KEY CODES FOR RE-PROGRAMMING OUR MIND

The issue with human being is that most of his mental programming is rarely reinforced by the outer world. As a result, the limbic system is constantly producing stress reactions in the mind and emotions. We still can't unwind. Tension becomes into a commonplace aspect of existence. The limited capabilities of the mental software we have programmed into our brains are the root of the issue, not the brain itself. 

Our mental state determines how we approach life; an inappropriate, limited, unrealistic, or incompatible mental state causes constant confrontation with our environment, which in turn causes stress and dissatisfaction. 

Happiness and relaxation must follow from harmonic contact and positive interactions with others and the environment, which are the results of an expansive and realistic mental agenda. Depending on the state of our minds, our lives can either be an expression of happiness or dissatisfaction. 

Do we, therefore, have to rely entirely on our thoughts?

Yes, we are, but we also have the power to expunge the thoughts that negatively impact our lives. By eliminating all the undesirable or trash, we can alter or at least change our mental program. All we need is the will to turn our lives around and follow new paths, and the will to put that will into action.

The ultimate approach is to examine the mind, confront its contents, and purge the trash. However, before we can accomplish this successfully, we must first introduce a certain amount of relaxation into our life so that we can first relax enough to focus our attention inside. Making a conscious effort to modify our current program is one way to induce a certain amount of relaxation.

Re-programming the Mind:

To some extent, this is undoubtedly feasible. Since birth, our encounters with our surroundings have shaped the content of our minds. The events we have encountered in life have shaped the programming in our minds. It is always being updated and changed considering fresh insights. By deliberately cultivating attitudes like the ones mentioned at the conclusion of this topic, we can thereby affect the direction in which our minds are being programmed.

We can never get rid of ingrained mental perceptions, of course. These can only be eliminated, or at least minimized, by using meditation techniques to go deeper into our minds. However, the practice of intentionally cultivating life attitudes is a good first step toward clearing the mind, becoming relaxed, and beginning to enjoy life.

We have a choice: either we take action to transform this world into a true paradise or we stay the same.

Mental re-programming codes:

The following mentioned codes are not meant to be moralistic. A means to an end is what they are. To restate, these are recommendations that will help us begin to intentionally change the way you view the circumstances in our life. They are meant to help us unwind enough that we can eventually use meditation techniques to explore our mind and eliminate the more profoundly harmful parts of our mental makeup.

We do not recommend that we always enforce these codes on ourselves, nor are they intended to alter our way of life. Just keep them in mind as we go about our everyday activities, and their presence will benefit us internally, from our subconscious "attitude centers."

• First Code: Try to start accepting other people completely. Try not to view them as nothing more than things to be used for your personal pleasure. Accept that other people are also behaving in a way that is consistent with their mental programming. Their mental program is merely manifested externally as what you perceive in them. They are exactly the same as you in this regard, however their program might differ slightly. People will begin to accept you if you can accept them more. Laugh at your antics, your behaviour, and yourself.

• Second Code: Embrace who we are. Recognize that our mental state determines our behaviour. Do not worry about our shortcomings and issues because of this. Recognize our limitations. However, we also feel the desire to rid our mind of its problems. The source of so much suffering in life is our incapacity to accept who we are.

• Third Code: Keep an eye on our automatic responses to the people and things around us. Observe how our attachment to the outside world can lead to a great deal of dissatisfaction. Try to lessen our reliance on external sources of happiness. It implies that we should continue living our life as it is, but if we do not obtain what we want, we should accept it with a detached shrug of the shoulders.

• Forth Code: Discover our deepest aspirations, attachments, and requirements. Try to be as critical as possible. Tracing the origin of our current anger or dissatisfaction will reveal the emotional and mental attitude that triggered the disruption, which is a useful technique for identifying your attachments. Take note of how we respond to folks we do not get along with or who we clearly detest. These people will assist us in identifying and ultimately removing our emotional baggage. Consider everyone and everything in the world to be our great teacher.

