Shows
Light of the Spirit PodcastJuly 2025 Satsang • Swami Nirmalananda • Guidance on the Path of AwakeningAbout Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke)
Swami Nirmalananda is a monk of the ancient Swami Order and founder of Atma Jyoti Ashram (Light of the Spirit Monastery). With deep roots in both Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, he has authored over 30 books on meditation, Vedanta, and the mystical life of Christ. His teachings reveal the essential unity of Sanatana Dharma and original Christianity, drawn from decades of contemplative experience, pilgrimage in India, and study with great spiritual teachers such as Swami Sivananda and Anandamayi Ma.
In this month’s satsang, Swamiji answers questions from students on a range of sp...2025-07-061h 25
Gita TalksGita Talk 86–3 Types of IntellectThe eighty-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, beginning with Chapter 18:29, Swamiji discusses three types of intellect according to the gunas: sattwa, rajas, and tamas, as well as three types of firmness of intellect.Three Types of Intellect (Buddhi)Sattwic Intellect: • Clearly understands what should and should not be done....2025-06-1329 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 85–3 Types of ActionThe eighty-fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, beginning with Chapter 18:23, Swamiji discusses three types of action according to the gunas: sattwa, rajas, and tamas, as well as the three types of doers of action.Swamiji explains Krishna’s teaching on three kinds of action as defined by their motive, attitude, and effect. These types align with the th...2025-06-1320 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 84–Sannyasa & TyagaThe eighty-fourth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, beginning with Chapter 18:12, Swamiji discusses what is meant by renunciation, and the difference between Sannyasa and Tyaga.Swamiji opens the 84th Gita Talk by clarifying two vital spiritual terms from the Gita’s final chapter: Sannyasa (renunciation) and Tyaga (relinquishment). • Sannyasa, often misunderstood as monasticism or physical withdrawal, actu...2025-06-1325 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 83–Liberation by RenunciationThe eighty-third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, beginning with Chapter 18:01, Swamiji discusses what is meant by renunciation, and the difference between Sannyasa and Tyaga.Main Topics: • Arjuna asks Krishna to explain the subtle distinction between sannyasa (renunciation) and tyaga (relinquishment). • Sannyasa: Giving up actions motivated by desire. • Tyaga: Renouncing attachment to the fr...2025-06-1021 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 82–About Om Tat SatThe eighty-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 17:20 to the end of the chapter, Swamiji discusses the threefold kinds of giving, according to the gunas, and the meaning of OM TAT SAT.Gita Talk #82: Om Tat Sat — SummaryContext: Chapter 17 concludes with Krishna’s explanation of how intention, quality, and sacr...2025-06-0923 minLight of the Spirit PodcastSoham, Saints, and the Stream of Dharma – June 2025 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) for the June 2025 Satsang, a deep and wide-ranging spiritual conversation flowing from Soham meditation to the mysteries of saints, sannyas, the caste/purushartha connection, the question of virgin birth, and the soul’s entry into the stream of Sanatana Dharma.
Swamiji speaks on:
• Cremation or Burial: the pros and cons of both
• The four castes and purusharthas as inner archetypes
• How and why spiritual masters incarnate
• The value of dying consciously and holy company (satsanga)
• Whether meditation affects dreams, and more
With his signature clarity, Swamiji weaves together insights from Eastern and Western mysticism, s...2025-06-081h 03
Gita TalksGita Talk 81–Threefold AusterityThe eighty-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 17:14, Swamiji discusses tapasya (austerity) of the body, speech and mind according to Krishna, and how to gain tranquility of mind.In this talk on Chapter 17 of the Bhagavad Gita, Swamiji explores the threefold nature of tapasya (austerity)—of body, speech, and mind—as expressions of spiritual discipline. He e...2025-05-2520 minGita TalksGita Talk 80–Spiritual Practice & the GunasThe eightieth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 17:11, Swamiji discusses what is sacrifice (yagna), and Observing the teachings of the scriptures.All spiritual practices—including sacrifice (yajna), charity, food, speech, and behavior—are influenced by the gunas: • Sattwa: Harmony, clarity, and spiritual illumination. • Rajas: Desire-driven, restless, ostentatious activity. • Tamas: Ignorant...2025-05-2330 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 79–How Externals Affect Us InternallyThe seventy-ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 17:05, Swamiji discusses externals in religion, and how they can affect us, and the food, sacrifice, tapasya and almsgiving liked by people of different gunasSpiritual ContextEverything in creation is vibration—including matter—so external environments and objects influence our inner state.Even seemingly minor aspects (e.g...2025-05-2022 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 78–The Triple Gate of HellThe seventy-eighth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:20, Swamiji discusses the three qualities which cast us down: Kama, Krodha, and Lobha: Lust (intense desire in general), anger, and greed. He also talks of using the scriptures as guides for our upliftment. He then begins the 17th chapter, The Division of Threefold Faith. Main Theme: A c...2025-05-1925 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 