Brahmananda (21 January 1863 – 10 April 1922), born Rakhal Chandra Ghosh , was one of the direct disciples of Ramakrishna and the first president of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission. He was born in Sikra Kulingram near Basirhat, Kolkata. Ramakrishna recognised him as his ‘spiritual son’. He became the first president of the mission. Known as “Raja Maharaj” (chief administrator), he was largely responsible for the initial development of the mission, which was remiss due to the death of Vivekananda.
If a man truly longs for God,if he sincerely desires to practise spritual disciplines,he is bound to find an illumined guru.That disciple who has the grace of the guru knows the path.Let him follow it diligently.
The spiritual aspirant should eat very little food after sunset.Begin by taking three-fourths of your usual amount,then reduce the quantity to one-half.In the beginning you may notice it,but the body will soon adjust itself,and remain healthy and active.
Meditation is not such an easy matter.When you have eaten too much,the mind becomes restless.Also unless you keep lust,anger,greed,and other such passions under control,the mind will remain unsteady.How can you meditati with an unsteady mind?
….avoid exciting food,over-sleep,over-exercise,laziness,bad company,and evil conversations.If you indulge in idle talk,your brain gets excited and you cannot control your thoughts.
It is wise to go occasionally to places of pilgrimage and live there for some time.The holy atmosphere and change of scenery are aids to the health of the body and mind.These places are also conducive to meditation.