• Fifth Code: Try to be in present. Reliving enjoyable former events or fretting about what has already happened are two ways to live in the past. Don't try to predict the future. The future will always be realized as present moment only. Remember past has gone and future is imagination. We can imagine a future based on our past only. Mind wandering always in past and future, in fact, mind exist in these two. If we live in this very moment, the mind is ceased to exist. Try not to think about when you will finish anything, whether it's eating, taking a bath, sweeping the floor, or making a living. Every action you take should be enjoyed at the moment it is performed. Try to appreciate that you are here and that everything you do is a manifestation of who you are.

• A Complimentary Code: Keep in mind that everyone can become more conscious of themselves. Mental programming is the reason behind a man's current attitude toward you or his surroundings. His current way of existence is only transitory; if and when he begins to comprehend himself and his thinking, it will alter and become more harmonic. Every one of us has untapped potential that is just waiting to be discovered. No matter how challenging it may be, make an effort to perceive this possibility in everyone.

ANCIENT INDIAN ALCHEMY: THE MYSTICAL SCIENCE OF TRANSFORMATION

Alchemy, the ancient pursuit of transforming base metals into gold and attaining the elixir of immortality, has intrigued civilizations for centuries. While the Western world is familiar with alchemists such as Hermes Trismegistus and Paracelsus, India has its own rich and mystical tradition of alchemy, known as Rasasastra. Rooted in Ayurveda, Tantra, and Hindu philosophy, Indian alchemy was not just about material transformation but also spiritual enlightenment. It was a holistic discipline that encompassed medicine, metallurgy, yoga, and esoteric wisdom, aiming to elevate both the physical body and the soul.

Unlike Western alchemy, which primarily sought the Philosopher’s Stone to transmute metals into gold, Indian alchemy focused on Rasayana, the science of rejuvenation and immortality. The sages (rishis) and alchemists (rasa siddhas) believed that through the purification of mercury (rasa) and the precise combination of herbs, metals, and minerals, one could attain both spiritual and physical longevity.

Nagarjuna

Indian alchemical traditions also interwove with religious and philosophical doctrines. Many texts, including the Vedas, Tantras, and Ayurvedic scriptures, discuss alchemical practices in the context of attaining higher consciousness. Some alchemists were ascetics who viewed the refinement of metals as a metaphor for self-purification and enlightenment, aligning their pursuits with yogic and meditative disciplines.

Several prominent figures contributed to the development of Rasasastra. Some of the most well-known alchemists include:

• Nagarjuna – Often regarded as the father of Indian alchemy, he authored Rasaratnakara and made significant contributions to the processing of mercury and other minerals.
• Govinda Bhagavatpada – A revered sage and alchemist, he is believed to have practiced advanced alchemical techniques for spiritual and medicinal purposes.
• Gorakhnath – The founder of the Nath tradition, he explored alchemical methods in connection with yoga and meditation, as documented in Siddha Siddhanta Paddhati.
• Vagbhata – An Ayurvedic scholar who integrated alchemical principles into traditional medicine.
• Bharadvaja – An ancient sage credited with alchemical knowledge in metallurgical applications, as referenced in the Bharadvaja Samhita.

The Origins and Evolution of Rasasastra: Indian alchemy, or Rasasastra (the science of mercury), dates back to the early centuries of the Common Era, flourishing during the Gupta and post-Gupta periods. The primary texts on Rasasastra, such as Rasaratnakara, Rasarnava, Rasendra Chudamani, and Rasa Hridaya Tantra, describe intricate processes of purification, transmutation, and rejuvenation.

The Rasaratnakara of Nagarjuna, one of the most influential texts, details methods for processing mercury and other minerals for medicinal use. The Rasarnava, a significant Tantric text, emphasizes the spiritual aspects of alchemy, including the preparation of divine elixirs. Rasendra Chudamani provides step-by-step techniques for metal transmutation, while Rasa Hridaya Tantra explores the metaphysical and mystical dimensions of alchemy.

Additional scriptures like Dhatukalpa and Rasaprakasha Sudhakar discuss the role of various minerals, alchemical practices, and the quest for immortality. The Siddha Siddhanta Paddhati, attributed to Gorakhnath, mentions the spiritual aspects of alchemy in connection with yoga and meditation.

While Western alchemy sought the Philosopher’s Stone, Indian alchemy focused on Rasayana—the science of rejuvenation and immortality. The sages (rishis) and alchemists (rasa siddhas) believed that by purifying mercury (rasa) and combining it with other minerals, one could attain spiritual and physical longevity.