77–Qualities of EvilThe seventy-seventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:18, Swamiji discusses the qualities of an evil mind, and the need to separate ourselves from such people. He also shares the story of Yogananda's saintly devotee, Luther Mckinnie.Theme: The nature and progression of demonic traits (asuric qualities) in human beings, as described in Chapter 16 of the...2025-05-1923 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 76–Traits of the Demonic MindThe seventy-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:12, Swamiji discusses the negative qualities such as greed, violence, vanity, desires, which lead to delusion.Topic: A detailed examination of the psychological and behavioral traits of the demonic (asuric) individual, contrasted with divine qualities. Key Points:Obsessed with gain and...2025-05-1921 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 75–Qualities of Demonic MenThe seventy-fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:07, Swamiji discusses what devas and asuras are, and what demonic men and women are like. Swami Nirmalananda dives deep into the Gita’s sobering portrait of the asuric (demonic) nature—not as fantasy, but as a real psychological and spiritual condition that can overtake any person who turns...2025-05-1930 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 74–Virtues Needed for YogisThe seventy-forth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:01, Swamiji discusses characteristics for capability of yoga, and how virya (vigor) is necessary for the aspiring yogi, and the negative qualities a yogi avoids.Swami Nirmalananda continues the 16th chapter of the Gita, which details the stark contrast between divine (daivic) and demonic (asuric) qualities. In this...2025-05-1021 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 73–Create a Destiny of EnlightenmentThe seventy-third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:01, Swamiji discusses qualities for the successful yogi, personal sacrifice, and Swadhyaya as introspection. Swami Nirmalananda continues exploring the qualities listed in the Gita as necessary for creating one’s destiny of enlightenment. These divine traits are not abstract ideals—they are the tools and disciplines of the succ...2025-05-1021 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 72–The Divine & The DemonicThe seventy-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:01, Swamiji defines Krishna's ideas on Divine and Demonic, and learning to discern between the helpful and harmful. He also shares a story of a devotee of Anandamayi Ma who met the Franciscan saint, Padre Pio. Swami Nirmalananda opens a powerful new chapter in the Gita that outlines the...2025-05-1023 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 71–God's Power in UsThe seventy-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.This rich and personal talk by Swami Nirmalananda Giri, titled “God’s Power in Us”, based on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 12, beginning with verse 11, explores the layered path of spiritual practice laid out by Krishna—ranging from acting with devotion, to surrendering the fruits of action, to relying on divine power itself. He clarifies what is meant by “God’s power in u...2025-05-0721 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 69–Become Self-IlluminedThe sixty-ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 15:06, Swami Nirmalananda reflects on the profound teaching that the liberated soul becomes swayam prakasha—self-illumined—requiring no external source of light or truth. He emphasizes the transformation of consciousness through sadhana (spiritual practice), the journey to the supreme abode (param dhama), and the subtle mystery of the Atman’s departure from the body...2025-05-0724 minLight of the Spirit PodcastLearn In-Depth Spirituality – May 2025 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this May 2025 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sa...2025-05-041h 19Light of the Spirit PodcastLearn Spiritual Realities – April 2025 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this April 2025 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sa...2025-04-061h 09
Gita TalksGita Talk 60–Knowledge of the Supreme SelfThe sixtieth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk Swamiji continues exploring Chapter 13, "The Yoga of the Distinction Between the Field and the Knower of the Field." The focus is on understanding the Supreme Self—both intellectually and experientially—as the core of existence, distinct from the external world and inner fluctuations. Krishna outlines the qualities and practices needed to perceive this reality, emphasizing that...2025-03-0524 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 59–More Qualities for MokshaThe fifty-ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 13:08, Swamiji discusses more from a list of qualities Krishna says are essential for the yogi to attain liberation (moksha).In this talk, Swami Nirmalananda Giri explores the essential qualities Krishna outlines in the Bhagavad Gita for achieving moksha (spiritual liberation). These qualities are not mere suggestions but...2025-03-0526 minLight of the Spirit PodcastGrow Your Spiritual Knowledge – March 2025 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this March 2025 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a...2025-03-021h 11
