Prem Lee Prasannan

Exploring the Spiritual and Scenic Splendor of Boriam Temple: The Iconic Buddhist Temple in Korea

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Nestled atop the 704-meter-high Geumsan Mountain in Namhae, South Korea, Boriam Temple stands as both a historical sanctuary and a scenic marvel. This Buddhist hermitage, known for its breathtaking views and deep spiritual significance, offers a glimpse into Korea’s rich religious and cultural tapestry.

Historical Roots and Significance:

Boriam Temple

Boriam Hermitage was first established in 683 A.D. by the revered monk Wonhyo-daesa, who was drawn to the mountain’s ethereal light, which he described as “beyond description.” Initially named Bogwangwa Temple, it was later referred to as Boriam, reflecting its new purpose and location. The hermitage is famed not only for its foundation by such a notable figure but also for being a site where General Yi Seong-gye, later King Taejo and the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, conducted ritual prayers for wisdom and good fortune before establishing the dynasty. This historical connection lends Boriam a special prestige among Korean temples.

Architectural and Cultural Highlights:

The temple complex isn’t vast, but its placement and the structures within it are imbued with significance. The hermitage includes the Wontong-jeon Hall, dedicated to Gwanseeum-bosal (Avalokitesvara), one of the most revered Bodhisattvas in Korean Buddhism. The hermitage is also one of five famous temples in Korea for the worship of Gwanseeum-bosal, enhancing its status as a spiritual retreat.

Boriam Temple

A three-story pagoda at Boriam Hermitage is steeped in myth, believed to house relics of the Buddha brought by Queen Heo from India. However, it’s more likely that this pagoda was constructed during the Goryeo Dynasty, showcasing the architectural style of the time.

The Journey to Boriam:

Reaching Boriam Temple involves a scenic journey, either by hiking or driving up part of the mountain. The upper parking lot near the temple often fills up quickly, making early arrivals advisable for those wishing to avoid a long hike. From the parking area, visitors can experience a short but rewarding walk to the temple, where they are greeted by panoramic views of the South Sea, scattered islands, and the Namhae coastline. This trek, although not long, offers a rewarding experience with nature, culminating in the serene environment of the temple.

A Sanctuary of Scenic Beauty:

The views from Boriam are arguably some of the most spectacular from any Korean temple. The standing statue of Gwanseeum-bosal and the Manbul-jeon Hall provide vantage points where one can observe the vast expanse of the ocean meeting the sky, with islands dotting the horizon. The temple’s location makes it a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts, especially during sunrise or in the colorful autumn foliage season.

Cultural Experience and Visitor Insights:

Boriam Temple isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a cultural experience. Visitors often recount the tranquility and the sense of peace that envelops them here. The temple is known for its welcoming atmosphere to visitors, offering insights into Buddhist practices and the chance to engage in meditation or prayer. The local community, especially hikers in their traditional gear, adds to the cultural ambiance, often sharing the trails with tourists.

For those visiting, there’s also the charm of Geumsan Sanjang, a small mountain lodge near the temple where one can enjoy simple meals with panoramic views, making the visit even more memorable.

Boriam Temple

Boriam Temple in Namhae is more than a destination; it’s a journey through history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether one comes for the serene environment to meditate, to explore Korean Buddhism, or simply to admire one of South Korea’s most scenic spots, Boriam offers an unforgettable experience. As with any visit to such sacred places, respect for the site’s cultural and spiritual importance is paramount, ensuring that its essence remains preserved for future generations.

Transform Your Life: A Beginner’s Guide to Fitness

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In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining fitness has become more than just a trend; it’s a necessity for a healthy, balanced life. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, gain muscle, or simply feel better in your day-to-day activities, getting into fitness can seem daunting. But fear not! This article is designed to guide beginners through the basics of fitness, helping you start your journey towards a healthier you.

Why Fitness Matters:

Fitness

Fitness isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good, too. Regular physical activity can:

  • Boost your mood: Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
  • Improve health: Reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
  • Enhance sleep: Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.
  • Increase energy levels: Counterintuitively, expending energy through exercise can lead to higher energy levels throughout the day.

