Stress Relief Through a Change in Perspective: Sirshree Calls for a Broader View of Life
More than 30,000 seekers participated online and at MaNaN Ashram on Sinhagad Road in Pune in a special spiritual guidance programme focused on stress management, mindfulness, inner peace and maintaining happiness during difficult situations. The programme was conducted under the guidance of Sirshree, founder of Tej Gyan Foundation.
Sirshree Highlights the Role of Witness Consciousness
A key message during the programme was the importance of Sakshi Bhav, or witness consciousness, in dealing with mental stress. Sirshree encouraged participants to observe situations, thoughts and emotions without becoming completely identified with them.
According to the guidance shared during the session, developing the habit of observing one’s experiences can help create a pause between an event and the response to it. This can allow people to deal with challenging circumstances with greater calm and awareness rather than reacting immediately.
‘I Am Not the Body, I Am Mahayog’
Sirshree used the example of a clock to explain the idea of Yoga and interdependence. A clock is made up of several individual components, but the separate parts do not function as a clock unless they work together.
He related this example to human existence, explaining that the body, senses, mind, thoughts and experiences are interconnected. Together, they form what he described as a ‘Mahayog’.
The message encouraged participants to look beyond a narrow identification with the physical body and consider the wider connection between different aspects of their existence. Sirshree said that this broader view can support greater self-awareness and a more balanced approach to life.
Complete Understanding Before Making Decisions
“Understand the complete picture, then live and make decisions” was another central message of the programme.
Sirshree pointed out that decisions based on incomplete information or a single incident can often lead to confusion and mental pressure. Looking at a situation from a wider perspective can help people avoid immediate conclusions and respond with greater clarity.
He also presented a different way of looking at problems. A difficult situation, he explained, may contain not only a challenge but also a possible solution, learning opportunity or step towards personal growth. Viewing circumstances in this manner can change how a person responds to setbacks.
Overthinking and Comparison Can Add to Mental Stress
The programme addressed several mental patterns that can affect peace of mind, including attachment, ego, comparison, revenge and overthinking.
Sirshree particularly spoke about the impact of repeatedly thinking about past events. Going over the same incident again and again can increase mental pressure without changing what has already happened.
Acceptance was presented as one way of dealing with such situations. Accepting the reality of an event does not necessarily mean agreeing with it, but can help an individual stop fighting internally with what has already occurred.
The session linked acceptance with mindfulness, stress management and the development of greater inner stability.
Excessive Mobile Use Also Discussed
The use of mobile phones was another subject addressed during the programme. Sirshree cautioned that excessive engagement with mobile devices can make it harder for individuals to turn their attention inward.
Constant digital stimulation can also reduce opportunities for quiet reflection and self-observation. The discussion encouraged participants to become more conscious of their technology habits while making space for practices that support awareness and mental calm.
Live Meditation and 16-Week Practice
As part of the programme, participants took part in a live guided meditation session. They were also encouraged to continue the practice regularly for the next 16 weeks.
The programme brought together discussions on meditation, mindfulness, witness consciousness, acceptance, positive thinking and self-awareness. The central message was that changing the way a person observes and interprets situations can influence how they experience stress and respond to everyday challenges.
With participation from more than 30,000 seekers across online and offline platforms, the Pune programme focused on practical spiritual guidance aimed at helping people develop a calmer and broader approach to life.
