Video #364: Meditation Dry Period | Spirit Matters #46

Posted on by Yatkara

Introduction to the Meditation Dry Period

Is the thrill gone from your meditation? Do you feel trapped in the same routines without the peace, clarity and joy you experienced right after your spiritual awakening? You are most likely going through a Meditation Dry Period. These phases are common to almost every sincere seeker, yet many people mistake them for permanent loss of motivation. In this episode of Spirit Matters, Abhinabha and Vajin explore why dry periods happen and, more importantly, how to find your way through them toward deeper spiritual fulfilment.

What a Dry Period Really Feels Like

A dry period is more than a few uninspired sits. It is a stretch of time when meditation feels flat, mechanical or even pointless. The inner connection that once felt alive seems distant. Gratitude fades, complacency creeps in, and the practice that used to nourish the heart starts to feel like a duty. Sri Chinmoy taught that every seeker experiences these phases. Understanding that dryness is a normal part of the journey already removes much of the discouragement.

Why Dry Periods Occur

Dry periods are rarely random. They often result from the gradual accumulation of small mistakes — losing the sense of gratitude, becoming careless with effort, or allowing the outer mind to dominate the practice. The hosts use the helpful image of a dam: many tiny cracks eventually cause a collapse. Recognising the early signs of dryness allows us to repair those cracks before the practice becomes completely arid.

The Danger of Quitting Too Soon

One of the greatest risks during a Meditation Dry Period is the belief that the motivation has disappeared forever. Many people abandon their practice at this stage, thinking the earlier joy was only temporary. In reality, dryness is often a tunnel rather than a dead end. Knowing how to navigate it can transform a difficult phase into a period of deeper roots and stronger aspiration.

Four Practical Ways to Overcome Dryness

Drawing on Sri Chinmoy’s teachings and their own long experience, Abhinabha and Vajin offer four clear and heart-centred approaches:

1. Read spiritually charged books

Sacred literature has a unique power to rekindle devotion. Biographies of saints, first-person spiritual narratives and the writings of realised teachers can awaken the heart when meditation itself feels dry. The hosts share personal recommendations, including works by Sri Chinmoy, Paramahansa Yogananda and Sri Ramakrishna, and explain why certain books act like living companions during empty periods.

2. Mix with spiritual people

Consciousness is contagious. Spending time with fellow seekers — whether in group meditation, singing or simple heartfelt conversation — can lift the atmosphere of the inner life. Community provides both encouragement and a mirror that helps us see our own state more clearly. Even short, regular contact with a spiritual environment can interrupt the isolation that often deepens dryness.

3. Repeat sacred names (japa)

When formal meditation feels heavy, the simple repetition of a mantra or sacred name can keep the inner connection alive. Mantras work even when the mind is restless or the heart feels closed. The hosts discuss both traditional mantras and the possibility of finding a short English phrase that resonates personally. Consistent japa gently realigns the consciousness with the spiritual current.

4. Keep a spiritual diary

Writing honestly about one’s inner state — the struggles, the small insights, the moments of gratitude — creates a record that reveals progress even when it is not felt day to day. A diary also serves as a weekly check-in with one’s own conscience, helping the seeker stay aligned with the soul’s deeper longing.

Deepening the Inner Relationship

At the heart of every practical suggestion lies one essential truth: meditation is a relationship with the soul, the Inner Pilot, the Divine within. When that relationship is neglected, dryness naturally follows. When it is consciously renewed — through reading, community, mantra or honest self-reflection — the practice begins to regain its living quality. Devotion, even in its simplest forms, is one of the most effective protections against prolonged dryness.

Why These Phases Can Last Longer Than Expected

Dry periods sometimes continue far longer than we hope. The mind may interpret the length as proof that something is wrong. In reality, longer phases often prepare the ground for a more mature and stable aspiration. The episode encourages patience and steady effort rather than dramatic attempts to force inspiration to return.

