Sadhguru’s Wisdom on Life

"Yoga is not about being superhuman; it's about realizing being human is super." - Sadhguru

Well-being Defined by Sadhguru:

Very simply, well-being is just a deep sense of pleasantness within.

If your body feels pleasant, we call this health, if it becomes very pleasant, we call this pleasure.

If your mind becomes pleasant, we call this peace, if it becomes very pleasant, we call this joy.

If your emotions become pleasant, we call this love, if they become very pleasant, we call this compassion.

If your life energies become pleasant, we call this bliss, if they become very pleasant, we call this ecstasy.

This is all that you are seeking. Pleasantness within.

…essentially, all human experience is only a question of pleasantness and unpleasantness in varying degrees.

Why do you need to be pleasant within? The answer is self evident - when you are in a pleasant inner state, you are naturally pleasant to everyone and everything around you, no scripture or philosophy is needed to instruct you to be good to others, it is a natural outcome when you are feeling good within yourself, inner pleasantness is a surefire insurance for the making of a peaceful society and a joyful world.

Who is Sadhguru?

Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic and visionary. Named one of India’s 50 most influential people, and recipient of 3 presidential awards, Sadhguru has touched the lives of millions worldwide through his transformational programs.? An internationally renowned speaker and author of the New York Times bestsellers "Inner Engineering" and "Karma," Sadhguru has been an influential voice at major global forums like the United Nations and the World Economic Forum, addressing issues as diverse as socioeconomic development, leadership and spirituality. He established Isha Foundation, a non-profit, volunteer-run organization supported by over 16 million volunteers worldwide, and has initiated several projects for social revitalization, education and the environment.

My Journey into Sadhguru's Wisdom

I recently came across a fascinating discussion between Joe Rogan and Sadhguru on the Joe Rogan Experience, and I was hooked right away. I was so engaged that I watched the entire three-hour conversation without losing interest. The insights and perspectives were so interesting that I ended up watching it twice and listening to it again within a few days. Curious to learn more, I decided to dive deeper by getting the Audible version of Sadhguru's book Inner Engineering.

Coming up:

• YouTube Video: Joe Rogan Experience #1791 - Sadhguru (~3 hours)
• YouTube Video: Key Topic Summaries
• Book Recommendation: Inner Engineering by Sadhguru

For the full experience, I strongly recommend watching the entire conversation between Joe Rogan and Sadhguru on YouTube. Sadhguru’s unique storytelling, humor, and insightful examples add layers to his teachings that can’t be fully captured in a summary. Below, you’ll find brief summaries of the key topics to refresh your memory after watching.

YouTube Video: Joe Rogan Experience #1791 - Sadhguru

?? Joe Rogan Experience #1791 - Sadhguru (~3 hours)

YouTube Video: Key Topic Summaries

Table of Contents

• Soil and Survival (0:37)
• Nutrition and Obesity (21:49)
• High Heel Life (23:22)
• Grounding (24:42)
• Pursuit of Happiness (29:52)
• Chemical Dependency (32:56)
• Heaven on Earth (36:21)
• Path to Inner Mastery (40:11)
• Tools for Inner Transformation (43:19)
• Practical Tools for Inner Stability (45:26)
• Instincts vs Human Behavior (49:11)
• Breaking Patterns (52:43)
• React vs Respond (54:48)
• The True Essence of Yoga (57:49)

Soil and Survival (0:37)

Sadhguru shares insights about the state of our planet, focusing on the health of our soil. His main message is clear: just as plants need healthy soil to thrive, all life on Earth is dependent on it.

• Soil Health in Crisis: Our soil is in serious trouble, weakened by years of unsustainable farming practices.
• Global Impact: If we continue on this path, the soil won’t support enough food production for future generations—a global issue that affects everyone.
• Farmer Struggles: Many farmers are losing hope as the costs of farming rise and soil fertility declines, making it harder to grow healthy crops.
• Challenges of Organic Farming: While organic farming is ideal, Sadhguru points out that it’s not practical on a large scale when trying to feed the global population.
• Declining Nutritional Value: The food we eat today isn’t as nutritious as it used to be because the soil has lost many essential nutrients, affecting the quality of fruits and vegetables.

