Awakening the Divine Spark Within – April Reflections
Opening Reflections
Welcome back to The Open Door, the monthly newsletter of the International Nath Order. Originally launched in the 1980s, we are reviving it now as a recurring newsletter to share deeper teachings and reflections. The Open Door will be issued on the first Wednesday of each month.
Each issue brings three core sections:
The Open Door is a monthly invitation to return to the source. It arrives to highlight the Scrolls, essays, and foundational writings that are always available on internationalnathorder.org.
Peace, Freedom, and Happiness to All.
Wisdom from the INO
Two timeless pieces from the INO offer guidance this month, inviting us to reflect on the divine essence already present within us and the subtle impediments that often veil it.
The Scroll of Esoteric Nath Wisdom
A conscious thinking power permeates the entire cosmos.
KKK Matrix
These modalities however must be embraced with sufficient intensity and devotion to catalyze the personal transformations…
Direct Practice
This month’s direct practice provides a simple, accessible entry point to deeper alignment, encouraging us to experiment freely and discover the transformative power of presence in local space.
Section XVIII from The Ainigmatikos
The practice of meditation is, in itself, one of the simplest processes.
The Loss of Ancient Wisdom in Modern Times
The inspiring concepts of the supreme deity and the cosmos belonged to India’s ancient past but is neither preached nor understood in the present India of modern industry, drink, drugs, overpopulation, and corrupt politicians.
Indeed, many have tried to dress up meditation and rhythmic breathing into complicated systems requiring expert instructions and a steady flow of sterling or dollars.
A sadhu can beg for food, but he cannot ask for money, even from close disciples. When asked to give instruction, he cannot ask for fees or any form of repayment, nor should he want to. One cannot break the fetter of rebirth and the world by wanting more of it. Much of the worldly energy of modern life is printed on paper as currency notes.
The Simplicity and Essence of Meditation
The practice of meditation is, in itself, one of the simplest processes, and it is also essential in the growth and expansion of magick power and harmony. A calm rhythmical breathing is required. This acts like a natural measuring gauge to indicate natural, normal calmness of mind and body. The more excited or stimulated the mind and body become, the faster the breathing. Any normal person can meditate with great profit and develop the magick of clear thinking, and even penetrate the deeper and less obvious aspects of occult science.
Meditation, to the INO, includes the rhythmic breathing, concentration of mind, and calmness of the physical and spiritual aspects of the body.
The Breath-Counting Technique
The means of producing the required concentration is by counting the breath as it goes in and out of the nostrils. Thus: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven—do not interrupt the breathing, and start again—one, two, three… This breathing and counting is a continuous process and can go on for a considerable period.
Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position on the floor, a mat, straw, or a thin cushion of the required size. It will take a little time to get used to the seat and sitting long periods. The worst obstacle is a wandering mind. Outside noises should not distract you.
Overcoming Distractions and Common Obstacles
Sometimes the counting goes well but, on occasion, you will suddenly become aware that you have gone too far and are counting twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-three. This will happen, but do not let it disturb you. Just switch back to counting from one to seven. This over-counting is due to the fact that the mind has wandered from the prescribed pattern of counting. The mind must remain awake and aware.
Sleep, trance, unconsciousness are not related to true meditation. Meditation gets more difficult to start as you get older, and in old age, it becomes impossible. In India, I meet so many people who express their great determination to get down to serious meditation later in life or when they retire. I remain silent, as any intention to delay does not indicate serious interest on their part.
A small or subdued light can be an asset. A small candle is also sufficient light.
In darkness, there may be more of a tendency to fall asleep. I concentrated on the morning and evening periods of twilight, and also suitable periods and opportunities in between. Once you get down to meditation and have had some practice, no time can be considered as unsuitable.
The Deeper Gifts and Cosmic Role of Meditation
Meditation will not only help in the intensification of insight and intuition, but will produce some wonders which are never experienced by ordinary people. It is the gateway to magick and magick powers. Of course, this development must also be related to the body and favorable change in health, but it should not be practiced only for health or for mundane objectives.
In the INO, the essential keyword to all our practices, ideas, and experiments is think. It will be quickly seen by Nathas that a calm, analytical, and tension-free mind is essential for clear, valid think. Also, in our divine aspects of the cosmos, meditation and think play important roles.
Do not let any aspect of meditation become a routine or lead to dullness. It must ever remain as the key to progress and better life, and on to the future beyond. It is not a religion and has no fixed dogmas. It is responsive to experimentation, variation, and testing.
When the five klesha are controlled or eliminated, it expands to infinity. Meditation will itself help to control the five kleshas.
It is the cascade or cosmic shower which will, like the Milky Way, descend and deluge your life with magick power and flow to benefit all mankind. This is the analogy of Shiva receiving the cosmic cascade on his head. It is the supreme initiation into higher life and outlook.
Meditation is the cauldron in which the divine gem of enlightenment is received. It impregnates the Dragon Seat and transforms it into a zone of power. It will be your secure defense against a hostile world. It is the alkahest or universal solvent, and the transmutation of base lead into purest gold.
Section XVIII is presented here in full from The Ainigmatikos by Shri Gurudev Mahendranath. For the complete manuscript and other sections:
Community & Events
Happy Birthday Dadaji
April marks the birthday of Shri Gurudev Mahendranath (Dadaji), born April 29, 1911 — the founder who brought the International Nath Order to the West.
When the newsletter was first launched in the 1980s, Dadaji was asked what it should be named. He replied: The Open Door.
The door is always open for the right people.
In his memory and honor, this issue is offered with gratitude for the path he opened and the teachings that continue to guide us.
INO Mela 2026 Registration Closes April 26
We are excited to share details on our only public gathering of the year.
This immersive week offers a rare opportunity to collaborate and co-create conditions for divine alignment with friends, petitioners, aspirants, and initiates of the INO.
Expect meditation, shared practices, rituals, and deepening personal evolution in a supportive, nature-rich setting.
Anyone over the age of 21 is welcome to apply. Full details, including how to express interest and register, are on the dedicated page.
Space is limited—early application is encouraged. We look forward to gathering in harmony.
Peace, Freedom, and Happiness to All.
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We invite your reflections in the comments (open for two weeks). Share experiences, questions, or thoughts — they are always welcome and may inspire others.