Live Vedanta

Imagine the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita distilled into its 70 essential verses. On this season of Live Vedanta, let's unlock our personal transformation through Essential Love. 

➡️ To maximize your experience of this season, we encourage you to request your FREE copy of the Essential Love eBook. Incorporating accessible translations and practical application, the eBook accompanies each episode with additional ways to learn, synthesize, and reflect on key insights.

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🧘🏾‍♀️ Join Meaningful Mornings and study Patanj...

This is Part 4 of our 4-part Back to School Series on Live Vedanta. In this special episode, Akshaya sits down with Vivekji to answer real questions from both students and parents about navigating the transition to college life. From letting go with love as children leave for university, to choosing the right opportunities on campus, to staying true to one’s values amidst peer pressure - this conversation is filled with practical guidance and grounded wisdom. Vivekji also addresses questions around identity, change, navigating dating and keeping up a steady spiritual practice while adapting to new routines.

Vi...

This is Part 3 of our four-part back-to-school series on Live Vedanta. In this episode, recent college graduate Raj Sureka engages in a heartfelt conversation with Shashiji, a longtime Chinmaya Mission sevika and Vedanta teacher. They explore how students can practically incorporate Vedantik principles into everyday academic life—from navigating social and extracurricular commitments to cultivating stillness and discipline amidst chaos. The discussion is filled with personal stories, grounded reflections, and actionable wisdom for young seekers striving to live with purpose and inner balance.

Shri Shashikala Dwarkanath, the person behind Chinmaya Mission Boston, one of New England’s larg...

This is Part 2 of our back-to-school series on Live Vedanta. For many, the transition to college can bring more freedoms, a unique opportunity to find one’s passions and to explore one’s career interest, but it can also be a challenging time for many. Here Juhi Kotwani will chat with Brni. Kritikaji, who shares her guidance on how to navigate and respond to the challenges of failure from the lens of Vedanta.

Brahmacharini Kritika Chaitanya was born in Toronto, Canada. After studying International Development Studies and Philosophy at the University of Toronto and engaging in much soci...

This is Part 1 of our 4-part A Back to School Series on Live Vedanta. From navigating loneliness and evolving friendships to maintaining family connections from a distance, this conversation offers Vedantik tools for clarity and self-rootedness during young adulthood. Whether you're starting college or simply stepping into a new chapter, this episode reminds you that even through change, you can grow with intention and connection. In this episode, Sumanji sits down with Akshaya to explore what it means to live away from home while staying anchored within. 

Having grown up always hearing from his parents, “we want you...

This final episode centers on Puja (To Revere)—honoring true greatness in a way that humbles the ego and uplifts the spirit. Reverence starts with active listening, evolves to active reflecting, then actively living by the example of the wise. A true Guru, or guide, helps us be happier, and in turn, raise happier children.

Interested in registering for our live, virtual course with Vivekji and other guides? Visit http://bit.ly/cmn-2025.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Cu...

Pranidhana is the practice of devotion—shifting from parenting through personal identity to parenting as an instrument of the Divine. This path unfolds through satsang (inspiration), lower seva (service with struggle), sadhana (inner work), and finally, Higher seva (selfless service). Santosha, invites us to smile – arising when our actions are offered with sincerity and trust, leading to a calm, joyful presence in parenting. Together, these practices invite us to parent with less control and more allowance.

Interested in registering for our live, virtual course with Vivekji and other guides? Visit http://bit.ly/cmn-2025.

In this...

Shaucha (To Organize) is about more than just physical cleanliness—it's the practice of creating external order to support inner clarity and peace. By organizing our spaces, schedules, and influences, we create a calm foundation for family life. Tapa (To Discipline) builds on this by channeling that order into resilience, helping us and our children grow stronger and more present, even in discomfort.

Interested in registering for our live, virtual course with Vivekji and other guides? Visit http://bit.ly/cmn-2025.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vi...

