Tapas

Question 1

Gurudev said when we set a resolve …

Answer 1

… we should also set a consiquence in case we slip. That way we assert always a mastery over the mind. The consiquence should be something else good. Like a little more pranayama, meditation or extra service. That way you are always moving forward.

Question 2

Spiritual diary

Answer 2

Define your consequence and just before you go to sleep make a spiritual diary, pause, reflect, see how you did during the day with respect of what you are working on today. Make a few notes

Question 3

Swami Karunananda real beginning of spiritual practice

Answer 3

Ahimsa Tapas: Not to slam doors the entire day or she would have to fast for the rest of it. That was matching her level of maturity. She had to be aware every time she closed a door. The real skill, art in spiritual practice involves finding ways to bring the practice into dayly life. And there were “doors” everythwere, zippers, boxes and so on. It was fantastic.

Question 4

Make your goal

Answer 4

Doable but a little bit challenging. Like building a muscle. Not too much, not too little. Choose your goal wisely. Slow and steady wins the race.
Pick your consequence wisely. Make your mind your ally rather than triggering its resistance. Its a subtle trick of the mind.