HINDU GODS
Some of the most popular deities of the Hindus and their significance.
HINDUISM & WELLNESS
Hinduism has a plethora of deities & a library of holy scriptures. The Hindus believe these deities can be manifested in our lives in various forms by focusing on their energies using mantras.
The female deities are seen as motherly energies encouraging us to look inwards and the male deities are seen as fatherly energies encouraging us to look beyond self for divinity.
As it is with many polytheistic religions, Hindu beliefs are diverse and ways of perceiving reality & divinity are variable.
This lack of non-didactic and non-dogmatic approach can teach us a lot about approaching our wellness journey too. A wellness practise can differ from person to person and even day to day, what matters in the end is the way it makes us feel.
Shiva
Shiva is the mightiest Hindu God and consort of the mightiest Hindu Goddess. The last of the Hindu trinity, he is the destroyer who starts another cycle of creation.
His many names are synonymous with innocence, lover of animals, and the God of all Gods. He is also known as ‘Adiyogi’ meaning the first practitioner of yoga and revealer of the yogic techniques. Being the pioneer in physical and mental well-being practices in the holy scriptures, he is always depicted while meditating in an idealistic physical form.
He is believed to be worshipped by all beings of all realms as he accepts all those who love him, no matter what shape or form.
Manifest Shiva- Practice Yoga
Shiva is known as the first Yogi. he is the revealer of the Yogic secrets. Often depicted in creative poses, he is the revealer of ‘Mudras’- hand gestures and ‘Asanas’ or ‘Mandis’- poses and postures.
The practice of Yoga is held closely with the worship of Shiva. Practicing Yoga, one inculcates the characteristics of Shiva. And his sense of balance, calm, fitness, control, and blissfulness. It also furthers our spiritual growth as we awaken our consciousness and become more aware of reality.
Vishnu
Vishnu is the preserver in the Hindu trinity. He takes form during various stages of evolution to set the right precedence for the species at the time. He is the consort of the Goddess Laxmi, they are worshipped as a divine duo that fulfils material wishes.
Vishnu’s most popular form is ‘Krishna’, believed to be the last form he took on this planet. The teachings of Krishna are the holy poetry that is the ‘Bhagavad Gita’. It teaches lessons on Karma (deeds), righteousness, and duty in the form of a debate. He takes form each time evil outweighs the good and throws the world off-balance. He is the preserver who comes time and again to restore balance to this world.
Be One with Vishnu-Practice Detachment
Buddha is believed to be the 10th incarnation of Vishnu, as he heavily derives from his teachings on desire. Both teach that desire and attachment cause suffering.
It is necessary to detach from that which does not serve us. For one’s peace of mind, it is important to compartmentalise our thoughts and worries.
To be one with Vishnu, one is required to dedicate to him, all of their Karma- done knowingly or unknowingly with all of their senses.
Bramha
The first of the Hindu trinity, Bramha is the creator God. The Universe is believed to be a manifestation of the dream of Bramha. A single cycle of the universe is equivalent to a single day and night in the realm of Bramha.
His consort is Goddess Saraswati. Both are believed to know the secrets of the Universe and hence, revealers of various ancient sciences.
Manifest Bramha- Be Creative
Bramha is the creator God. All of the Universe is just Bramha’s dream manifested into reality.
Our thoughts can likely be manifested into reality however impossible they might seem to us.
To manifest Bramha, we must tell and show the creator God what we want through thought, intention, and action. And Bramha will manifest it into reality. Do not let current circumstances determine the future. It’s time to show the Universe what you want.
Let out your creativity and your talent. Learn arts of your choice, or write down your thoughts.
Ganesh
Ganesh is the elephant-headed remover of obstacles. Ganesh is also an auspicious deity for new beginnings. He has 8 different incarnations, which can be prayed to remove different kinds of problems or obstacles in life.
Goddess Parvati sculpted him from the dirt of her body and breathed life into him. He was born with a human head but after a battle with his father, Lord Shiva, and replaced with that of an elephant. Lord Shiva called him ‘Om’ and gave him the boon to be called for before every God or Goddess.
Imitate Ganesh- Rest and Recharge
Ganesha is often depicted lounging on a comfortable seat. Many worship him in a reclining form with pillows to manifest such relaxation and comfort in their lives.
Resting is important so your body can repair the wear and tear that daily activities cause us. It recharges your energy so we can feel rejuvenated as we resume our responsibilities.
Hanuman
Hanuman is the humanoid form of the God of Wind called ‘Vayu’. He is the most powerful protector God.
He was born to a celestial nymph and a humanoid being. Hanuman’s characteristics of being humble and oblivious to his powers make him one of the most adored Gods of the Hindus.
Hanuman is believed to be present in the material realm in order to protect the beings on this planet.
Stay Connected- Communicate
Hanuman is known as a ‘Doot’, the messenger of Lord Ram. Not only was he a messenger, but a master diplomat during the war in the holy text of ‘Ramayan’. He also gathered an army for Lord Ram. He connected Lord Ram and Goddess Sita through his communication skills.
Communication is key to healthy relationships. Not only does it help personal wellbeing but also improves interpersonal wellbeing.
Dhanavantri
Dhanavantri is the God of Medicine. The Ayurveda- an ancient Indian holy book on the science of medicine, is attributed to him.
He is a healer and also known as the ‘Vaidya’ God, which means the Doctor God. Dhanavantri is believed to be an avatar of Vishnu by some. He is worshipped to bring good health and healing.
Get Inspired by Dhanavatri- Enhance Your Health
Incorporate natural herbs and elements into your diet for inner well-being. Practice self-care by applying Ayurvedic masks, oils, and solutions.
Bring balance between your mind, body, and spirit by following the principles of Ayurveda, revealed by God Dhanavatri.
