Posts by Yatkara

Video #349: Criticism Trap | Spirit Matters #38

Posted on by Yatkara

Criticism Trap: How Gossip and Judging Others Blocks Spiritual Growth

Many people on the spiritual path notice that their conscience bothers them when they criticise or gossip about others. Deep down, the soul knows that criticism and negative talk inflate the ego and slow down genuine spiritual progress. In Spirit Matters #38, hosts Vajin and Abhinabha explore the criticism trap and share four practical spiritual strategies to break free from this common habit.

Why the Criticism Trap Is So Harmful

Criticism hurts both the person being criticised and the one doing the criticising. When we speak negatively about others, we strengthen our own ego and create separation instead of connection. Over time, this habit clouds our inner clarity and makes it harder to feel genuine peace and compassion.

The episode explains that the criticism trap is especially dangerous during spiritual awakening. As we grow more aware, we may notice faults in others more easily. Without the right approach, this awareness can turn into judgment and gossip, pulling us away from heart-centred living.

4 Spiritual Strategies to Overcome the Criticism Trap

The hosts offer clear, grounded guidance to help viewers move beyond criticism:

1. Understand Why Criticism Hurts Both Sides

Criticism damages relationships and creates negative energy that returns to the critic. Recognising this simple truth is the first step toward change. The episode shows how even “harmless” gossip can block spiritual growth.

2. Explore the Origins of Gossip

From an evolutionary perspective, gossip once served as a survival tool to build social bonds and share information. Today, however, it often serves the ego rather than genuine connection. Understanding its roots helps us consciously choose a different way.

3. Practise Seeing the Divine in Others

One of the most powerful antidotes is to consciously look for the light and goodness in every person. This heart-based practice, inspired by Sri Chinmoy’s teachings, shifts our focus from faults to the divine spark present in everyone — including ourselves.

4. Protect Yourself from Unjust Criticism

Learning how to block out or respond calmly to unfair criticism directed at you is equally important. The episode provides practical tools to maintain inner peace without becoming defensive or bitter.

Sri Chinmoy’s Wisdom on Criticism

Sri Chinmoy’s philosophy for the new millennium directly addresses the problem of criticism in spiritual life. He taught that real progress comes when we stop feeding the criticising mind and instead cultivate the habit of seeing the light in others and in ourselves. The hosts encourage viewers to try living without the criticising mind for even a short time. Many people notice they immediately feel lighter, brighter, and happier.

Personal Insights from the Hosts

Vajin and Abhinabha share honest reflections from their own journeys. They discuss how they have worked with the criticism trap and the difference it made when they shifted to a more compassionate, heart-centred approach. Their stories make the teaching relatable and encouraging for anyone struggling with this habit.

How to Integrate These Strategies into Daily Life

The episode emphasises that overcoming the criticism trap is a gradual practice. Small daily steps — pausing before speaking negatively, consciously appreciating others, and returning to the heart during conversations — can create lasting change. Over time, these habits help reduce spiritual loneliness and support a more grounded, joyful spiritual life.

Spirit Matters is a podcast dedicated to helping people integrate spiritual awakening into everyday life. It offers practical guidance to move beyond confusion, frustration, and isolation toward heart-based wisdom and inner peace.

Related Episodes:

Explore More 

For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

I Love Singing #249: Sri Chinmoy Songs sung by Purnakama

Posted on by Yatkara

This week features two uplifting Sri Chinmoy Bengali songs from the Alpha and Omega songbook. Over the years, Sri Chinmoy composed music filled with aspiration and gratitude, creating heartfelt melodies that gently illuminate his spiritual path. Because of their simplicity and warmth, the songs continue to speak directly to the inner heart. Additionally, they offer listeners a peaceful doorway into his meditative world.

The performances this week come from his disciple Purnakama, whose sincere and gentle voice brings out the devotional sweetness in every line. Through her recordings, it becomes easy to settle into a calm, meditative mood and appreciate the purity of the music. As a result, whether you choose to sing along or simply listen quietly, these Sri Chinmoy Bengali songs can add a soft, elevating joy to your week.