Satya (non-compromising) is about staying true to your highest values, choosing not to compromise them for lesser desires. Practicing Satya means approaching others with curiosity rather than judgment. Svadhyaya (to understand) teaches that understanding yourself is the key to understanding others. This can be nurtured through daily reflection, solitude, and mindful practices.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always catch...

Brahmacharya, or non-indulgence, involves maintaining a sattvic (peaceful) state by avoiding excessive comfort and staying physically active with mindful practices like japa. It encourages using convenience as a tool, not a trap. Asteya, or non-arrogating, goes beyond not stealing to include humility—acknowledging that we are part of a greater whole.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always catch up on...

In order for us to be able to care for others, we must first care for ourselves by letting go of practices such as self-criticism and doubt. Ahimsa (non-harming) is not only about refraining from causing harm to others - it also applies to ourselves. By switching from having a reactive mind to a more reflective intellect, we can make choices that support our needs instead of our wants. Focusing on convenience over comfort fosters the idea of aparigraha (non-possessing) and helps us prioritize peace over attachment. 

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights o...

When one is alone, their true thoughts, actions, and feelings show through. Through self-awareness, inquiry, and growth, one can let go of the constant thoughts and embrace the stillness of the mind. Unitasking, using planners, and undertaking more meaningful engagements can help us stop overthinking and shift our energy to grow.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always catch up...

In our self-development journey, the only way for one to grow from darkness or negativity, to the light or positivity is through achala (steadiness). In order for us to follow through on recognizing what is right, we need to create a clear and steady mind that is not overwhelmed but is instead inspired. 

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always c...

By practicing what we learn and letting go of our vices, we can create a balanced mind that is unshaken by external forces. In this episode, join us in learning the five practices through which we can practice amala (integration) and create that unshakable mind.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always catch up on the previous episode.

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A marker of a courageous parent is one whose humility and faith leads them to always follow through. By recognizing our blessings, practicing generosity, and setting up parameters in our material lives, we can foster true conviction in our self development. Join us in taking time to review our last few virtues on how to surrender our doership and allow Divinity to guide us in being courageous parents.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving...

Welcome to Rhythm Divine! What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. In this episode, we're tuning into the divine message from Chapters 16...

Welcome to Rhythm Divine! What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. In this episode, we're tuning into the divine message from Chapters 13...

Welcome to Rhythm Divine! What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. In this episode, we're tuning into the divine message from Chapters 10...

Practicing shravana (belief), manana (faith), and nididhyasana (trust) in our life helps us deepen our reflection and transforms our belief into unwavering conviction, or vijnana. Adapting our thoughts, words, and actions with this deeper understanding can help us create peace in our lives.

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays  or catch up on t...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. Understanding ourselves through svadhyaya (self-study) leads us to nurture empathy for ourselves and others, which helps us be fully present through our body language, attention, and prioritization. Buddhi (understanding) fosters fearlessness through giving us the strength to leave our comfort zone. This helps us engage in proactive understanding, in turn minimizing misinterpretation, and strengthening our personal growth and parenting.

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the...

Welcome to Rhythm Divine! What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. In this episode, we're tuning into the divine message from Chapters 7...

Welcome to Rhythm Divine! What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. In this episode, we're tuning into the divine message from Chapters 4...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. When we have gratitude for all that we have and do not have in our lives, it leads us to practice dana (generosity). This fosters daya (grace), which in turn makes life easier and more gracious for ourselves and those in our lives. Join us in exploring how Rishi Shuka explains how material wealth should be distributed and how to move from giving resources, to our time, to our effort.

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for...

Welcome to Rhythm Divine! What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. In this episode, we're tuning into the divine message from Chapters 1...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. This episode will dive into embracing responsibilities without anxiety or blame by practicing santosha (contentment) through having a cheerful attitude and embracing the lightness that comes from doing what is right, regardless of outcomes. Accepting choiceless cheer with grace will lead us to become grateful, faithful, and ultimately peaceful.

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. When we are engaged in conflict with those we are close to, virati (independence) acts as a shield. This shield is built by recognizing that true joy cannot be found externally, avoiding labeling, embracing detachment, and depending on Divinity. 

