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The Heartfulness Way: Heart-Based Meditations for Spiritual Transformation
As we manoeuvre the many demands of relationships, career, property and health, we often sense a void, a feeling of alienation from our true selves. Is it possible for one planet to orbit so many suns? We have many centres in our lives, yet where is the true centre, the deepest centre that lies at the core of every heart?
Ensconced in India’s ageless oral tradition, Kamlesh D. Patel—widely known as Daaji, the fourth guru in the Heartfulness lineage—traces a seeker’s journey as he examines the nature of spiritual search. Through a series of illuminating conversations between a teacher and a student, Daaji reveals the core principles of the Heartfulness practice and philosophy to Joshua Pollock, a Heartfulness practitioner and trainer.
From reflecting on the essence of prayer and yogic transmission to demystifying the act of meditation through practical tips, this book will enable us to live beyond the filters of our sensory limitations and discover unity within ourselves. To practise Heartfulness is to seek the essence beyond the form, the reality behind the ritual. It is to centre oneself at the core of one’s heart and find true meaning and contentment there.
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2018
747 people are currently reading
4068 people want to read
About the author
Kamlesh D. Patel
22 books210 followersBorn in Gujarat, India, Kamlesh D. Patel showed an early interest in meditation and spiritual growth. In 1976, as a pharmacy student in Ahmedabad, he met his Guide, Shri Ram Chandra of Shahjahanpur (Babuji), the founder and first President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission.
After graduating with honours in 1980, he moved to the US and practised pharmacy in New York City, while also continuing the Raja Yoga system of Sahaj Marg, with great devotion. He continues to excel in both his material career and spiritual life.
Kamlesh continued to follow Parthasarathi Rajagopalachari (Chariji), the second President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission, after Babuji’s passing, and has held a number of increasingly responsible roles as well as offering his support to the growth of the Mission worldwide. In October 2011 he was proclaimed as Chariji’s successor, and in August 2012 was appointed Vice-President of SRCM with the full powers of the President, due to Chariji’s failing physical health. Following Chariji’s passing on the 20th of December 2014, he became the spiritual Guide of the Sahaj Marg system, and the third President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission. He is often endearingly referred to as Daaji.
Daaji and his wife have two sons. These days he is constantly travelling, conducting meditation with yogic transmission for seekers worldwide, and speaking at the Mission’s many centres and ashrams, as well as to the general public through newspaper articles, TV and radio. He is a vital role model for anyone wanting to evolve as a human being and expand consciousness. A spiritual catalyst, displaying the perfect blend of the Eastern heart and Western mind, he is able to connect with people from all walks of life and backgrounds, giving special attention to today’s youth.
After graduating with honours in 1980, he moved to the US and practised pharmacy in New York City, while also continuing the Raja Yoga system of Sahaj Marg, with great devotion. He continues to excel in both his material career and spiritual life.
Kamlesh continued to follow Parthasarathi Rajagopalachari (Chariji), the second President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission, after Babuji’s passing, and has held a number of increasingly responsible roles as well as offering his support to the growth of the Mission worldwide. In October 2011 he was proclaimed as Chariji’s successor, and in August 2012 was appointed Vice-President of SRCM with the full powers of the President, due to Chariji’s failing physical health. Following Chariji’s passing on the 20th of December 2014, he became the spiritual Guide of the Sahaj Marg system, and the third President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission. He is often endearingly referred to as Daaji.
Daaji and his wife have two sons. These days he is constantly travelling, conducting meditation with yogic transmission for seekers worldwide, and speaking at the Mission’s many centres and ashrams, as well as to the general public through newspaper articles, TV and radio. He is a vital role model for anyone wanting to evolve as a human being and expand consciousness. A spiritual catalyst, displaying the perfect blend of the Eastern heart and Western mind, he is able to connect with people from all walks of life and backgrounds, giving special attention to today’s youth.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
April 14, 2025
Heartfulness is a spiritual way of living by and from the heart. It is the contemporized version of Raja Yoga. It helps the practitioner to understand the divine self within. This book deals with Heartfulness meditation in depth.
What I learned from this book
1) Heartfulness meditation
Oxford Learner's Dictionary defines meditation as "the practice of focusing your mind in silence, especially for religious reasons or in order to make your mind calm " . Heartfulness meditation is a type of meditation based on Raja Yoga. It helps us to absolve the pain from our life's acerbic experiences to gain the right mental acumen.
We should be appropriately involved in it with passion when we are starting any meditation. It is common to generate an apathy towards meditation after the initial alacrity due to the attrition of our passion after some time when we consider meditation as a routine instead of something that we enjoy.
"Heartfulness is an integrated approach which includes three core practices- meditation, cleaning, and prayer. These three approaches are supported by a yogic transmission which is the essence of the Heartfulness approach and the key to its transformative potential.
Heartfulness meditation consists of four elements—relaxation, meditation, rejuvenation, and connection—and illuminates the ancient, defining feature of yogic transmission (or pranahuti), the utilization of divine energy for spiritual growth and transformation."
2) Meditation and yoga in treatment of medical conditions
This is a topic which always fascinated me. In Rig Veda, it's written that "breath is the extension of our inmost life," and it describes breath as the path beyond the self to consciousness. Some medical studies showed us that pranayama helps to improve cardiovascular health and decreases anxiety and depression.
"However, if you suffer from insomnia, that is also the cure. Lie in bed and start meditating. You'll fall asleep straight away!"
3) What is more important than meditation in our life?
Meditation is not everything in our life. This book tells us that there is something more important than mediation. It is the attitude which is the most important thing in our life. As Jeff Keller famously said in his book, attitude is everything.
