Video #266: On Gotwits and Sarcophagi – The Travel Episode | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep.07

In this conversation, Vajin shares his transformative experiences during his travels to Egypt and India, focusing on the profound connections he made with ancient sites, the power of meditation, and the spiritual lessons learned through personal encounters. He emphasizes the importance of being present, the weight of the heart in moral decisions, and the ability to connect with others through love and awareness. The discussion also touches on the significance of loss and how it can lead to deeper insights and growth. 

Takeaways:

  • Vajin felt a strong calling to visit the pyramids in Egypt, which he discovered was geographically significant on his journey.
  • Meditation at the pyramids allowed Vajin to connect deeply with the ancient site and its mysteries.
  • The Egyptian belief in the heart’s weight during judgment reflects a timeless moral lesson about living a light-hearted life.
  • Experiencing art in museums can create a sense of time travel, connecting us with the creators of the past.
  • Being fully present in the moment can unlock profound experiences and insights.
  • Spiritual connections can occur in everyday interactions, revealing deeper truths about ourselves and others.
  • Loss can lead to unexpected blessings and insights about our attachments to material possessions.
  • Every situation in life has a unique solution that can lead to spiritual growth and understanding.
  • The interconnectedness of all lives creates a tapestry of experiences that shape our journeys.
  • Embracing small losses throughout life can prepare us for the ultimate transition of death.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #264: The Progress-Based Lifestyle | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep.06

In this episode, Abhinabha and Vajin explore the profound differences between success and progress, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from inner growth rather than external achievements. They discuss cultural perceptions of success, the illusion of security it provides, and the importance of embracing uncertainty. Personal anecdotes highlight resilience in the face of loss and the valuable lessons learned from failure. The conversation also touches on the significance of competition, the philosophy of Gaman – the Japanese notion to endure suffering with dignity – and the importance of aligning your values with your pursuits. They explore the themes of competition, community, and personal growth through the lens of running and life experiences. They discuss how competition can be a source of motivation and self-improvement, the importance of self-compassion, and the need to see the divine in oneself and others. The conversation also delves into the concept of the Gen-Z term ‘sigma male’ as a new paradigm of success, emphasizing authenticity over traditional measures of achievement. Practical steps for living a progress-based life are outlined, including the power of gratitude and the importance of trusting one’s intuition.

Takeaways:

  • Success is often a static goal, while progress is a dynamic journey.  
  • Cultural narratives shape our understanding of success and happiness.  
  • True security cannot be found in material wealth or fame.  
  • Experiencing loss can lead to profound personal growth and resilience.  
  • Failure provides valuable feedback for future success.  
  • Embracing uncertainty is essential for a fulfilling life.  
  • The journey of self-discovery is more important than the destination.  
  • Inner values should guide our pursuits, not societal expectations.  
  • Competition can be a tool for personal growth rather than ego fulfillment.  
  • Practicing Gaman helps endure challenges with dignity and grace. 
  • Competition can motivate us to bring out our best.  
  • Running teaches us about community and shared challenges.  
  • Life is fundamentally a cooperative endeavor.  
  • Self-compassion is crucial for personal growth.  
  • Seeing the divine in ourselves fosters self-respect.  
  • Gratitude shifts our focus from lack to abundance.  
  • Intuition is the voice of our higher self.  
  • Living authentically leads to deeper connections.  
  • We often treat ourselves worse than we treat others.  
  • Choosing a friendly universe fosters a positive mindset.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #255: Acceptance – Embracing the Journey of Life | The Acceptance of Life Podcast Ep. 01

Vajin and Abhinabha have launched The Acceptance of Life Podcast, a fresh and insightful series diving into the depths of spirituality and the challenges and triumphs of living a spiritual life. Targeted at seekers from all walks of life, the podcast offers weekly episodes packed with personal experiences and thought-provoking discussions inspired by Sri Chinmoy’s Path.

In the inaugural episode of the Acceptance of Life podcast, hosts Abhinabha Tangerman and Vajin Armstrong explore the profound concept of acceptance as a transformative force in life. They discuss how acceptance is not a passive resignation but an active engagement with life that leads to personal growth and spiritual development. Through personal anecdotes, including experiences in running, they illustrate the importance of embracing challenges and the joy that comes from living fully in the present moment. Takeaways:

  • Acceptance is a proactive approach to life.
  • Transformation comes from embracing reality as it is.
  • Spiritual growth requires facing challenges head-on.
  • Community plays a vital role in spiritual development.
  • Running can be a spiritual practice that teaches self-discovery.
  • Every experience is an opportunity for acceptance and growth.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #145: Running For Self-Transcendence | Rich Roll Podcast

Sanjay Rawal is human rights activist & award-winning documentary filmmaker. His newest film — “3100: Run and Become” — captures the esoteric, spiritual side of running with the Marathon Monks of Mt. Hiei in Japan, the Kalahari bushmen in Africa, the Navajo Nation in Arizona, the forests of Finland and the streets of NYC, tracking the famed Self -Transcendence 3100 Mile Run. This is a conversation about running as a path for enlightenment. Enjoy!

To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.