Previous Episodes in the Spirit Matters Series

This episode continues the rich tradition of practical spirituality offered by Spirit Matters. Explore more transformative conversations:

Final Reflections

A Meditation Dry Period is not a sign of failure. It is a natural and often necessary part of the spiritual journey. By understanding its causes and applying simple, heart-centred remedies, every seeker can move through the desert and rediscover the oasis of peace, clarity and joy that first inspired the path. This episode of Spirit Matters offers both honest diagnosis and practical hope for anyone currently walking through dryness.

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 #268: Sri Chinmoy Songs sung by Purnakama

Posted on by Yatkara

This week features four uplifting Sri Chinmoy Bengali and English songs from the ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ 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 and English songs can add a soft, elevating joy to your week.

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

Songs

  • Eso Eso Baso Baso Amar Hiyar Bagane
  • O, Come, Come
  • Dayamayi Daya Kare Jeona Aji
  • O Mother of Compassion

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
Track3
Track4
Song Scores

 

Lyrics:

1. Eso Eso Baso Baso Amar Hiyar Bagane

Eso eso baso baso
Amar hiyar bagane

Translation:

O, come, come,
Sit down in my heart-garden.

Composed on June 8, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook


2. O, Come, Come

O, come, come,
Sit down in my heart-garden.

Composed on June 8, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook


3. Dayamayi Daya Kare Jeona Aji

Dayamayi daya kare jeona aji

Translation:

O Mother of Compassion.
Do not leave me today.

Composed on June 8, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ songbook


4. O Mother of Compassion

O Mother of Compassion.
Do not leave me today.

Composed on June 8, 1996
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Your Face Is My Dream’ 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

Inspiring News #140: Beautiful Sri Chinmoy Marathon at Rockland Lake

Posted on by Yatkara

Sri Chinmoy Marathon

Introduction to the Sri Chinmoy Marathon at Rockland Lake

The 24th annual Sri Chinmoy Marathon took place on Monday, August 24, 2026, around the beautiful shores of Rockland Lake in Congers, New York. This popular Boston Qualifier drew runners from many countries to the scenic, pancake-flat course just 45 minutes north of New York City. Marathon photos are now available, along with the complete official results.

A Scenic and Fast Course

The Rockland Lake Marathon is known for its exceptionally flat and fast course. Runners complete a USATF-certified 2.95-mile loop around the lake. The marathon consists of one partial starting lap followed by eight full loops, creating a smooth and enjoyable race experience. The path was repaved in 2020 and remains free of potholes and cracks, making it ideal for personal bests and Boston Marathon qualification.

Photo Galleries & Official Results

Because so many excellent photographs were taken on race day, the organisers created two separate galleries:

These galleries capture the energy of the start, the determination of runners on the course, the joy at the finish line, and the awards ceremony.

Previous Editions and Related Events

The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team organises many races at Rockland Lake throughout the year, including the 12-Hour and 24-Hour races, the Midnight Marathon and half-marathons. Previous results and photo galleries from earlier editions of the marathon can be found on the official website:

A Well-Organised Event

The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, in cooperation with the New York State Parks System, once again provided excellent race support. Premium aid stations were available every mile, custom medals were awarded to all finishers, and a post-race vegetarian meal was served. Free parking (for early arrivals), full medical support and a friendly atmosphere made the day enjoyable for both runners and volunteers.

International Participation

As in previous years, the race attracted an international field of runners from more than 30 countries. The combination of a fast course, beautiful lakeside scenery and the welcoming spirit of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team continues to make this event a favourite among both local and visiting athletes.

Supporting a Greater Cause

All proceeds from the Rockland Lake Marathon support the Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race — the world’s longest certified road race. By participating, runners not only challenge themselves but also help sustain one of the most remarkable ultrarunning events on the planet.

Course Records and History

The men’s course record stands at 2:30:32 (Bahadur Szabo, Hungary, 2005). The women’s course record is 2:37:24 (Annie Heffernan, USA, 2023). Over the years the Rockland Lake Marathon has become a reliable Boston Qualifier and a highlight of the late-summer running calendar in the New York area.

Atmosphere and Community

Runners often comment on the peaceful yet focused atmosphere of the Rockland Lake Marathon. The combination of natural beauty, well-organised support and the underlying philosophy of self-transcendence creates a special experience. Many participants return year after year, drawn by both the fast course and the sense of community.

