires in previous incarnations.
The pure, complete and uncontaminated soul continuously attracts itself to “Maya”, or the Cosmic illusion to have experiences, with the hope of finding full satisfaction through such fulfilled desires.
The truth is, however, that, little by little, it discovers that every satisfied desire leads to a new one, uninterruptedly; and this is what leads us to the continuous cycle of reincarnation (samsaras).
When the soul finally recognizes that the return to the Divine essence is the true fulfillment that it has always sought, erroneously, outside; it begins the spiritual path through meditation, in its own inner Self and, like the Lotus flower that is born from the mud; the soul remembers its True Nature by going beyond the identification with the mud of the ego.
It is important to understand this teaching in a profound way: yoga does not tell us to ignore our worldly desires; this philosophy of life encourages us to follow our hearts and live our destiny on earth, healthy and with full enjoyment; while at the same time remembering that True Happiness and the fulfillment we have always sought, is found only within the deep essence of the Divine Self united with everything and everyone.
One must have patience in the spiritual path and, as we transform, purify and eliminate what is not needed with Tapas (discipline) and Svadhyaya (self-study) for the True Essence to manifest, it is also necessary, in the process, to cultivate Isvara pranidhana or total surrender to the Lord of the Universe.
So, as we practice, meditate and try to live to the best of our ability in harmony with nature, inside and out; deep self-love and self-acceptance (santosha) is also necessary because only by having respect, ahimsa (non-violence) and prema (unconditional love), starting by our ownselves, we can also reveal it, see it and realize it outside; in others and in life.
Teacher Training
If you want to study and practice yoga and meditation more consistently, bringing these sacred teachings into your daily life, in a complete way, having a true transformative experience in a profound path; I invite you with immense joy to participate in the “Prema Kriya Yoga Teacher Training” with a diploma internationally recognized by the yoga alliance International:
This is a course I have been creating since 2017 and have been updating and improving it ever since.
The course will be online and in person, in Milan, Italy at Marta Sclafani’s studio:www.peaceloveyoga.it
Testimonials
Here are some words of what they say from the course:
“The encounter with Raquel happened by divine will when I was looking for a spiritual guide. It was natural for her to introduce me to Kriya Yoga and participate in her training events whenever possible. Her continuous practices represent an immersion in the teachings left by the masters, with a depth, transparency, and authenticity that I have never found in anyone else. Practicing with Raquel means having her formidable guidance to face a transformative process, deciding to meet the deepest essence of oneself, allowing space to be seen, to touch what is most tender and vulnerable in ourselves to make it shine. Without her support, her presence, her sensitivity, I would never have been able to access the vision of existence that I now have before my eyes, and I am just getting started.Gratitude for the privilege of having met you and listened to you.” Lia Courrier instagram @lia.yoga.storiediorsetti
“I found the course of the highest quality, introducing me to a new vision of Yoga. The training was very intense, a deep and uplifting journey. Raquel was impeccable in theoretical and practical teaching, the motivation she conveyed, always with immense sweetness, firmness, and great professionalism. It is an experience that I recommend for those who have the desire to impart the teachings of Yoga learning from a great Master but also recommend it to everyone who wishes to work on themselves in a deep inner and spiritual journey. This experience changed my life, and after 2 months, I started teaching. I am very grateful to Raquel for everything! Thank you. . Namasté.” Manuela Palumbo instagram @manuchakrastudio
“In times of superficial knowledge, being in the presence of someone who is truly devoted to the knowledge they teach is fantastic and deeply inspiring. I feel honored and very grateful to have been certified by someone with such experience and wisdom. Raquel opened the doors of meditation and devotion to me even more, a path of truth and integrity. [Raquel] continues to be an example for me, and I will always recommend her, with my eyes closed, because I will be happy that more and more people can also enjoy her teachings. A privilege to walk alongside her. Blessed be this relationship. With much love, Nati. Jay guru om. Namaste.” Instagram @nati_yogasattva
“Raquel is a fabulous teacher. The first thing that impressed me about her is her infinite sweetness, reflected in her wonderful ability to listen. She is a serious and reliable teacher, capable of awakening great wisdom in her students. She has extensive knowledge of the texts of the greatest yoga masters, which she uses delicately to spark the interest of those who follow her. I attended in-person classes, but also a wonderful online course. Obviously, she also has remarkable physical preparation! Highly recommended teacher!” instagram @rossgingeryoga
“Hello everyone, I wanted to share with you the reasons that led me, last year, 2024, to sign up for Raquel’s teacher training … there were two reasons:
1) First of all Raquel: she releases a very rare energy and devotion that anyone can perceive and is inundated with, she encouraged me and gave me confidence
2) I wanted to deepen, better understand this discipline that I have been practicing since 2014, I wanted to give myself a gift, I did it for myself, my goal was not to become a teacher but to dedicate myself, for once, to what I liked and satisfy a kind of call … I still have a long way to go but in Raquel I have found my teacher and my guide. Yoga helps me to be a better person.” Instagram @valeria_guglielmini
Live on May 30th!