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays  or catch up on the previous episode.

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What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. Join us for the release of Rhythm Divine, dropping on Holi, March 14th, right here...

While our lives often seem to revolve around our children, this episode guides us through how to remember that we are seekers first and our relationship with Divinity transcends lifetimes. Join us in exploring the three tiers of prayer - seeking something, being grateful, and just being with Divinity - and how we can evolve to surrender. 

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of s...

On this episode of Live Vedanta, we will flow through the second half of our review of Courageous Caregiving through the lens of Vibhishana Gita. This is a good opportunity for us to pause and reflect on how we can practice Bala (Stamina), Viveka (Prioritization), Dama (Discipline), and Parahita (Empathy), Kshama (Forgiveness), Krpa (Kindness), and Samata (Balance).

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays or catch up on the previous...

What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivek Gupta of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences. Join us for the release of Rhythm Divine, dropping on Holi, March 14th, right here...

Welcome back to Live Vedanta! If you haven’t joined us before, you can catch up on our current season where we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through the lens of Vibhishana Gita. In this episode, we will review how we can cultivate Sauraja (Courage), Dhiraja (Determination), Satya (Integrity), and Shila (Nobility).

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays or catch up on the previous episode.

For th...

When faced with hardships and our will to persevere weakens, we often feel overwhelmed and impatient with ourselves and others. Those with stronger willpower are more patient and balanced and remain unaffected by their contexts. Samata (balance) is when our willpower is stronger than world power; this is accomplished by being focused and remaining centered despite inner distractions. Unitasking, using a planner, utilizing our time effectively, and engaging in sadhana can help us become and remain balanced.

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities...

One of the biggest punyas (merits) is to have krpa (kindness), wherein one which is one who follows the right actions, marked by selflessness and devoid of calculation. Krpa is also defined as grace: By engaging in activities that bring us joy, we are able to feel more grace. When we feel more grace, we  and can remember and appreciate those who have been kind to us, making it easier to then channeling that joy and gentleness to those that we care for.

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to b...

What if instead of Shri Krishna chanting the Bhagavad Gita to you in Sanskrit, He was rapping it to you in English? Would you resonate more with His message? A team from across North America, guided by Shri Vivekji of Chinmaya Mission Niagara, has worked to make this a reality, translating the top 70 verses (10%) of the Bhagavad Gita into English, in the same meter as the original -- to bring the authentic message of the Divine into a modern rhythm for contemporary audiences: Rhythm Divine, the 1st release out of 6 dropping on Holi, March 14th, right here on Live...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. Forgiving others and oneself is often the biggest struggle in caregiving. We often as we hold onto past mistakes and create more stress around it, in turn holding us back from finding joy. By starting to practice shama (quieting the mind) and accepting that creation is inherently imperfect, we are able to interact with the world around us in a much smoother, less judgemental way. By working on accepting oneself, we are then able to channel that outwards to those we care for...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. This episode focuses on the idea of parahita (empathy), which starts at the thought level with a general concern for others and their well-being and then moves onto comforting them with words and ultimately taking action. Cultivating empathy requires the other virtues we have explored - bala (energy), viveka (enthusiasm) and dama (discipline). Through this, one starts practicing shravana (active listening), manana (active learning) and nidhidhyasana (active living) to convert empathy from just a feeling to a purposeful way of living.

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In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. In the constantly moving world around us, focusing our attention on dama (calmness of the body) through discipline can be the catalyst to developing a quieter mind, still the intellect, and finally silence the ego. Building small habits with our family, setting up focused time to relax the body, and focusing on what we love are the key steps to cultivate discipline.

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. This episode focuses on viveka (prioritization) and prompts us to reflect on our purpose, and whether the people we surround ourselves with and the things we do with our time help us reach that purpose. Noticing where our time goes reveals our true values and priorities.

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays or...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. This episode will guide us in cultivating physical and mental strength which are essential for caregiving. Modeling this bala (stamina) even when we find it difficult is extremely helpful in guiding our kids to reflect the same. 