Getting Started:

  1. Set Clear Goals:
    • Determine what you want to achieve. Is it weight loss, muscle gain, or general wellness? Your goals will shape your fitness program.
  2. Consult a Professional:
    • If possible, talk to a fitness trainer or your doctor, especially if you have any health concerns. They can offer personalized advice.
  3. Basic Equipment:
    • You don’t need a gym membership to start. Comfortable shoes, a few sets of weights (or water bottles), and perhaps a yoga mat can suffice.

The Fitness Routine

Cardiovascular Exercise:

  • Begin with Walking: If you’re new to exercise, start with brisk walking for 30 minutes, three to four times a week.
  • Progress to Other Activities: Once comfortable, consider cycling, swimming, or running. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.

Strength Training:

  • Bodyweight Exercises: Start with push-ups, squats, planks, and lunges. These require no equipment and can be done anywhere.
  • Gradual Weight Introduction: When ready, incorporate light dumbbells or resistance bands. Do strength workouts two to three times per week, focusing on different muscle groups each session.

Flexibility and Balance:

  • Yoga or Stretching: Dedicate time to yoga or stretching sessions to improve flexibility, reduce injury risk, and enhance recovery.

Sample Weekly Schedule for Beginners:

  • Monday: Walk or light jog (30 minutes)
  • Tuesday: Strength training (upper body)
  • Wednesday: Yoga or stretching (20-30 minutes)
  • Thursday: Walk or light jog (30 minutes)
  • Friday: Strength training (lower body)
  • Saturday: Free choice or active recovery (like a gentle walk)
  • Sunday: Rest or meditation

Nutrition:

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods – plenty of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
  • Hydration: Drink water throughout the day, not just during workouts.
  • Portion Control: Especially if weight loss is a goal, be mindful of portion sizes.

Staying Motivated:

  • Track Progress: Use an app or journal to note improvements, no matter how small.
  • Community: Join fitness groups or find a workout buddy. Social support can be invaluable.
  • Variety: Keep workouts fresh to avoid boredom. Try new exercises or classes.

Embarking on a fitness journey is one of the most empowering decisions you can make for your health. Remember, progress not perfection is the goal. Celebrate every step forward, adjust your plan as needed, and most importantly, enjoy the process of becoming a stronger, healthier version of yourself. Here’s to your new beginning in fitness!

The Eiffel Tower: An Icon of Paris and Innovation | Eiffel Tower Experience

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Rising majestically over Paris, the Eiffel Tower is not only a symbol of the city but also of human achievement in architecture and engineering. Constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair), which was held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower was initially criticized as an eyesore but has since become an enduring emblem of French culture and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

Eiffel Tower

Designed by Gustave Eiffel, whose company also designed the internal structure of the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower stands at 324 meters tall, including its antenna. Its construction began in 1887 and was completed in just over two years, an impressive feat for the era. The tower was built to be the main exhibit of the World’s Fair, showcasing French industrial prowess.

Over 18,000 individual iron pieces were used, connected with 2.5 million rivets. The iron was painted in a reddish-brown color to blend with its surroundings, which has since been updated with a special paint that includes zinc for rust protection.

The design was based on mathematical principles of wind resistance, which was revolutionary at the time. Each segment was designed for easy assembly, much like a giant Meccano set, allowing for precision and speed in construction.

Approximately 300 workers were involved in its construction, with the entire structure erected without the loss of a single life, an extraordinary achievement in industrial construction.

The Eiffel Tower was groundbreaking for its time for its Architectural Significance and Innovative Design. It was the first structure of this size to be built with a lattice of puddled iron, showcasing the potential of metal in construction, which was a precursor to the modern skyscraper.

At its completion, it was the tallest man-made structure in the world, a title it held for 41 years until the Chrysler Building in New York City was built.

Its design allows it to sway slightly in the wind, ensuring stability, and it even expands and contracts with temperature changes.

Over the years, the Eiffel Tower has become synonymous with romance, often featured in films, literature, and songs, making it a global icon of love and French culture.

It has inspired countless artists and has been depicted in various forms, from paintings to photographs, capturing its beauty at different times of the day and seasons.

The tower hosts numerous events, including a spectacular fireworks display on New Year’s Eve and a light show every hour in the evening.

Today, the Eiffel Tower attracts millions of visitors annually.It sees around 7 million visitors each year. Visitors can ascend via staircases or elevators, with the highest public level offering breathtaking views of Paris.