If you want to sign up or have more information about the teacher training that starts in September, write me privately on whatsapp +34 658213100 or you can also participate in a live that I am preparing for you together with Lia Courrier, who participated in the course last year and will bring some of her experience.
The live will be Friday May 30th at 8:30 pm Italian time, 7:30pm England and Tenerife time on instagram @prema_kriya_yoga (The live will be in italian, but if you are interested on the course, I can also speak bilingual – in italian and in English; so please, let me know)
I also look forward to seeing you with Joy at the weekly practices – Yoga and Meditation Online
The yoga and meditation practices prema kriya yoga, take place online (on Zoom), in bilingual format (Italian and Portuguese). The lessons are recorded for 01 week.
Join our group and add more yoga and meditation to your routine!
I send, once or twice a week, in my WhatsApp groups, meditations accompanied by inspiring readings. Available in Italian and Portuguese; but if anyone is interested, I can also start sending in English.
Group Practice Timings: Tuesday at 10:00 to 10:30: Meditation and 10:30 to 12:00: Kundalini Yoga (Tenerife and England time)
Thursday Time:10:00 to 10:30: Meditation and 10:30 to 12:00: Hatha Flow (Tenerife and England time)
Whatsapp me +34 658213100 to know more about group practices or for private sessions.
Clarifying the main metaphor of the Bhagavad Gita about the internal battle, Master YOGANANDA writes:
“From the moment of conception to the last breath, man has to fight innumerable battles in each incarnation: biological, hereditary, bacteriological, physiological, climatic, social, ethical, political, sociological, psychological, metaphysical: so many varieties of internal and external conflicts. In each clash, the forces of good and evil compete for victory. The ultimate goal is Self-realization, the realization of the true Self of man, the soul, created in the image of God, one in the eternal, ever-present, ever-conscious and ever-new bliss of Spirit, or “Sat-Chitta-Ananda”
The practice of yoga leads to meditation which consequently leads us to the realization of the Self in every field of life, from the gross to the subtle. This is the science of the soul and is immensely complete working on body – mind – energy and leading to spiritual awakening. This requires practice, consistency, discipline, courage to transform oneself together with patience, faith, devotion and conscious relaxation or surrender to the Universal Self.
The Master of Kriya Yoga Sri Yukteswar says:
“Everything will be better in the future if you are making a spiritual effort now.”
In essence we are all Divine spiritual beings, perfect, immortal and, at the same time, we are human beings, with our ups and downs, our positive and negative karmas and our dualities…
The work of yoga is an internal practice of self-knowledge; starting initially from the physical body, working in integration with the mental, emotional and energetic body until reaching increasingly subtle and profound layers of our Divine existence.
Through yoga we discover that we are part of the entire Universe and that It lives within us.
The process of evolution and awakening in the memory of the Divine Self, beyond limits and conditioning, is a sometimes long journey… One could say that it is continuous and even infinite…
We don’t transform our habits, tendencies and identifications that limit us to be a certain way, from one day to the next…
Normally this change takes time through yoga practice and especially meditation, metaphysical study and inner contemplation…
An important golden key during the process of transformation and awakening is “not expect anything” or “not create any expectations”… I would say that this is an essential element, which in yoga philosophy is called “isvara pranidhana” or surrender to the Lord of the Universe.
Accepting ourselves, others, things and situations as they are (called “Santosha” in yoga philosophy) also helps in our own transformation. Santosha or contentment is not about passive acceptance; but about feeling grateful for what we are: knowing that of course; we can always improve, however, at the same time, we can also be happy for what we have and above all for what we are now and for what is in this moment. This attitude of being happy with the here and now can be nourished and, nourishing it, makes us freer and lighter.
