Bhakti Yoga & Hridayam - Yoga of Love and Surrender

In a secular context, Bhakti yoga, often referred to as the "yoga of love and surrender," can be described as a spiritual practice centered around cultivating deep emotional connections, compassion, and humility. It is a path that emphasizes the universal human experience of love, kindness, and service, and does not have to be  tied to any specific religious tradition.

In a religious context, Bhakti Yoga is usually translated as the Yoga of Devotion.  To paraphrase Sadhguru : "Devotion, or to practice Bhakti Yoga, doesn't mean you have to be a temple-going, pooja-doing, coconut-breaking person. Devotion means you have understood what your place is in existence. If you have understood this and are conscious of it, you will walk as a devout person. It is a very intelligent way to exist."

In secular terms, Bhakti yoga might be portrayed as:

Emotional and Compassionate Connection: Bhakti yoga encourages individuals to explore and express their emotional and compassionate nature. It is about fostering a sense of connection, not necessarily with a deity, but with the broader human experience, nature, or the universe.

Practices of Love and Devotion: Instead of religious rituals, secular Bhakti yoga may involve practices that celebrate love, such as expressing gratitude, engaging in acts of kindness, or participating in community service. These activities aim to deepen the sense of connection with others and the world.

Surrendering Ego for Humility: The concept of surrender, in a secular sense, could be framed as letting go of ego-driven desires and embracing humility. This may involve acknowledging the interconnectedness of all living beings and recognizing the value of selfless actions.

Mindfulness and Presence: Secular Bhakti yoga could incorporate mindfulness and present-moment awareness, emphasizing the importance of being fully present in one's interactions and relationships. This mindfulness contributes to a deeper appreciation of life and a sense of interconnectedness.

Ethical Living: Similar to traditional Bhakti yoga, a secular interpretation may underscore the importance of ethical living. Practitioners might focus on cultivating virtues like kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and empathy in their daily lives.

Universal Principles: Secular Bhakti yoga could emphasize universal principles of love, gratitude, and interconnectedness that transcend cultural and religious boundaries. It provides a framework for individuals seeking a spiritual path rooted in the shared human experience.

By framing Bhakti yoga in secular terms, anyone from any background can explore Bhakti Yoga principles and incorporate practices that resonate, such as understanding, love, compassion, and interconnectedness. 

You can't force love onto others, and you can't force others to love you. Love doesn't work that way But if you practice Bhakti, which is love only for love's sake, like 'met' (loving kindness) you will find that others' hearts respond. It is automatic.

To find that love, you must be entered, grounded, and find that place inside yourself that is always love. That place is called Hridayam.

Hridayam is a Sanskrit word that is typically translated as “heart” or "soul" or “that which nourishes and heals the heart.” It can also be translated as “true/divine knowledge” and “essence" (of something). As a name, Hridayam means "One who is kind, generous and compassionate towards all."

I invite you to kick off the new year with Bhakti Yoga.

Metta

_/\_