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays or catch up on the previous episode.

For t...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. This week, we are taking a closer look at Shila (nobility) through the lens of being a good role model rooted in strong character. Our thoughts shape our actions, and consistent actions reinforce our thoughts, creating lasting personality impressions (vasanas) that foster Oneness. 

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays or catch up on t...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. This week, we’re exploring satya, or integrity. How can we align our thoughts, words, and actions to stay true?

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays or catch up on the previous episode.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and co...

In this season of Live Vedanta, we are sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving through Vibhishana Gita. This week, we are illuminating dhiraja (determination).

These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. You can always join Parenting Culture live on Mondays or catch up on the previous episode.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live...

Welcome to Season 7 of Live Vedanta! In this season, we will be sharing insights on Courageous Caregiving, based on the wisdom of Vibhishana Gita. These discourses are from our Parenting Culture community, a space for seekers striving to be better in their caregiving responsibilities through the practice of self-development. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more! 

Chinmaya Mission is an international non-profit organization working to transform individuals th...

This the last episode of Sea Change, our mini-series on the experiences that have changed us. Ryan shares his profound experience of getting to know God, sharing his journey from recovery to a life of service as an ER physician.

If you or someone you love is at risk of harming themselves, or needs some help with mental health, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 or just dial ‘988.’

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Face...

Sea Change is our mini-series on the experiences that have changed us. One seeker shares her experience, over voicemail, about finding grace through divorce.

Interested in joining Efforts for HERstory? We have lots planned for this upcoming month!

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more! 

Chinmaya Mission is an international non-profit organization working to transform individuals through the knowledge of Vedanta.

Sea Change is our mini-series on the experiences that have changed us. Many of us know the story of immigrating to the United States... but what about deciding to move back to India? In this episode, we're talking to Praveen about caregiving through challenges and keeping the faith that our context is custom-designed for our content.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more!

Chinmaya Mission is an...

Sea Change is our mini-series on the experiences that have changed us. How do love ourselves when we are alone? In this episode, we're talking to Prem about how a period with the least external movement -- the COVID-19 pandemic -- offered the deepest internal transformation.

Want to join one of our 2024-25 weekly courses for self-development?  Join our free open home on Sep 16 to connect with our Guides and learn more.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram a...

We're exploring your stories of transition through the lens of Vedanta. Welcome to Sea Change, a mini-series on the experiences that have changed us. In this episode, we're talking to Shri Sumanji about discovering purpose during a time of deep transformation and deep loss.

Want to join one of our 2024-25 weekly courses for self-development?  Join one of our free open homes on  Sep 7 or Sep 16 to connect with our Guides and learn more.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on...

We're exploring your stories of transition through the lens of Vedanta. Welcome to Sea Change, a mini-series on the experiences that have transformed us. In this episode, we're talking to Sudarshan about embracing independence and grounding into purpose during college.

Want to join one of our 2024-25 weekly courses for self-development?  Join one of our free open homes on Aug 29, Sep 7, or Sep 16 to connect with our Guides and learn more.

Want to reflect on a transition in your life through the lens of Vedanta? Leave us a voice message at https://speakpipe.com/livevedanta. Duration: 00:28:15

We're exploring your stories of transition through the lens of Vedanta. Welcome to Sea Change, a mini-series on the experiences that have transformed us. In this episode, we're talking to Juhi about staying true to herself in college. 

Want to join one of our 2024-25 weekly courses for self-development?  Join one of our free open homes to connect with our Guides and learn more.

Want to reflect on a transition in your life through the lens of Vedanta? Leave us a voice message at https://speakpipe.com/livevedanta.

For those on the journey of...

Before we begin our next season, we're exploring your stories of transition through the lens of Vedanta. Welcome to Sea Change, a mini-series on the experiences that have transformed us. In this first episode, we're talking to Lavanya about a moment in her life that demanded taking a pause.

Want to reflect on a transition in your life through the lens of Vedanta? Leave us a voice message at https://speakpipe.com/livevedanta.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on...

