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The Significance of Number 108 The significance of the number 108 is open to interpretation.  Over time, there has been much spiritual and scientific relevance given to the number.  For many, the number 108 is a sacred number. Here are some spiritual and scientific meaning and facts attributed to the number 108: The wholeness of existence – Renowned mathematicians of Vedic culture viewed 108 as the number of the wholeness of existence.  Astronomically, there are 27 constellations in our galaxy and each has 4 directions. 27 x 4 = 108.  In other words, the number 108 covers the whole galaxy....

What is Zen? ‘Zen is Zen’.  At least that’s what Zen Masters in olden times said. Zen is difficult to define.  Zen teaching is not bound by words or scriptures but is really a way of life.    The term Zen is derived from the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese word Chan. Chan traces its roots to the pre-Buddhist Indian practice of Dhyana (to think/meditate).  Zen Definition for deeper learning A definition of Zen that probably best resonates with me is from Zen Master, Professor. Masunaga Reiho who defines zen as: “A practice that helps man to penetrate to his...

  Buddha (meaning “enlightened one” in Sanskrit), was born between the 4th and 6th century in Nepal (close to the border with India).  He was born a Prince and named Siddhartha Gautama.   His teachings are the foundation of Buddhism which is the fourth largest religion in the world. Like Jesus and Socrates, Buddha never wrote down his teachings but passed on his wisdom through the spoken word.  Buddha’s insights and knowledge still remain relevant to our lives today. Here’s a collection of 33 quotes from Buddha that can change your life: 1. To conquer oneself is a greater task...

What is mindful happiness? Mindfulness brings and maintains your focus on the present moment. By doing so, you are not to dwelling on the past or the future and you are taming your mind from constant distractions. It’s about being aware of what’s going on inside us and around us without judgment. Based on this, you could say that mindful happiness is experiencing happiness by living in the moment, rather than living in the past or future, accepting yourself and your thoughts without judgement, and consciously savoring all the goodness within you and around you. Let’s expand on how mindfulness...

Meditation has become trendy but in essence, it is a thousand-year-old practice of calming the mind and halting day to day stressors. In doing so, it can benefit every area of your life. Hundreds of studies have and are being conducted on meditation and more and more benefits are being identified. So, the benefits are no longer hear say but truly backed by science. In addition, as meditation doesn’t necessarily need to conform to a religious practice it is becoming more and more accepted.  Places such as schools and even prison are adopting meditation with amazing results.  Here is a...