Below are the six songs featured in this week’s selection:

Songs

  • Nirabata Jara Nahi Chahe Kabhu Nirabata
  • Byarthata Man Byarthata Pran Dure Chale

Listen & Learn

You can learn by watching the notation while listening, follow along with the melody, or download both the audio and the PDF scores for your personal practice. Everything is available for free, so you can learn at your own pace and enjoy the music more deeply. Use the links below to easily listen to the audio, download the recordings, and view or download the PDF sheet music for your convenience:

Track1
Track2
Song Scores

 

Lyrics:

1. Nirabata Jara Nahi Chahe Kabhu Nirabata

Nirabata jara nahi chahe kabhu nirabata
Tader jibane biraje kebal byarthata

– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Alpha and Omega’ songbook


2. Byarthata Man Byarthata Pran Dure Chale

Byarthata man byarthata pran dure chale jao bahu dure
Ami chahi shudhu rahite amar pushta tushta hiya pure

– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Alpha and Omega’ songbook

 

For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2026 Sri Chinmoy Centre

News #130: Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims in Canberra

Posted on by Yatkara

The Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims 5km at Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra

Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims Canberra Enjoy Perfect Conditions

On Sunday, 8 March 2026, the Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims were held at Yarralumla Bay on Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra. After weeks of hot weather, swimmers were delighted with ideal conditions — still, clear water at a comfortable 22 degrees, an overcast sky, and almost no wind. The rain stayed away, creating one of the most enjoyable open-water swimming days in recent memory.

The Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims offered three distances: the 5km (four laps of the 1.25km triangular course), the 2.5km (two laps), and a fast 500m out-and-back sprint. Swimmers started at five-minute intervals, with the longest distance beginning first. The calm water allowed everyone to focus purely on their swim, and many described it as one of the best conditions they had experienced.

Three Course Records Set

The day saw three new course records fall, one in each distance:

  • In the 5km, Perry Blackmore (M60-69) broke Mark Wieland’s long-standing record with an outstanding time of 1:26:50, finishing second overall.
  • In the 2.5km, Belinda Soszyn set a new F70+ record with 52:46. She returned to the same beach where she and her husband once organised the famous Sri Chinmoy Peace Triathlon Festival in the 1990s.
  • In the 500m, Aron Lombardi set a new Male 17+ record with a powerful 7:53.

These achievements highlighted the high standard of open-water swimming at Sri Chinmoy events and the motivation that perfect conditions can bring.

5km Swim Highlights

David Cook took the overall victory in the 5km with a strong time of 1:25:43. Perry Blackmore’s record-breaking swim earned him second place outright, while Lloyd Dobson (M50-59) finished third in 1:27:16.

Rachel Russell was the fastest woman, finishing fourth overall in an impressive 1:28:20. Peta Bulling and Laura Van Den Honert completed the women’s podium. In the older categories, Janelle Ahern won F50-59, Susan Henderson took F60-69, and Janet Gorst delivered another strong performance in F70+ with 2:00:43.

Rico Fitch, who has completed more Sri Chinmoy lake swims in Canberra than anyone else, won the M70+ category in 2:03:42.

2.5km and 500m Swim Results

Tippi Wieland dominated the women’s 2.5km, winning comfortably in 41:21. Deanne Sanderson took first in F50-59 with 41:36, while Jennifer Horton and Ann Reid excelled in the F60-69 category.

Mitchell Bainbridge was unchallenged in the men’s 2.5km, winning easily in 37:58 ahead of Tomas Krajca and Satya Yogeswaran. The M60-69 category was particularly competitive, with Tony Croft winning in 46:13.

In the 500m sprint, Aron Lombardi’s record-setting 7:53 led the field. Yiannis Eliopoulos placed second, while J’Aime McGuire won the Female 17+ category. Young Henry Cooper was the fastest in the Boys Under 13.

