The universal power which sustains life and maintains us at every level — spiritually, mentally, emotionally and materially — is called higher consciousness. We all can always have direct access to higher consciousness.

Our ego is sense of who we are — thoughts, desires, personality as shaped by our mind. Yogis consider ego to be a false sense of self because it’s colored by our experiences and view of the world.

Yogis define love as giving of the self. Bhakti yoga helps us to open our hearts, become more selfless and love unconditionally.

Just as physics deals with the laws that govern the physical world (such as those of gravity or the properties of waves), metaphysics describes what is beyond physics — the nature and origin of reality itself, the immortal soul and the existence of a supreme being.

Our soul, atman or inner self is the presence of the Divine within us that yogis say is our true self. Many yoga meditation, life skill and pranayam practices are done to help us have an experience of our soul.

Enjoy these videos, talks and writings on afflictions. The five afflictions, also called kleshas, are the main causes of all suffering that yoga helps us overcome.

There is the mortal mind, which is filled with thoughts. Universal mind is pure, infinite consciousness. Many yoga practices help us transcend our mortal mind and experience universal mind.

Yogis consider Christ an incarnation of God and a spiritual teacher. Christianity is based on his teachings which include the golden rule — treating others as you would have them treat you.

These are meditations or life skill techniques in which Ramakrishna Ananda guides you through the entire practice.

Faith is having trust or confidence in a higher power, our path and ourselves. Ultimately faith links even the simplest practice to a bigger experience that sustains us throughout our days.