Category: A Way of Life

The way of life – an ancient tradition has aspects of practicality & spirituality and is infused in Indian traditions and every aspects of it’s rich culture.

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A Way of Life Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

What is the Bhagavad Gita?

The Bhagawad Gita - Lord Krishna imparts some divine advice to Arjuna
The Bhagawad Gita - The Divine Discourse - Lord Krishna imparts wisdom to Arjuna

The Bhagavad Gita is a 700-verse Hindu scripture, part of the Mahabharata, presenting a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and his guide Krishna on the battlefield. It’s a philosophical guide offering insights on duty (Dharma), ethics, and living a fulfilling life. The Gita addresses life’s challenges, advocating for right action without attachment, mindfulness, and the pursuit of self-realization. The Gita provides practical wisdom for moral living and spiritual guidance, remaining relevant across time and cultures.

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A Way of Life Indian culture Spirituality in India Traditions

The Purpose of Life

A digital illustration in a 16 9 aspect ratio, reflecting a profound meditation on the purpose of life. The central figure is seated in a classic lotus position
Pondering the Purpose of Life

The Indian philosophy outlines four life goals—Dharma (duty), Artha (prosperity), Kama (pleasure), and Moksha (liberation)—collectively called the “Purusharthas”. These principles advocate a balanced approach to ethical living, financial security, enjoyment, and spiritual enlightenment. Embracing these pursuits fosters a fulfilling, meaningful existence, transcending cultural bounds.

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A Way of Life About... Indian culture

The 4 stages of life

The 4 stages of life - Ashramas
4 Stages of life - Brahmacharya, Grhsta, Vanaprastha, Sanyasa

In ancient Indian traditions, they believed that everyone must treat life as being in 4 stages. This was not a requirement but a suggestion in order for everyone to lead a fulfilling life. Let us look at what these are… According to ancient Indian teachings, there are four main stages of life, known as “ashramas” […]

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A Way of Life About... Indian culture Spirituality in India

Ancient and very simple, 10 guidelines for life

A photographic depiction of a scenic road winding through a vibrant countryside in a 16 9 aspect ratio. The road is paved with interlocking stones and flanked by green tea garden with trees in between with purple flowers
A simple way of life

Embrace ancient Indian philosophical principles for a peaceful life: perform your duty (Dharma) with integrity, engage in positive deeds, detach from the outcomes, recognize life’s illusions (Maya), and seek ultimate liberation (Moksha). Cultivate present-moment awareness, inner growth, and balance, guided by compassion, love, and contentment. Integrating these tenets nurtures self-discovery and harmony.

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A Way of Life About... Indian culture

Martial Arts in India?

Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is an ancient indian martial art style

Yoga is not the only physical form of practice from India. Multiple martial art forms like Varma Kalai, Kalaripayattu, Gatka, Silambam, Malla Yuddha, Mardani Khel, Thang Ta, amongst others, have originated from different regions of India. Many of them incorporate healing techniques along with physical combat training. From self-defense to spiritual exercises, these practices reflect rich cultural traditions and Indian history and include various forms of weapons and hand-to-hand training, depending on the art form.

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A Way of Life About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurvedic herbs
Ayurvedic Herbs

What is Ayurveda? Traditional Indian medicinal sciences, also known as Ayurveda, have a rich cultural and historical background that goes back thousands of years. Ayurveda is considered to be one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world, and it originated in India around 5,000 years ago. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from the […]

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A Way of Life About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Traditions

What are Yoga and Meditation?

Lord Shiva in yoga mudra
Adi Yogi - or the first yogi - Lord Shiva

What is Yoga? Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means to yoke or unite, and it is often translated as “union” or “harmony.” The earliest mention of yoga can be found in the ancient Indian texts known […]