Practice

Spiritual Practices

The disciplines through which seekers in Sanatan Dharma turn philosophy into lived experience. Each practice here explains what it is, who it suits, and how to begin, so you can choose a path that fits your temperament and stage of life.

Japa

जप

Repetitive chanting of sacred mantras, often with a mala (prayer beads).

meditative
devotional
accessible

Dhyana

ध्यान

Meditation practice cultivating sustained, focused awareness.

meditative
foundational
yogic

Kirtan

कीर्तन

Devotional call-and-response singing of sacred names and hymns.

devotional
communal
musical

Puja

पूजा

Formal worship ritual honoring the Divine through offerings and ceremony.

ritualistic
devotional
traditional

Seva

सेवा

Selfless service offered as spiritual practice and worship.

active
karma-yoga
accessible

Svadhyaya

स्वाध्याय

Self-study through sacred texts and introspection.

intellectual
contemplative
foundational

Pranayama

प्राणायाम

Breath regulation techniques that harness vital life force (prana) for physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual awakening.

yogic
foundational
meditative

Yoga as Sadhana

योग साधना

Physical yoga practice as spiritual discipline, not merely exercise.

embodied
disciplined
systematic

Vrat / Upavasa

व्रत / उपवास

Sacred fasting and vows as purification and devotional practice.

purifying
disciplined
traditional