“Dhṛtyā yā yayā dhārayate manaḥ-prāṇa-indriya-kriyāḥ
Yogena avyabhicāriṇyā dhṛtiḥ sā pārtha sāttvikī”
धृत्या या यया धारयते मनः-प्राण-इन्द्रिय-क्रियाः
योगेन अव्यभिचारिण्या धृतिः सा पार्थ सात्त्विकी
(Bhagavad Gita 18.33)
“The unwavering resolve which sustains the functions of the mind, life, and senses through the practice of Yoga, that firmness, O Arjuna, is Sattvic (pure).”
Amid the ceaseless flow of your daily life, establishing a routine is essential. It shapes our days, fuels our productivity, and instills discipline. Yet, within the boundaries of this routine, we must also carve out space for expansion—embracing new knowledge, experiences, and personal growth. This balance of structure and growth mirrors the ancient concept of Yin and Yang, harmonising contraction with expansion, and stability with transformation.
The Power of Routine
Routine provides the framework within which we operate, akin to the human body’s skeletal structure. It offers predictability and stability, allowing us to channel our energies efficiently. Without a routine, our time and efforts can dissipate into unproductive pursuits, leaving us adrift in the sea of potential distractions.
The Bhagavad Gita extols the virtue of discipline in action:
“Yogaḥ karmasu kauśalam”
योगः कर्मसु कौशलम्
(Bhagavad Gita 2.50)
“Yoga is excellence in action.”
This verse emphasizes that true skill lies in performing our duties with a disciplined mind, fostering excellence through consistent and dedicated effort. A well-structured routine enables us to cultivate this discipline, aligning our actions with our goals. Completing tasks within our control brings a sense of fulfillment and peace, akin to meditation. The act of completion itself becomes a meditative practice, grounding us and bringing tranquility to our lives.
The Necessity of Expansion
While routine provides the necessary structure, expansion infuses life with vitality and growth. Just as the universe is in a state of constant expansion, so too must our minds and experiences evolve. This expansion is not merely about accumulating knowledge, but about broadening our perspectives, embracing new experiences, and fostering a deeper understanding of the world and ourselves.
The Chandogya Upanishad offers profound insight:
“Sarvam khalvidam Brahma”
सर्वं खल्विदं ब्रह्म
(Chandogya Upanishad 3.14.1)
“All this is Brahman.”
This verse reminds us that the entire universe is a manifestation of the divine, and by expanding our awareness, we come closer to understanding the true nature of existence. Engaging in new learning and experiences is a way to honour the divine essence within and around us. Expansion is inherent to our human nature, mirroring the universal law of perpetual growth and evolution. Just as the universe itself is in a state of constant expansion, so too are we driven to broaden our horizons, deepen our understanding, and explore new possibilities.
The day we cease expanding, our existence can be said to be contracting, for stagnation is the antithesis of growth. This innate urge for expansion propels us to seek knowledge, embrace new experiences, and push beyond our perceived limitations. It is through this process of continuous expansion that we tap into our fullest potential, aligning ourselves with the dynamic rhythm of the cosmos. In embracing our innate drive for expansion, we honour the universal principle of growth and contribute to the ever-unfolding tapestry of existence.
The Balance of Contraction and Expansion
Life is a dance of contraction and expansion, much like the breath we take. Contraction is the period of introspection, where we withdraw to reflect and recalibrate our path. It is a necessary pause, allowing us to observe our lives from a distance, assess our progress, and make necessary adjustments. This reflective withdrawal is essential for ensuring that our routine remains aligned with our higher purpose.
The Bhagavad Gita again guides us:
“Uddhared ātmanātmānaṁ nātmānam avasādayet”
उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्
(Bhagavad Gita 6.5)
“One must elevate, not degrade, oneself by one’s own mind.”
This verse underscores the importance of self-reflection and self-correction. By periodically stepping back and observing our lives, we can ensure that our actions are elevating us towards our goals, rather than leading us astray.
Shakti: The Inner Power
Central to this balance is the recognition of Shakti, the divine energy within us. Shakti is the force that drives us towards completion and success. By remaining calm and focused on this inner power, we allow it to guide us through our daily routines. Trusting in Shakti means understanding that the answers to our challenges are within us, as God has equipped us with the necessary technology to navigate life’s journey.
