Dharma Refers to Order and Custom That Sustain Life

Dharma (धर्म) is a key concept with multiple meanings in the Indian religions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, among others. Although no single-word translation exists for dharma in English (or…

Vairagya Frees From Constant Cycle Of Desire

Vairagya (वैराग्य) is a Sanskrit term used in Hinduism as well as Eastern philosophy that roughly translates as dispassion, detachment, or renunciation.…

Maya is Goddess of Wealth, Prosperity, and Love

Maya (माया), literally “illusion” or “magic”, has multiple meanings in Indian philosophies depending on the context. Maya also connotes that which “is constantly…

Moksha: The Utmost Aim of Human Life

Moksha (मोक्ष), also called Vimoksha, Vimukti, and Mukti is a term in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism for various forms of emancipation, enlightenment, liberation, and release. It refers to freedom from Dukkha and Saṃsāra, the…

Pranayama Benefits for the Mind and Body

Pranayama is the yogic practice of focusing on the breath. In Sanskrit, prana means “vital life force”, and Yama means to gain control. In yoga, breath…

Niyamas: The List of “Do These” To Live Well

The Niyamas (नियम) are positive duties or observances. In Indian traditions, particularly Yoga, niyamas and their complement, Yamas, are recommended activities and habits for…

Raja Yoga Assured Health Benefits

Raja Yoga usually refers to the system of yoga that is described in the Yoga Sutras of Sage Patanjali. In…