My Sadhana today was to walk gently in nature and enjoy the bats. The world off our laptops or cellphones is a much nicer reality. There's something to information overload and and an unhealthy obsession. I believe Swami V mentioned something like this, I will try to find it... To add... It seems no matter what your beliefs or attitudes are, you can find something, "out there" especially in a digital landscape or in even in the news- to solidify your polarity- creating not just division but a coldness that blinds one from feeling the gentle communion with God so often sought by spiritually minded individuals. Believing that everyone thinks in these black or white terms, drowning your need for entertainment with self affirming stimulus, it creates a cold heart and it misleads. People think they know what is Truth in these narrative-driven frenzies and forget Gods Splendor and shut out not just those around them but they cut off a part of themselves. Fortunately, God is always by our side and we have every capacity to melt our barriers and remember our Divine Connection.
Note from Steve attempting to follow your entries…..
Eric, Although I read with interest; I am having difficulty putting the above entry #5 with the entry below it, which is entry #6…
You have said that “I believe Swami V mentioned something like this” and then you said “I found it” and gave us the notes below… apart from extolling the helpfulness of nature I am having difficulty finding other connections.
I found it,
swami v has said we have to balance the anxiety which is fear and need for entertainment. to live with ourselves and within ourselves. to double up our moral courage and that this is a great opportunity for introspection and a leap for seekers to practice their faith. some notes from todays fellowship...
faith is the conviction god exist. limit sensory input, be selective. the key to balance is solemnity and to use this social distancing as a way to practice good habits- like hygiene, like consuming healthy edibles(which you should do already) but more importantly is at a mental level- we can strengthen our immunities at the thought level. deep slow breathing is one of the most important things, which he said if you can feel deep breaths at the pelvic floor that you're providing a rejuvenating effect on the lungs. forgiveness doubles up immunity, overcome violence on the thought level and to attune with nature.
earth- connect with earth in whatever way possible- *wet soil or barefoot, contemplate in nature
water- drink clean water and wash skin often
fire- light cooking - not to overcook, sun gazing
air- *slow deep breathing*
ether- access to sublime feelings from the heart
bliss from direct experience with god gives greatest immunity. he nonchalantly explained why the virus might be here but said it's not important because it's veiled in darkness. to see in the dark we need light. to choose to double up on moral courage is the light. our attitude and ourselves is the thing to work on, where to place our energies. he called the social distancing a blessing in disguise. on a deeper level says that dispassion leads to compassion. and he said there is momentum happening now that will be felt ahead but upcoming planetary transitions are to give the one practicing hopeful attitude a boost(strengthening) come april, may and june. still not to wait and to always practice positive affirmations and compassion for all life not just humans.
he also said to live a minimalist lifestyle.
it was an amazing audio session which should be made available on his site soon.
and
swami vidyadhishananda has said the thing to do during these times is to practice fortitude as a spiritual practice on the family level. the momentum and the collective karma is such that real reform won't be seen until 2034. between now and then we can expect at least one more major movement in consciousness. the prediction is 2025-2026... by 2029 things will calm as the younger generation will have more compassion than what the current generation is currently able to demonstrate. while we endure the transitions, time and time again we will be faced with the decision to respond to life with love or hate. the best medicine is nature, to disconnect from the fear-peddled news. i do believe these times are allowing people to embrace their individual responsibility more, take the desired paths for how they choose to live their life. freedom will be found in the connections with those closest to them. the potential is there at least. lastly, i'd like to add that there were other masters and monks who have in the past accurately described the times we are faced with today. some of the things to note that stood out to me, communication with extraterrestrials will be common place. there will be a movement from systems to consciousness. population will be decreased. despite the chaos, find peace and glide these waters. swami has also said it isn't enough to be earnest, these times require dutiful action. so let your expression be your service for those in your immediate life. you will find the joy in these moments. i sincerely believe there is a heavenly response, cosmic rays of energy that effects us all, it is transcendent and very positive in nature.

“the best medicine is nature, to disconnect from the fear-peddled news” this I have found to be the case for my spiritual welfare.
“communication with extraterrestrials will be common place.” I have yet to understand the mysteries I’ve witnessed and the experiences of those around me.