Gita TalksGita Talk 58–Qualities for MokshaThe fifty-eighth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.He discusses the qualities Krishna describes as essential for a person seeking moksha (liberation) in the chapter titled "The Yoga of the Distinction Between the Field and the Knower of the Field." The focus is on distinguishing the true self from the false ego and cultivating characteristics like humility, consistency, and self-control. The talk emphasizes that desire for...2025-02-2521 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 57–The Field and Its KnowerThe fifty-seventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 13:01, Swamiji discusses Purusha and Prakriti, the Knower of the Field and the Field, of Sankhya philosophy. He tells what the Purusha is and Prakriti, both cosmic and immanent (the body as the field.)Here is a summary of the talk "The Field and Its Knower."2025-02-2226 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 56– Qualities of DevotionThe fifty-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:19, Swamiji discusses seeing the world with equal vision, the qualities of devotion, contentment and silence.Here is a summary of the talk "Qualities of Devotion."Equanimity of the Yogi: The talk discusses verses from Chapter 12 of the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing that a worthy...2025-02-2229 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 55–Essential Spiritual QualitiesThe fifty-fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:15, Swamiji discusses a list of spiritual qualities needed by the aspiring yogi, such as objectivity, freedom from anxiety, being balanced in mind and many others. He also talks about God being both Male and Female, and beyond both.Summary of "Essential Spiritual Qualities" by Swami Nirmalananda Giri:2025-02-2223 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 54–How to Be Dear to GodThe fifty-fourth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:14, Swamiji discusses not being agitated by the world, and not agitating the world. He also suggests we should analyze our spiritual surrounding and determine if they help or hinder us.Here's a summary of the talk by Swami Nirmalananda Giri on "How to be Dear to God.”2025-02-0721 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 53–God's Power Within UsThe fifty-third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:11, Swamiji discusses the hierarchy of spiritual attitudes: action (karma), knowledge, meditation, and renuciation. He talks about manifesting God's power within us, and the positive attitudes we should cultivate.Here's a summary of the talk by Swami Nirmalananda Giri on "God's Power Within Us."...2025-02-0700 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 52–The Yoga of DevotionThe fifty-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:01, Swamiji discusses devotion, as taught by Krishna, whether it is better to approach God as the Unmanifest or as Personal (Saguna). He also discusses the use of the mantra Soham.Introduction to Devotion: The talk begins with an introduction to the 12th chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, focusing...2025-02-0700 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 51–God as the Source of AllThe fifty-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 10:01, Swamiji discusses what it means to be "beloved of God," who were the saptarishis and the manus, and a humorous story of St. Teresa of Avila, among other topics.God's Nature: God is described not as a person with human-like emotions or ego but as a supreme being...2025-02-0733 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 50–Relating to GodThe fiftieth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 9:29, Swamiji discusses forming a personal relationship with God, the benefits of being a devotee, the ever-present reality of God, among other topics.Here is a summary of the talk "Relating to God" by Swami Nirmalananda Giri:God's Impartiality: Krishna states that he is...2025-02-0726 minLight of the Spirit PodcastLearn Effective Spirituality – February 2025 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this February 2025 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sa...2025-02-021h 14
Gita TalksGita Talk 49–Ways of WorshippingThe forty-ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 9:14, Swamiji discusses what Krishna says is his relationship to the world, what happens if one attains the world of Indra (the king of the devas), those who worship God, and those who worship God with a mistaken approach, among other topics.Here is a summary of the...2025-01-2819 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 48–Steadfast DevotionThe forty-eighth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 9:14, Swamiji discusses how we abide in our divine nature, how half-hearted observance of dharma effects us, and Swami Vivekananda's experience that changed his spiritual outlook.Here's a summary of Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk titled "Steadfast Devotion."Nature of True Devotees: Great souls live...2025-01-2821 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 47–Dwelling in GodThe forty-seventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 9:06, Swamiji discusses the Hindu concept of ages (kalpas), what is prakriti, and how both deluded souls and great souls respond to God.Here's a summary of the talk "Dwelling in God" by Swami Nirmalananda Giri.Divine Dwelling: Just as winds move in space...2025-01-2832 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 46–Royal Science & Royal Secrethe forty-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 9:01, Swamiji discusses what is real faith, and what is disbelief, as well as what will happen to those with no faith. He also talks about the "secret" of the Gita. Here is a summary of Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "Royal Science and Royal Secret." 