Sadhguru’s wisdom reminds us of the deep connection between all life. The health of the soil directly impacts the health of the food we eat, and in turn, our own health. Soil is the foundation of life, often overlooked but crucial for our survival and well-being.

Nutrition and Obesity (21:49)

Sadhguru discusses the issue of obesity in the United States, pointing out that a significant portion of the population is overweight due to poor food choices.

• Nutrient Deficiency and Cravings: When food lacks essential nutrients, our body craves more food to meet its needs, leading to overeating and obesity.
• Impact of Sugary Foods: Foods high in sugar can trigger more cravings, creating a cycle of unhealthy eating.
• Modern Food Shortcomings: Fast and convenient foods often lack the nutrients our bodies need, leaving us unsatisfied and leading to overeating.
• Mindful Eating: Making mindful food choices is crucial to nourishing our bodies properly and preventing obesity.

Sadhguru’s wisdom serves as a reminder that our body’s health is closely linked to the quality of the food we eat. Eating nutritious food is key to keeping our bodies healthy and avoiding issues like obesity.

High Heel Life (23:22)

Sadhguru describes the "High Heel Life," a term he uses to illustrate how many people in urban areas have become disconnected from the earth and nature. Living in tall buildings, walking on concrete, and being insulated from the natural world, they lose touch with the soil and land that sustain life.

• Irony of Modern Trends: It’s ironic that activities meant to reconnect with nature, like walking barefoot or spending time in nature, have become paid experiences, highlighting our deep need to reconnect with the earth.
• Essential Earth Connection: Our bodies come from the earth and are sustained by it, so maintaining this connection is crucial for our well-being.
• Metaphor for Modern Living: The "High Heel Life" represents how modern living, with its focus on convenience and separation from nature, can distance us from the very things that nourish and support us.

Sadhguru emphasizes that true health and well-being are deeply tied to our relationship with the earth. We need to reconnect—both physically and spiritually—with the natural world.

Grounding (24:42)

Sadhguru dives into the concept of "Grounding," which involves physically connecting with the earth, like walking barefoot on grass or soil.

• Benefits of Grounding: Grounding helps neutralize the body’s electrical charge, bringing balance.
• Microbial Connection: It also reconnects us with soil microorganisms, which are related to those in our bodies and are vital for maintaining health and vitality.
• Link to Mental Health: The lack of micronutrients, linked to our disconnection from the earth, can contribute to mental health issues, a growing concern globally.
• Agricultural Soil Crisis: Soil is in its worst condition due to unsustainable practices, making it the most crucial area for change.
• Holistic Well-being: Reconnecting with the earth is essential not only for physical health but also for mental and overall well-being.

Sadhguru’s wisdom reveals how our disconnection from the soil and natural world is harming both our physical and mental health. Grounding is one way to restore this essential connection.

Pursuit of Happiness (29:52)

Sadhguru examines the concept of greed and its impact on human behavior and the world.

• Misguided Pursuit of Happiness: What we often label as greed is really just a misguided attempt to find happiness through money, possessions, or success.
• Destructive Behavior: The constant chase for external success can lead to actions that cause more harm than good, turning things upside down.
• Corporate Disconnect: In the business world, the pursuit of profit often turns into a game, causing people to lose sight of the broader impact of their actions.
• Core Issue: Many people tie their happiness to success, which creates a never-ending cycle of striving that comes at the expense of their well-being.
• True Contentment: Real happiness comes from within. Without inner peace, no amount of success or wealth will ever be enough.

Sadhguru’s wisdom reminds us that understanding where true happiness comes from is key. Real contentment isn’t found in external achievements or wealth, but within ourselves.

Chemical Dependency (32:56)

Sadhguru discusses how modern society has become heavily reliant on chemicals—for peace, joy, health, or even moments of happiness.

• Reliance on External Substances: Society’s dependency on chemicals like medication, alcohol, or other substances points to a deeper issue of seeking fulfillment outside ourselves.
• Collapse of Heaven Concept: As belief in heaven has faded, many people have started looking for satisfaction in the present, often through artificial means, which has led to more reliance on substances.
• Mismanagement of Internal Systems: The problem lies in not understanding or managing our internal systems, similar to being a bad CEO of your own body.
• Natural Chemical Factory: Our bodies can naturally produce the chemicals needed for joy, peace, and well-being, but society often neglects teaching us how to manage this internal "factory." Sadhguru emphasizes the importance of learning how to take control of your inner systems so you can experience life fully without depending on external substances.