Final Reflections

The 24th annual Sri Chinmoy Marathon at Rockland Lake once again showed why this race holds a special place in the New York running calendar. Flat, fast, scenic and well-supported, it continues to attract runners seeking both performance and inspiration. We congratulate all the finishers and thank the many volunteers who made the day possible.

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.

Video #363: Spiritual Teacher Guidance | Spirit Matters #45

Posted on by Yatkara

Introduction to Spiritual Teacher Guidance

Are gurus still relevant today? Why do I need a spiritual teacher after a spiritual awakening? These are crucial questions that arise once the initial dust of awakening has settled. Without proper Spiritual Teacher Guidance, it is easy to fall back into false fears and widespread misconceptions about gurus. In this episode of Spirit Matters, Abhinabha and Vajin take an honest and practical look at the necessity and value of a spiritual teacher on the path.

Why the Question Matters

After a spiritual awakening, many people feel they can continue alone. Others become cautious because of stories about false teachers and cults. Both reactions are understandable. Yet if you are serious about lasting spiritual growth, making an informed choice about guidance becomes essential. This conversation addresses the topic directly, drawing on more than 25 years of lived experience on a guru-guided path.

Distinguishing a Genuine Path from a Cult

One of the most useful parts of the episode is a clear and simple way to distinguish a cult from a genuine spiritual path. True spiritual teachers strengthen a person’s agency rather than diminish it. They encourage independent thinking, personal responsibility and inner growth. In contrast, unhealthy groups tend to control, isolate and create dependency. Understanding this difference helps remove unnecessary fear and allows seekers to approach the subject with greater clarity.

Guru-Devotion Versus Personality-Worship

Another important distinction the hosts explore is the difference between genuine guru-devotion and personality-worship. True devotion is directed toward the highest consciousness that the teacher embodies and transmits. It is not blind admiration of a personality. When practised sincerely, this form of devotion can become a fast and powerful track toward the Divine. The episode explains how this works in daily practice and why it is often misunderstood in modern culture.

What Actually Happens on a Guided Path

Drawing from their own long experience, Abhinabha and Vajin describe what it is really like to learn from a spiritual teacher. They speak about expansion, challenges, breakthroughs and the moments that push a person beyond old comfort zones. A genuine teacher does not remove difficulties; rather, he or she helps the student meet those difficulties with greater awareness and inner strength. Over time, this process builds resilience, clarity and a deeper connection to one’s own soul.

Strengthening Agency, Not Replacing It

A common misconception is that following a spiritual teacher means giving up one’s free will. The opposite is closer to the truth. Authentic Spiritual Teacher Guidance aims to awaken and strengthen the student’s own inner guidance. The teacher points the way, offers tools and holds a higher standard, but the real work remains with the individual. This approach fosters maturity rather than dependency.

Addressing Modern Scepticism

In today’s world, scepticism toward spiritual authority is widespread and often justified by past abuses. The episode does not ignore these concerns. Instead, it invites listeners to look beyond generalisations and examine the actual qualities of a path and a teacher. Lived experience, consistency over many years, and the tangible growth of students become more reliable indicators than media narratives or second-hand opinions.

Can You Walk the Path Alone?

Many people successfully practise meditation and self-inquiry without a formal teacher. At the same time, the right guidance can significantly accelerate progress and help avoid common pitfalls. The hosts explore both possibilities with honesty. They suggest that the decision is deeply personal and depends on the individual’s temperament, readiness and longing. What matters most is sincerity and the willingness to grow.

Practical Insights for Seekers

Throughout the conversation, practical points emerge. Listeners learn how to observe their own reactions to the idea of a teacher, how to test the atmosphere of a path, and how to recognise whether their sense of agency is increasing or decreasing. These simple checks can save years of confusion and help seekers move forward with greater confidence.

Previous Episodes in the Spirit Matters Series

This episode continues the rich tradition of practical spirituality offered by Spirit Matters. Explore more transformative conversations:

Final Reflections

The question of whether a spiritual teacher is needed cannot be answered by slogans or fear-based generalisations. It requires honest inquiry, personal experience and a clear understanding of what genuine guidance actually looks like. This episode of Spirit Matters offers exactly that — a grounded, open and experience-based exploration of Spiritual Teacher Guidance. For anyone standing at this important crossroads after awakening, the conversation provides clarity, courage and a deeper sense of what is possible.