The essential teaching in the yoga process is, therefore, precisely, to let go and let the transmutation happen as we enter more and more inside ourselves. In the yogic spiritual path we begin to know ourselves and to recognize what we want to transform in our life. We thus realize that what we can change first are our own attitudes; starting from ourselves: from every thought, from every word, from every action and intention.
Through yoga: starting by practicing asanas or psychophysical postures, together with pranayama (conscious breathing that controls and expands prana or life force), reciting and singing mantras that “eliminate evils”, repeating positive and healing affirmations that re-program the conscious, subconscious and unconscious mind; meditating together with the cultivation of faith and willpower; it is possible to transform ourselves into the best version of our existence and reveal who we really are in the Divine, Authentic and True Self. …
In this way, little by little, all envy and jealousy are transformed into inspiration, admiration and reverence; all fears are transformed into courage and tranquility, every anger or misunderstanding is transformed into Peace and Joy in the Self: every limit is transformed into expansion. We begin to see ourselves in the other and every relationship (starting from our interior, expanding towards others and life) is expressed through True and unconditional Love – Prema.
Little by little, walking in the grace of yoga, we realize Who We Are and live more and more from this Self full of Light and infinite Love; in Sat- Chitt – Ananda (always present, always conscious and in ever new Joy), as Master Yogananda explains.
Prema Kriya Yoga Teacher Training
If you want to deepen the practices of yoga (Hatha, Kundalini, Vinyasa: Asana, Pranayama, Mudra and Bandha), meditation (Mantra – Raja Yoga – Kriya yoga) and this philosophy of life;
In September 2025 we start a course:
“Prema Kriya Yoga Teacher Training 250 hours with yoga alliance diploma”
The course will take place with one intensive weekend per month for a year, plus an intensive week of retreat in July/2026
The course will be completely online on zoom and will remain recorded on YouTube private to the participants. 50% of the course will also be in person: in San Donato, Milan, at the “Peace, Love, Yoga” center: https://www.peaceloveyoga.it and during the 50-hour retreat in July/2026 (location still to be defined).
The entire course (video and PDF handouts with more than 500 theoretical-practical pages) will be sent via email only to participants and will be available in two languages: Italian and English.
At the end of the course, after passing the practical and theoretical exams, you will receive the diploma as an internationally recognized yoga instructor by “Prema Kriya Yoga” and the Yoga Alliance.
“Intuition is the guide of the soul, and it manifests itself naturally in man when the mind is calm. The science of yoga is designed to calm the mind, so that it may clearly hear the unerring counsel of the inner voice.” Yogananda
I hope you are well, at peace and that this beginning of 2025 is giving you so much awareness and healthy transformations in the ever brighter discovery of your beautiful Self that you are and that we are.
Who knows, maybe you are reading me precisely to inspire and encourage you to delve deeper into and/or get back into yoga… I’m here for you…
I plan to see you soon: at the end of March I will arrive in Italy for a week and share about the yoga teachings that have accompanied me with ever greater depth, now for 25 years of this existence…
In particular, I want to make you a special invitation to a magical retreat that I am organizing together with my beloved “yoghina” and sister Alessandra Turci from Diano Green, in Liguria, in Diano San Pietro.
For those who don’t know yet, this is the website of his beautiful and welcoming place where we will be hosted: www.dianogreen.it
The “Satya, the Way of Truth” retreat will be from April 4th to 6th.
The intent, as always, is for these to be days of in-depth yoga practices and meditation; and, at the same time, that it is a regenerating and relaxing weekend of physical and above all mental/energetic detoxification, to cleanse ourselves of the continuous negative thoughts that block our life force.
When we practice yoga and meditation intensely and in a group for a few days, we enter into a naturally higher vibration and connect more fluidly into our True Self. Even more so in the intimacy of a group of up to 7 participants, allowing us to give you very particular attention to each one.
Surely the great gurus of yoga teach us to bring meditation, yoga practice and spiritual inner harmony wherever we go and in every aspect of life; but it is also true that they advise us and have always advised us to withdraw completely from our daily lives every now and then to immerse ourselves with greater intensity in the silence of our heart and in the healing vibration of nature – even better if together with other souls on the spiritual yoga path and in such an enchanted space as Diano Green is.
To be reborn in spring we have chosen a very important topic in the philosophy of yoga: “Satya: or Truth”.
In one of the most important yoga texts, “The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali”, in chapter 2, verse 36, the author reads:
“Satya-pratiṣṭḥāyām kriyā-phalāśhrayatvam” which means: “When the Yogi is established in satya, or truth, honesty, he or she obtains the fruit of his actions without effort.”