Perfect Conditions and Friendly Atmosphere

The Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims are known for their relaxed yet well-organised format. The triangular 1.25km loop is easy to follow, and the calm water on 8 March made navigation straightforward. Swimmers appreciated the plentiful parking, no queues at the toilets, and the post-swim pancakes — a much-loved tradition.

The event perfectly captures the Sri Chinmoy spirit: combining physical challenge with inner joy. On a day with almost no external obstacles, the only task was to swim — and many participants did so with smiles and a strong sense of personal achievement.

Results and Photos

Why Swimmers Love These Events

The Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims offer a rare combination: a safe, well-marked open-water course in a beautiful location, friendly organisation, and a focus on personal progress rather than intense competition. The variety of distances makes the event accessible to swimmers of all abilities — from beginners doing their first 500m to experienced open-water athletes tackling the full 5km.

The calm conditions on 8 March 2026 created one of the most enjoyable swims in recent memory, reminding everyone why these lake swims continue to grow in popularity.

Looking Ahead

With another successful edition complete, the Sri Chinmoy Lake Swims in Canberra remain a highlight of the Australian open-water swimming calendar. Many participants are already looking forward to the next event and the chance to improve their times or simply enjoy another beautiful day on the lake.

Congratulations to all who took part — and a special thank you to the volunteers who made the morning run so smoothly.

Related Events & Resources:

Explore More

For more information about sports events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #129: Inspiring Sri Chinmoy 10km Race in Zurich

Posted on by Yatkara

Runners on the flat course during the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race in Zurich 2026

Sri Chinmoy 10km Race in Zurich Returns for Another Successful Edition

On Sunday, 8 March 2026, the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race took place in the Affoltern district of Zurich, Switzerland. This popular road race continues to attract runners who appreciate a fast, flat, and officially measured course combined with the uplifting spirit of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team.

The event is known for its simplicity, efficiency, and welcoming atmosphere. Many participants return year after year because the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race provides a genuine opportunity to test their fitness while enjoying the joy of self-transcendence — going beyond previous personal limits with a cheerful heart.

Course Details and Organisation

The course consists of four laps (each approximately 2,433m plus a final 268m section), making a total distance of 10km. It is mostly flat with only 70 metres of elevation gain across the entire race (about 17 metres per lap). Roughly 7.4km of the route is on asphalt, offering excellent running conditions.

The race is officially measured by the Swiss Athletics Federation (SLV) and is eligible for national best lists. This makes it especially attractive for runners aiming for personal bests or seeking officially recognised times. The start and finish area, along with changing rooms, showers, and the awards ceremony, were conveniently located at the same venue.

Age Categories and Prizes

The Sri Chinmoy 10km Race features clear age-group categories:

  • Men / Women HK (born 1977 and younger)
  • Men / Women 50 (1967–1976)
  • Men / Women 60 (1957–1966)
  • Men / Women 70 (1947–1956)
  • Men / Women 80 (1946 and older)

A team competition is also included. Prizes consist of natural products. The top 7 in the main categories and the top 3 in the older age groups receive awards.

Current course records stand as:

  • Women: Elvira Keiser (LA Nidwalden) – 37:54
  • Men: David Keller (TV Oerlikon) – 32:23

These strong times show that the flat, fast course is capable of producing excellent performances.

Support and Post-Race Refreshments

After the race, all participants received a freshly prepared muesli — a nice touch that many runners look forward to. Parking was available at the nearby Fronwald sports facility or in the blue zones around the area. 

The organisation was handled efficiently by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, with contact person Heinz Heer available for any questions.

Results and Photos

Why Runners Choose the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race

The Sri Chinmoy 10km Race stands out for several reasons. The flat, measured course is ideal for chasing personal bests or simply enjoying a steady run. The small-field, community-focused atmosphere creates a refreshing contrast to larger commercial events. Runners often mention the positive energy, helpful volunteers, and the deeper sense of purpose behind the race.

For many, taking part in a Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team event is about much more than achieving a good result. It is an opportunity to unite physical effort with inner aspiration — to run with joy and sincerity while sharing the experience with like-minded souls.