Regular maintenance and repainting (about every seven years) ensure that the tower remains a pristine symbol of Paris.The tower houses a Michelin-starred restaurant, Jules Verne, and a champagne bar, offering a unique dining experience with panoramic views.

The Eiffel Tower, once ridiculed as a monstrous intrusion on the Paris skyline, has not only withstood the test of time but has thrived as a testament to human ingenuity and aesthetic evolution. It continues to symbolize Paris’s allure, blending historical significance with modern tourism, making it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the City of Lights. Its legacy is not just in its steel structure but in the millions of stories, photographs, and memories it has helped to create.

paris #eiffeltower #france

The Unltimate Mexican Brunch: A Step-by-Step Guide to Create Your Own Molletes Sandwich

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Recipe by Mariana Rebollo Moreira

Mexican cuisine brims with an array of flavors, colors, and textures, and among its lesser-known yet utterly delicious dishes are molletes. Often overshadowed by tacos and burritos, molletes offer a unique culinary experience that merges simplicity with taste. This article explores the origin, preparation, cultural significance, and variations of these delectable open-faced sandwiches.

Molletes trace their origins back to medieval Spain, where the term “mollete” referred to a type of soft, round bread similar to a bun or roll. When Spanish conquistadors and settlers brought their culinary traditions to Mexico, the concept of the mollete adapted to local ingredients and tastes. Over time, the Mexican mollete evolved into what we recognize today: crusty bread halves topped with refried beans, cheese, and a variety of other toppings, baked until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

It is nutritious, simple, and fast to prepare with ingredients such as beans, cheese and vegetable salsa. If you love grilled cheese sandwiches, the Molletes is a similar type of Mexican version.

Mollete-with-Topppings

Molletes are more than just a dish; they are a part of Mexican daily life, often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a late-night snack. They’re straightforward to make, which aligns with the Mexican ethos of hospitality where food is about feeding souls with love and warmth. In many homes, molletes are a quick solution for feeding the family something nutritious and satisfying.

Mashed beans is a good protein source and it is very common to use beans in the Mexican diet. Adding cheese and vegetable sauces make it tasty, nourishing and a healthy food choice. If you are Vegan, you can use Vegan Cheese substitutes that are available or an Avocado spread instead of regular cheese. Here are step-by-step guide to prepare the molletes.

Ingredients for making (per serving)

-Mashed beans (2 teaspoons)

-Cheese (as required)

-Baguette (Bread)

-Butter (optional)

-Onion (20gm)

-1 Tomato

-Coriander (50gm)

-1 Lemon (one slice)

Prepare the “Pico de Gallo” sauce for topping:

-Fine chop onion, tomato and coriander

Tomato-Onion-and-Herbs-Fine-Chopped

-Add lemon juice to the fine chopped items above and mix them well 

-Add salt and pepper as required 

Cooking Step by Step:

Step 1: (Preheat the Oven)

-Preheat the oven or convection toaster oven to 450°F (220°C).

Step 2: (Brown the Baguette with butter)

-Heat a skillet or cooking pan over medium heat. 

-Spread the butter over the cut sides of the Baguette or bread. 

-Place the bread slices with the cut sides down on the hot skillet or pan.

-Watch closely until the bread slice gets  lightly golden brown in a minute or two.

Step 3: (Prepare the Baguette / bread for grilling)

-Spread the mashed beans over the toasted side of the baguette or bread. 

-Place a layer of regular cheese (preferably Cheddar cheese) or any Vegan alternative of your choice. 

-Place the Molletes in the oven until the cheese is melted and turned golden brown, usually ready in about 5 minutes.

Step 4: (Spread sauce and serve)

-Spread “Pico de Gallo” sauce or “Salsa” on top of the warm mollete with the beans and melted cheese

Mexican molletes are a testament to how traditional foods evolve while maintaining their essence. They encapsulate the spirit of Mexican cuisine – easy to prepare, rich in flavor, and versatile. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet village, molletes offer a slice of comfort that’s both nourishing and delicious. Next time you’re looking for something different yet comforting, give molletes a try; they might just become your new favorite.

Processed Food Health Risks

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Processed foods, which often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and trans fats, raise several health concerns due to their impact on the body. Regular consumption of these foods is linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers because they tend to be calorie-dense but nutrient-poor.

packaged food

They often lack essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies over time. Furthermore, the high sodium content can contribute to hypertension, while the trans fats can increase levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and decrease good cholesterol (HDL), heightening the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The presence of additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients might also introduce chemicals into the diet that could have long-term negative health effects, though evidence on this varies.