2025-01-2729 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 45–Brahma's Day and NightThe forty-fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 8:16, Swamiji discusses Brahma's Day and Night (the Yugas), who Brahma is, freedom from rebirth for those who attain God, and sadhana as the means of purification to attain that Unity.Here's a summary of Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "Brahma's Day and Night."...2025-01-2331 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 44–Going Beyond RebirthThe forty-fourth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 8:11, Swamiji discusses possible danger with yoga, the wider meaning of Brahmacharya, yoga discipline, and the need to think of God constantly for the yogi, as well as the sorrows of the world.Here's a summary of Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "Going Beyond Rebirth."2025-01-2321 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 43–Arjuna's Cosmic QuestionsThe forty-third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 8:00, Swamiji discusses the many questions Arjuna asks Krishna at the beginning of this chapter. Krishna talks of how a person's thoughts at the time of death determine the next birth, and the predominant thoughts throughout a person's life determine the thoughts which will arise at the time of death. He also discussed...2025-01-2327 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 42–God Beyond ManifestationThe forty-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 7:24, Swamiji discusses God in manifestation, veiled by Maya and also beyond manifestation. He also shares stories of Anandamayi Ma.Here is the summary of the main points from the talk, “God Beyond Manifestation.”God Beyond Manifestation: God is described as unmanifest, yet people often...2025-01-2325 minLight of the Spirit PodcastGrow Spiritually – October 2024 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this January 2025 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sa...2025-01-121h 02
Gita TalksGita Talk 41–Seeking Refuge in GodThe forty-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 7:19, Swamiji discusses the types of people who seek God, and the subject of seeking refuge in God. He shares a story of Lahiri Mahasaya, and a saying of Yogananda.Here is a summary of the talk "Seeking Refuge in God."Wisdom and Refuge...2025-01-0420 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 40–Four Types Who Seek GodThe fortieth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 7:16, Swamiji discusses the four kinds of people seek God: the distressed, seekers for knowledge, seekers of wealth, and the wise. What are the characteristics of each type, and which is the best?Here is a summary of the talk on "Four Types Who Seek God."2025-01-0319 min
Gita TalksGita Talk 39–Tapasya: Spiritual PracticeThe thirty-ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 7:09, Swamiji discusses the subject of tapasya (effective spiritual practice). He share more the various similes about God Krishna talks of, such as Intelligence and Strength. He briefly touches on the gunas, and what Krishna says about evil-doers.Divinity in Practice: Tapasya (spiritual practice) is not just an action...2025-01-0129 minGita TalksGita Talk 38–Spiritual CosmologyThe thirty-eighth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 7:04, Swamiji discusses the cosmology, both cosmic and personal, taught in the Gita. He share the various similes about God Krishna talks of.Here is a summary of the talk "Spiritual Cosmology."Cosmic Composition: Krishna describes the universe as composed of eight divisions of...2024-12-1621 minGita TalksGita Talk 37–Knowledge and RealizationThe thirty-seventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 7:01, Swamiji shares Krishna's teachings on how to know Him. He discusses the rarity of those who seek and find God. He also shares a story of a meeting with Swami Kriyananda, Yogananda's monastic disciple.Here is a summary of the talk "Knowledge and Realization."2024-12-1622 minGita TalksGita Talk 36–Going Beyond the VedasThe thirty-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:44, Swamiji discusses what the Vedas are, and how the yogi goes beyond the vedas. He talks about yoga as superior to asceticism, and the necessity for perseverance and mastery. He also shares a story about Anandamayi Ma.Here is a summary of the talk "Going Beyond the...2024-12-1622 minLight of the Spirit PodcastLearn Effective Spirituality – December 2024 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this December 2024 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://gitatalks.ocoy.org
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sannyas by the Shankaracharya of Puri, Jagadguru Bharat Krishna Ti...2024-12-081h 09Gita TalksGita Talk 35–Falling from YogaThe thirty-fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:37, Swamiji discusses those who have faith but are yet uncontrolled, and what Krishna says about those who fall from yoga. He also shares stories about Anandamayi Ma, Paramhansa Yogananda, and Yogananda's disciple Swami Kriyananda.Here's a summary of the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "...2024-11-3024 minGita TalksGita Talk 34–Seeing God EverywhereThe thirty-fourth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:30, Swamiji discusses the false secular/spiritual divide, Arjuna's question about the restlessness of the mind, and shares a story of Yogananda from someone who knew him, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita. Here's a summary of the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk o...2024-11-3022 minGita TalksGita Talk 33–Priorities in Spiritual LifeThe thirty-third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:21, Swamiji discusses priorities in spiritual life, and obstacles to those priorities. He shares a story about Lahiri Mahasaya, how to develop will-power, and clarifies the