When faced with seemingly unsolvable issues, people often turn to various forms of guidance, whether divine, astrological, or spiritual. For me, spirituality and meditation became a last resort during a particularly challenging period in my life.

I was struggling with anxiety, backaches, and a general sense of being overwhelmed. A colleague suggested I try meditation, specifically Transcendental Meditation (TM), which he claimed was easy to learn and practice. The TM center was conveniently located on my way home from work, so I decided to give it a try. The course was brief, just three days, and included lectures as well as instruction in the technique. I found the practice straightforward and began incorporating it into my daily routine. Over the next seven years, I experienced noticeable stress relief and a greater sense of calm.

In the late 1990s, while posted in a different location, a neighbor who noticed my work-related stress and frequent travel offered to teach me another form of meditation. This method included a series of exercises and relaxation techniques. His approach was refreshing and thorough, covering all parts of the body.

Despite these experiences, I still felt that I had not found the ultimate system I was searching for. During our first visit to the USA, my elder son introduced me to a new meditation technique called Kriya Yoga, taught by the Self-Realization Fellowship (known as Yogoda Satsanga Society in India). The lessons were comprehensive and detailed, covering every aspect of the body and mind. This system seemed to be the culmination of my search, offering the depth and breadth I had been seeking.

Continued in 135. Light In Darkness - Beyond Barriers