The convenience and palatability of processed foods can lead to overconsumption, further exacerbating these health issues. Awareness and moderation in the consumption of processed foods are recommended to mitigate these health risks.

The health concerns of processed food have been in the research domain for decades now. The multi-billion-dollar food processing and manufacturing industry has been heavily investing in the preparation and marketing of tasty processed food products at attractive and affordable prices. Consumers rarely pay attention to the nutritional facts of these food items that flood our grocery stores.

Even though there is a lot of ongoing research happening and some information is readily available in the public domain, people tend to disregard the alarming health concerns surrounding it. The primary cause of most of our health issues is a poor diet and unhealthy choices.

Pre-packaged food has a high level of risk since it often contains a range of tastemakers, other additives, and preservatives. In most countries, it is mandatory to indicate on the package the key ingredients used in the product and the country of origin of the product. It is often the case that we do not understand the chemicals added as preservatives and other taste-making additives. Studies show that long-term consumption of these ingredients may lead to several minor and major health problems.

Products with a longer shelf life:

Processed food items are often prepared to be consumed instantly with little or no cooking. For their longer shelf life, these foods are often packaged and preserved with different types of oils, chemicals, or salt. The excessive use of these items over the long term can affect our health and also damage body organs. There is enough research data to suggest that certain commonly seen diseases are triggered by our routine food habits.

processed-packaged-food

Some of the commonly known diseases are diabetes, obesity, heart disorders, and cancer. Awareness and a careful approach to our food choices might help reduce the risk of these diseases:

  • Added Sugar: For artificially sweetening food, often extra sweeteners like sugar, concentrated fruit juice, or artificial sweeteners are added.
  • Artificial flavours: These are taste makers that are mostly chemical substances. MSG (monosodium glutamate) is one of the harmful agents commonly used in food.
  • Artificial Preservatives: Chemicals added to food for a longer shelf life
  • Food texture: chemicals or ingredients like corn starch are added to the food to give it a particular consistency or texture.
  • High in Carbohydrates: Processed carbohydrates can cause quick blood sugar and insulin levels in the body.
  • High in trans fats, trans fats as a food additive are usually made by adding hydrogen to vegetable oil or fat. Studies have shown an increased risk of heart disease due to trans fats.
  • Less Fibre in Food: Often packaged food has less fibre, which causes the body’s sugar level to go up and down quickly. This results in more frequent eating for the body to maintain a consistent energy level.

Overall wellness depends primarily on the health of our physical bodies. Choosing a healthy diet is important to provide our body with adequate nutrition and energy to sustain a healthy body and mind.

Tips:

  • Avoid food that contains artificial flavours or preservatives.
  • Choose food that contains mostly natural ingredients.
  • Make sure trans fat or saturated fat are at reasonable levels.
  • Avoid foods with artificial sweeteners.
  • Choose foods with less sodium (salt).
  • Avoid foods that contain MSG (monosodium glutamate). MSG is used as a taste-making salt substitute mostly in Chinese and Asian cuisines.
  • Avoid food items that are high in sugar.

Dancing with Devotion: The Kavadi Festival at Subramanya Temple, Val-Morin, Canada

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The Kavadi Festival at the Subramanya Temple in Val-Morin, Quebec, is a vibrant celebration of devotion and spiritual practice, attracting thousands from across North America each year, notably in July. This event is dedicated to Lord Muruga, also known as Subramanya, where devotees undertake a pilgrimage that involves carrying the ‘kavadi,’ a decorated structure often adorned with peacock feathers, symbolizing their spiritual burden and devotion.

The festival includes intense rituals like some devotees piercing their cheeks or tongue with small spears or hooks, demonstrating extreme acts of penance and faith. The procession is a spectacle of cultural richness, with participants dancing to the rhythm of drums, showcasing a blend of physical endurance and spiritual ecstasy.

The event not only serves as a religious observance but also as a cultural festivity, fostering a sense of community and shared spiritual experience among attendees from varied backgrounds. This festival, held at the Sivananda Ashram’s Ayyappa Subramanya Temple, reflects the deep-rooted traditions of Hindu worship and the yoga philosophy’s emphasis on devotion, courage, and endurance.