When we are sincere, honest, open-hearted, spontaneous, transparent, with nothing to hide, without fears, relaxed and authentic, consequently Divine Creativity rises through us and this is the most beautiful gift we can give to ourselves, to others and to the world – it’s a bit like being children again – and everything comes with greater fluidity.
Warning: it is important to clarify that “open-hearted and spontaneous” does not mean “impulsive” or “reckless”!!!
“Satya”, or Truth, always comes together with discernment, with “ahimsa” or non-violence and with “saucha”, or purification, in this case also of our words and thoughts: let’s remember that enlightened sages are a bit like small children, but with experience and profound wisdom – this is the harmony we want and which reflects our True Nature.
“Satya” is an important topic in our evolving era where the light is increasingly dazzling, awakening every dark corner of our existence… It is essential to know and accept our own shadows and our subconscious traumas and beliefs, since only by looking at them with loving eyes, will we also be able to transform them and move further towards an ever truer version of ourselves (and, consequently, of the world).
Besides, nowadays it has become difficult to know what is true and what is not, right? With social networks and artificial intelligence, for example, everything has become possible and possibly false. But, behind the masks and filters… what is there?
Do we have the courage to open ourselves to the truth, beyond the veils of the illusion of “maya”?
Here is our invitation for this weekend of yoga practices, meditations, mantra chanting, sharing, delicious and healthy food, nature walks, sea air, silence, elevating vibrations, awareness, friendship and Divine love in the Truest Truth. I am sure that you will leave this meeting with a renewed vision of Life itself.
Are you coming with us? Places are very limited!!!
or write to me privately on whatsapp +34 658213100
Here are other possible meetings in Italy:
– Sunday 30/03 from 9.30 – 13.30 I will be there with my beloved yogine sister Marta Sclafani in her beautiful yoga center in San Donato (https://www.peaceloveyoga.it) for an in-depth workshop on Kriya Yoga and Kundalini Yoga:
I will also be, for two days, with the dearest and brightest student Rosanna who hosts us every year with such generosity in her residence:
“La Casa di Alice” in Via Fiamma 40, Piazza Risorgimento, Milan.
– Monday 31/03 from 6.30pm – 8.00pm – Kundalini Yoga and meditation with a series for relaxation and to remove all tension and negativity.
E – Wednesday 02/04 from 7.00pm – 8.30pm – Hatha Yoga Flow for physical and mental vitality and short final meditation.
To book these 2 practices, write to me privately. Places are limited, maximum 10 participants.
If you want to come to the zoom or recorded online practices, which I offer throughout the year, look at the info here https://www.premakriyayoga.com/practices/#yemo and write to me privately.
I also invite you to join my WhatsApp group where I send you weekly inspirations together with meditations and podcasts on Spotify with insights into yoga and spirituality in everyday life. These services are free to offer. My whastapp + 34 658213100 and my Spotify in English is https://open.spotify.com/show/1tGgfr8qrnpXbM4KFSubnt?si=2303b0057fdf4aba
Inspiration from Master Yogananda to reflect on and to live by…
“Change your way of thinking if you want to change your circumstances. Since only you are responsible for your thoughts, you alone can change them. You will want to do this when you realize that each thought produces effects in accordance with its nature. Remember that this law is always in operation and that you reflect your usual way of thinking. So, begin from this moment to cultivate only those thoughts that will bring you health and happiness.”
“If you don’t decide to be happy, no one will be able to make you happy. Don’t blame God for this! But if you decide to be happy, no one can make you unhappy. If the Lord had not given us the ability to use free will, we might blame Him when we are unhappy, but He has given us this ability. We are the ones who make life what it is.”
When we talk about the meaning of yoga which means “union” or, actually, to realize our unity with the Great Creator within and, consequently, with all the creation… what does that mean, exactly…?
What I can say, based on the yoga philosophy, Yogananda’s teachings and from my direct experience is: this connection and tuning in that happens, specially through yoga and meditation practices, is everything that we have always been looking for. The process of cleaning the body and the mind and remembering our deeper Truth Self is what fulfills us. Many times when we forget our true nature, we are identified with the outer bodies and personality, and that “not knowing” called “avidya” in yoga philosophy, causes us pain and suffering.
