On Hinduism

Hindu daily rituals include Pancha Karma (5 coveted aspects):

1. Taking shower (ablution)
2. Meditate (controlled breathing, mantra chanting)
3. Tarpan (offering to God, guru, ancestors): Could include water, food, lamp-lighting, incense, creating a pious environment
4. Yoga: Establishing connection between mind, body, and higher learning
5. Contemplation (focused deliberation, self-reflection)

The 7 days of the week are dedicated to invoking various virtues via worshipping energy sources (manifestation of Shiva for cosmic & inner balance, manifestation of Lakshmi for expansive prosperity via pious means, manifestation of Sun for vital energy, etc).

Other reading material: Atharva Veda
Relevant videos:

Contributor: Soma Chatterjee

Location of this post (19a): https://www.hinduspeakers.org/ufaqs/are-there-hindus-daily-and-weekly-rituals/

The word ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj’, meaning ‘to join’ or ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite’. Yoga is essentially a practice and a spiritual discipline to reach your inner consciousness, to touch the non-physical dimensions (beyond body, mind and emotions) that we call the soul or atman.

Yoga, as posture and meditation, is the practical branch of a wider school that also includes philosophical inquiry and religious ritual practices. All these branches form the core of Hinduism.

As you gain understanding of Hinduism and Yoga, you will understand Yoga is a personal tool for self break away from the cycles of birth and death and to unite with Divine. As such, Yoga and Hinduism are inseparable from each other, the way Gravity is inseparable from the Physical realm of this Universe.

Unfortunately this question comes up because Yoga in the Western world has been confined to the Asanas (physical postures) that have gained popularity and wider adoption through the fitness studios for the physical wellbeing it brings. However, it limits and devoids one of the full potential Yoga can bring in attaining peace, joy, happiness, calmness and realization that one’s inner self is nothing but the manifestation of omnipresent God. 

It should be called out that Hinduism doesn’t ask Yoga practitioners to follow or convert to Hinduism, rather encourages all seekers to practice Yoga as a means of spiritual discovery and realization. As such, while Yoga belongs to the world, it finds its roots and essence in Hinduism and two can not and should not be seen separately.

This is time to recognize the roots of Yoga to its Hindu origin so it can be brought in its full glory by the Masters and Enlightened Gurus, rather than by the charlatans or self-proclaimed Yoga teachers who learn through textbooks or through limited training. 

.Other reading material: Short answers to real questions about Hinduism, The Origins and Ownership of Yoga

Relevant videos:

Contributor: Vikas Gupta

Location of this post (23b): https://www.hinduspeakers.org/ufaqs/is-yoga-a-hindu-practice/

Meditation (dhyana) in Hinduism is a practice that helps you become the master of your mind, body, and emotions. Your mind, body, and emotions are your tools. You are meant to be in charge of them, not the other way around.

There are many ways to meditate, for example: OM/AUM chanting, chakra meditation, focussing on one’s ishtadev (who you identify as God) such as Lord Krishna with Hare Rama Hare Krishna mahamantra, singing devotional songs and so on. The the goal is the same: moving beyond your mind-body-emotions and ultimately realizing God and the true nature of your soul (moksha).

Other reading material: Purpose of meditation, Sadhguru-Yoga for Beginners , How do I meditate #78

Relevant videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGosHULQQk0, Hinduism Q & A: What is Meditation , 

Contributor: Swati Sugandhi

Location of this post (23d): https://www.hinduspeakers.org/ufaqs/what-is-meditation/