Kavadi is the ceremonial sacrifice to Lord Murugan or Subramanya which is celebrated in South India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Singapore, Malaysia, Reunion Island and the largely Hindu diaspora in the western countries. Kavadi has its deep roots in Bhakti-Hatha-Raja Yogas from the time of Adi Yogi, Shiva. The Kavadi bearer goes through strict austerities for self-purification of mind and body.

The Glory of Kavadi:

Kavadi represents sadhana, devotion and courage which are all part of the essence of yoga. From the start to the final offering day, the bearer practices Bhakti yoga through devotion, Raja yoga with concentration through meditation and Hatha yoga by building physical endurance. The devotee in the entire process destroys their ego and demonstrates courage, faith and endurance by bearing the Kavadi and the Vel.

According to legend, Lord Subramanya is the embodiment of Lord Shiva’s light and wisdom and devotees pray to him to overcome the obstacles they face to conquer evil. The person who performs Kavadi, goes through the actual physical burden to seek help from the divine.

What is Kavadi and Kavadi Attam?

Kavadi is a weight-balanced shape made of a heavy wooden stick which stays on the shoulders. It is decorated with ornaments, flowers and peacock feathers. The brass bells attached to the kavadi announce the moving Kavadi-bearer who has often taken the vow of silence through a piercing in the tongue or cheek. Kavadi Attam is a ceremonial sacrificial dance performed by the bearer to Lord Muruga.

How does the Kavadi-bearer prepare for the celebration?

The Kavadi-bearer has to observe strict rules from the day he decides to take up the Kavadi to the day of offering. The person has to perform daily ceremonies and customary practices in a spiritual environment. Often the bearer wears saffron clothing and will wear Rudraksha-malas around the neck. The Kavadi-bearer observes celibacy and leads a satvic life during the preparations for the final offering day.

Kavadi festival in Val-Morin:

Kavadi around the world is celebrated during the Thaipusam/Thaipooyam festival in the month of January or February. The word Thaipusam (in Tamil) is a combination of the name of the month, Thai, and the name of a star, Pusam/Pooyam.

The annual Kavadi festival in Val-Morin happens every year in the month of July. Thousands of people participate in the day-long event which starts at the temple and is then followed by a procession. Lord Muruga, the main temple deity is taken in a chariot pulled by hundreds of people and circles the main streets in the town of Val-Morin. The devotion and energy is so high, that men, women and children walk along with the procession with no signs of pain or strain.

The Kavadi-bearers often pierce the ‘Vel’ or ‘Spear’ through the tongue or cheeks. This shows us the sadhana, devotion, courage and the endurance of mind that it takes.

The bearer is seen always dancing in ecstasy with no signs of pain or burden. The Kavadi procession terminates after the tour around the town with the drum and the priests chanting various hymns.

As Swami Vishnu envisioned, the Ayyappa Subramanya temple was built in 1992 on a mountain close to the Sivananda Ashram complex. Today, the temple stands as a pillar of worship, practice, unity and peace for thousands of people.

Cold & Flu Relief With Neti – Natural Remedies

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What is Neti?

Neti is a Sanskrit term derived from the roots na and ti, which together translate as “not so”. Neti is a centuries old yogic practise originated in India. It is known as a technique to cleanse and strengthen the body and keeping it illness-free.

There are types of Neti practise-

  • Jela Neti
    • It simply mean “water cleansing”.
    • It is advised to use a pinch of salt to help dilute the mucous in nasal passage.


Photo: Neti Pot for Jela Neti

  • Sutra Neti
    • Nasal Cleansing Using a Cord
    • This practise is suggested to only though a certified yoga teacher.
      • Sutra neti is performed with a soft rubber catheter. The person tilts the head slightly backward to insert the catheter into one nostril. The catheter is gently pushed inside until it reaches the throat. The person can then gently pull out one end of the catheter through the mouth, with the other end still outside the nostril. The thread is then moved back and forth a few time. The catheter is removed and the process is repeated on the opposite side.