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.

Inspiring News #139: Stunning English Channel Crossing Victories

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Celebrating Outstanding English Channel Crossing Achievements

In the past weeks, members of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team have once again demonstrated extraordinary endurance and determination in the waters of the English Channel. Two successful solo crossings and an earlier all-women relay have added inspiring new chapters to the team’s long history of open-water swimming. These achievements highlight the spirit of self-transcendence that defines the team’s approach to sport.

Abhejali’s Historic Breaststroke Crossing

On 28–29 July, Abhejali Bernardová completed her third solo crossing of the English Channel, this time swimming breaststroke. She finished in 17 hours and 38 minutes. Abhejali is only the fifth woman and the 18th person overall to complete a breaststroke crossing of the Channel. Even more remarkably, she is the only person in the world to have swum the English Channel in both freestyle and breaststroke. Supported by a dedicated crew including Dhavala, Shyamala and Nina from the Czech Republic, her achievement stands as a landmark in open-water swimming history.

Jayasalini’s Unique Double Achievement

One week later, on 7 August, Jayasalini Olga Abramovskikh crossed the English Channel in 18 hours and 27 minutes. With this swim, she became the only person in the world to have completed both the “Everest of long-distance running” — the Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race (which she finished in 2014) — and the “Everest of open-water swimming,” the English Channel. Her pilot Eddie, who had previously guided Vijaya’s successful swim, knows the team well and provided excellent support.

The Sri Chinmoy Peace Dreamers Relay

Earlier in the season, on 14 June, three accomplished women ultra-athletes from the team — Abhejali Bernardová, Jayasalini Olga Abramovskikh and Vasanti Niemz (age 69) — completed a three-person relay across the English Channel. They named their team the Sri Chinmoy Peace Dreamers and dedicated the swim to peace. The relay took place in water temperatures of around 15°C and was guided by the experienced pilot Simon Ellis and Marilyn Critchlow on the boat High Hopes.

The three swimmers rotated hourly, facing the challenge of getting back into cold water after only short rests. Despite some seasickness, they made steady progress, aided by favourable winds and currents. After approximately 13–14 hours, they reached the French shore at La Courte Dune near Cap Gris-Nez. In the dark, with some bioluminescence in the water, they lit a Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run torch on the beach and offered a peace prayer together.

Honouring Gertrude Ederle’s Centenary

The relay was inspired in part by the centenary of Gertrude Ederle’s historic 1926 crossing. One hundred years earlier, on 6 August 1926, the 19-year-old American Olympic champion became the first woman to swim the English Channel solo. Two days after their own successful relay, the three women visited the Gertrude Ederle memorial at Kingsdown and took a short commemorative swim near the site.

A Long Tradition of Channel Swims

For the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, this was the fifth successful English Channel relay and the fourth all-women relay (following relays in 1989, 2009, 2014 and now 2026). Full details and a list of all team swims can be found here:

Channel Swimming Records – Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team

The Spirit Behind the Swims

Throughout the relay the swimmers carried a Peace Run torch on board and meditated briefly with it before each rotation. Their motto and theme song came from Sri Chinmoy:

Only the Peace-Dreamers, Peace-Lovers and Peace-Servers can transform the world.

The English Channel has long been called the Everest of open-water swimming. These recent successes by Abhejali, Jayasalini and the Peace Dreamers relay show that with preparation, teamwork, inner determination and a higher purpose, even the most demanding challenges can be met.

Looking Ahead

Both Abhejali and Jayasalini, as well as Vasanti, continue to inspire with their ongoing ultra-distance projects. Abhejali’s breaststroke crossing and Jayasalini’s unique double achievement will surely encourage many others to explore their own limits — in the water, on the road, and in daily life.

Final Reflections

These English Channel crossings are more than athletic accomplishments. They are living expressions of self-transcendence, teamwork and a sincere dedication to peace. The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team continues to show that when the heart is strong and the goal is clear, the seemingly impossible becomes possible.

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.