Sadhguru’s insights remind us of the importance of self-awareness and self-management. True well-being comes from within; it’s about mastering yourself instead of relying on external fixes that only address symptoms rather than the real issues.

Heaven on Earth (36:21)

Sadhguru and Joe explore the concept of heaven and its relevance in the modern world, particularly why the traditional idea of heaven has lost its appeal among younger generations.

• Skepticism of Heaven: Many young people, especially atheists and agnostics, are skeptical of heaven, associating it with religion and a lack of tangible evidence.
• Collapse as Positive: Sadhguru views the decline of the traditional concept of heaven as beneficial, as it encourages a focus on living well in the present rather than aspiring to an afterlife.
• Heaven as a State of Being: Sadhguru suggests that heaven isn’t a far-off place but a state of being. If your body, mind, emotions, and energies are in a good place, you’re already in heaven.
• Creating Heaven on Earth: He points out that making the world a better place requires working together, but finding peace and happiness within yourself is something you can control.
• Focus on the Present: The discussion encourages taking charge of your well-being right now, instead of depending on the idea of heaven to bring you peace and happiness.

This conversation emphasizes the importance of living in the present and taking charge of your inner state to create your own version of heaven on earth, centered on personal well-being and happiness.

Path to Inner Mastery (40:11)

This part of the conversation dives into the complexities of human emotions, needs, desires, and mental health, and how finding inner peace can often feel out of reach.

• Struggles with Mental Health: Joe points out that while Sadhguru's ideas sound great, achieving inner peace and happiness can seem impossible for people dealing with mental health challenges or tough life situations.
• Right Path vs. Wrong Path: Sadhguru simplifies it by saying it’s not about something being easy or hard, but about being on the right path or the wrong one.
• Metaphor of the Potato Farmer: Sadhguru uses a metaphor of a farmer digging for apples to show how people often search for happiness in the wrong places.
• Control of Inner Experiences: He emphasizes that all our experiences—whether they bring joy or misery—come from within us, and we should learn to control our own thoughts, emotions, and energies.
• Conscious vs. Compulsive Living: Sadhguru points out that many people live reactively and impulsively, which he compares to being enslaved, and stresses the importance of making conscious choices in life.
• Self-Mastery and Conscious Living: The discussion emphasizes the importance of mastering your inner world to achieve true success and well-being, rather than letting external situations or past traumas control you.

This conversation shows how important it is to move from living on autopilot to living consciously, helping you take control of your inner world and find true peace and happiness.

Tools for Inner Transformation (43:19)

Joe Rogan asks Sadhguru what advice he would give to someone who has lived a life full of mistakes, regrets, or struggles like alcoholism or gambling, and now wants to find a path to consciousness, happiness, and peace.

• Human Capacity for Tools: Sadhguru points out that humans have a unique ability to use tools, which has helped us become the dominant species on the planet, even though we’re not the strongest physically.
• Managing the Inner World: He explains that just like we use tools to improve our external environment, there are also tools we can use to manage our internal world—our thoughts, emotions, and overall well-being.
• Complex Machinery of the Mind: Sadhguru compares the human mind and body to a complex machine that needs the right tools to function properly.
• Yoga and Meditation as Tools: The tools he’s talking about include practices like yoga and meditation, which are designed to help people take control of their inner experiences.
• Focus on Practical Techniques: Sadhguru reassures that by using these tools, anyone can achieve peace, joy, and love. He emphasizes the importance of practical techniques over just following philosophies or belief systems.

This discussion is a reminder that no matter what mistakes you’ve made, there are practical tools available to help you regain control of your life and reach a state of well-being.

Practical Tools for Inner Stability (45:26)

This part of the conversation is about the tools that can help people dealing with trauma, depression, or addiction, with a focus on how practical these tools are, rather than relying on moral or philosophical teachings.

• Isha Foundation’s Success: The success of the Inner Engineering program is based on its practical approach, which has connected with millions of people worldwide, gathering 2.2 billion video views and attracting over 16 million volunteers.
• Simple Yet Powerful Practices: Sadhguru explains that these tools are simple practices, like how to sit, breathe, and manage yourself, designed to bring about inner stability, clarity, and well-being.
• Accessibility to All: These tools don’t require you to follow any particular belief system, making them available to anyone, no matter their background or current struggles.
• Universal Applicability: The focus is on self-management and empowerment, helping individuals take control of their inner world and improve their overall life experience.