Photo: The rubber catheter for Sutra Neti

Benefits of doing Neti:

  • Removes dirt and bacteria with the mucus in the blocked nostrils
  • Soothes allergies due to dust and pollen
  • Makes breathing easier
  • Reduces the chance of throat and ear infections
  • Reduces sinus infection and reduces migraine
  • Reduces bad breath due to mucus and bacteria build up
  • Relaxes nervous system and reduces stress
  • Improves vision

What is Neti Pot?

Neti
Photo: Use luke warm water and non-iodized salt for Jela Neti

Neti pot is a container used for cleaning the nasal passage using filtered Luke warm water or Saline solution. The picture shows the Neti pot, regular sea salt for Jela Neti and Rubber catheter for Sutra Neti.

What do you need for Jela Neti?

  • A Neti pot
  • A pinch of salt
  • Lukewarm water
  • Optional: Using one drop of Eucalyptus oil will give an extra freshness – Beware as this may increase the nasal burn

How to use Neti Pot?


Photo: Pass water through the nostril with mouth open for breathing

  • Clean the neti pot with hot water
  • Get 2 cups of filtered clean water or boiled water
  • Make sure the water is gently warm
  • Add a pinch of non-iodized salt into the luke warm water
  • Bend over the washroom sink as illustrated in the picture with head slightly tilted
  • Make sure you are breathing through your mouth during the neti practise
  • Insert the spout of the pot into the upper nostril
  • Raise the pot so the saline solution flows from the upper nostril and come out through the lower nostril
  • Block your lower nostril and gently blow out the mucus and water to come out
  • Repeat the process on the lower nostril
  • Once completed, blow your nostrils thoroughly to release any water stuck inside the passage
  • Make sure to clean the Neti pot with soap and hot water

Kombucha Tea

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What is Kombucha Tea?

Kombucha tea, often simply referred to as kombucha, is a fermented, slightly effervescent tea drink that has gained popularity for its supposed health benefits. Originating from Northeast China, kombucha is made by adding a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) to sweetened tea, which then ferments over a period of days to weeks.

This fermentation process produces a drink that contains a variety of vitamins, acids, and enzymes, along with a small amount of alcohol due to the fermentation. Fans of kombucha claim it aids digestion, boosts the immune system, and provides a natural source of probiotics.

However, while some studies suggest potential health benefits, scientific evidence is still limited and often inconclusive, leading to debates about its efficacy. The taste of kombucha varies from a tart, vinegar-like flavor to a slightly sweet, fizzy drink, depending on the fermentation time, the type of tea used, and additional flavorings like fruits or herbs.

Kombucha Origin

The origins of Kombucha is not very clearly documented. But by some accounts it seems to be originated in the Far East of China, and has been consumed for more than 2000 years. The first ever recorded use of kombucha comes from China in 221 BC during the Tsin Dynasty. It was known as “The Tea of Immortality”. Legend says that this tea brew was first consumed by Emperor Qin Shi Huang in ancient China, one of the earliest civilizations to recognize the health benefits of kombucha.

Benefits of KombuchaTea

  • Good Source of Probiotics
    • Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. Our body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are termed “good” bacteria because they help keep our gut heal. This means the bacteria from Probiotics can kill harmful bacteria in our body.
  • Rich in Antioxidants
    • Antioxidants are molecules that helps reduce the damage of cells in our body. Antioxidants are found in many foods, including fruits and vegetables. They are also available as dietary supplement. Polyphenols are responsible for the antioxidant qualities of green and black tea. After the kombucha fermentation there is much more of Amino acids, vitamins B2, B6, & C, acetic acid, lactic acid, and active enzymes and more.
  • Detoxification
    • Detoxification is process of getting rid of “toxins” from our body.Kombucha contains substantial quantities of glucuronic acid. This gives the body extra glucuronidation detoxification) capacities which takes the load off the liver.
  • Improved Digestion
    • Kombucha is a probiotic beverage and it is naturally fermented with a living colony of bacteria and yeast. This bacteria and yeast together improves the gut balance and thereby improves digestion, fighting candida growth and maintaining good state of mind.
  • Cholesterol Reduction
    • Studies show that drinking green tea regularly can increase the amount of calories you burn, reduce belly fat, improve cholesterol levels, help with blood sugar levels. Kombucha helps to lower the triglyceride levels, as well as regulate cholesterol naturally.
  • Weight Loss
    • The good bacteria and enzymes present in kombucha helps to create a proper balance in your stomach, and this aids in digestion, nutrient absorption, and good metabolism. This helps the efficient burning of fat and their by result in weight loss.

