Essays and dialogues laced with wit and humor introduce seekers to Siddha Yoga meditation, the awakening of the kundalini energy, the recognition of the inner self, the function of the master, and the practices of Mantra repetition and meditation.
a book that explains about the symptoms of Kundalini awakening,among various other things, in a very easy to understand language. There are many books out there which attempt to explain spirituality, mind, soul, and other concepts about life and living; but, they do so in a manner which is very hard to understand for a common person (not every one is a philosopher). This book, on the other hand, reveals the greatest mysteries of life through funny little stories like those of mulla Nasruddin. A must read!
"Where Are You Going?: A Guide to the Spiritual Journey" by Swami Muktananda is a profound and enlightening guidebook that provides insights and practical advice for those on the path of spiritual growth. Swami Muktananda, a revered spiritual teacher and founder of Siddha Yoga, shares his wisdom and experiences to help readers navigate their spiritual journey with clarity and purpose.
Summary
The book is structured into several key sections, each addressing different aspects of the spiritual journey:
1. Introduction to the Spiritual Path: - Swami Muktananda begins with an exploration of what it means to embark on a spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of self-inquiry and inner exploration. - He discusses the concept of the inner Self and the ultimate goal of spiritual practice: realizing one's true nature.
2. Practical Spiritual Practices: - The book offers practical guidance on various spiritual practices, including meditation, mantra repetition, and self-discipline. - Swami Muktananda provides detailed instructions and explains the benefits of these practices in cultivating inner peace and spiritual awareness.
3. Overcoming Obstacles: - This section addresses common challenges and obstacles that seekers may encounter on their spiritual path, such as doubt, distraction, and negative emotions. - Swami Muktananda offers strategies for overcoming these challenges, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and faith.
4. The Role of the Guru: - The author highlights the significance of the guru-disciple relationship in the spiritual journey, explaining how a true guru can guide and support the seeker. - He shares personal anecdotes and teachings to illustrate the transformative power of the guru's guidance.
5. Experiences on the Spiritual Path: - Swami Muktananda discusses various mystical experiences and states of consciousness that can arise during spiritual practice. - He provides insights into how to understand and integrate these experiences into one's spiritual growth.
Review
"Where Are You Going?: A Guide to the Spiritual Journey" by Swami Muktananda is a deeply inspirational and practical book that offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice. Swami Muktananda's teachings are clear, profound, and accessible, making complex spiritual concepts easy to understand and apply.
Strengths: 1. Clarity and Accessibility: Swami Muktananda's writing is clear and straightforward, making it accessible to readers at all levels of spiritual development. 2. Practical Advice: The book provides practical, actionable guidance on various spiritual practices, making it a useful manual for daily spiritual work. 3. Inspirational Stories: The inclusion of personal anecdotes and teachings from the author’s life adds depth and inspiration, making the concepts more relatable.
Weaknesses: - Traditional Focus: Some readers might find the traditional focus on the guru-disciple relationship and specific spiritual practices less relevant if they are looking for a more secular or universal approach to spirituality. - Repetition: Certain concepts and teachings may feel repetitive to some readers, though this can also serve to reinforce important points.
Conclusion
"Where Are You Going?: A Guide to the Spiritual Journey" by Swami Muktananda is an excellent resource for anyone on a spiritual path, whether they are just beginning or have been practicing for years. The book's blend of practical advice, personal stories, and profound teachings makes it a valuable guide for navigating the challenges and joys of the spiritual journey. Swami Muktananda's wisdom and compassionate guidance shine through, offering readers the tools and inspiration needed to discover their true selves and achieve spiritual awakening.
Some books you find, others find you. I'm not sure why I picked up a secondhand copy of this book at the Bangalore book fair. The author, Swami Muktananda, simply and gracefully invites you on the spiritual journey. Peppered with gentle wisdom and wry humour, this is truly a "guide" book.
A short book with only and all the essential guidelines for the spiritual journey, interspersed with quotes from sacred texts and stories from a variety of cultures. A blessing and a treasure.
[like many religious texts, I feel uncomfortable reviewing or rating this book]
This is definitely one to read being on the path of Truth. So much insight and lessons. This book help lead the way to reading more about yoga, gurus/yogis, and the ancient texts such as the Gita -- I very much appreciate this book for that. Very easy to read and understand; recommended!
When I first became involved with Siddha Yoga, someone very close to me gave me this as a gift. He had been practicing the Siddha meditation, and found it to have a profound effect on him, and wanted to share it with me, assuming I would also have similar experiences.
I began with this - one of three diffeent books, actually - and was immediately transformed in ways I couldn't imagine. I can say with great assurance that I have never been the same.
This book is like a highlights real of Baba’s most uplifted teachings.
It doesn’t have Baba’s usual voice or expression but the same messages are there. I suspect it is more tailored for the western seeker, as it has all the grace with very little of the tapassya!
It’s short sections and stories make it very easy to read and difficult to put down. I love this book and every time I read it I wonder why I haven’t picked it up more often.