We're producing a short series on transitions of all kinds... and we need your help! Share your story of a meaningful transition in your life through the lens of Vedanta at https://www.speakpipe.com/livevedanta. Stories can be anonymous, if needed, and shared over one or two voice messages.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more!

Chinmaya Mission is an international non-profit organization working to transform...

In this Freedom Talk, originally published in 2022, we ask the questions: What does Sanatana Dharma tell us about women’s rights? What do you do if your parents do not accept or agree with your dreams and aspirations?

FREEDOM TALKS are our bite-sized episodes with Vivekji featuring questions from seekers across the world. Want to join Meaningful Mornings? Learn more.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. This podcast is produced by young adults of Chinmaya Mission, an international non-profit organization working to tr...

FREEDOM TALKS are our bite-sized episodes with Vivekji featuring questions from seekers across the world.  In today's episode, we ask the questions: How to deal with expectations from close ones? How to balance time, resources, and effort between serving while focusing on self-development? What is the significance of eclipses, especially during pregnancy?

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. This podcast is produced by young adults of Chinmaya Mission, an international non-profit organization working to transform individuals through the knowledge of Vedanta.

Welcome to the last episode of Season 6! We feel restricted by life, tangled and wrapped up in the cobwebs of circumstances outside, and the chaos of mental noise inside. But do we realize that we can unlearn our limits by simply disidentifying from what we’re not? Are we prioritizing what’s external and ephemeral, or what’s closest, our own Spirit (atman)? Are we tuning into what’s small and not that important, or what’s biggest, Infinity (brahman)? And finally, have we realized that Freedom (moksha) is in realizing we were never bound?

On this season of...

Our minds have normalized a level of turbulence, of juggling all of life’s uncomfortable circumstances without ever really understanding them. But what are we focusing all our energy on: the changing, or the Changeless? Are we tuned into the noise in our lives, or the Silence that supports (om) them all? Are we stuck in the quicksand of worrying about our experiences, or are we living intentionally enough to feel the Existence (sat) and Awareness (cit) behind them? Are we endlessly trying to create Joy and tiring ourselves in the process, or focusing on our content to BE Jo...

It's so easy to get wrapped up in the external battle of life. The expectations we have can rob us from becoming fearless (abhaya). We want to control life as much as we can because we think it will make us happy, when really being an observer (saksi) would really help us take control of our internal self. This internal feeling of joy can only come when one can surrender (saranagati).

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words...

All of us want to be happy and we do whatever it takes to feel joyous. The problem is we think we can create happiness so we end up going on an emotional roller coaster. This roller coaster can slow down when we increase our inquiry (vichara) and decrease projection. The more we inquire the more we realize the relative is not the absolute which cultivates oneness (advaita) and leads to meditation (dhyana), realization (samadhi), and finally renunciation (sannyasa).

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of...

Most of us are following life’s default script -- wake, eat, work, sleep, repeat. But is this working? We receive lots of advice (upadesha) from those we respect on how to be great, but are we actually following? The greatest revelations (mahavakya) of visionaries are accessible to us, but do we trust in them? There are so many opportunities for receiving inspiration (shravana), for reflection (manana) to have faith in those teachings, and for contemplation (nidhidhyasana) to allow those ideas to soak into who we are -- do we take advantage of them? So really, are we alive, or...

Life is a trek through a dark forest. It takes lots of endurance (titiksha) to keep up the energy despite all the discomforts and pinpricks. It takes loads of faith (shraddha) to hold onto what you know is ahead, but can’t yet see. It takes boatloads of absorption (samadhana) to stay focused on the path without succumbing to imaginary fears. And it takes tons of desire, need, yearning (mumukshutva), to pull out the will needed to finish the journey. Only when we have these, and the ability to release (tyaga) ourselves from our own false expectations, can we re...

We're revisiting another Freedom Talk, one of our bite-sized episodes with Vivekji featuring questions from seekers across the world. In this episode, we ask the questions: What is the difference in reflection and inquiry? What is the difference between contemplation and inquiry? How should a seeker transition from one keystone to the next in their journey of self-development?