“Meditation is not everything. Spiritual practice is important. Without it, transformation is only a dream. Yet even the most effective mediation method combined with the most disciplined approach will only take us to about 5% of the way. What we do is important. But it is not as important as the attitude with which we do it. This does not only apply to meditation. With any activity, it is our attitude that defines it and the attitude that defines our success."
My favourite three lines from this book
“Through meditation, we move from the complexity of mind to the simplicity of heart.”
“What is the best time for meditation, I asked. Now, he said..”
“The way meditation regulates the mind is by orienting it toward the ultimate Source of contentment.”
What could have been better?
Mindfulness meditation should also have been explained in-depth, and I would have loved to see the comparison of heartfulness and mindfulness meditation.
Rating
4/5 If you are a person who loves to read metaphysical or spiritual books you can definitely consider this one.
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January 25, 2018
Amazingly simple. One of my favourite part was pn page 47, Indian edition. "..God exists, but until we go within and feel that presence, God remains a concept - a mental formulation. With the imagination, you can create many things that are not real. In fact, you can only create things that are unreal. You may create wonderful illusions. You may create terrible hallucinations. They are your own creations, and they are unreal. Meditation does not create anything at all. Meditation reveals. What does it reveal? That which is real, that which is authentic, that which is true. Lies are created. Untruth is created. Reality can never be created - it is as it is..."
October 8, 2018
Before I say anything about the book I would like to say a few things about me, the kind of a person I am. I have always been very religious but with a twist, my Gods were not just mere deities (yes you heard it right, mere deities) but they are my family. My Ma and Baba and Twin and Friend. And the other thing is I normally take three days max to finish any book. But this one I took almost 5 days to finish, for I didn't just read it once or twice, I read it 4 times. And the more I read the more it made sense.
I am someone who has been doing yoga for a long time and have been asked questions like "How come you talk so much? Isn't meditation supposed to make you talk less?"
I could never quite make them understand that meditation isn't about being silent or having less enthusiasm about things, it's about finding peace. Reaching your happy place or as described in the book to reach a "balance".
It doesn't matter if I jump around in joy or if I sit still the whole day. Finding your original balance is the important part. It is even mentioned that there is no difference between an undistracted mind and a settled mind. They are indistinguishable.
And coming back to the reason why I read it so many times, the first time I finished reading it I felt a bit of peace, which made me go back to it again and again. My personal experience with this book has been amazing and I would suggest it to others as well. Specially to all those who have the notion of the "right" way to be "silent".
So I, Manali Dey, will give The Heartfulness Way a big 5.5 out of 5. And a big thank you to both Daaji and Joshua Pollock.
Before I say anything about the book I would like to say a few things about me, the kind of a person I am. I have always been very religious but with a twist, my Gods were not just mere deities (yes you heard it right, mere deities) but they are my family. My Ma and Baba and Twin and Friend. And the other thing is I normally take three days max to finish any book. But this one I took almost 5 days to finish, for I didn't just read it once or twice, I read it 4 times. And the more I read the more it made sense.
I am someone who has been doing yoga for a long time and have been asked questions like "How come you talk so much? Isn't meditation supposed to make you talk less?"
I could never quite make them understand that meditation isn't about being silent or having less enthusiasm about things, it's about finding peace. Reaching your happy place or as described in the book to reach a "balance".
It doesn't matter if I jump around in joy or if I sit still the whole day. Finding your original balance is the important part. It is even mentioned that there is no difference between an undistracted mind and a settled mind. They are indistinguishable.
And coming back to the reason why I read it so many times, the first time I finished reading it I felt a bit of peace, which made me go back to it again and again. My personal experience with this book has been amazing and I would suggest it to others as well. Specially to all those who have the notion of the "right" way to be "silent".
So I, Manali Dey, will give The Heartfulness Way a big 5.5 out of 5. And a big thank you to both Daaji and Joshua Pollock.
I am someone who has been doing yoga for a long time and have been asked questions like "How come you talk so much? Isn't meditation supposed to make you talk less?"
I could never quite make them understand that meditation isn't about being silent or having less enthusiasm about things, it's about finding peace. Reaching your happy place or as described in the book to reach a "balance".
It doesn't matter if I jump around in joy or if I sit still the whole day. Finding your original balance is the important part. It is even mentioned that there is no difference between an undistracted mind and a settled mind. They are indistinguishable.
And coming back to the reason why I read it so many times, the first time I finished reading it I felt a bit of peace, which made me go back to it again and again. My personal experience with this book has been amazing and I would suggest it to others as well. Specially to all those who have the notion of the "right" way to be "silent".
So I, Manali Dey, will give The Heartfulness Way a big 5.5 out of 5. And a big thank you to both Daaji and Joshua Pollock.
Before I say anything about the book I would like to say a few things about me, the kind of a person I am. I have always been very religious but with a twist, my Gods were not just mere deities (yes you heard it right, mere deities) but they are my family. My Ma and Baba and Twin and Friend. And the other thing is I normally take three days max to finish any book. But this one I took almost 5 days to finish, for I didn't just read it once or twice, I read it 4 times. And the more I read the more it made sense.
I am someone who has been doing yoga for a long time and have been asked questions like "How come you talk so much? Isn't meditation supposed to make you talk less?"
I could never quite make them understand that meditation isn't about being silent or having less enthusiasm about things, it's about finding peace. Reaching your happy place or as described in the book to reach a "balance".
It doesn't matter if I jump around in joy or if I sit still the whole day. Finding your original balance is the important part. It is even mentioned that there is no difference between an undistracted mind and a settled mind. They are indistinguishable.