A Growing Tradition in Zurich

The Sri Chinmoy 10km Race has established itself as a reliable early-season race in the Zurich area. Its location in Affoltern provides easy access by public transport and car, while the park-like setting makes the laps feel pleasant rather than repetitive.

Registration for the next edition usually opens in October. 

Looking Ahead

With its official measurement, fast course, and welcoming spirit, the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race continues to attract both competitive runners and those who simply enjoy a well-organised local race. Whether you are aiming for a new personal best or simply want to start the season with a positive experience, this event offers an excellent opportunity.

Related Events

Explore More

For more information about sports events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #128: Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race Prospect Park

Posted on by Yatkara

Happy finishers celebrating at the 10th annual Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race

Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race Celebrates 10th Anniversary in Prospect Park

On Sunday, 8 March 2026, the Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race marked its tenth annual edition in the beautiful Prospect Park, Brooklyn. Runners gathered on a warm but foggy and damp morning for a scenic loop course that combined challenge with the classic Sri Chinmoy spirit of joyful self-transcendence.

The event offered two popular distances: the 5K and the longer 7-Mile race. Both courses followed the park’s pedestrian lane along Park Drive, providing a mix of open meadow views and shaded forest sections. Despite the overcast and slightly humid conditions, the rain held off, creating pleasant running weather for participants of all ages and abilities.

Excellent Performances in the 5K Race

The 5K saw some very strong running. Julien Renault from Le Vaudreuil took first place overall in an impressive 16:48 (chip time 16:44). Robert Mullen from Brooklyn finished second in 17:33, closely followed by Luke McCambley, also from Brooklyn, in 17:36.

In the women’s category, Danielle Pancer from Brooklyn was the fastest female with 21:31. Sarah Björklund took the top spot in the Women 50-59 category, while Ann Vazquez and Maggie Deschamps excelled in the Women 60-69 group.

Notable mentions include young Calvin Whitehead’s strong showing in previous shorter races and several runners who tackled the course with strollers, showing great determination on the hilly sections.

Outstanding Results in the 7-Mile Race

The 7-Mile race brought even more inspiring performances. Geoffrey Scott from Brooklyn won outright in 40:31. Leonel Perez placed second in 41:04, and Marc Saladino took third in 41:27.

Emily Caffery was the fastest woman in 48:03. In the older age groups, Nick Thompson won the Men 50-59 category, while Dan Dougherty claimed victory in the Men 70+. Many runners praised the scenic loop and the supportive atmosphere throughout the longer distance.

A Special Milestone Edition

Reaching the tenth edition is a wonderful achievement for the Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race. Over the past decade, this event has become a favourite among local Brooklyn runners and visitors alike. The course in Prospect Park offers a perfect balance of beauty and challenge, with gentle hills that test endurance without being overwhelming.

The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team once again delivered smooth organisation. The early morning start allowed runners to enjoy the rest of their Sunday, and the foggy conditions added a unique, peaceful atmosphere to the park setting.

Why Runners Keep Coming Back

The Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race stands out for several reasons:

  • A scenic and well-measured course in one of New York’s most beautiful parks
  • A welcoming, non-competitive spirit focused on personal progress
  • Excellent support for runners of all ages and abilities
  • Free downloadable professional photos searchable by bib number
  • A genuine community feel with runners, volunteers, and spectators cheering everyone on

Many participants return year after year because the event successfully combines a solid athletic challenge with the deeper joy of self-transcendence — going beyond previous limits with a cheerful heart.

Results and Photos

Looking Ahead

With ten successful editions now complete, the Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race continues to grow as a favourite early-season event in the New York running calendar. Many participants are already looking forward to next year’s edition and other upcoming Sri Chinmoy races in the region.

You may also enjoy reading about other recent Sri Chinmoy events, including the Acton Fun Runs, the 100km Road Race in Canberra, and the Self-Transcendence Marathon in Nish.

Related Events & Resources:

Explore More 

For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.