Even when people say that they are not interested in spirituality… What I perceive is that there is a mistake thinking that we can find the meaning of life and true happiness only from external accomplishments… It gets to a point in life when every soul begins to reach for their own Truth Selves… and that’s when spirituality is needed. From my humble experience, one of the most wonderful scientific paths to this Self-Realization, is “Yoga”.
The healthier body/mind, the happiness, the freedom and the peacefulness that we can realize through the yoga practice doesn’t stop there, of course… It also blossoms on our life choices, words, thoughts and behaviors. Yoga then becomes not only a practice on the mat or on the cushion, but in every and each aspect of life. That happens naturally to each yoga practitioner, sooner or later, if the practice is done with full concentration and dedication, constantly and for a long period of time… Actually, at different levels, the “practices side-effects” could be felt from the beginning.
When we start the journey of Self-realization through yoga, we begin to get more flexible and strong, physically and mentally, from “hatha yoga”; we start to get more powerful and energetic through “kundalini yoga” and more intuitive, peaceful and insightful, from “kriya yoga meditation”: our thoughts and actions begin to be aligned with our deeper Self, That is connected to all…
So, the sadhaka (the one who practices yoga) starts to realize from an inner experience, knowing in each cell that “the other is you”, for example… And that “others” are people, animals, nature and all creation…So, we realize that we can’t be happy and at the same time be violent or don’t consider other lives and beings… Actually, that seems kind of obvious, right? But, if we observe how the world works and how most styles of life are, we might realize it is not as obvious as it seems…
Yoga, in its deepest meaning, is to realize our true Self and that already makes us feel happier and more at peace … But then, there is a life outside to be lived, right?
So, what could make us happier, besides the inner experience within that is actually the essence of this process, and that leads us to some life changes and a happier life?
From my little inner experience (there is still so much to learn…), these are a few points that we can practice in our lives for happiness and yogic lifestyle:
1. Remember that we are all unique beings and in our deepest Self we do have something to “give” to the world… The world will be a little bit of a better place when we creatively expand our natural talents… We get happier when we do what we really love and feel from our heart; expressing fully our true Divine nature. Yogananda says: “You must not let your life run in the ordinary way; do something that nobody else has done, something that will dazzle the world. Show that God’s creative principle works in you.”
2. We could also ask ourselves: what can I do to help others and nature? When we are generous and consider others, that makes us happier too… Maybe we could plant some of our food or, at least, consume more consciously buying in the farmer market and helping local producers? Maybe we could decide one day to clean the beaches or to plant a tree? Maybe we could live more simply and with less “wants”? Could we recycle and be more careful with plastic use? Could we not eat animals and use less and less products with animal origin? Or maybe we could even feel more grateful for being alive and smile at our neighbors? What about forgiving and loving always more and more…? Can we? These are all things that we could try, little by little to actually do it and live lighter and happier.
3. Finally, we also could be careful about our daily routine… Why not decide to have a more harmonious routine? For example: we could balance the hours of resting and working, eat healthier, exercise everyday, get a little bit of sun everyday and take time out in nature … We may ask ourselves: when we wake up… what is the first thing we do? Maybe, besides the hygienic bathroom routine like brushing the teeth and washing ourselves or emptying our intestines, could we also clean our inner bodies and minds with some breath work, mantras, affirmations, yoga and meditation? why not?… Maybe we could also learn to say “no” to a few bad habits like junk food or watching the phone as the first thing we do in the day, and the last…
Anyway… the list could go on… A happier and more Self-realized life is possible, but it also depends on ourselves… Do we really want to?
Here are a few quotes from Master Yogananda about happiness
“Live quietly in the moment and see the beauty of all before you. The future will take care of itself.”
“Happiness blooms naturally in the hearts of those who are inwardly free. It flows spontaneously, like a mountain spring after April showers, in minds that are contented with simple living.”
“Happiness comes, not by helplessly wishing for it, but by dreaming, thinking and living it in all circumstances.”
“Learn to be secretly happy within your heart in spite of all circumstances, and say to yourself: Happiness is the greatest Divine birthright – the buried treasure of my Soul.”
Do you want to get deeper into these teachings about Self- Realization, Happiness and know more about yoga philosophy, kriya yoga and meditation ?
I have prepared a wonderful course for you…
Prema Kriya Yoga online course
“Kriya Yoga – awakening in the Light”
I await you with joy on this journey of self-knowledge and rediscovery of the inner self!
It will be a unique, luminous and transforming experience; revealing our Divine creativity, the true purpose of life and penetrating the depths of the soul.
