Is it essential to leam Yoga from a Guru, who has himself done Yoga Sadhana and has achieved success in it?
A. Yes, one needs the guidance of a Guru. But he can do a lot at home itself and gradually evolve. The world is a great teacher. You can leam ever so many valuable lessons from it. While leading a householder’s life you can develop many virtues. Self control should be practised while living in the world of temptations. You can do Japa, Asanas, Pranayama and meditation at home. Lead a simple and austere life. Be honest and charitable. Induce your wife too to read religious books like the Ramayana, the Gita, etc. Thus you can prepare yourself gradually for the rigid life of a Sannyasin. Maintain a spiritual diary and send it to me for review. Come here for your holidays and undergo the necessary training and discipline. If you suddenly desert your family you shall be giving a shock to them. Let it be gradual: in the course of some years all bonds will be broken, when you can completely devote yourself to Sadhana.