This segment shows that practical tools for managing your inner life are available to everyone, and using them can lead to a state of peace and fulfillment.

Instincts vs Human Behavior (49:11)

Sadhguru uses an analogy involving animals to explain the differences between natural instincts and human behavior.

• Animal vs. Human Behavior: Sadhguru explains that in the wild, animals only eat what they need and then move on. But when they’re influenced by humans, they can start to develop excessive behaviors, much like how humans often struggle with overindulgence and compulsiveness.
• Human Experience is Internal: He emphasizes that human experiences, including pain and joy, come from within us and aren’t determined by what happens outside.
• The Power of Perception: Sadhguru points out that the pain caused by words isn’t from the words themselves but from how we react to them, showing how mental and emotional pain is often something we create ourselves.
• Physical vs. Mental Pain: He explains the difference between physical pain, which is a survival mechanism, and mental pain, which usually comes from compulsive reactions.
• Importance of Self-Awareness: Understanding these differences can help people take control of their inner experiences, reducing unnecessary suffering and leading to a more peaceful life.

This discussion highlights the importance of being self-aware and managing how we react to things that happen around us, which can help us live a more peaceful and fulfilling life.

Breaking Patterns (52:43)

Joe Rogan asks Sadhguru how someone can break free from deeply ingrained patterns of thinking and behavior that are hard to change.

• Patterns Beyond Psychology: Sadhguru explains that these patterns aren’t just psychological; they’re also embedded in the body’s chemical, energy, and karmic structures. These patterns shape a person’s behavior, often without them even realizing it.
• Conscious Creation of New Patterns: He emphasizes that just as we unconsciously create these patterns, we can also consciously create new ones. The real challenge is breaking away from deeply ingrained habits, which is like trying to steer out of deep ruts in a road.
• Willingness to Change: Sadhguru highlights that being willing to change is crucial. Without true commitment, even the best tools and techniques won’t work, and people might accidentally reinforce the very patterns they’re trying to break.
• Tools and Technologies for Transformation: There are various tools and technologies that can help break these patterns, but they need to be used correctly and with genuine intent.

Sadhguru’s response emphasizes the need for conscious effort and a real willingness to change. Breaking free from deeply rooted patterns takes inner determination and the right kind of support, leading to meaningful and lasting transformation.

React vs Respond (54:48)

This part of the conversation is about the difference between reacting and responding in life.

• Reaction vs. Response: The key difference is whether you act out of unconscious habit (reaction) or from a place of conscious choice (response).
• Enslavement by Reaction: When you react to something, especially something you don’t like, you let external factors control your behavior. Sadhguru points out that this is a form of enslavement because the person or situation that triggered the reaction ends up controlling you.
• Power of Conscious Response: On the other hand, responding consciously means keeping control over your actions and emotions, no matter what’s happening around you. You choose how to act instead of being driven by impulse.
• Anecdote of Self-Mastery: Sadhguru shares a story about a yogi who stayed in control of his actions even when he was verbally abused, showing that true power comes from mastering yourself.
• Staying on Your Path: Reacting impulsively can take you off course, making you vulnerable to other people’s influence. But responding consciously helps you stay on your chosen path, allowing you to reach your goals and live life on your own terms.
• Success Through Conscious Action: Sadhguru suggests that people who achieve success by reacting or by luck often fear losing what they’ve gained. In contrast, those who succeed through conscious action understand the process and can recreate their success if needed, leading to greater confidence and stability.

This discussion emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and conscious living. By choosing to respond instead of react, you stay in control of your life and direction, leading to more fulfillment and success.

The True Essence of Yoga (57:49)

To start practicing yoga and connect with life and the world in a new way, you don’t need to follow a strict routine or adopt a specific mindset. While the word "yoga" often conjures images of complex postures, its true essence is "union." This means realizing that we are deeply connected to everything in creation, including the soil, the cosmos, and every particle of existence. This understanding can profoundly transform how we live.