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. This podcast is produced by young adults of Chinmaya Mission, an international non-profit organization working to transform individuals through the...

In this next mini episode from our series of Freedom Talks, we ask the questions: How should we handle people who always misinterpret our actions in a negative connotation even though we have good intentions? What to do when we are taken advantage of by others? Can we align our goals with our guide? And if yes, how? How can an introvert handle the expectations of family and friends? Is bhakti a path to become one with the Supreme Self? How do we apply shreyas when we need to make life decisions?

For those on the journey...

 Many of us probably have probably at some point felt we have/had a  reactive personality, we felt distracted, or dull. How can one develop a calmness of body (dama), quietude of mind (sama), and understanding (uparama) so that one can have a more balanced inner world?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the last episode.

For th...

We all feel we can create joy but that only leads to disappointment. When we have guidance in our lives we realize that joy cannot be created. How can one go from acting (karma), to depending (bhakti), to having insight (jnana), to prioritizing (viveka) to independence (vairagya)? How does one step lead to the next on this journey to joy?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up...

Our mind is like a river -- sometimes it’s dashing and splashing with a never-ending flow of uncontrollable tides, and other times it’s calm and serene, slowly passing by like a lazy river. How do we tame this mind, so that we can use it for our own Higher purpose, rather than be controlled by its instinctive, impulsive, lightning-fast strikes? How can we best use the teachings (mantra) of the Scriptures, so that we have a chance of practicing them in daily life? And before that, how do we even remember (japa) these teachings as we attempt to c...

 In life we have many ups and downs. Why do we feel moments of happiness and other times moments of sadness or anger? What can we do to always have this feeling of completeness no matter the situation? In this episode Vivekji talks about how our sense of individuality (jiva) leads to attachment or incompleteness and how this cycle continues because of our relationship with the multiverse (jagat) and creator (Ishwara).

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, t...

Everything and everyone around us are made up of matter (prakriti) but do we depend on these things or people to make us feel complete (purusha)? When we know all is changing and existence is the only constant, then why do we ever feel anything but joy?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the last episode.

For...

We often find ourselves feeling weighed down by changing circumstances and unending responsibilities -- but are our ropes really external, or internal? When we look inwards at our own temperament (guna), do we find ourselves tired and complaining in laziness (tamas), anxious about results in selfishness (rajas), or living with vision and inner harmony (sattva)? Only when we analyze our self-made bonds can we untie them, to feel true Freedom.

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the...

Like Neo in The Matrix, has something always felt wrong about the world? Why is everyone looking for a permanent happiness in impermanent places, and then after it doesn’t last, wondering what they’re still missing? Why do we project (vikshepa) happiness onto every new food, vacation, and position, rather than remember where happiness always was? Why do we give into the illusion (maya) that an Infinite Reality could have become a finite, incomplete individual?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more...

Why does it feel like there is so much separation in the world? Is it because we are always competing with each other? What is deeper than our form (rupa) and personalities (varna)? How are we all so different, yet the exact same?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the last episode.

For those on the journey...

We may sometimes wonder why we are the way we are. Why do we do the things we do? Our actions are caused by our thoughts (vrtti) and those thoughts come from our print (vasanas), which is who we are because of our past actions. But how can we change the core of who we are? What tools (upadhi) can we use to reach our higher purpose?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can...

Like weary travelers endlessly stumbling after illusions of water in the burning desert, we spend most of our lives running after one inner demand after another. When does the chase end? Are we carrying boulders of emotional baggage in our memory (chitta), or are we learning from the past to move on? Do we allow the leech that is the Ego (ahankara) to drain us with endless agitations, or do we observe it to dismantle it? Are we allowing the senses (indriya) to control us through urges to indulge, or are we directing them to a far greater joy?<...

