The Bhagavad Gita dissolves separation between living beings and builds self-love by showing we all contain divine light from a single source. Krishna empowers Arjuna by explaining self-knowledge is a wonderful gateway to feel strong in battle. As living beings, we are most capable if we detach from perceptions about a separate ego’s existence by building familiarity with our deepest essence. The text advocates Krishna’s divinity needs to be “remembered”. Entering into every heart, Krishna empowers us to experientially understand Om, the eternal vibration which connects us all. The book paints a wonderful upside down tree image, which depicts roots existing at the highest level with branches below. Krishna is the essential root, existing in a completely lit realm. We contain a foundational light from our roots, but also create dark form. We practice meditation to realize their roots (Brahman) and see their highest self (Atman). Meditation practice aids our ability to recognize Krishna as the breath and vital force within. The degree to which we consistently practice is directly related to our ability to see Atman. We build awareness of inner light, as well as observe darkness which may cloud it.

The physical yoga practice is a strategy we use to observe everything. The degree to which we are open and aligned in our own vehicles, our light is vivid. We most effectively release illusionary self-perceptions which cloud understanding the true self. Every physical body is structured differently and it’s important to learn about how our individual bodies operate. Although it is seemingly contradictory, Krishna explains we must understand the conventional world to see ultimate connection. We practice to understand which movements bring freedom from the darkness surrounding the true self existing in everything. The heat we feel from flow is our light.

The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes pure action is a gateway to clearly see our relationship to Brahman. Those filled with sattva don’t seek a job with attachment to pleasurable results. Rather, the experienced practitioner is consistently impartial and conducts action to benefit all. In the text, Krishna emphasizes it’s important to perform “one’s own dharma”. The text did not mention how to identify one’s dharma. However, as we see our inner light and gently scan our experiences, we may build awareness about efficient methods to radiate compassion.

In the Purusha realm, emotions which cause attachment to the gunas shifting interactions cease. The physical yoga practice’s purpose is to understand union between body and mind happens in a space which doesn’t associate the self with temporary senations. We can view yoga as a type of nourishment. Sattvic people enjoy food that is mild. The alternative two gunas represent the two extremes (rajas and tamas) which perpetuate disease. Neither extreme ascetics nor indulgence aid wellness. It is important to detach from the shifting guna states and select a middle path. Krishna explains Arjuna is strongest with a mentality grounded in equanimity. With strong self-understanding, we abide within ourselves and do not vacillate.