• Misconceptions about Yoga: In the U.S., yoga is often misunderstood as simply a practice of twisting your body into difficult shapes. However, the deeper purpose of yoga is to achieve a state of union with the cosmos, recognizing that everything is interconnected.
• Childhood Curiosity: Sadhguru shares a personal story from his childhood when his deep curiosity about existence led him to closely observe and question the world. This curiosity helped him realize the interconnectedness of all life.
• Geometric Alignment with the Universe: True yoga is about aligning yourself geometrically with the universe, reducing internal friction, and functioning at your highest potential. This alignment allows you to transcend the limitations of your body and mind.
• Practical Approach to Yoga: Starting yoga doesn’t necessarily mean doing physical postures; it can also involve shifting your awareness, recognizing your connection to everything around you, and expanding your sensory perception. Sadhguru demonstrates this through a simple experiment, showing how our sense of self is defined by our sensory boundaries.
• Breaking Down Boundaries: Yoga aims to dissolve the boundaries that limit us, enabling us to experience the universe as part of ourselves. This realization naturally leads to more harmonious actions and reduces the need for moral teachings because you wouldn’t harm something you see as part of yourself.

Yoga is not just about physical exercise; it’s a profound transformation in how we perceive and interact with the world. It’s a path to realizing that being human, with all its complexities, is an incredible experience.

The Four Yogas

To further understand the essence of yoga, Sadhguru explains that there are four primary paths, each catering to different aspects of human nature:

• Karma Yoga (The Yoga of Action): This path focuses on selfless action and duty. It involves performing one’s work without attachment to the outcomes, helping to reduce the ego and purify the heart. Karma Yoga uses our actions to transcend limitations and realize our connection to everything.
• Bhakti Yoga (The Yoga of Devotion): Bhakti Yoga is centered around devotion and love for the divine. It involves surrendering to a higher power and cultivating an emotional connection with the divine. This path aims to dissolve the boundaries between yourself and the divine through intense love and devotion.
• Gnana Yoga (The Yoga of Knowledge): Gnana Yoga emphasizes the path of wisdom and knowledge. It involves deep inquiry into the nature of the self and the universe, leading to enlightenment through understanding and self-realization. This path encourages intellectual exploration to grasp the truth of existence.
• Kriya Yoga (The Yoga of Internal Action): Kriya Yoga focuses on the path of energy and transformation. It involves specific practices and techniques to control the energy flow within your body, aiming to achieve higher states of consciousness and inner well-being. This path is about mastering the energies that govern our physical and mental processes.

By understanding these four paths—Karma, Bhakti, Gnana, and Kriya Yoga—you can choose the approach that resonates most with you and begin your journey toward union and the ultimate realization of life’s interconnectedness.

Conclusion

This conversation between Sadhguru and Joe Rogan dives deep into the fundamental aspects of life, touching on everything from the health of our planet to the intricacies of human behavior. Sadhguru’s teachings remind us that true well-being begins from within—whether it's how we connect with the earth, the food we consume, or the way we manage our thoughts and emotions. His emphasis on self-awareness, inner mastery, and understanding our interconnectedness offers wisdom that is both timeless and profoundly practical.

By embracing these insights, we have the opportunity to create a life that is more balanced, fulfilling, and joyful. It’s a journey that not only enhances our personal growth but also contributes to the well-being of the world around us.

"Yoga is not about being superhuman; it's about realizing being human is super." - Sadhguru

Book Recommendation:

If Sadhguru’s ideas resonate with you, I highly recommend exploring them further by reading his book Inner Engineering. Personally, I prefer the Audible audiobook, which is narrated by Sadhguru himself.

???? "Inner Engineering" by Sadhguru

Purpose Behind This Newsletter:

For Me: Document life lessons for future reflection.

For Maya: Wisdom for my daughter to draw upon in the future.

For Growth: Improve my thinking, communication, and creativity through the practice of writing and connecting my favorite quotes, life lessons and books.

For You: Perspectives that might resonate with your life and leadership journey.

Frequency of Posts:

LinkedIn has you pick frequency (daily, weekly, biweekly, monthly) of posts when creating a newsletter, however, I'm not sure I'll be following one of these options. I'll simply be posting when I feel like it. This is a passion project with no time constraints or pressure.

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Hitesh Patel

#Sadhguru #JoeRogan #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #TimelessWisdom