When using our gadgets in our daily lives, there’s one thing we never forget to do: plug them in. Well, what are we plugged into? Do we feel drained, and out of battery? Are we investing in a more efficient input (prana), to live deeper than it? Are we allowing the mind (manah) to interpret the world, or are we directing it within? Do we find the intellect (buddhi) constantly instructing and planning, or are we inquiring into what’s most important?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at t...

What does it truly mean to feel fortunate (bhagya)? What are some ways we can get to this feeling of serenity? Vivekji teaches us one way to invest in feeling fortunate is to know that all is temporary. Realizing that even the body (deha) is an equipment we have to help us uncover our true nature.

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning...

When dealing with uncomfortable situations, many of us try to escape from mental pain (dukha nivrtti), such as stress, anxiety, fear, etc. We try escaping by engaging in activities that we think will bring us joy. But what is a practical and permanent way to face those uncomfortable situations? How can we go from trying to escape discomfort to striving for peace (sukha prapti)?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them...

Reset and recharge your relationships for the new year! Vivekji's new course, Harmony in Relationships, is crafted to enhance collaboration, deepen understanding, and foster lasting connections. It gives participants a unique opportunity to take a step back and reflect on how they collaborate in personal, professional, or social settings. Take a peek -- or gift it to a loved one!

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more!

...

Many times in life, we find ourselves tired -- completely exhausted in running the seemingly endless race of responsibilities. When we’re lacking in inspiration to keep going, where do we find purpose (puruṣhārtha) in all this? How do we choose between what’s easy and pleasurable (preyas) vs. what’s peaceful and visionary (shreyas)?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning...

Living is like a mirror. When we are angry, the world is angry. When we are happy, the world is happy.  What can we do to cheerfully evolve into a courageous personality? What are the steps we can take to become more integrated?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the last episode.

For those on the journey o...

What is the purpose of living? It is to be joyous. But how? What are some steps we can take to dive deeper into our purpose? How can we do this with all the ups and downs life throws at us?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the last episode.

For those on the journey of self-development...

The path to Peace is a long one, filled with many hills of transformation and valleys of feeling stuck. Through this, are we living for Peace with the intensity needed to actually evolve? Are we seeking (sadhana) with the discipline (brahmacharya) needed to conserve our energy, and the sensitivity (ahimsa) to be considerate of others?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or...

We all know how much we’re capable of -- but we rarely live up to our highest potential. Since we know we need to change, how do we build the resolve (sankalpa) needed? How can a guide (guru) unleash our latent potential, bringing us Divine grace (krpa) and opening our eyes to the endless blessings (prasada) that surround us?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? St...

We are told we are Infinity. But how do we feel we are Infinity? What can we do to deepen our understanding of who we are?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the last episode.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on...

We have all heard the saying "as you think so you become." But when we dive deeper into this thought, we ask ourselves: How do we think? Why do we think? What can we do to become more virtuous?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the last episode.

Interested in supporting our Elevate HERstory efforts? This year...

Most people live fast lives, full of escaping into pleasure and acting for “style” -- but we often find ourselves feeling incomplete when we live this way. How do we shift our focus to our lifestyle on this journey (yatra), to unite (yoga) with our best selves? How can we live to serve (seva) more than just ourselves, and invoke (bhaja) the deepest within ourselves?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them...

Living in today’s society can feel like an endless chase. In the midst of constant change in society (samsara), how do we know what restrictions (yama) to put in place, and which commitments (niyama) to hold onto? During breaks such as festivals (utsava), how can we find rest that really lasts?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Want to catch up? Start from the beginning or listen to the la...

Life is like a game. How can we learn to play this game and navigate the ups and downs we are faced with? What are the steps we have to take to go from fear (bhaya) to acceptance, and confusion (moha) to clarity?

On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them. Missed an episode? Start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a c...

In this first episode of Stairway to Serenity, Vivekji introduces the first 3 steps on the path to freedom. How can we go from forgetfulness (avidya) to intentionality, desires (kama) to peace, and attachment (raga) to quietude?

This season is accompanied by The Seeker's Wordbook. Written by Vivek Gupta, it features crisp definitions and memorable visual icons for 100 words at the heart of Vedanta. Including space on every page to augment the text with your notes and reflections, this is an essential tool for all sincere seekers.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission...