And coming back to the reason why I read it so many times, the first time I finished reading it I felt a bit of peace, which made me go back to it again and again. My personal experience with this book has been amazing and I would suggest it to others as well. Specially to all those who have the notion of the "right" way to be "silent".
So I, Manali Dey, will give The Heartfulness Way a big 5.5 out of 5. And a big thank you to both Daaji and Joshua Pollock.
October 16, 2018
Through a conversation with Daaji , Author writes this book which discusses the tips to transform yourself to transcend suffering and have hope and contentment.
The book is divided into 3 parts which talks about what is , how to and benefits of Relaxing , Meditation , Prayer .
🔴It tells about how to remove filters of life and transform your inner state before your surroundings.It explains Karma , Knowledge and Desires of heart. .
.
🔴There are steps written which tells about yoga sutra by Famous Patanjali dating back to Pushyamita dynasty.Finally it tells us to follow our heart faithfully but carefully .
🔴It is a nice book, a different kind of read if you like knowing more about meditation and transforming your thought process.
Language is easy . Cover is beautiful. Font size and binding is excellent.Most readers can read and understand.The steps to meditate and cleanse are presented creatively.Diagrams are also there at few places.
🔴Rating - 4/5
The book is divided into 3 parts which talks about what is , how to and benefits of Relaxing , Meditation , Prayer .
🔴It tells about how to remove filters of life and transform your inner state before your surroundings.It explains Karma , Knowledge and Desires of heart. .
.
🔴There are steps written which tells about yoga sutra by Famous Patanjali dating back to Pushyamita dynasty.Finally it tells us to follow our heart faithfully but carefully .
🔴It is a nice book, a different kind of read if you like knowing more about meditation and transforming your thought process.
Language is easy . Cover is beautiful. Font size and binding is excellent.Most readers can read and understand.The steps to meditate and cleanse are presented creatively.Diagrams are also there at few places.
🔴Rating - 4/5
Read
September 9, 2021 17th book of 2021 (186 Books read overall)
Rating - No rating (Abandoned)
Plot Summary - Heartfulness is an ideal, a spiritual way of living by and from the heart that is inclusive of all ideologies, beliefs, and religions. In this heart-centred book, a student in conversation with his teacher, Kamlesh D. Patel—affectionately known as Daaji, the fourth and current spiritual guide of the decades-old Heartfulness tradition—present a unique method of meditation with the power to facilitate an immediate, tangible spiritual experience, irrespective of your faith.
Our modern, fast-paced world can be an overwhelming place. Every day, we’re bombarded with messages telling us that in order to be happy, fulfilled, and worthy, we must be better, do more, and accumulate as much material wealth as possible. Most of us move through our busy lives with our minds full of these ideas, multitasking as we strive to navigate the responsibilities and expectations we must meet just to make it through the day. But what if there were another way? What if, rather than letting the busyness of life overtake our minds, we learned to be heartful instead?
Based on Daaji’s own combination of approaches and practices for the modern spiritual seeker—which draws from the teachings of the Sahaj Marg, meaning “The Natural Path,” and incorporates elements of Sufism—Heartfulness is a contemporized version of the ancient Indian practice of Raja Yoga, a tradition that enables the practitioner to realize the divine self within. While many books describe refined states of consciousness and connection to a higher self, often called “enlightenment” or “nirvana,” The Heartfulness Way goes further, providing a pragmatic course to experience them, which, per the book’s guiding principle, is “better than knowledge.”
Heartfulness meditation consists of four elements—relaxation, meditation, rejuvenation, and connection—and illuminates the ancient, defining feature of yogic transmission (or pranahuti), the utilization of divine energy for spiritual growth and transformation. Using the method, detailed practices, tips, and practical philosophy offered in this book, you’ll reach new levels of attainment and learn to live a life more deeply connected to the values of the Heartfulness way—with acceptance, humility, compassion, empathy, and love.
My Review - I loved reading Designing Destiny: The Heartfulness Way by the same author and even gifted and recommended it to my friends. But this here, it might be a good one but not for me. Right from start, it goes like, 'Yes meditation is good and all but you need to be initiated to get a speed boost in your spiritual process'. Okay, Yes, this might be right but to forcefully iterate the same thing, again and again, making the reader in me discouraged as if, if you are not being initiated then you are being let down in the process. So even after reading around 30% of the book. I gave up on it because I can't take on the "Get Initiated" approach. Thus, abandoned.
Conclusion - This makes the reader's meditation sessions seem incomplete.
Full Review on Blog.
Link to Blog - The Tales of Fugitive Biker
Rating - No rating (Abandoned)
Plot Summary - Heartfulness is an ideal, a spiritual way of living by and from the heart that is inclusive of all ideologies, beliefs, and religions. In this heart-centred book, a student in conversation with his teacher, Kamlesh D. Patel—affectionately known as Daaji, the fourth and current spiritual guide of the decades-old Heartfulness tradition—present a unique method of meditation with the power to facilitate an immediate, tangible spiritual experience, irrespective of your faith.
Our modern, fast-paced world can be an overwhelming place. Every day, we’re bombarded with messages telling us that in order to be happy, fulfilled, and worthy, we must be better, do more, and accumulate as much material wealth as possible. Most of us move through our busy lives with our minds full of these ideas, multitasking as we strive to navigate the responsibilities and expectations we must meet just to make it through the day. But what if there were another way? What if, rather than letting the busyness of life overtake our minds, we learned to be heartful instead?