The Bhagavad Gita reassures us of this inner strength:
“Ātmaiva hy ātmano bandhur ātmaiva ripur ātmanaḥ”**
आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुरात्मैव रिपुरात्मनः
(Bhagavad Gita 6.5)
“The self is the friend of the self, and the self is the enemy of the self.”
This verse highlights that our inner strength and focus are our true allies. By nurturing our inner Shakti and trusting in its guidance, we can achieve our goals and find peace in the process. Seeking solutions outside ourselves often distracts us from the profound capabilities we already possess. Recognising that the divine has fitted us with the necessary tools for our journey, we realise that answers lie within.
The Path of Continuous Growth
To thrive, we must strike a balance between the stability of routine and the dynamism of expansion. This balance is the essence of the Yin and Yang of life. We need the grounding force of routine to anchor us and the expansive energy of new experiences to propel us forward.
The Isha Upanishad beautifully encapsulates this philosophy:
“Tena tyaktena bhuñjīthā mā gṛdhaḥ kasyasvid dhanam”
तेन त्यक्तेन भुञ्जीथा मा गृधः कस्यस्विद्धनम्
(Isha Upanishad 1)
“By renunciation, enjoy; do not covet what belongs to others.”
This verse teaches us to find joy in what we have while being open to new experiences without attachment. It encourages us to live a life of balance, where we appreciate the “present” and are open to the future’s possibilities.
Enjoying the Present Moment
A crucial aspect of this philosophy is the emphasis on the present moment. Letting the present moment be our only goal allows us to fully engage with our lives, finding joy and fulfillment in each task we complete. This mindfulness ensures that we are not merely existing but truly living, with each moment becoming a stepping stone towards a more profound existence.
As the Katha Upanishad (Katha Upanishad 1.3.14) reminds us:
“Uttiṣṭhata jāgrata prāpya varān nibodhata”
उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत
“Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached.”
This call to mindfulness and relentless pursuit of our goals inspires us to live with intention and awareness, embracing each moment as it comes.
Embracing Modern Insights
This balance of routine and growth is not only found in ancient wisdom but is echoed in modern thought as well. Stephen R. Covey, in his seminal work “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” provides a contemporary framework that aligns with these timeless principles.
Balancing Routine and Growth
Covey’s concept of balancing “P” (production) and “PC” (production capability) underscores the necessity of maintaining a routine while also investing in personal growth and renewal. His Habit 7, “Sharpen the Saw,” speaks to the continuous development in physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual areas, resonating with the need for expansion within a structured life.
Inner Strength and Focus
Covey’s Habit 1, “Be Proactive,” emphasizes the importance of recognizing our power to choose our responses and take control of our lives. This proactive approach aligns with the idea of harnessing our inner Shakti to guide our actions. By focusing on what we can control, we leverage our inner strength to achieve our goals, finding peace in the process—an idea central to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
Mindfulness and Present Moment Awareness
Habit 3, “Put First Things First,” encourages prioritizing tasks based on their importance, fostering mindfulness and present-moment awareness. This mirrors the ancient wisdom of enjoying every moment and making the present our primary focus. By being fully engaged in each task, we ensure that we are not merely existing but truly living, enhancing the quality of our lives.
A fulfilling life is a harmonious blend of routine and expansion. Embracing this duality allows us to cultivate discipline, foster growth, and navigate life’s journey with wisdom and grace. By recognizing and harnessing the Shakti within, we find the strength and guidance to achieve our goals. Let us draw inspiration from the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, which remind us that true fulfillment comes from balancing the stability of routine with the boundless possibilities of expansion, all while cherishing the present moment.
Moreover, integrating the insights from modern thinkers like Stephen R. Covey reinforces the timeless relevance of these principles. Covey’s emphasis on balance, inner strength, and mindfulness complements the ancient teachings, providing a comprehensive approach to living a successful and fulfilling life. By remaining calm and focused, trusting the inner Shakti, and realizing that the answers lie within us, we can enjoy every moment and let the present be our guide to a prosperous and contented life.
I would like to end the article with a sloka (Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 1.4.14)
“Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
Sarve Santu Niraamayaah
Sarve Bhadraani Pashyantu
Maa Kashcid-Duhkha-Bhaag-Bhavet”
ॐ सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः
सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः।
सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु
मा कश्चिद् दुःखभाग्भवेत्॥
“May all be happy; may all be free from illness. May all see what is auspicious, may no one suffer.”