true meaning of "sin."Here's a summary of the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "Priorities and Spiritual Life":2024-11-3023 minGita TalksGita Talk 32–The Yoga LifeThe thirty-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:16, Swamiji discusses details Krishna mentions about spiritual life, including eating, sleeping, and moderation in all things. He shares a story of Sister Durga, Paramhansa Yogananda's advanced disciple, and controlling the mind, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here's a summary of the main points...2024-11-3024 minGita TalksGita Talk 31–A Yogi's Place of MeditationThe thirty-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:11, Swamiji discusses different aspects of medition, including posture, practice, and a yogi's seat, as well as the contested meaning of "nasikagram," focusing on the root of the nose, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here's a summary of the main points from Swami Nirmalananda...2024-11-3018 minGita TalksGita Talk 30–Knowledge and DiscriminationThe thirtieth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:01, Swamiji discusses a wide range of topics, including spiritual knowledge (jnana) and discrimination (viveka), fixing the mind on the Self, and the example of Anandamayi Ma in impartiality.Here's a summary of the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "Knowledge and Discrimination" from the Bhagavad...2024-11-3020 minGita TalksGita Talk 29–The Yoga of MeditationThe twenty-ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:01, Swamiji discusses a wide range of topics, including spiritual duty, and the "Nitya Karmas–the duties of householders. He also talks about making the lower self a friend of the Higher Self. He shares a story about the slanders that were directed towards Anandamayi Ma during her life, and how she dealt wi...2024-11-2922 minGita TalksGita Talk 28–Happiness from WithinThe twenty-eighth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 5:24, Swamiji discusses the happiness and illumination produced by yoga, what Nirvana really is, eye position in meditation, and the yogi’s real Kechari Mudra, as well as other useful topicsHere's a summary of the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on "Happiness from Within."2024-11-2935 minGita TalksGita Talk 27–Using Spiritual IntelligenceThe twenty-seventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 5:20, Swamiji discusses how we should respond to both good and evil, and shares quotes and stories of Yogananda and Sri Ramakrishna. He also discusses the concepts of raga and dwesha (attraction and repulsion), factors the yogi must master in his spiritual life.Here is a summary of...2024-11-2921 minGita TalksGita Talk 26–The "Thatness" of GodThe twenty-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 5:17, Swamiji discusses why the Gita and other scriptures of India use the word "Tat," –That, for God, as well as having a universal vision: seeing God in all beings. He talks about Swami Sivananda and his poem "Only God I Saw."Here's a summary of Swamiji's talk on...2024-11-1320 minGita TalksGita Talk 25–The Nine ChakrasThe twenty-fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 5:10, Swamiji discusses the two types of "I"ness and the "nine gates" of yoga–the nine chakras of the Nath Yoga Tradition.Here's a summary of this talk on the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on the nine chakras:Introduction: The talk is part of a...2024-11-1318 minGita TalksGita Talk 24–Renunciation vs. Karma YogaThe twenty-fourth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 5:01, Swamiji discusses renunciation and karma yoga and which is better, according to Krishna, the concept of Darshanas (viewpoints in Hinduism) and our inner nature as the Eternal Witness, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here is a summary of the important points from this...2024-11-1323 minGita TalksGita Talk 23–The Sacrifice of WisdomThe twenty-third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:33, Swamiji discusses more on sacrifice (yagña, offering), the positive effect of true faith (shraddha), and the negative effect of doubt, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.A summary of this talk on The Sacrifice of WisdomSacrifice and Knowledge: T...2024-11-1227 minGita TalksGita Talk 22–What Is Pranayama?The twenty-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:29, Swamiji discusses Different forms of sacrifice (yagña, offering), what pranayama really is, and diet as a spiritual offering, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Summary of Swami Nirmalananda's Talk on Pranayama: Understanding Pranayama: Pranayama is not merely about controlling th...2024-11-0721 minGita TalksGita Talk 21–Qualities for Success in YogaThe twenty-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:22, Swamiji discusses the spiritual qualities needed for success in yoga, how to dissolve karma, the prayer used by monks before meals, the different types of offerings in spiritual life, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Summary of Swami Nirmalananda's Talk on Qualities for Success...2024-11-0623 minGita TalksGita Talk 20–Action & InactionThe twentieth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:16, Swamiji discusses the nature of action and inaction, how we can view situations in our spiritual life objectively and intelligently, and how we must restrain our thought and our lower self, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here is a summary of the talk...2024-11-0520 minGita TalksTalk 19–Traits Developed by YogaThe nineteenth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:10, Swamiji discusses how God incarnates to facilitate our enlightenment, the traits one will develop when successfully practicing yoga, the practice of Japa Yoga, and some of the ways to approach God. He also introduces the concept of caste: what it is and what it isn't, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in...2024-11-0521 minLight of the Spirit PodcastGrow Spiritualy – November 2024 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this November 2024 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://gitatalks.ocoy.org