Words matter. They can help us -- or they can hurt us. Examples of this abound in our daily lives, from a misplaced tweet that goes viral to the comforting words of a friend when we need it most. This is also true in Vedanta! On this season of Live Vedanta, entitled Stairway to Serenity, we'll be exploring 100 words at the heart of our self-development. The more we understand these words, the more we can live by them.

This season is accompanied by The Seeker's Wordbook. Written by Vivek Gupta, it features crisp definitions and memorable visual...

How is the one who is independently joyous described? What is one thing they do that makes them completely free? In this last episode of Bhagavad Gita 101, Vivekji teaches the verse that teaches us how to be free once and for all.

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series with Shri Vivek Gupta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us o...

What is the secret to feeling totally free? What is holding us back? In this episode of Bhagavad Gita 101, Vivekji explains two verses that can help us to reach our goal of freedom.

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series with Shri Vivek Gupta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming l...

What is the point of striving? What is the end game? In this episode of Bhagavad Gita 101, Vivekji teaches a hopeful verse that explains how all challenges we face and the work we do is training for us to be better. 

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series with Shri Vivek Gupta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on In...

In this mini-episode, we get answers to questions that so many of us have. How do we navigate the busy nature of our day-to-day lives? How do we approach our personal and professional life with the right mindset? How do we tackle the stress that comes with comparing ourselves to others?  

Like what you hear?  On May 6, a unique workshop led by Shri Vivek Gupta will provide in-depth answers to these questions and more. Visit the Installing Balance page to learn more and register.

How can you join our commitment to contribute, chant, and change to support our Mother Earth? Visit the Dedicating to Devi page and register for our CommUnity challenge.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more!

Chinmaya Mission is an international non-profit organization working to transform individuals through the knowledge of Vedanta

In this episode of Bhagavad Gita 101, Vivekji explains a verse that guides on how to break from the tiredness of being dependent on external factors to be happy.

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series with Shri Vivek Gupta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more! Duration: 00:25:17

In this episode of Bhagavad Gita 101, we are taught to just try! By giving our best in challenging circumstances and focusing on what is in our control, challenges will be less difficult than imagined.

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series with Shri Vivek Gupta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about u...

What direction do we go when faced with challenges? How can we see the bigger picture when our circumstances blind us? Let’s listen in on this next episode of Bhagavad Gita 101 on challenges.

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series with Shri Vivek Gupta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upc...

In this episode of Bhagavad Gita 101, we learn from a verse that guides us through ways we can empower others, even during a conflict. Vivekji explains how these few changes within us can resolve any conflicts we have within or with others.

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series with Shri Vivek Gupta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on...

We're revisiting another one of our Freedom Talks! In this next mini-episode, we ask the questions: What is OM? How can we have compassion towards people whom we find difficult?

Want to join Meaningful Mornings? Learn more.

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. This podcast is produced by young adults of Chinmaya Mission, an international non-profit organization working to transform individuals through the knowledge of Vedanta.

FREEDOM TALKS are our bite-sized episodes with Vivekji featuring questions from seekers across the world.  In today's episode, we ask the questions: How to deal with expectations from close ones? How to balance time, resources, and effort between serving while focusing on self-development? What is the significance of eclipses, especially during pregnancy?

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. This podcast is produced by young adults of Chinmaya Mission, an international non-profit organization working to transform individuals through the knowledge of Vedanta.

In this episode of Bhagavad Gita 101, Vivekji teaches us practices to help us quieten our minds so we can focus on resolving and accepting.

The Bhagavad Gita 101 series from Live Vedanta sheds light on contemporary issues of relating, communicating, dedicating, and more. Missed an episode? Listen to the previous episode or start from the beginning. 

For those on the journey of self-development, Chinmaya Mission Niagara provides a community forum to listen, reflect, and contemplate. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates about upcoming live workshops, courses, and more!

Chinmaya Mission is a...