How to stay Warm

Ananda Vrindavan devi dasi

The cold weather continues, unusual for this location, and for this long. Extremes can break us down, wear our mind and emotions thin. Then the cold seems colder and our life more difficult. 

What energy sources from within do we have to warm us up? Here are three to consider:

1. Remember who we are - ‘mamaivāṁśo jīva-loke jīva-bhūtaḥ sanātanaḥ.’ In the Bhagavad-gita, Chapter 15, text 7, Krishna reminds us that we are part of Him, made up of His energy, His love. We are His ‘eternal fragmental parts’. Take a moment to feel that oneness, that connection. Let the warmth of this meditation fill your heart. 

2. Chant the maha mantra. This ‘great mantra’, if we receive it, brings warmth, relief, and confidence. It’s a call to Krishna, a request to be engaged in His loving service. It’s a very personal exchange and so whether we are whispering with our beads, or silently hearing the words in our heads, this sacred sound vibration  can push out all fears and bring in trust. Trust that we are never alone and because of our eternal connection with Krishna, we will make it through.

3. Look with affection upon all. How do we want to see? The choice is up to us but Krishna expresses affection throughout the Gita. In 5.29 He describes Himself as the ‘well wisher and benefactor of all living entities.’ So we too can be like that - trying to support and serve all. In this way, we can bring the warmth of affection to every room we enter through the day - see the good, appreciate the effort, and express our ‘well wishes’ with a smile, a hug, or words of affirmation. 

The practice of Bhakti Yoga is the practice of love. Receiving it and giving it. Nothing is warmer when we need warmth. We are blessed to be able to access it and share it.