Based on Daaji’s own combination of approaches and practices for the modern spiritual seeker—which draws from the teachings of the Sahaj Marg, meaning “The Natural Path,” and incorporates elements of Sufism—Heartfulness is a contemporized version of the ancient Indian practice of Raja Yoga, a tradition that enables the practitioner to realize the divine self within. While many books describe refined states of consciousness and connection to a higher self, often called “enlightenment” or “nirvana,” The Heartfulness Way goes further, providing a pragmatic course to experience them, which, per the book’s guiding principle, is “better than knowledge.”
Heartfulness meditation consists of four elements—relaxation, meditation, rejuvenation, and connection—and illuminates the ancient, defining feature of yogic transmission (or pranahuti), the utilization of divine energy for spiritual growth and transformation. Using the method, detailed practices, tips, and practical philosophy offered in this book, you’ll reach new levels of attainment and learn to live a life more deeply connected to the values of the Heartfulness way—with acceptance, humility, compassion, empathy, and love.
My Review - I loved reading Designing Destiny: The Heartfulness Way by the same author and even gifted and recommended it to my friends. But this here, it might be a good one but not for me. Right from start, it goes like, 'Yes meditation is good and all but you need to be initiated to get a speed boost in your spiritual process'. Okay, Yes, this might be right but to forcefully iterate the same thing, again and again, making the reader in me discouraged as if, if you are not being initiated then you are being let down in the process. So even after reading around 30% of the book. I gave up on it because I can't take on the "Get Initiated" approach. Thus, abandoned.
Conclusion - This makes the reader's meditation sessions seem incomplete.
Full Review on Blog.
Link to Blog - The Tales of Fugitive Biker
May 29, 2018
After a long time, a book in this genre appealed so much to me!
The conversational dialog between the teacher and the disciple makes for a very interesting reading. The concept of meditation has been simplified and demystified in this book.
After my first reading, I decided to underline some of the paragraphs that have so much packed into them....It's a good idea to read this at your own pace and ruminate over the dialog...that helped me enjoy this book even more...Cheers!
The conversational dialog between the teacher and the disciple makes for a very interesting reading. The concept of meditation has been simplified and demystified in this book.
After my first reading, I decided to underline some of the paragraphs that have so much packed into them....It's a good idea to read this at your own pace and ruminate over the dialog...that helped me enjoy this book even more...Cheers!
October 19, 2019
Amongst the few books I have read about the Heartfulness way to meditate, this is by far the easiest to grasp for entry level people seeking solace in this anxious and fast-paced world.
The book doesn't need the reader to be a believer in spirituality. Infact the least that this book tells us is that if we are able to listen to our heart over our overly noisy minds, we will find out the answers to a lot of questions that we keep mentally pondering about and get pulled in either direction of the topic based on the arguments we hear.
The language of the book is simple. It suggests a very simple way to meditate while focusing on the heart - the seat of the soul which is different from the mind-based meditation techniques we hear all around us. Its an interesting conversation between the current guide of the heartfulness movement and a practitioner trying to ask general questions about what/why/when/where/how to meditate so that seekers get a glimpse about how easy is the solution out of the hamster wheel that we are all becoming a part of.
At the end of the day, i believe that whatever works for you is what you should follow and if you are seeing that nothing is working for you, the heartfulness way to meditate is worth a try. I believe any form of meditation if it helps you think before you act you will automatically realize that most of your harmful words/deeds are unnecessary. Our hearts only know love and compassion and that's what we must strive to emanate in order to make this world a low-stress place for our future generations.
The book doesn't need the reader to be a believer in spirituality. Infact the least that this book tells us is that if we are able to listen to our heart over our overly noisy minds, we will find out the answers to a lot of questions that we keep mentally pondering about and get pulled in either direction of the topic based on the arguments we hear.
The language of the book is simple. It suggests a very simple way to meditate while focusing on the heart - the seat of the soul which is different from the mind-based meditation techniques we hear all around us. Its an interesting conversation between the current guide of the heartfulness movement and a practitioner trying to ask general questions about what/why/when/where/how to meditate so that seekers get a glimpse about how easy is the solution out of the hamster wheel that we are all becoming a part of.
At the end of the day, i believe that whatever works for you is what you should follow and if you are seeing that nothing is working for you, the heartfulness way to meditate is worth a try. I believe any form of meditation if it helps you think before you act you will automatically realize that most of your harmful words/deeds are unnecessary. Our hearts only know love and compassion and that's what we must strive to emanate in order to make this world a low-stress place for our future generations.
June 4, 2019
I have read many literature on spirituality, meditation. While almost all of them do a great job on explaining the problem, few are able to give real solutions to the depths that I was seeking. I started practicing heartfulness even before this book was released, by the recommendation of a friend, and found it extremely effective in the way I handle life situations.
I read this book when it was released and it made even more sense to why each of the practice in heartfulness exists and how does each one complement the other and in turn our overall spiritual wellbeing. My friend who was never into meditation found this book extremely appealing. I have yet other friends who have been meditating for 30+ years and they appreciated the depths mentioned in this book. So, based on my personal observation, it does not matter how much of exposure you have had to meditation or spirituality, this book will appeal to you.
It is my strong conviction that implementing the simple methods explained in the book will be of immense value for the reader. As they say, proof of the pudding is in the eating!
I read this book when it was released and it made even more sense to why each of the practice in heartfulness exists and how does each one complement the other and in turn our overall spiritual wellbeing. My friend who was never into meditation found this book extremely appealing. I have yet other friends who have been meditating for 30+ years and they appreciated the depths mentioned in this book. So, based on my personal observation, it does not matter how much of exposure you have had to meditation or spirituality, this book will appeal to you.