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sannyas by the Shankaracharya of Puri, Jagadguru Bharat Krishna Ti...2024-11-031h 01Gita TalksGita Talk 18–Why Does God Incarnate?The eighteenth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:07, Swamiji discusses what Maya really is, and why God incarnates from age to age, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here are the main points from this talk on Why Does God Incarnate?:Divine Incarnation's Purpose: Krishna states he incarnates...2024-10-3120 minGita TalksGita Talk 17–What Is Eternal Yoga?The seventeeth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:01, Swamiji discusses what Krishna says is the "Eternal Yoga taught from the beginning," shares stories of Anandamayi Ma, and discusses how God incarnates, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here are the main points from this talk on What is Eternal Yoga:2024-10-3121 minGita TalksGita Talk 16–Stories of YogisThe sixteenth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:01, Swamiji discusses how we can become like Arjuna: "foe consumers." He talks about various yogis he knew, such as Swami Rama of Hardwar, Anandamayi Ma, Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh, Sri Datta Bal and others, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita. These spiritual teachings will...2024-10-3121 minGita TalksGita Talk 15–Controlling the SensesThe fifteenth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 3:37, Swamiji discusses the effects of spiritual ignorance, the need to control our senses, the different levels of the mind, and why a yogi needs a sense of humor, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita. These spiritual teachings will help with your spiritual growth and your practice of yoga and...2024-10-3025 minGita TalksGita Talk 14–The Dangers of Desire and AngerThe fourteenth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 3:36, Swamiji discusses the Hindu concept of sin (papam–wrong-doing), and the nature of desire and anger as the prime obstacles in spiritual life. He also includes a story about Paramhansa Yogananda plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here is a summary of this talk on...2024-10-2621 minGita TalksGita Talk 13–Release from the Bondage of KarmaThe thirteenth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 3:31, Swamiji discusses how to be released from the bondage of karma, the necessity for discernment in spiritual life, and how attraction and aversion are obstacles in spiritual life, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.Here is a summary of this talk on release from...2024-10-2625 minGita TalksGita Talk 12–Our Responsibility for Our ActionsThe twelfth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 3:29, Swamiji discusses how our yoga practice should be evident in our lives and be an examples to others. He talks about Krishna's words on dedicating our actions to God, and the power of our spiritual associations and the company we keep.Here are the main points on t...2024-10-2522 minGita TalksGita Talk 11–Our Lives as ExamplesThe eleventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 3:21, Swamiji discusses a wide range of topics, including different concepts of avatars, a story about Anandamayi Ma, and more about our lives as examples to others.Here's a summary from the talk "Our Lives as Examples."Krishna's Teaching to Arjuna: Krishna explains in...2024-10-2520 minGita TalksGita Talk 10–Living for Spiritual EvolutionThe tenth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 3:13, Swamiji discusses a wide range of topics, including “Eating” through the senses, how to make our lives more spiritual, and our lives as examples to others.Here are the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on living for spiritual evolution from the Bhagavad Gita:2024-10-2000 minGita TalksGita Talk 9–Knowing the Two Paths of YogaThe ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, Swamiji discusses the Yoga of Action (Karma Yoga) and the Yoga of Knowledge (Jnana Yoga), how they differ and how they are related.Here are the main points from Swami Nirmalananda's talk on the two paths of yoga from the Bhagavad Gita:Arjuna's Dilemma: Arjuna questions...2024-10-2021 minGita TalksGita Talk 8–The Path of Spiritual DownfallThe eighth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, beginning with Chapter 2:63, Swamiji continues to discuss the sequence of obstacles which leads to a spiritual downfall as outlined by Krishna in the Gita.Here are the main points from Swami Nirmalananda Giri's talk on the Bhagavad Gita on the path of downfall:Loss of Discrimination...2024-10-2027 minGita TalksGita Talk 7–Live in the Calm of Self-SurrenderThe seventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, beginning on Chapter 2:49 Swamiji discusses Self-surrender, and the tangles of the mind preventing this. He also talks about the sequence of obstacles which leads to a spiritual downfall.For those wishing to make a deeper study of the Gita, Swamiji's commentary on the Gita, "The Bhagavad Gita for Awakening: A...2024-10-2020 minGita TalksGita Talk 6–How to Fix Your Mind on GodThe sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, Swamiji discusses how to fix our minds on God, and the specific methodology to do