Why Yoga Matters, Discernment & Spiritual Independence | February 2026 Satsang

In this February 2026 Satsang, Swami Nirmalananda Giri explores the true value of yoga as a path of discernment, independence, and personal responsibility. Topics include psychic self-defense, spiritual protection, the use for protection of the Saint Benedict Medal and rudraksha beads, and how yoga sharpens discrimination (viveka). Swamiji also addresses divination and Tarot from a yogic perspective, the restless nature of the mind, and what it truly means to be a yogi. The satsang continues with reflections on spiritual evolution, karma and rebirth, objections to meditation, and the importance of clarity and strength in the spiritual life — especially in a world filled with misinformation and negative influences. This satsang is especially valuable for those seeking: • A clear understanding of the yogi’s responsibility • Discernment instead of blind belief • A mature view of spiritual protection • Insight into karma, evolution, and self-improvement • A grounded, intelligent defense of yoga and meditation TOPICS / TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 00:24 Psychic Self Defense 01:19 The Saint Benedict Medal 08:35 Rudraksha beads for protection 14:49 Discerment through yoga practice 16:23 About Tarot divination 19:24 How to Read the Tarot, by Swami Nirmalananda 25:22 Why is the mind continually talk 26:30 What is being a yogi? 30:16 Zen Buddhist story 33:06 What are the gods? 34:27 [About Spiritual Evolution] 47:13 Can we become better without knowledge of past lives? 50:14 How can we improve ourselves if we incarnate in lower forms? 55:32 Negative propaganda about meditation 58:11 Negative groups in India 1:03:04 The value of yoga #YogaPhilosophy #Satsang #SpiritualDiscernment OCOY.org RESOURCES Get FREE pdf spiritual ebooks at our E-Library: https://ocoy.org/site/e-library/ Listen to Podcast on practical spiritual topics: https://ocoy.org/podcasts/ Website: https://ocoy.org A Practical Resource for the Spiritual Student–Discover the timeless wisdom of India and the yoga path to freedom FREE Meditation Guide and weekly blog updates, podcasts and more: https://ocoy.org/signup FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL https://www.facebook.com/light.of.spirit/ https://twitter.com/Light_of_Spirit https://instagram.com/lightofthespirit/