It is my strong conviction that implementing the simple methods explained in the book will be of immense value for the reader. As they say, proof of the pudding is in the eating!
July 11, 2019
A person I ghostwrite for mentioned this book during one of our discussions. Intrigued, I picked this up since I am always curious to find out about different types of meditation.
Unfortunately, ‘The Heartfulness Way’ did not quite speak to me. It is designed for the new student of meditation. But a new student would struggle with this book. The problem I face with many meditation books is that they make it too complex in their effort to simplify meditation. Let’s face it - meditation is not easy. I have learned of concepts like ‘samskaras’ only after rigorous meditation for two years. And that makes me a 2-hour-baby in the world of meditation. The new student of meditation would probably skim these passages. And when words like ‘yogic transmission’ make their way into a book, I too end up probably being a bit cynical.
Meditate by all means. And there must be a lot of heart in the Heartfulness Way of meditation. You just won’t find it in this book.
Unfortunately, ‘The Heartfulness Way’ did not quite speak to me. It is designed for the new student of meditation. But a new student would struggle with this book. The problem I face with many meditation books is that they make it too complex in their effort to simplify meditation. Let’s face it - meditation is not easy. I have learned of concepts like ‘samskaras’ only after rigorous meditation for two years. And that makes me a 2-hour-baby in the world of meditation. The new student of meditation would probably skim these passages. And when words like ‘yogic transmission’ make their way into a book, I too end up probably being a bit cynical.
Meditate by all means. And there must be a lot of heart in the Heartfulness Way of meditation. You just won’t find it in this book.
April 2, 2018
The book is a seeker's journey into the self. The author Joshua Pollock reminisces his beginnings in the Heartful practice having tried many paths. It is an authentic story, that connects with every seeker who is looking for solutions to a restlessness in their hearts.
Then the dialogue begins between Joshua and the global guide of Heartfulness, Daaji. Some of the ideas are new and take your breath away.
The book loses a star for poor editing.
Then the dialogue begins between Joshua and the global guide of Heartfulness, Daaji. Some of the ideas are new and take your breath away.
The book loses a star for poor editing.
April 2, 2018
If you have inclination towards meditation, mindfulness or spiritually you will thoroughly enjoy this book. It explains the process in a simple way which will help you practice meditation or mindfulness effectively which is claimed as heart fullness in this book. Start without being judgmental, you will finish it strong.
December 30, 2021
After I was done reading the book, I decided to take up a session with one of the Heartfulness Trainers. So I booked my free session, and learnt the techniques of starting Heartfulness Meditation. The techniques of bringing awareness and detoxification of the energy field were nice experiences. It gave me a sense of calm and peace. Also, I think the timing is just right. We are almost at the end of this year. To begin the new year with a wonderful new practice would be great starting point. 😀
May 16, 2018
This book is truly transformative - inside out. Simple and easy to understand. Anyone looking for simple tips and practices with clear examples in daily life, THIS IS IT! AN ABSOLUTELY MUST READ for every business professional, athlete, musician, student and even teens wanting simple answers to complex questions.
This afterword from Dr. Doty in the book says it all
"Within this profound volume are several practical tools and techniques to allow you to develop a Heartfulness meditation practice. Heartfulness is our natural state. It is our natural state to be calm, kind, and compassionate. It is in this state that we are able to see the true nature of reality, to see our purpose, and to have clarity in regard to our interdependence. When we are in the state of heartfulness, we give love unconditionally, recognizing that when we give to another, we are giving to ourselves. As Daaji says, “In the Heartfulness Way, we explore and expand our consciousness, and even go beyond consciousness to uncover our true potentiality.”
This afterword from Dr. Doty in the book says it all
"Within this profound volume are several practical tools and techniques to allow you to develop a Heartfulness meditation practice. Heartfulness is our natural state. It is our natural state to be calm, kind, and compassionate. It is in this state that we are able to see the true nature of reality, to see our purpose, and to have clarity in regard to our interdependence. When we are in the state of heartfulness, we give love unconditionally, recognizing that when we give to another, we are giving to ourselves. As Daaji says, “In the Heartfulness Way, we explore and expand our consciousness, and even go beyond consciousness to uncover our true potentiality.”
October 12, 2018
The Heartfulness Way is a spiritual book written especially for laymen who are interested in meditation but somehow couldn't figure out the way. The candid conversation between guru and disciple will clear many doubts regarding meditation, will answer many questions related to meditation, will shatter some myths about meditation and lastly will motivate you enough to at least try once to meditate. Things like right place, right time and right posture to meditate have been discussed which enables a newbie to begin.
The book has been divided into three parts : the first part gives details regarding meditation clearing the concept and breaking many stereotypes related to meditation more of the philosophical part of meditation; the second part is about various tools of heartfulness like meditation, relaxation, cleaning and prayer which are implemented by the seeker with the help of the trainer crucial for Yogic Transmission; and the third part is the role of guru.
But it doesn't tell you everything like the technique to meditate, how to bring about yogic transmission, cleaning process, removal of samskaric edifice etc. It has clearly stated that all these and other things needs sitting with heartfulness trainer.
The book has been divided into three parts : the first part gives details regarding meditation clearing the concept and breaking many stereotypes related to meditation more of the philosophical part of meditation; the second part is about various tools of heartfulness like meditation, relaxation, cleaning and prayer which are implemented by the seeker with the help of the trainer crucial for Yogic Transmission; and the third part is the role of guru.
But it doesn't tell you everything like the technique to meditate, how to bring about yogic transmission, cleaning process, removal of samskaric edifice etc. It has clearly stated that all these and other things needs sitting with heartfulness trainer.