The Flying Swami: A Legendary Journey of Peace and Enlightenment

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In the collections of spiritual leaders, few have captured the imagination quite like Swami Vishnudevananda, fondly known as the “Flying Swami.” His life story is not just one of spiritual enlightenment but also of remarkable adventures, where the sky became as much a canvas for his mission of peace as the yoga mat was for his teachings.

Discovering Yoga:

Born as Kuttan Nair in 1927 in Kerala, India, Swami Vishnudevananda’s journey began in the humble surroundings of his village. His path to spirituality started at an early age, influenced by the teachings of Swami Sivananda, whom he met in Rishikesh. Under Sivananda’s guidance, he embraced sannyasa, taking vows of renunciation and adopting the name Vishnudevananda, meaning “bliss of Lord Vishnu.”

As a young boy he exhibited his strong will and determination towards life. In his teenage years without much financial resources for a university education, he joined the army. It was by accident that a piece of paper about the yoga guru Swami Sivananda got his attention.

A pamphlet from Swami Sivananda which began by saying: “An ounce of practice is better than tons of theory” inspired Swami Vishnu to meet with him personally. The practicality and inherent power of these simple words lead Swami Vishnu to travel across India during a 36-hour leave to meet Swami Sivananda in the far north of India in Rishsikesh in the Himalayas. On his second visit, Swami Sivananda invited the young man to remain at the Ashram to study and practice Yoga and with no hesitation Swami Vishnu accepted the offer.

 

Becoming the World Teacher:

After years of rigorous Hatha-Yoga practice and Karma yoga (selfless service), his master Swami Sivananda was convinced that Swami Vishnu was the chosen one to bring the message of peace , health and wellness to the world. With Swami Sivananda’s blessing, Swami Vishnu traveled to the West and spread his teachings for the benefit of humanity.  Swami Vishnu’s limitless energy, knowledge and profound inspiration for peace, harmony and well-being has captured the imagination of tens of thousands of people around the world.

The Mission of Peace:

Swami Vishnudevananda’s dedication to peace was profound. His concern for global harmony led him to unconventional methods to spread his message. In 1971, he embarked on a unique mission that would earn him his nickname. He flew over conflict zones like the Berlin Wall, Belfast, and the Suez Canal, dropping flowers and peace leaflets from his small aircraft. This act of symbolic peace-making was not just a demonstration of his commitment but also a dramatic statement to the world about the need for unity and understanding beyond borders.

Political instability and global conflict mobilised Swami Vishnu’s plan for more peace flights. In September 1983 Swami Vishnu flew over the Berlin Wall from West to East and landed an ultralight glider in an East Berlin field. He held a Global Village Peace Festival alongside the Berlin Wall in which he walked across hot coals to demonstrate strength of mind. After his flight in West Berlin he said in a statement that “The only hope for peace is when we recognise the unity of mankind”.

He neither had passport nor visa, nor did he have permission of the authorities for his flight in a red and yellow Quicksilver ultralight aircraft. When asked why travel without a passport he said “Birds fly from country to country without recognising state borders and without passports and visas”.

International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center:

Swami Vishnudevananda was a prolific teacher of yoga. He established the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres, which eventually grew into a global network of ashrams and centers dedicated to the practice of yoga and Vedanta philosophy. His book, “The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga,” became a cornerstone for many Western practitioners, introducing millions to the benefits of yoga.

The International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres, is today a global organization with its head quarters in Val-Morin, Quebec, Canada. It has 20 yoga centres, 9 ashrams and several affiliated centres across the world.

Swami Vishnudevananda’s message of peace, unity, and spiritual health continues to resonate. His approach combined physical yoga practices with philosophical teachings, aiming not just for personal enlightenment but also for global peace. His life exemplifies how spiritual practices can transcend traditional boundaries, both physical and ideological, to foster a message of universal love and harmony.

The story of the Flying Swami is more than just an account of a man who flew over war zones to drop flowers. It’s a narrative about the lengths one might go to promote peace, the integration of spiritual life with worldly action, and the enduring legacy of a teacher whose methods were as unconventional as his message was profound. His flights over troubled lands were not only acts of peace but also acts of spiritual defiance against the divisions of the world, making him a unique figure in the tapestry of modern spiritual leaders