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Just like the historical Sakyamuni Buddha, Norman Paulsen, one of Paramahansa Yogananda’s foremost disciples in the path of Kriya Yoga, has written about the importance of the Sacred Eightfold Path in his book “Sacred Science”.

Essentially, our lives are a dynamic combination of inner and outer experiences, and so from the perspective of “principle”, the Eightfold path helps us move forward, just like the twelve virtues that he describes in “Sacred Science” also. It is very important to have a regular meditation and/or prayer practice in one’s life, nonetheless, modern society can surely take its toll on us - with seemingly greater and greater challenges to pay bills, fulfill job expectations, take care of our families and friends and spiritual community, etc. So, if we can try to incorporation these “principles” within our everyday experiences, then these normally mundane activities become sanctified and we can actually see them as opportunity for spiritual growth.

Here are the Eightfold Path Essentials outlines by Norman Paulsen in “Sacred Science”:

1. Meditation: Silence & stillness are ours to claim always, amidst all external change.

2. Conduct: Please see my previous posting about the “twelve virtues”.

3. Study: It is important to read good books & bring quality information to your mind.

4. Speech: Let us restrain our tongues from negative speech, always.

5. Association: It is better to have one good friend than ten bad ones.

6. Nourishment: Eat a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables.

7. Work: Through work you will eventually experience the One Universal Self.

8. Recreation: Enjoy the beach, the mountains, the countryside, etc. when possible.

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