May 20, 2018
Simple and practical. Is it possible to keep someone engaged completely on a seemingly difficult topic, from the start to the finish? This book manages to do just that, rather effortlessly, as it explores all the pertinent topics that would come to someone's mind, whether they are new to meditation or have been practicing meditation for several years. Daaji (Kamlesh D. Patel) explains the concepts in simple jargon with practical examples, anecdotes and clarifications, for the questions posed by the co-author Joshua Pollock. This book goes beyond the theory and practice of meditation. There are several other easy to follow tips and techniques in this book, that would enrich our meditation and transform our lives.
February 27, 2019
This is one of those books you will keep going back to read and will bring up something different to your attention Everytime you go back. A conversational understanding to the Heartfulness practices and the why's that cross through all of our analytical minds about meditation, are answered in the most appealing yet simple explanations.
February 9, 2018
Simple & beautiful
The book is the answer to all questions a spiritual seeker can have. Book offers the method with beautiful explanation.
The book is the answer to all questions a spiritual seeker can have. Book offers the method with beautiful explanation.
February 18, 2018
Good read, may be missing details, should re-read
Fairly quick reading. Explained well but sometimes feels simplistic. Maybe that's the way it should be, I need dig deeper
Fairly quick reading. Explained well but sometimes feels simplistic. Maybe that's the way it should be, I need dig deeper
October 19, 2018
TITLE: The Heartfulness Way: Heart-Based Meditations for Spiritual Transformation
AUTHOR: Kamlesh D Patel and Joshua Pollock
PAGES: 212
PUBLISHER: Westland
ISBN: 978-9386850560
GENRE: Non Fiction
THE BLURB:
As we manoeuvre the many demands of relationships, career, property and health, we often sense a void, a feeling of alienation from our true selves. Is it possible for one planet to orbit so many suns? We have many centres in our lives, yet where is the true centre, the deepest centre that lies at the core of every heart?
Ensconced in India’s ageless oral tradition, Kamlesh D. Patel—widely known as Daaji, the fourth guru in the Heartfulness lineage—traces a seeker’s journey as he examines the nature of spiritual search. Through a series of illuminating conversations between a teacher and a student, Daaji reveals the core principles of the Heartfulness practice and philosophy to Joshua Pollock, a Heartfulness practitioner and trainer.
From reflecting on the essence of prayer and yogic transmission to demystifying the act of meditation through practical tips, this book will enable us to live beyond the filters of our sensory limitations and discover unity within ourselves. To practise Heartfulness is to seek the essence beyond the form, the reality behind the ritual. It is to centre oneself at the core of one’s heart and find true meaning and contentment there.
IF I COULD REVIEW IT IN A SINGLE LINE: Worth the read
THE REVIEW:
An engaging title talking of a way of life full of positivity and encouragement, the author claims and hopes to help us relieve and understand this by a series of conversations with daaji. A transformative approach to life while dealing with the ever rafting ebb and flow of surroundings. Can any or us truly claim to live our life the heartful way? Can we ever claim to have achieved that level of being?
There have always been personalities and spiritual realm travellers who teach us so many valuable pearls of wisdom as do they help us follow through our paths.
For something who doesn't meditate and doesn't travel through with spirituality this is a novel and rather wonderful book to enjoy and without doubt worth delving into. Yes a lot of you may find it sluggish and boring in the vernacular but what is aims to accomplish is indeed done beyond repair.
You may call it a sort of spiritual mirror we need to ogle into every morning. The writing very much reminded me of 'The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari' and even the message is similar.
With a rather unique way of writing and a even more novel approach to meditation and the heart of living, this book is bound to do wonders.
Another major point that choose to attract me was the sheer simplicity of the words and still how they could fall into places and fulfil their purpose. I absolutely adored their writing and mostly their take on spirituality, medication and life as a whole.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kamlesh D. Patel is an original voice in an ancient tradition. Known widely as Daaji, his teachings arise from his personal experience on the path of Heartfulness, while reflecting his deep spirit of enquiry and respect for the world’s great spiritual traditions and scientific advancements.
Daaji practised pharmacy in New York City for over three decades before being named as the successor in a century-old lineage of spiritual masters. Fulfilling the many duties of a modern-day guru, he travels widely, extending his support to spiritual seekers everywhere. A self-professed student of spirituality, he devotes much of his time and energy to research in the field of consciousness and spirituality, approaching the subject with scientific methodology—a practical approach that stems from his own experience and mastery in the field.
Joshua Pollock is a Heartfulness trainer and practitioner from the United States. An accomplished Western classical violinist, he has performed and taught throughout the world, and his violin solos can be heard in numerous A.R. Rahman original soundtracks such as Ghajini, Delhi 6, Raavan, Yuvvraaj, Blue, Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa and Raavanan.
A dedicated spiritual aspirant, Joshua is enthusiastic about sharing his passion for meditation, frequently lecturing at private seminars, holding practical demonstrations in corporate, educational and governmental settings, and providing ongoing individual support to local seekers. Joshua holds a Bachelor of Musical Arts degree from Indiana University and two master’s degrees from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. He currently resides in India with his wife and their two children.
Cover: 4/5
Title: 3/5
Characters: 4/5
Language: 4/5
Writing and Presentation: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Disclaimer: I was sent this book by writersmelon for an honest review. The review is absolutely my own and hasn’t been influenced by anyone.
