Bhavnas (भावना)
"The 12 Contemplations"
Contemplations that rewire how the soul sees itself and the world, loosening the grip of attachment through the lens of Anekantavada.
The Twelvefold Path
The journey from the external impermanence to the internal eternal light.
Impermanence
Reflecting on the transient nature of all worldly objects and relationships. Nothing stays forever.
No Refuge
Recognizing that in the moment of transition, only one's own purity of soul is a true refuge.
Wordly Existence
Contemplating the endless cycle of birth, life, and death that the soul undergoes due to karma.
Solitude
"I am born alone, I die alone. My karma is mine alone to bear and to shed."
Realizing that the soul is fundamentally solitary in its journey towards liberation, encouraging self-reliance.
Separateness
Differentiating the eternal soul from the physical body. They are as distinct as water and oil.
Impurity
Contemplating the impurity of the physical body to reduce vanity and physical attachment.
Inflow
Understanding the channels through which karma flows into the soul via our thoughts and actions.
Stoppage
Meditating on the methods to block the inflow of new karma through discipline and mindfulness.
Shedding
Reflecting on the methods and importance of shedding old accumulated karmas from the soul.
Universe
Contemplating the structure, nature, and vastness of the universe and our place within it.
Rarity of Enlightenment
Realizing how rare it is for a soul to attain the human form and the path to spiritual awakening.
The Nature of Truth
Meditating on the true nature of the self and the eternal principles of the universe.
Which contemplation does
your soul require today?
Deepen Your Practice
The Bhavnas are not just thoughts to be understood, but rhythms to be felt. Download our guided manuscript for daily reflection, containing the original Sanskrit verses and modern interpretations for the householder.