The Role of Mercury and Other Elements

Mercury, considered the king of alchemical substances, held a divine status in Rasasastra. It was believed to embody both Shiva (pure consciousness) and Shakti (dynamic energy). Alchemists devised elaborate purification processes (samskaras) to rid mercury of its toxic properties, making it fit for medicinal and spiritual use.

Other crucial elements in Indian alchemy included:

• Sulfur (Gandhaka) – Representing transformation and purification.
• Gold (Swarna) – Believed to bestow health and immortality.
• Mica (Abhraka) – Used in elixirs for strength and longevity.
• Iron (Lohatattva) – Considered essential in strengthening the body and prolonging life.
• Various Herbs – Combined with minerals to create potent elixirs.

Techniques of Transformation

Indian alchemists mastered complex metallurgical techniques, many of which predated similar advancements in Europe. Some notable methods included:

1. Sublimation and Distillation – Used to extract pure substances from raw materials.
2. Calcination (Bhasmikarana) – The process of reducing metals and minerals to ashes (bhasma), believed to enhance their medicinal properties. The Rasendra Mangala describes multiple processes for preparing metallic bhasma for therapeutic uses.
3. Alchemy of the Body (Dehavadha) – Transforming the human body into an immortal state through Rasayana therapy. The Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita discuss various Rasayana treatments aimed at longevity and health.
4. Transmutation (Loha-Vada) – The process of converting base metals into gold using secret alchemical formulas. The Bharadvaja Samhita is known to discuss metallurgical applications in ancient India.
5. Puta Method – A slow heating process used for preparing medicines and metallic compounds.
6. Marana Process – A technique for converting metals into digestible and therapeutic forms for human consumption.

Water as Alchemy: Water, one of the five great elements (Pancha Mahabhuta), played a crucial role in ancient Indian alchemy. It was not only considered the universal solvent (Mahabhutadravya) but also a sacred medium for purification and transformation. Alchemists used water in various processes, including the dissolution of metals, extraction of medicinal compounds, and the preparation of elixirs (Rasayana). The concept of Amrita (nectar of immortality) in Hindu scriptures symbolized the divine alchemical nature of water, representing spiritual enlightenment and physical rejuvenation. Texts such as the Rasarnava mention the role of specially treated water (Jalavidhi) in enhancing the potency of alchemical formulations. Sacred rivers like the Ganges were believed to possess inherent alchemical properties, purifying the body and soul, much like the transmutative processes of Rasasastra.

Spiritual and Medicinal Aspects of Indian Alchemy: Unlike its Western counterpart, Indian alchemy was deeply intertwined with spiritual philosophy. Many alchemists were ascetics or Tantric practitioners who believed in using alchemical substances to enhance meditation and longevity. The ultimate goal was not merely material wealth but the achievement of moksha (liberation).

The medicinal applications of Rasasastra laid the foundation for modern Ayurvedic pharmacology. Preparations like Swarna Bhasma (gold ash), Rajata Bhasma (silver ash), and Makardhwaj (a mercury-based tonic) are still used in Ayurveda today for their purported rejuvenating properties. The Rasatarangini provides detailed formulations of such medicines, emphasizing their holistic benefits.

Daily importance and Beyond: Alchemy in ancient India was not limited to medicine and spirituality; it also had practical applications in jewellery and daily life. Alchemists developed techniques to refine and enhance metals like gold, silver, and copper, making them more durable and aesthetically appealing. The process of Bhasmikarana (calcination) was used to create fine metal powders that were believed to have protective and healing properties when embedded in jewellery.

Gold and silver, often subjected to alchemical purification, were worn as ornaments not just for their beauty but for their supposed energetic benefits. Ayurvedic texts mention that wearing gold jewellery could enhance vitality, while silver had cooling properties. Copper, another commonly used metal, was believed to balance the body's energies, and even today, copper utensils and bracelets are used for their purported health benefits.

Additionally, alchemical formulations were used in dyes, cosmetics, and even glass-making. The knowledge of metal alloys contributed to the development of high-quality weapons, temple idols, and sacred yantras (mystical diagrams). Alchemical expertise in metallurgy allowed artisans to create rust-resistant iron pillars, such as the famous Iron Pillar of Delhi, showcasing advanced metallurgical understanding long before modern chemistry.