During this introspective journey, we will study the philosophy and spiritual path of kriya yoga and together we will practice meditations, prayers and energy recharging exercises, as taught by the great spiritual Master Paramahansa Yogananda.
If you are also interested in our online lessons, retreats, teacher training courses and all our activities, please visit our website www.premakriyayoga.com
“Forget the past, for it is gone from your domain! Forget the future, for it is beyond your reach! Control the present! Live supremely well now! This is the way of the wise.” Yogananda
I hope to see you soon to share with even more depth and joy the practices and teachings of yoga, knowing each other more and awakening unconditional love in our hearts.
WHO ARE WE?
The essence of yoga teachings is to remember Who we truly and authentically are. This is the big question in yoga: “Who am I?”.
It is not an easy answer or one that comes overnight, usually: it is simple because on the one hand it is what we already are in essence, but it is not easy to truly experience immediately or without a certain discipline, because for a long time we have identified with something else…
One could mistakenly think of being this “person” in this “body” and calm down with this “temporary answer”. But, the true seeker, in the end, is not exactly “quiet”, especially initially: he/she is someone who asks questions, who reflects, who tries, who is not afraid of making mistakes or “falling” and of continuing: once he finds his path, then, he follows it with dedication and determination, more deeply and infinitely in the inner search…
Once you begin to know your body, starting from the asanas (psychophysical postures), practicing with awareness and patience, guided by your breathing; the practitioner can, little by little, feel where there is more or less comfort, and he/she can observe what are the greatest challenges and why are the points of fluidity and/or freedom…
This perception does not only happen on a physical level: the yogi and yogin (those who practice yoga) begin to truly “see” themselves for what they are even on deeper levels: mental, emotional, energetic, until reaching the most subtle level of the soul or heart: the Essence…
In Patanjali’s book of sutras, we read: 1.14: “sa tu dīrgha kāla nairantarya satkārā ‘‘sevito dṛḍhabhūmiḥ” meaning: “the practice becomes firmly rooted when it is followed attentively for a long time, without interruption and with deep devotion (satkara)”.
So, starting from this self-knowledge, which grows when practice and meditation are more intense, profound and frequent, as Patanjali says above; then yes, all life is transformed because the “vision” of the sadhaka or yoga practitioner, becomes, little by little, clearer, more present, conscious and transparent. This process, normally, is slow, gradual and even painful: a bit like the story of the caterpillar that becomes a beautiful butterfly…
In my opinion, in the spiritual path, this transformation happens in an even more evident and intense way; we are reborn with a truly incredible frequency: sometimes more slowly, it is true, but also often, at the speed of Light, literally… In a certain sense, reflecting on it even more deeply, we could say that we are reborn continuously, daily, even with every breath…
We also realize that every time some “butterfly” inside us flies free; quickly other “caterpillars” appear with all the need for our attention, acceptance and love.
Thus we develop faith and “Divine surrender” or “Isvara Pranidhana”; with the certainty that the metamorphosis will happen and that everything will clarify again…
The truth is that we are Divine and immortal beings (Purusha); at the same time, we are nature and cyclicity (Prakritti): sometimes we have apparently “still” moments (when something is happening internally); then, the “waves” come and manifest themselves – sometimes small, other times like “tsunamis” – and, after the storm; here is the Light, the expansion, the creation, the Divine revelation and the understanding of why all that movement and necessary pain, previously… and so, it continues, to infinity…
For this reason, in my opinion, in the spiritual path, the most powerful and true teachings are: let’s stay in the presence, in listening, let’s not let ourselves be taken by discouragement and by the less brilliant moments where there are more internal movements than external ones… Let’s let ourselves go and live what is now, this instant… Let’s try to stay “ALIVE”, with all our cells, truly experimenting, with total attention together with surrender to the Divine, every instant: doing our best, and abandoning ourselves to what is; without ever giving up… Let’s continue to act with our heart, both in life and in yoga and meditation practice, taking moments to truly listen, silence, look inside ourselves and accept whatever moment it is: this will help us cultivate patience, calm, expanding our understanding and, consequently, it will change our life, on every corner.