so. He talks about Soham Yoga and why it is relevant to the teachings in the Gita. Here is a summary of this talk on the Gita:Spiritual Guidance: Swami Nirmalananda...2024-10-2018 minGita TalksGita Talk 5–The Tranquility of YogaThe fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, Swamiji discusses Krishna's teachings on the tranquility aimed for in yoga practice and meditation, and how to attain it. The commentary begins with Gita chapter 2, verse 45. These spiritual teachings will affect your spiritual growth and your practice of yoga and meditation.Here is a summary of the key points from...2024-10-2020 minGita TalksGita Talk 4–Karma Yoga, The Yoga of ActionThe fourth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India’s most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, beginning with chapter 2:39, Swamiji discusses Krishna’s statements about who we are and aren’t, and then begins the subject of Karma Yoga, the Yoga of Action. He also discusses how our spiritual efforts gather interest.Summary of Gita Talk 4Here is a summary of the...2024-10-1720 minGita TalksGita Talk 3–Unity With GodThe third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India’s most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, Swamiji discusses Krishna’s declaration of His and our immortality. The commentary begins with Gita chapter 2, verse 30.Summary of the Third Gita Talk:Divine Oneness: In these verses, Krishna emphasizes that we are inherently one with God, inseparable and forever indestructible. This unity means that even figures like...2024-10-1717 minGita TalksGita Talk 2–What Is the Self?The second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India’s most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, Swamiji discusses Krishna’s description of the Self, the Atman, the real inner Self of our self, and how that knowledge will determine how we act and react in all situations of our lives.These spiritual teachings will affect your spiritual growth and your practice of yoga and meditation.2024-10-1719 minGita TalksGita Talk 1: Introduction–What Is the Gita?The first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India’s most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, Swamiji gives the background of the Gita: what it is, why it is important, and how the Gita came about. He then discusses the beginning of the discourse–Arjuna’s dilemma at the beginning of the historic battle at Kurukshetra at the beginning of the Mahabharata war.Swamiji discusses how Kr...2024-10-1628 minGita TalksIntroduction to the Gita Talks PodcastVideo Talks about the Bhagavad Gita by Swami Nirmalananda GiriAbout the GitaThe Bhagavad Gita is the most popular of the scriptures of Hinduism. In this series of talks on India’s spiritual classic, Swami Nirmalananda illumines its importance for all spiritual seekers, and for yogis in particular.The Bhagavad gita is the immortal dialog between Sri Krishna and the yogi-warrior Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra on the eve of the Mahabharata war.In 700 verses, the sage Vy...2024-10-1602 minLight of the Spirit PodcastLearn Real Spirituality – October 2024 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this October 2024 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sa...2024-10-081h 32Light of the Spirit PodcastGrow Spiritually – September 2024 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this September 2024 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sa...2024-09-0958 minLight of the Spirit PodcastGrow Your Spiritual Life – August 2024 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this uplifting August 2024 Satsang. Elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening.
Also, watch his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sa...2024-08-061h 13Light of the Spirit PodcastGrow Your Spiritual Knowledge –July 2024 Satsang with Swami Nirmalananda GiriJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this uplifting July 2024 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening. Listen to his new Talks on the Bhagavad Gita here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzUa3GQViSbVFbfQW_yugfTi5u9x8W7bb
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been gi...2024-07-071h 08
Light of the Spirit PodcastPodcast: Living and Dying as a Yogi
July’s online satsang with Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) will be held on Saturday, July 6th, at 12 noon, EST. You can go to the registration page and sign up using this link, or use the signup button below. When registering, you can submit any questions which you would like Swamiji to answer during the satsang.
Podcast and Video: Living (and Dying) as a Yogi
In a podcast interview with our friend Jonathan Mahoney, Swami Nirmalananda discusses the kind of life we need to live in order to die as yog...2024-06-2652 minLight of the Spirit PodcastJune 2024Satsang with Swami Nirmalananda Giri – Elevate Your SpiritJoin Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) in this uplifting June 2024 Satsang to elevate your spirit by growing your knowledge of meditation, yoga, and spiritual awakening.
In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. During his first trip to India he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sannyas by the Shankaracharya of Puri, Jagadguru Bharat Krishna Tirtha.
In the United States he also encountered various Christian saints, including Saint Jo...2024-06-141h 11Light of the Spirit PodcastMay 2024 Satsang with Swami Nirmalananda – Grow Your Spiritual KnowledgeIn this recording of the May 2024 online satsang with Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke), Swamiji answers questions submitted by the attendees (see the timestamps below for the topics discussed).
