AboutWilliam Schindler, a.k.a. Brother William Expertise I can answer questions about Vedanta philosophy, Patanjali Yoga philosophy and practice, Tantra, Bhagavad-Gita, Upanishads, Vivekachudamani (Shankara`s Crest-jewel of Spritual Discrimination), Advaita (non-dualism), the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda tradition, Goddess worship, meditation practice, Hindu monasticism (sannyasa), and Sanskrit.
Experience I've been studying and practicing Vedanta and Tantra since 1969.
Organizations I'm the founder and spiritual director of Ashram West, a gay spiritual community based on traditional Hindu Tantra. I have been a member of the Vedanta Society of Southern California since 1969.
Publications I have three books in print: GAY TANTRA, ESSAYS ON GAY TANTRA, BLOOD OF THE GODDESS.
Education/Credentials I hold a B.A. in Sanskrit (UC Berkeley 1975) and an M.A. in clinical psychology (Antioch University 1986).
Question Hi there, I am wondering if there is a specific mudra or breathing exercise or meditation you can tell me of that will help me deal with a domineering intrusive father who keeps trying to control me. I would like to deal with this situation in a peaceful manner as often talking about it with him either keeps things the same or makes them worse so I am focusing now on working on myself from within so that my external reality changes. any help on this? thanks :)
Answer Dear NG,
Thank you for your question.
Spiritual issues are best handled with spiritual means, such as meditation, mantras, prayer, and worship. Psychological issues are best handled with psychotherapy. Family relationships are often complicated with a long history, and a trained therapist is the best expert to help you cope with this issue.
That said, there is a simple meditation you can do that may bring you some peace of mind. Before sitting for meditation practice it is good to wash minimally your hands and face, imagining as you do so that your body and mind are becoming pure. Seat yourself on a chair or on the floor in a comfortable, upright position from which you will not need to stir for the duration of the meditation. When you sit, begin by consciously releasing any tension in your body. Visualize in your heart a soothing, white light. Think of this as the light of peace, love, and healing. Visualize this light filling your whole being. Next project this light of peace and love for all beings in all ten directions, the eight points of the compass, above, and below. Be aware of any persons who have been occupying your thoughts, either positively or negatively, and send peace, love, and healing especially to them. Say silently or quietly, ”May all beings be happy. May all be free from disease. May all experience the Good. May none experience suffering.“ Visualize this light of peace shining from within your heart filling the whole world.
Practice this at least once or better twice daily, and see the result. Consider this practice an adjunct to psychotherapy.
