Inspiring Parent of the Month

Ashok & Natra

A couple of years ago, when I decided to start teaching meditation—a request many had made over the years—I wasn’t ready. I knew the depth it required. Meditation is not just a technique; it’s an energy field. Unless one has released many inner attachments and cut emotional cords, guiding others can become draining, even harmful.

Finally, I began sharing the first method of meditation we now call D.E.A.R., which stands for Drop Everything and Recharge. It’s a powerful yet simple meditation designed for the everyday walk of life—bringing clarity, emotional healing, and a sharper mind. It became a favorite among many.

After the first batch, I naturally hoped everyone would continue the practice on their own. But when I opened the second batch, I noticed something strange—many of the same parents joined again. This pattern repeated with each new batch. It made me pause and reflect: Why do people keep returning for group meditation? And then it hit me—a truly good meditation space is like a healing temple. People come back not just to learn, but to belong.

And this is where Ashok and Natra came in.

In late December, without any prompting or request, Ashok voluntarily stepped up and began conducting the D.E.A.R. meditation every day at 5 AM, opening the space to everyone in the group. Natra supported him fully. I was deeply moved—and joined whenever I could.

And they never stopped. Day after day, they showed up—holding the space for everyone. And now, they have crossed 100 consecutive days of meditation. What an inspiring commitment! 🙏

Until then, Ashok and Natra were never involved much in the backend work of our community. They were the quiet, kind-hearted couple we’d meet at occasional events. But their inner fire, discipline, and love for the community have now silently lit up a beautiful flame for all of us.

It’s not easy to lead even a pre-recorded session—one has to prepare long before others join. I know this personally. To conduct a 5 AM session, I myself usually wake up by 3:30 AM.

So when someone takes that responsibility for 100+ days—without missing a single morning—it’s more than a practice. It’s seva. It’s spiritual leadership. 🕊️

💡 Science Speaks:

•⁠ ⁠Meditation reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone), improves emotional regulation, and even enhances gray matter density in areas of the brain related to memory and empathy.

•⁠ ⁠Group meditation is shown to amplify effects—studies from institutions like Harvard and Stanford show collective meditation boosts heart coherence, creates collective calmness, and even positively affects the immediate environment.

•⁠ ⁠According to a long-standing hypothesis called the Maharishi Effect, when just 1% of a population meditates, it can reduce societal stress and promote peace. Imagine that!

🌺 A Note of Gratitude

Dear Ashok and Natra,

Your selfless consistency is not just inspiring—it’s sacred. You’ve led by example, holding space for others to start their day in stillness and strength. The community is deeply proud of you.

Let this be a spark for others to follow. More people meditating means more harmony—not just within ourselves, but in our families, communities, and beyond. Let us all keep the flame burning.

🌼 On behalf of the entire HLP community 🌼

with heart and soul

Velu Jayaprakash