Tibetan Disciple of Nagarjuna 

Decline and Legacy: With the advent of modern chemistry and colonial influences, the practice of Rasasastra declined. However, its impact remains in Ayurveda, metallurgy, and spiritual traditions. Today, researchers are exploring ancient alchemical texts to rediscover lost metallurgical and medicinal techniques.

Modern studies on nanoparticles in Ayurvedic Bhasmas have revealed their unique bioavailability, aligning with ancient claims of their effectiveness. Scientific investigations into metallic-based Ayurveda formulations suggest potential advancements in medicine, linking the past with the future.

Conclusion: Ancient Indian alchemy was a profound blend of science, spirituality, and medicine. Unlike the Western quest for material wealth, Rasasastra aimed at inner transformation and longevity. Its legacy continues to influence Ayurveda and holistic healing, offering a glimpse into the mystical science of the past. As modern science revisits ancient knowledge, the secrets of Indian alchemy may yet reveal new wonders for the future.

By integrating the spiritual, medicinal, and metallurgical aspects of Rasasastra, modern researchers and practitioners can unearth valuable insights into longevity, health, and the transformation of both matter and consciousness.

YouTube Video: Ancient Indian Science & Technology

A Revolutionary's Spiritual Odyssey

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose is a name that evokes patriotism, resilience, and unmatched determination in the face of adversity. Known primarily for his revolutionary role in India’s freedom struggle, Bose’s life also encompassed a profound spiritual journey that shaped his worldview and leadership. While his political ideologies and military strategies have been studied extensively, his spiritual beliefs and practices often remain overshadowed.

For Bose, spirituality was not an abstract pursuit but a guiding force that fueled his unwavering commitment to India’s liberation. Rooted in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and the philosophies of Swami Vivekananda, his spiritual ethos reflected a unique blend of action, introspection, and selfless service. It was this spiritual foundation that enabled him to balance the tremendous pressures of leadership with inner strength and clarity of purpose.

This spiritual dimension of Bose’s life is as inspiring as his revolutionary persona. From his early influences within a traditional Bengali household to his encounters with sages and thinkers like Sri Aurobindo and the teachings of luminaries such as Goutam Buddha, Sant Kabir, and Guru Nanak, his journey was one of constant evolution. By integrating spirituality with nationalism, he demonstrated how inner conviction, and moral courage could translate into transformative action for the greater good.

Bose’s spiritual journey offers timeless lessons on balancing material pursuits with higher ideals, making him not only a hero of India’s independence but also a seeker of universal truth. Exploring this lesser-known side of Netaji reveals the depth of his character and the profound impact of spirituality on his life’s mission.

Early Influences: Seeds of Spirituality

Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, Subhash Chandra Bose was brought up in a traditional Bengali household with strong spiritual underpinnings. His mother, Prabhavati Devi, was a devout woman whose religious practices left an indelible impression on young Subhash. Early exposure to scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and the teachings of Swami Vivekananda ignited his spiritual quest. Swami Vivekananda's philosophy of combining spiritual enlightenment with practical action particularly resonated with Bose and became a guiding principle in his life.

His father, Janakinath Bose, though a successful lawyer, also emphasized moral values and discipline, which complemented the spiritual foundation laid by his mother. This harmonious blend of discipline and spirituality became a hallmark of Bose’s character in the years to come.

A Seeker of Truth

Bose’s pursuit of spirituality was deeply tied to his search for truth and meaning. During his college years in Kolkata, he encountered the works of spiritual luminaries, which further deepened his introspection. Despite his rebellious nature against colonial authority, Bose maintained a calm and reflective inner self. His letters and writings often reveal a man grappling with existential questions and seeking solace in the divine.

The Bhagavad Gita, in particular, played a pivotal role in shaping his worldview. Bose drew strength from the Gita’s message of selfless action (Nishkama Karma) and its emphasis on duty without attachment to outcomes. This philosophy became a cornerstone of his approach to India’s freedom struggle, where he placed the cause of the nation above personal ambition. As Sant Kabir once said, "Moko kahan dhundhe re bande, main to tere paas mein" (Why do you search for me, O seeker? I am within you), Bose’s spiritual quest also reflected an inward search for strength and truth.