To get word of future online satsangs and get a FREE Meditation Guide and weekly blog updates, podcasts and more, sign up at: https://ocoy.org/signup
00:00 Introduction
00:20 About Orthodox Pascha (Easter)
04:15 Soham Meditation and the breath
07:33 The Origins of the Hebrews from India
12:47 About Brahmacharya
13:35 Meditating on Divine Forms
15:15 Dealing with pain due to emotional trauma
18:28 Forgiving one’s self
18:56 How do I practice the yoga of Jesus Christ?
19:17 Ho...2024-05-081h 20Light of the Spirit PodcastGrow Your Spiritual Knowledge–April 2024 Satsang with Swami NirmalanandaEvery month we have an online satsang with Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) where he answers question submitted when people register. This months topics are listed in the timestamps below:
00:00 Introduction
00:46 Rogue Creators; Lucifer
08: 45 Interpreting Scriptures
16:00 Loosing salvation?
18:33 Avoiding spiritual egotism
20:15 Spiritual dryness during meditation
20:30 Healthwork: payment or not?
31:35 What is Transmigration?
33:56 What is it that awakens to enlightenment?
38:57 What is Consciousness?
43:45 The value of spiritual imagery for the yogi
#satsang #spiritualawakening #spiritualrealization
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Listen to Podcast on practical spiritual topics: https://ocoy.org...2024-04-131h 06Light of the Spirit PodcastGrow Your Spiritual Life: March 2024 Online SatsangSwami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) answers questions on practical spirituality submitted in the March monthly online satsang. See the timestamps below for the topics of the questions.
#satsang #spiritualawakening #spiritualgrowth
00:00 Introduction
01:40 The effect of weather on meditation
02:39 A Yogi can affect his atmosphere
10:04 What is good for purification of the mind?
13:09 The Vijnana Vedanta of Sri Ramakrishna
15:14 Two different ideas of "I"
23:28 Differentiating between impulses of the higher and lower selves
27:58 Recommended practices beside Soham sadhana
29:11 Best time of day for meditation
33:50 Shaktipat, right and wrong
3925 The value of sacred imagery
44:13 Anandamayi Ma, what yogis said about her
54:26 How...2024-03-031h 13Light of the Spirit PodcastDeepen Your Spiritual Journey: February 2024 Satsang with Swami Nirmalananda GiriIn this online satsang from November Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) answers questions submitted by the online webinar attendees. The questions are shown below with timestamp links to where they occur in the satsang.
00:00 Introduction
00:35 Is the astral world heaven?
02:07 Is Sri Ma Sarada Devi an avatar?
05:05 Is it possible, having lost something, to move on in life without attachment?
06:24 Do you ever fear for the future?
11:52 If one has a non-dual perspective, how should one view worship?
14:27 The Pranapratishta of Ramlal in Ayodhya
18:00 Jesus and India: did he also learn from the Essenes?
20:12 Can intermittent fasting help meditation?
23:14...2024-02-071h 09Light of the Spirit PodcastThe "Mind" of Anandamayi Ma - Satsang With Swami Nirmalananda GiriSwami Nirmalananda was under Anandamayi Ma’s guidance from 1963 until her leaving this world in 1982. He made many trips to India during this time and knew many of the people in her orbit. In this video and podcast he shares some stories about her unique nature.
Watch the podcast here:
Or listen to the podcast here: The “Mind” of Anandamayi Ma – Satsang With Swami Nirmalananda Giri
If you do not see the player above, click here to listen to The “Mind” of Anandamayi Ma – Satsang With Swami Nirmalananda Giri.
The podcast is 6:30 minutes long.
T...2023-08-2406 minLight of the Spirit PodcastThe "Mind" of Anandamayi Ma - Satsang With Swami Nirmalananda GiriSwami Nirmalananda was under Anandamayi Ma’s guidance from 1963 until her leaving this world in 1982. He made many trips to India during this time and knew many of the people in her orbit. In this video and podcast he shares some stories about her unique nature.
Watch the podcast here:
Or listen to the podcast here: The “Mind” of Anandamayi Ma – Satsang With Swami Nirmalananda Giri
If you do not see the player above, click here to listen to The “Mind” of Anandamayi Ma – Satsang With Swami Nirmalananda Giri.
The podcast is...2023-08-2406 minLight of the Spirit PodcastRemembering Sivananda, Podcast Part 2During his first trip to India in 1962 Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) was blessed to spend time with the great Swami Sivananda at his ashram in Rishikesh. In this three-part podcast Abbot George shares his memories of this saint with visitors to our ... Continue reading
The post Remembering Sivananda, Podcast Part 2 appeared first on Original Christianity and Original Yoga.2015-02-2510 min