“The quote “The world is an ashram” was given by our Paramaguru, Siva Yogaswami of Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Just before Satguru Bodhinatha’s visit to our home, we had these profound words carved into the trunk of our front yard’s banyan tree—a lasting reminder of the beauty and purpose of this life. You can read the Hinduism Today article here.
Discovering Reiki and a New Perspective
Just before COVID, I started learning Reiki—a practice that helps heal certain inconveniences in our body and others. At the time, I was living a relatively luxurious life, with irregular daily routines and financial stability. Despite this comfort, I felt a growing inner call to take the path of a sannyasin and live in the Himalayas.
This shift began with smaller changes: I turned vegetarian, started appreciating nature, and felt deeply connected to the environment. Reiki brought a sense of special protection around me. For instance, during my time in London, I didn’t feel the need to wear a sweater even in the cold weather—it felt as though I was enveloped in an unseen shield.
Two Spiritual Paths in Life
In our Sanatana Dharma, there are two key spiritual paths to choose from:
- The Grihastha Path:
- After the age of 24, one marries, leads a family life, raises children, educates the younger generation, and retires to focus on spiritual goals.
- The Sannyasin Path:
- Before the age of 24, one commits to renunciation, becomes a swami under the guidance of a Satguru, and dedicates their life to serving God and the world selflessly, without any personal expectations.
Once a path is chosen, there is no turning back in this lifetime. However, it’s natural for us to feel the grass is greener on the other side. Family life may bring moments where one wishes for the simplicity of the sannyasin path, but we often underestimate the discipline and dedication it demands.
Core Beliefs: Dharma, Reincarnation, and Karma
Dharma, reincarnation, and karma form the foundation of Sanatana Dharma. When a soul chooses to take birth, it is bound by the mathematics of karma. The life experiences we encounter—including the age at which we gain wisdom or turn toward spirituality—are pre-determined.
For those on the grihastha path, life itself presents abundant opportunities to work on karmas. Everyday challenges—managing relationships, children, work, and daily responsibilities—are tools to help us grow spiritually and move closer to God.
The World is an Ashram
One does not need to retreat to the Himalayas to attain moksha. By treating the world as an ashram, we can transform daily challenges into opportunities for growth. Approaching life with courage and patience gives us a renewed purpose and allows us to live joyously.
Complaints and regrets are unnecessary. The world is our ashram and our playground, where every moment teaches us and guides us toward self-realization.
Summary
The paths of grihastha and sannyasin are both tools for spiritual growth, but every soul chooses its path based on karma. Life itself is the perfect ashram to learn, grow, and realize our higher purpose.