Encounters with Spiritual Figures

Bose’s spiritual journey was also enriched by his interactions with several spiritual leaders. One of the most significant influences was Sri Sarada Devi, the spiritual consort of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Her blessings and the teachings of the Ramakrishna Mission inspired Bose to view spirituality as a means of service to humanity.

During his travels in India and abroad, Bose sought the counsel of various sages and thinkers. His visit to Pondicherry to meet Sri Aurobindo, the philosopher-sage and former revolutionary, was particularly transformative. Sri Aurobindo’s vision of an independent India as a spiritual entity aligned with Bose’s belief in India’s unique destiny.

In addition, Bose drew inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s emphasis on non-violence and spiritual practices, even though their political ideologies often diverged. He respected Gandhi’s ability to mobilize masses through a moral and spiritual appeal, and this respect influenced Bose’s own leadership.

Spirituality and Leadership

Bose’s spiritual beliefs were not confined to personal practice; they deeply influenced his leadership style and vision for India. He envisioned a nation rooted in its spiritual heritage while embracing modernity. For Bose, spirituality was not about renunciation but about action driven by higher ideals. This synthesis of spirituality and pragmatism was evident in his formation of the Indian National Army (INA), where he motivated soldiers by invoking India’s cultural and spiritual legacy.

His speeches often carried references to India’s ancient wisdom and the moral strength required for the struggle against colonial oppression. Bose’s famous call, “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,” was not just a call to arms but also a call to awaken the latent spiritual strength within every Indian. As Kabir succinctly puts it, "Jo kare so bhare," (What you sow, so shall you reap), Bose’s life embodied the principle of taking responsibility for one’s actions and destiny. Buddha’s timeless advice, "Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it," also resonates deeply with Bose’s mission of selfless service.

Trials, Exile, and Inner Strength

Bose’s life was marked by immense trials—imprisonment, exile, and constant surveillance by British authorities. Yet, his inner spiritual reservoir helped him endure these challenges with fortitude. His time in prison was often spent in reading and contemplation, drawing on spiritual texts for guidance and strength. Even during his exile in Europe and later in Southeast Asia, Bose remained connected to his roots, practicing meditation and introspection.

It is said that during his time in Mandalay Jail, he not only delved deeply into the Bhagavad Gita but also wrote extensively about his thoughts on the synthesis of Indian spirituality and modern nationalism. These writings reveal a man who balanced worldly struggles with spiritual introspection, striving to harmonize the two. Guru Nanak’s words, "He who has no faith in himself can never have faith in God," encapsulate Bose’s own belief in self-reliance and inner conviction.

Legacy of Spiritual Nationalism

Subhash Chandra Bose’s spiritual journey underscores the profound connection between India’s cultural heritage and its fight for freedom. He demonstrated that spirituality could be a powerful force in motivating collective action and shaping national identity. His life serves as a reminder that true leadership arises from a balance of inner strength and outward action.

Today, as we celebrate Bose’s contributions to India’s independence, it is essential to acknowledge the spiritual foundations of his vision. His legacy continues to inspire generations to combine courage with compassion, action with introspection, and patriotism with a deep sense of purpose.

Conclusion

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s life exemplifies the harmonious blend of spirituality and action. His spiritual journey was not a retreat from the world but an active engagement with it, driven by a higher purpose. As Guru Nanak reminds us, "Truth is high, but higher still is truthful living," Bose lived a life of authenticity, guided by his inner convictions and dedication to the greater good. Similarly, Kabir’s wisdom, "Pothi padh padh jag mua, pandit bhayo na koi; dhai akhar prem ke, jo padhe so pandit hoy" (One does not become wise by reading scriptures, but by understanding the essence of love), aligns with Bose’s belief in action rooted in compassion and duty.

His spiritual ideals did not just shape him as a leader but also left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of the nation. Bose’s unwavering faith in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage continues to resonate today, reminding us of the profound connection between inner strength and outward transformation. His journey is a timeless lesson in balancing the material and the spiritual to create a life of purpose, resilience, and impact.