Spiritual Guidance from Babaji: Honoring Time, Daily Practice, and Inner Stillness
In this Sunday satsang, Babaji, the spiritual guide of Sonoma Ashram and an initiated monk of the Aghor lineage, offers teachings rooted in the same tradition as the historic ashram in Varanasi. Speaking from Sonoma, Babaji reminds disciples that even as he returns to India—where the lineage began—our spiritual connection continues uninterrupted through the blessing of modern technology.
The Sacred Relationship With Time (Kal)
Babaji emphasizes the yogic understanding of Kal, the Sanskrit word for time as well as death. He explains that the goddess Kali represents the presiding deity of time—not as a fearsome figure, but as the compassionate mother holding each devotee with care.
Babaji encourages practitioners to examine their personal relationship with time:
-
How do we use the quiet of winter?
-
Do we “kill time,” or do we recognize that time is what shapes our life?
-
Are we choosing anger, jealousy, or victimhood—or consciously choosing presence and freedom?
“I Am”: The Power of the Third Word
Continuing last week’s theme, Babaji teaches the importance of the phrase “I am…”
Everything after those two words becomes the reality we inhabit.
“I am happy,” “I am peaceful,” “I am content”—the third word gives direction to our inner life.
Recommended Readings for the Winter
Babaji recommends two foundational texts connected to the Aghor lineage and the traditional ashram in Varanasi:
-
Oasis of Stillness
Written by Babaji over 30 years ago after years of service to his Guru. Ideal for those attending Sonoma Ashram’s satsangs to understand the roots of these teachings. -
Vivek (Essence of Discernment)
A translation of teachings by Baba Kinaram, the 15th-16th century founder of the Aghor lineage in Varanasi.
Co-translated with Dr. Bettina Bäumer, a renowned scholar living next to the Aghor ashram in Varanasi.
This second book is recommended for advanced practitioners familiar with inner stillness and yogic philosophy.
The Role of Imagination and Mantra
Babaji describes how imagination shapes all of our emotional states, relationships, and spiritual experiences.
He urges practitioners to nourish imagination toward divinity, not fear or negativity.
He reminds students that the mantra received from one’s Guru is a sacred, private companion—a mitra, a friend—that guides the practitioner toward their own divine nature.
Morning Yogic Routine (Kriyas)
Babaji outlines a simple morning discipline that aligns the body and mind:
-
Wake gently and remember your mantra.
Take three conscious breaths while sitting in bed. -
Observe the breath and nostrils.
Step onto the floor with the foot corresponding to the more open nostril to harmonize the day’s energy. -
Warm lemon water
Drink slowly to awaken digestion, cleanse the body, and create internal calm. -
Self-massage (Abhyanga)
A light sesame oil massage soothes the nervous system, improves circulation, and supports winter health. -
Stretching or simple yoga
Roll out a mat and move your body gently before engaging with the outer world.
These small actions—called kriyas—gradually transform one’s daily life.
The Importance of Satsang
In Kali Yuga, Babaji explains, satsang—good company, uplifting conversation, and spiritual community—is essential.
What we read, watch, and talk about shapes our inner state.
This mirrors the ancient philosophy practiced in the Aghor ashram in Varanasi, where community and purity of mind are central.
A New Vision for Sonoma Ashram
Babaji announces an upcoming project to build the new heart of Sonoma Ashram—a dedicated gathering space for satsang and meaningful community. He invites supporters to participate generously, affirming that this space will serve future generations and represent the living presence of Aghor teachings in the West.
Closing Blessing
Babaji concludes with gratitude and promises to continue sharing guidance as he transitions between Sonoma and India, carrying forward the unbroken spiritual stream that flows from the ancient ashram in Varanasi to the modern seeker.