AUTHOR: Kamlesh D Patel and Joshua Pollock
PAGES: 212
PUBLISHER: Westland
ISBN: 978-9386850560
GENRE: Non Fiction
THE BLURB:
As we manoeuvre the many demands of relationships, career, property and health, we often sense a void, a feeling of alienation from our true selves. Is it possible for one planet to orbit so many suns? We have many centres in our lives, yet where is the true centre, the deepest centre that lies at the core of every heart?
Ensconced in India’s ageless oral tradition, Kamlesh D. Patel—widely known as Daaji, the fourth guru in the Heartfulness lineage—traces a seeker’s journey as he examines the nature of spiritual search. Through a series of illuminating conversations between a teacher and a student, Daaji reveals the core principles of the Heartfulness practice and philosophy to Joshua Pollock, a Heartfulness practitioner and trainer.
From reflecting on the essence of prayer and yogic transmission to demystifying the act of meditation through practical tips, this book will enable us to live beyond the filters of our sensory limitations and discover unity within ourselves. To practise Heartfulness is to seek the essence beyond the form, the reality behind the ritual. It is to centre oneself at the core of one’s heart and find true meaning and contentment there.
IF I COULD REVIEW IT IN A SINGLE LINE: Worth the read
THE REVIEW:
An engaging title talking of a way of life full of positivity and encouragement, the author claims and hopes to help us relieve and understand this by a series of conversations with daaji. A transformative approach to life while dealing with the ever rafting ebb and flow of surroundings. Can any or us truly claim to live our life the heartful way? Can we ever claim to have achieved that level of being?
There have always been personalities and spiritual realm travellers who teach us so many valuable pearls of wisdom as do they help us follow through our paths.
For something who doesn't meditate and doesn't travel through with spirituality this is a novel and rather wonderful book to enjoy and without doubt worth delving into. Yes a lot of you may find it sluggish and boring in the vernacular but what is aims to accomplish is indeed done beyond repair.
You may call it a sort of spiritual mirror we need to ogle into every morning. The writing very much reminded me of 'The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari' and even the message is similar.
With a rather unique way of writing and a even more novel approach to meditation and the heart of living, this book is bound to do wonders.
Another major point that choose to attract me was the sheer simplicity of the words and still how they could fall into places and fulfil their purpose. I absolutely adored their writing and mostly their take on spirituality, medication and life as a whole.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kamlesh D. Patel is an original voice in an ancient tradition. Known widely as Daaji, his teachings arise from his personal experience on the path of Heartfulness, while reflecting his deep spirit of enquiry and respect for the world’s great spiritual traditions and scientific advancements.
Daaji practised pharmacy in New York City for over three decades before being named as the successor in a century-old lineage of spiritual masters. Fulfilling the many duties of a modern-day guru, he travels widely, extending his support to spiritual seekers everywhere. A self-professed student of spirituality, he devotes much of his time and energy to research in the field of consciousness and spirituality, approaching the subject with scientific methodology—a practical approach that stems from his own experience and mastery in the field.
Joshua Pollock is a Heartfulness trainer and practitioner from the United States. An accomplished Western classical violinist, he has performed and taught throughout the world, and his violin solos can be heard in numerous A.R. Rahman original soundtracks such as Ghajini, Delhi 6, Raavan, Yuvvraaj, Blue, Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa and Raavanan.
A dedicated spiritual aspirant, Joshua is enthusiastic about sharing his passion for meditation, frequently lecturing at private seminars, holding practical demonstrations in corporate, educational and governmental settings, and providing ongoing individual support to local seekers. Joshua holds a Bachelor of Musical Arts degree from Indiana University and two master’s degrees from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. He currently resides in India with his wife and their two children.
Cover: 4/5
Title: 3/5
Characters: 4/5
Language: 4/5
Writing and Presentation: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Disclaimer: I was sent this book by writersmelon for an honest review. The review is absolutely my own and hasn’t been influenced by anyone.
October 19, 2018
My Rating : 4
"A religious teaching may be true, but it matters little unless you have realized that truth for yourself. You see, It is not enough for a teaching to be true. It must be true for you"
.
.
--The publisher sent me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest opinion--
.
.
This book deals with the essence of Heartfulness approach to meditation and its transformative potential over a person if understood & done right
.
The first thing I loved about the book was the mini story-type prologue given at the start explaining how the concept came into life, and how it is going to progress. That really gave an insight about what to expect from the later part.
.
The second thing I loved was the way it was written. Though being a non-fiction, it was not textbook type explanations of all the questions. It is a collection of interactive conversations with Daaji and how he views everything. It also helps us understand the concepts of Heartfulness ways, how to achieve it, in a really simple and easy to understand way.
.
In this fast pacing modern world, there are a lot of things that affects our mental health and our thought process. The way everything was explained was really connecting, and I learnt a lot about how not to approach , rather than how to. Lot of insights on the lifestyle to follow, with a lot of diversity, it was really a very good experience and an eye-opener! This connected to me on a very personal level, and I really do hope it will help a lot of young people out there to start taking care of themselves instead of the materialistic things in their life.
.
The only thing I didn't like about the book was it was slightly over explained. It's not a bad thing! Some people might take a long time to understand all these new concepts, but personally I would have enjoyed the book even more if it was a little crisp and to the point since I was already familiar with the concepts of meditation. This book was in no means boring, and I loved reading a mind-clearing non fiction book that deals with a lot of real life struggles.
.
If you are someone struggling with stress, anxiety, or just having a bad day, try giving this book a shot! You might end up being a totally different person with a brand new taken on life!
"A religious teaching may be true, but it matters little unless you have realized that truth for yourself. You see, It is not enough for a teaching to be true. It must be true for you"
.
.
