Becoming a Swami, conversation with Swami Chidananda
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Did you know Ananda = Love?
This is how Swami Chidananda opened the conversation; with the reminder that our true nature, that we spend much of our time questioning, is quite simply, love.
We spoke about: his journey from Wall Street Investment Banker to the path of swami, we asked our questions on how to navigate a spiritual path without becoming a swami, and so much more.
About Swami Chidananda
A spiritual educator and monk initiated in the Vedic Hari Bhakta Lineage, holding the distinguished title of Swami.
Through the study of scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Swami has gained a deep understanding of the science of Yoga and has devoted his life to helping others on their inner journey.
Before entering the spiritual path, he had a successful career as an investment banker and entrepreneur. Now, he uses his experiences to convey the ancient Yoga Systems in a relatable and accessible way for those seeking to reconcile Western and Eastern philosophies.
Additional information about Swami can be found by exploring his social media page on Instagram, @swami_chidananda, or by listening to his podcast, 'The Path of a Swami.'
Social Media Links: Youtube: Power of Sincerity Instagram: Purpose of the Bhagavad Gita
Community Hour Recap
We started the zoom with this energetic kirtan: Jai Radhe Jai Radhe Radhe Radhe Piya Piya - Paramahamsa Vishwananda
As the group gathered, we checked in by sharing what brought us to this particular conversation. Swami shared that they were joining us from Germany!
The conversation went deep inviting us to question what path we have chosen for ourselves and how we embrace the knowledge of others to help up choose a spiritual path.
Swami shared insights as I asked him:
Is there a path somewhere between making the most money (IB) and making the least (swami) that is still spiritually aligned?
Swamis are traditionally depicted as male, has this evolved to include women, gender non-binary, trans and other LGBIA+ community members? What work still needs to be done?
How has your path as swami evolved in these modern times compared to swamis of the past?
What advice does the Gita offer in times of divisiveness and genocide?
Through Vedic philosophy and practical examples, Swami shared tools and tips for those of us attempting internal renunciation, those of us doing true spiritual work.
He even shared his process when facing mental doubts which surprised me since I believed he was resolute on the path.
Things got heavy with our last question, “When we are practicing internal renunciation, but externally it is so complex and complicated and also activating and harmful and murderous, How do we navigate? And how do we use the Gita? In a way that isn't triggering to the present circumstance of genocide?
Swami shared a comprehensive lesson on Dharma Sankata or moral dilemmas, ultimately guiding us to consider how can we do the least harm possible to us and to the people around us.
We closed with a quote from the Swami:
"We might for a moment in time be in ignorance of our true nature, but no matter who we are, what we have done, or what we believe in, eventually we all go back to our eternal state … Love"
I hope you'll consider signing up for Tejal Yoga Membership to access this conversation!
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As always, take good care.
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