The truth is that most of us do not even realize that we are constantly seeking Ourselves outside of Ourselves… We mistakenly hope to find this happiness (which is self-realization) by putting all our faith in worldly things, external knowledge, fame, money and relationships with others… Yoga and meditation are not practices to “escape” from worldly responsibilities, nor do they speak of repressing the enjoyments of life: yogic practice is integrated into a harmonious, natural, non-violent and purposeful life. At the same time, the spiritual path encourages us to depend more and more on our internal attitudes rather than on external circumstances; as Yogananda beautifully says: “Man’s freedom is final and immediate if he so wills; it does not depend on external but internal victories.”
When you feel sad or discouraged, remember that you are not alone, and above all remember Who you are, in essence through meditation.
I leave here this magnificent inspiration of Master Yogananda that I hope will be helpful in this memory of who you are:
“You are all gods, but you do not know it. The sea of God’s presence is behind the wave of your consciousness. You must search within yourself. Do not concentrate on the little wave of the body with all its weaknesses, look beyond it. Close your eyes and you will see omnipresence around you. You are at the center of this sphere and as soon as you raise your consciousness above the body and its experiences, you realize that the sphere is permeated with infinite joy and bliss that illuminate the stars and give strength to the wind and storms. God is the source of all our joys and of all nature…
Wake up from the darkness of ignorance. You have closed your eyes in the sleep of illusion. Wake up! Open your eyes and you will see the glory of God, the immense horizon of God’s light that spreads over all things. I am advising you to be divinely realistic, and you will find in God the answer to all your questions.”
Happy practices and life, in the continuum of remembrance of the Self…
If you want to start this inner journey in yoga with me and/or continue to deepen the practices with me:
– Here are some end-of-year opportunities to practice together in solidarity: all the proceeds from these first two events will be donated to “yoga de rua”, an institution that helps street people in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Instagram @yogaderua . I will also send part of the donations to abandoned animals: Instagram @protetorespdr and to an animal sanctuary in Brazil, Instagram: @ahimsa.santuariovaledarainha
1. Sunday, 12/15/2024
from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM (Tenerife time) on zoom – Christmas meditation
Donations can be made directly to me onPayPal email premakriyayoga.com orby bank transfer toRaquel Fischer Barros, Account number and Iban: IT32G 02008 01422 000103840080
2. Tuesday, 24/12, Christmas Eve
9:00 -9:30 – meditation
9:30-11:00 – kundalini yoga practice and final short meditation
Donations can be made directly to me atPayPal email premakriyayoga.com orby bank transfer toRaquel Fischer Barros, Account number and Iban: IT32G 02008 01422 000103840080
Here is a complete in-depth weekend to end this year of 2024 fully energetic, awake and ready for what is coming:
Workshop: kriya yoga, the energetic recharging exercises.
– Saturday and Sunday, December 14th and 15th.
To see the complete program, look below and for more info and booking, contact me on whatsapp +34 658213100 – Raquel Bhavani
Save the dates!
Save the dates: I’ll give you a preview of some dates for 2025…
There are already retreats, workshops and training courses (YTT 250 hours with yoga alliance diploma) scheduled in Italy and Tenerife and online.
In person:
– Sunday, 03/30 I will be in Italy, Milan with a wonderful workshop on kriya yoga from
(on this page you can see a bit of this year’s retreat…)
Online:
– After some requests, I have created for you a beautiful 20-hour course on kriya yoga:
“Kriya Yoga, awakening in the Light”
– The course will be completely online, with pdf handouts and all the recordings that will remain forever for each participant.
– It will happen one Sunday a month, from 9:00 to 13:00 (Tenerife time zone), with theoretical/philosophical study and meditative practice; from February to June/2025.
– Write to me privately to receive more info, or look on the site
Prema Kriya Yoga Teacher training 250 hours with yoga alliance diploma – 2025/2026: Online + one week in presence in Tenerife
– For those who really want to fully delve into the path of yoga, meditation by studying and practicing intensely and integrating it fully into everyday life, the next group for the training course that continues every year since 2017; starts in September/2025.
Very soon I will send you more details, but if you are interested and want to register in advance, contact me privately on whatsapp +34 658213100
Or enter the site with all the details of the past course:
May we all find Divine Peace in our hearts, live our most elevate, truest and most authentic purpose in accordance with the highest ideals, and may we all indulge in creativity and Divine Grace – with ever-deeper compassion and love; helping to leave the world a little better than we found it…
“Those who seek wealth for themselves alone are destined to become poor or suffer from mental disharmony; but those who consider the whole world as their family and are truly concerned with the welfare of a collective or the world, and earnestly devote themselves to helping others, obtain the personal prosperity that is rightfully theirs. This is an infallible and secret law.”