--The publisher sent me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest opinion--
.
.
This book deals with the essence of Heartfulness approach to meditation and its transformative potential over a person if understood & done right
.
The first thing I loved about the book was the mini story-type prologue given at the start explaining how the concept came into life, and how it is going to progress. That really gave an insight about what to expect from the later part.
.
The second thing I loved was the way it was written. Though being a non-fiction, it was not textbook type explanations of all the questions. It is a collection of interactive conversations with Daaji and how he views everything. It also helps us understand the concepts of Heartfulness ways, how to achieve it, in a really simple and easy to understand way.
.
In this fast pacing modern world, there are a lot of things that affects our mental health and our thought process. The way everything was explained was really connecting, and I learnt a lot about how not to approach , rather than how to. Lot of insights on the lifestyle to follow, with a lot of diversity, it was really a very good experience and an eye-opener! This connected to me on a very personal level, and I really do hope it will help a lot of young people out there to start taking care of themselves instead of the materialistic things in their life.
.
The only thing I didn't like about the book was it was slightly over explained. It's not a bad thing! Some people might take a long time to understand all these new concepts, but personally I would have enjoyed the book even more if it was a little crisp and to the point since I was already familiar with the concepts of meditation. This book was in no means boring, and I loved reading a mind-clearing non fiction book that deals with a lot of real life struggles.
.
If you are someone struggling with stress, anxiety, or just having a bad day, try giving this book a shot! You might end up being a totally different person with a brand new taken on life!
October 12, 2018
'The Heartfulness Way: Heart Based Meditations for Spiritual Transformations' is an enlightening read by Kamlesh D Patel (lovingly called Daaji) and Joshua Pollock. It's about meditation (which are easy to follow for the common people) and is divided into 3 parts. The first part of the books breaks the stereotype behind meditation, the second part explains the various means of the Heartfulness practices — relaxation, meditation, cleaning and prayer while the third part explains the role of a teacher in a person's life. The book caters to the basic needs of every person. It talks about overcoming stress, having better sleep, better family life and a path leading towards realisation. It also tells you to follow your heart by listening to it. The candid conversations were also a treat to read! This must read book can change our day-to-day lives and is brilliant for spiritual seekers in current time. It is engaging and filled with philosophies of life that one can connect with.
I would suggest everyone to read this book. It's a knowledgeable book which everyone should read atleast once in their life.
Overall rating: 4/5
I would suggest everyone to read this book. It's a knowledgeable book which everyone should read atleast once in their life.
Overall rating: 4/5
November 26, 2018
Thank you New harbinger and Netgalley for an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
This was a book I read slowly over a period of time. It was a lovely book to pick up, read and ponder.
Highly recommended
This was a book I read slowly over a period of time. It was a lovely book to pick up, read and ponder.
Highly recommended
February 10, 2019
An inspirational book that details how to implement Heartfulness in life in three parts - Relaxing, Meditation and Prayer. It also has several instructions of how to follow these things. There is also an app - Let's Mediate: Heartfulness Guided Meditation, which is a free app for a better mental and emotional well-being.
August 1, 2019
Decent book for meditation enthusiast, won't recommend to someone starting out.
May 23, 2022
A good book about meditation. It tells you about the importance of meditating and how to do it.
October 20, 2021
The heartfulness approach consists of 3 core practices: meditation, cleaning and prayer. Meditation - to regulate the mind. Cleaning - to free us from mental and emotional tendencies that dominate our life. Prayer - to affirm out connection to spiritual source within.
“We never know what will turn out for the best or for the worst.”
“Practice is essential.”
“Purpose is never individual. It is always collective.”
“We never know what will turn out for the best or for the worst.”
“Practice is essential.”
“Purpose is never individual. It is always collective.”
August 21, 2023
An amazing book. Answers a lot of questions related to meditation. It mainly talks about the significance of a meditation practice.
I learnt a lot of interesting things from this book. And I am looking forward to re-reading it to get even more out of it.
I learnt a lot of interesting things from this book. And I am looking forward to re-reading it to get even more out of it.
August 6, 2018
"The truest form of gratitude is to make use of what you receive."
We're reading this book in my book club at work as an extension of our monthly Heartfulness Meditation workshops; and I have to say that I'm so thankful that there's finally a book that explains the ins & outs of Heartfulness meditation. Recently, I've been trying to incorporate Heartfulness meditation into my daily life in an effort to draw closer to God and maintain a constant state of peace. The 'Prayer' section of this book resonated with me in so many ways and caused me evaluate my own approach to prayer. Because I'm new to meditation, I will keep this book nearby so that I can refresh myself on the different elements of Heartfulness meditation as I progress.
We're reading this book in my book club at work as an extension of our monthly Heartfulness Meditation workshops; and I have to say that I'm so thankful that there's finally a book that explains the ins & outs of Heartfulness meditation. Recently, I've been trying to incorporate Heartfulness meditation into my daily life in an effort to draw closer to God and maintain a constant state of peace. The 'Prayer' section of this book resonated with me in so many ways and caused me evaluate my own approach to prayer. Because I'm new to meditation, I will keep this book nearby so that I can refresh myself on the different elements of Heartfulness meditation as I progress.
February 4, 2024
Simple yet profound.
One of the best books to expound on being gentle, kind, selfless and divinity arises on it's own inside one's heart. Beautifully expressed. Finished it one go. It was a page turner. It's a must read.
One of the best books to expound on being gentle, kind, selfless and divinity arises on it's own inside one's heart. Beautifully expressed. Finished it one go. It was a page turner. It's a must read.
April 22, 2018
One of the good books on meditation
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