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serve as a reminder of the way things really are and enlarge our perspective. They are designed to make us detached and passion-free in our approach to solving the problems of life.
The practice of the following major rituals is yet another technique to control Kashäyäs.
Samayik (48 minute meditation to improve self awareness) - This daily ritual calms the mind and one's inner self. It also improves clarity of thought and helps us gain equanimity. Pratikraman (Introspection and asking for forgiveness for one's mistakes) - This is an extremely powerful tool because it provides an opportunity to acknowledge one's faults and seek forgiveness. Lasting for approximately 1 hour, this ritual is recommended for every morning and evening. If not feasible, then a longer version is recommended every fortnight, every 4 months, or once every
year at the minimum. • Daily reminder of 12 Bhavanas (Reflections) • Paryushan (Festival of Forgiveness) observed for 8 days every year. • Das Lakshana (Festival of spiritual attributes) observed for 10 days every year.
The above practices-if carried out consciously and regularly-have the power to make one passion free. They have the power to bring out divinity from us and make us more humble in our dealings with other human beings. Every one of them has a purpose and has an additive value, the sum total of which could have a profound impact on us.
I asked a Jain scholar about 35 years ago if he had any simple advice for me to control emotions. His answer was short but very powerful. He said: "Watch your thoughts." I did not understand the message at the time, but looking back, I feel his message showed a deep insight.
His message said loud and clear: "Thinking is every thing. Every thought has karmic consequences." Perhaps he knew that most human minds are driven by Kashayas and watching and recognizing them would be an excellent first step towards winning them over.