Dear friends, Namaste – my soul bows and acknowledges each and every one of you, bright souls. I hope you are well and at peace…
I wanted to delve deeper into a phrase by Master Yogananda who says:
“Is a diamond less valuable because it is covered in mud?”
This Great spiritual Master explains to us in a simple way what the practice of yoga means: to remove the mud, so we can reflect with totality the pure crystalline diamond what we are in the essence… Through the meditative practices and lifestyle in yoga we can realize that we are a wave in the Infinite cosmic Sea. We do it “just” by removing the veil of ignorance and thus revealing the Divine within us.
To enter into total connection and self-realization, remembering “Who we are” we need a spiritual practice…. It is important to clarify that those who want to remain in the illusion or Cosmic dream of “Maya” do not need yoga practices or meditations… But, those who want to awaken from this “Matrix”; yes, they need it. This statement has nothing to do with belief and I don’t say this “lightly”… But, it is simply scientific: just as there is a need for study and practice to become an excellent musician; there are technologies for this special purpose of realizing the Divine Self within us.
It is certainly also true that, in essence, we are all perfect and children of the Divine Self; the “only” thing we need to do is to remove the subconscious garbage and remind ourselves of this Truth. But to remind us (and Patanjali, the great codifier of yoga, uses exactly this term: “smirit”, the memory of the Self); there are energetic psychophysical exercises that were channeled thousands of years ago by the Rishis, great enlightened sages, and which today we know as “yoga“. These practices, scientifically, keep the body/mind healthy and lead us to immerse ourselves in the Self. Ps: It is important to note that there are also practices of other cultures and traditions that are not called “yoga” but which in the deepest meaning, these also lead us to “yoga” or, internally realizing the union in one’s Divine Self.
Without spiritual practices, this Self remains obscured by the mind and external distractions, like a diamond in the mud. We must therefore remove the mud: this is the work of yoga practice
To complement and help in the process of spiritual awakening, beyond the practices, it is also indicated to harmonize with internal and external nature; practicing non-violence and compassion…: even a simple conscious walk in nature can support our Divine purpose; the observation or creation of a significant painting or art; the look of a small child; sincere affection; a swim in the sea or in a waterfall; immersing yourself in the forest or in the ocean or breathing from the top of a mountain, taking care of plants and animals, listening to and/or creating inspiring music, reading and writing a profound book of poetry, contemplating a sunset and a dawn: all this can complete our connection in the Self’.
At the same time, let’s also remember that there may be people who live in nature but who are disconnected and others, in big cities, who are more aware and awake…
In other words: nothing replaces meditation practice…
“Banat, banat, banat Banjai” – “Practice, practice, practice and one day it will be done…” ,says Lahiri Mahasaya…
It is true that we must not even be dissatisfied with who we are: it is important, while we are on the path, to develop unconditional love for everyone, including ourselves and to accept ourselves as we are… However, this does not mean doing it indulgently ; it doesn’t mean that Divine self-realization doesn’t need any internal work to be done…
Self-realization (in Yoga) is an art and a balance: between self-acceptance, letting go; together with a meticulous and profound investigation; so we can transform ourselves and enter into true knowledge of the soul through deep and superconscious meditation (or turyia): observing the small wave of the small self in the immense Ocean that We Are.
– I therefore look forward to seeing you this end of the year (and during the year) for yoga practices and online meditations
– There will also be two online workshops before the end of the year, with theories and practices (anatomy, subtle body, philosophy, pranayama, mantra, hatha, vinyasa, kundalini and Kriya Yoga meditation). For more info and detailed program, contact me privately on whatsapp +34 658213100
Here are the next dates of the in-depth studies during the weekends:
– 23 and 24 November
– 14 and 15 December.
And, on December 15th from 6.30pm to 7.30pm there will be a Christmas meditation on zoom
– To participate, contact me privately on WhatsApp +34 658213100 and I will send you the zoom link.
*This meeting is free of charge for the cause you freely choose.
Soon I will send you the complete 2025 calendar which this year is very rich and very creative.
There will be a 5-module course called “Kriya Yoga, awakening in the Light”; retreats and special workshops in Italy and Tenerife… And, I am also preparing the new dates of the next 250-hour “Prema Kriya Yoga teacher training”, in Italian and English, with an international yoga alliance diploma…
If you want the info in advance, write to me privately: +34 658213100
