Time for Yourself
In the constant motion of life, we often forget the most essential person in our journey — our own self. Responsibilities, relationships, ambitions, and daily routines consume our attention so completely that we rarely pause to simply be with ourselves. Yet, within this fast-moving world, taking time for oneself is not a luxury; it is a deep spiritual necessity. According to the teachings of Swami Shivkrupanandji and the path of Himalayan Samarpan Dhyanyog, time spent with oneself is not an escape from life, but a return to life’s essence.
When we sit in silence, away from distractions, we begin to hear the quiet voice within — the voice that is often buried under layers of thoughts, emotions, and external noise. In those moments, we are no longer playing roles or fulfilling expectations; we are simply present as we are. Swamiji lovingly reminds us that this time is not about doing, achieving, or proving anything. It is about allowing the inner journey to begin — a journey back to the true self.
In the practice of Samarpan Dhyanyog, the emphasis is on surrendering to the Gurutattva and becoming aware of the soul’s presence within. When we give ourselves even a few minutes each day to sit in this awareness, we begin to reconnect with the divine source that always resides within us. This connection doesn’t require rituals or rigid techniques. It is natural, effortless, and deeply fulfilling. As Swamiji teaches, simply sitting with a pure intention and open heart invites grace to flow and the inner transformation to begin.
Time for oneself is time to observe, to reflect, and to let go. In silence, we start seeing our inner patterns — our reactions, fears, and attachments. These are not seen to judge or suppress but to understand and transcend. The world constantly pushes us outward, asking us to perform and adapt. But in our moments of solitude, we realise that we are more than our name, profession, or personality. We are consciousness itself — vast, silent, and blissful.
Swamiji often says that in order to give light to the world, we must first light the lamp within. If we are disconnected from ourselves, we cannot truly connect with others or with life itself. Taking time for oneself through meditation becomes an act of deep self-care and spiritual responsibility. It is in these quiet pauses that we gather strength, clarity, and love that naturally begins to radiate into everything we do.
Many people feel guilty for taking time for themselves, believing it is selfish or unproductive. But the truth is quite the opposite. When we care for our inner well-being, we become more balanced, compassionate, and resilient in our outer lives. We begin to respond rather than react, love without expectation, and live with greater awareness. This is the fruit of giving time to the soul — it aligns us with the natural rhythm of life and allows the best version of ourselves to emerge.
Swamiji’s life itself is a living example of deep inner connection. Despite immense responsibilities, he never wavered from his daily practice of meditation and inner silence. He teaches us that if we give even a little time to our inner self, life starts to change in subtle yet profound ways. Peace increases, anxiety decreases, and a sense of deep fulfilment replaces the restless chase for happiness outside.
In this modern world, where time feels scarce, it is even more important to claim a sacred space within our day — even just thirty minutes — to be with ourselves. Not to analyse, not to strive, but simply to sit and return home within. It is here, in this quiet meeting with the self, that the soul breathes, heals, and shines.
By taking time for ourselves, we honour the divinity within. We realise we are not separate from the Source, and that everything we seek already exists in the quiet presence of our own being. This time is not a pause from life — it is life, in its purest form.