We’ve all been on that relentless pursuit – the chase for HAPPINESS. We seek it in achievements, possessions, relationships, and experiences. But like a mirage in the desert, it often vanishes just as we think we’ve grasped it.
The ancient sages of India, the seers of the Upanishads, and the custodians of traditional Bharatiya Knowledge whisper a different truth:
Happiness isn’t something to be acquired; it’s our very nature, the inherent state of ‘Being Real You’. It’s the unfurling of the lotus within, revealing the ‘Param Anand‘ that has always been there.
~Gopi Krishan Bali, Founder and Chief Happiness Catalyst
The Western world’s driven by clinical and research based Positive Psychology offers valuable tools, but often focuses on external adjustments and cognitive reframing.
Indian wisdom, however, delves deeper, pointing towards the Supreme Source of all joy – the Atman, the True Self. This ‘Real Self’ is not the ego, the ever-fluctuating collection of thoughts and feelings, but the immutable, eternal essence that is pure consciousness and bliss.
Beyond the Mind’s Playground: Transcending Duality
Our minds are like restless monkeys, constantly leaping from one thought to another, creating a tapestry of likes and dislikes, judgments and comparisons. This mental chatter often obscures the inherent peace within. The Upanishads guide us to witness this mental activity without getting entangled in it. Practices like Vipassana (mindful observation) and Yoga (union of body, mind, and spirit) help us become aware of the transient nature of thoughts and emotions.
Imagine a still lake. When the surface is agitated by waves, the depths remain undisturbed. Similarly, the fluctuations of our minds don’t touch the serene depths of our true Self.
Pure Happiness arises when we LEARN to reside in this stillness, Being AWARE and OBSERVING the mental drama without identifying with it.
The Power of ‘Bhavana’: Cultivating the Right Inner Attitude
Indian philosophy emphasizes the power of emotions ‘Bhavana‘ – our inner attitude and the way we perceive the world. Instead of constantly seeking external validation, we can cultivate an inner state of contentment and gratitude. The Bhagavad Gita teaches us the principle of *अनासक्ति* (anasakti) – non-attachment.
This doesn’t mean detachment from our duties or relationships, but rather detachment from the fruits of our actions. When we act without being solely driven by the desire for a specific outcome, we free ourselves from the anxieties of success and the disappointments of failure. The joy then lies in the action itself, in the offering.
Consider the story of a gardener who diligently tends to their plants without obsessing over when they will flower. Their joy is in the nurturing process, in the connection with nature. Similarly, when we perform our tasks with dedication and a spirit of service, the inherent joy of the activity blossoms within us.
‘SwaDharma’ (स्व:धर्म) : Living Your Authentic Purpose
The concept of ‘SwaDharma’ (स्व:धर्म) – one’s own duty, one’s own righteousness or inherent nature – is another key to unlocking ‘Param Anand‘. When we align our actions with our deepest values and natural inclinations, we experience a sense of fulfillment that transcends mere achievement. It’s about living in accordance with our true Self, contributing our unique gifts to the world.
Think of a river flowing towards the ocean. When it stays within its natural course, it flows effortlessly and powerfully. But when it’s blocked or diverted, it stagnates and loses its vitality. Similarly, when we live in alignment with our ‘SwaDharma‘, we experience a natural flow of energy and joy.
This doesn’t necessarily mean a grand, world-changing purpose; it could be the simple joy of a craftsman perfecting their art, a teacher nurturing young minds, or a caregiver offering selfless service.
The Resonance of ‘Sangha’: Finding Strength in Collective Community
While the journey to inner bliss is ultimately personal, the support of a ‘Sangha‘ – a community of like-minded individuals – can be invaluable. Sharing our journey, learning from others, and offering mutual support strengthens our resolve and deepens our understanding.
Spiritual discourses, satsangs, social communes and corporate mindful gatherings create a resonant field where the pursuit of ‘Param Anand‘ is amplified.
Interested? Let’s build the Community for Holistic Well-Being in Life and Work. Let’s co-create a Collective Collaborative and Creative Ecosystem for Health, Happiness and Harmony for Holistic Well-Being of all conscious citizens and living-beings.
Send Mail to Be@Happier.in or WhatsApp Message to: (+91) 93 55 33 95 03
Get more updates and information for ‘How to Be Happy & Spread Happiness‘ to All.
That’s the ultimate AIM and Purpose of Life. Isn’t It?
That’s the reason to ReStart Mission Happiness and Happier India Revolution. Join Today! Permanent Happiness is Waiting for You
Tomorrow we’ll Share the Extra-Ordinary Tips for ‘Becoming Happiness‘ Stay Tuned
About The Author
1 thought on “The Unfolding Lotus: Discovering the Innate Bliss Within”