To keep your spiritual practice and outlook active in the midst of the chaos of modernity, focus on the sad but timeless principles of bhakti yoga practice: ABCD (Association, Book Reading, Chanting, Diet). In this blog, you will find a Hare Krishna challenge PDF for download for free.
By doing so, you create a sanctuary of peace within yourself that permanently insulates you against the distractions of worldly concerns (i.e. fear, anxiety, stress, etc).
The Modern Struggle We All Face
Life these days can feel like a giant cacophony of noises–constant notifications, deadlines, responsibilities. Even as a committed member of ISKCON, I have arrived at the mornings with my japa beads untouched because I was distracted by emails, phone calls and ‘urgent’ tasks.
But here is the truth: when I made my regular spiritual practice priority number one, my day would unfold with clarity and strength. When I did not prioritize the spiritual practice, I would feel an underlying restlessness and lost, at sea without a compass. This is precisely why Śrīla Prabhupāda has always taught:
Chant Hare Krishna and your life will become sublime
Foundation of a Lasting Spiritual Practice
Bhakti yoga offers practical, uplifting ways to stay spiritually grounded:
Association of Devotees (Sahu-Sanga)
Community sustains spiritual life. As a kirtan at the temple, a prasādam feast, and even online sangas have served as a sustainer when I’ve been weak. Alone, I have struggled; in the company of devotees I’ve thrived.
Book Reading (Gita, Bhagavatam)
If we read just a single verse of the Bhagavad-gītā every day, we will always be in touch with wisdom transcending time. For example, BG 2.13 gives us an understanding of the distinction between body and soul, liberating us of the misperception that our essence is temporal.
Chanting Daily of the Maha-Mantra
The Mahā-mantra—
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare / Hare Rāma Hare Rāma Rāma Rāma Hare Hare—
is not meditation, per se. It has always been a lifeline. Even when I felt overwhelmed with stress, chanting put my fidgeting mind in a place of tranquillity and contemplation.
Diet of Prasadam
Referring to eating food considered sattvic (pure and nourishing) and offered to Krishna (prasadam)