Manana – to reflect

«To inquire in solitude into the significance of śravaṇa is manana» (Paingala Upanishad, 3.3).

Shravana is listening. In the Vedic education system, the student first listens carefully to what the teacher says and only then, in solitude, investigates what he has heard. Basically he mulls over what was said.

Manana is reflecting, pondering, cogitating, in a certain sense also brooding and it is precisely for this last meaning that I have chosen it for you, Leo. What happens in this period brings you back in thought to events for which you feel nostalgia or regret. The discouragement of this period leads you to linger on such thoughts for a long time and if someone tries to make you think differently, not only do you not listen to him, but you raise yourself up to defend the justice of your brooding. Listen first and then possibly brood!

IN PRACTICE  

Karna kriyā, purification of the ears

A purifying gesture to open the hearing. You can see how to do it here.

Awareness exercise

How many times have you happened to immediately think of “yes, but” while someone is talking to you? Pay attention and try to avoid it for this month.

Mantra of the month

«Listen and then think».