Encountering ‘Tara’ During My "Journey to the Center of the Earth".

 

Our Iceland adventure was truly one of a kind—but for me, the most unexpected and awe-inspiring part was its contribution to my spiritual journey. Before I delve into that, let me first take you to the moment I quite literally journeyed to the center of the Earth.

Vatnshellir Cave Tour

Nestled on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Vatnshellir Cave is a remarkable lava tube formed around 8,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption from the Purkhólar crater family. As molten lava surged downhill, its surface gradually cooled and hardened. Eventually, the liquid lava beneath drained away, leaving behind a hollow tunnel—a subterranean marvel carved by fire.

Though this natural wonder has existed for millennia, it has only recently been explored and made accessible to the public through guided tours. Strangely enough, it's still not widely known. We stumbled upon a modest pamphlet tucked away in the hostel we were staying at—and on a whim, decided to embark on the tour. Little did I know it would lead to something far deeper than I had imagined.

Journey to the center of the earth

The guided tour into Vatnshellir Cave lasts about 45 minutes, taking visitors through a surreal subterranean landscape. Equipped with helmets and flashlights, we navigated uneven terrain and steep staircases. For safety, the cave entrance is strictly monitored—once all participants are inside, the gate is locked from the outside, ensuring no one ventures in unaccompanied.

We descended deep into the earth via a winding spiral staircase, each step taking us further away from the daylight and deeper into the heart of the lava-formed underworld.

Entering Vatnshellir feels like crossing into another realm. The cave extends over 200 meters (656 feet) into the earth and plunges to a depth of around 35 meters (115 feet) at its deepest point. Inside, time stands still. The walls are etched with intricate lava formations and ancient stalactites—testimonies to the fiery birth of Iceland’s volcanic terrain. The surreal textures and twisted shapes of the rocks, lit only by the beams of our flashlights, created an otherworldly atmosphere that was both mysterious and mesmerizing.

The deepest meditation

One of the most unforgettable moments of the tour came when our guide asked us to switch off our flashlights at the cave’s deepest point. Suddenly, we were enveloped in absolute darkness—so complete, so pure, that it felt like the very essence of stillness. The silence, broken only by the occasional drip of water echoing through the cave, created a space untouched by time or distraction.

In that moment of total darkness and natural quiet, I slipped into the deepest meditative state I have ever experienced. It was as though the Earth itself held me in stillness—cradling me in a sacred pause far removed from the noise of the world above. And suddenly I felt the presence of Ma Sita, her mental state as she was going down into the earth.

Stalactites, Stalagmites, and a Whisper in the Dark

Vatnshellir Cave comprises three distinct chambers, each revealing its own geological marvels—smooth walls sculpted by molten rock, curious lava statues, and rare mineral deposits. The upper section glows with streaks of colorful minerals, while the deeper chambers grow colder, darker, and more enigmatic, their silence broken only by the occasional drip of ancient water.

Among the striking features were the stalactites and stalagmites—mineral formations born of time, patience, and nature’s alchemy. Stalactites hang from the ceiling like delicate icicles, while stalagmites rise from the cavern floor like their earthbound twins. In the dim glow of our flashlights, these forms appeared less like geological structures and more like ancient sentinels.

It was in that dark chamber that I heard it—a soft, inner whisper from one of the lava statues. She said her name was “Tara”.

The Lava Stones Asking for a Place

At the end of the tour, we received two small lava stones as mementos. Back home, I placed them in my puja room, where I keep sacred objects for blessing and integration. But after a couple of days, I received clear inner guidance: the stones wanted to be in our underground library.

It made perfect sense. The library is not only the deepest part of our home, echoing the cave’s own depth, but it’s also a space dedicated to knowledge and reflection. To me, the message was clear—Tara, whom I experience as another form of Goddess Saraswati, had found her chosen abode among books and silence.

Goddess Saraswati Reveals Herself

In the days that followed, during my crystal reading sessions, Goddess Saraswati began to appear again and again—her presence unmistakable. Then one day, I saw a powerful crystal image: two divine forms. The upper one sat upright, regal and serene; the lower one mirrored her, as if reflected in still water—an inverted vision.

It was the final confirmation. Tara and Saraswati were one, making their presence felt through lava, cave, stone, and inner vision.

Thank you, Iceland—for the mystery of Vatnshellir, the whisper of Tara, and the blessings of Ma Saraswati.

A Portal to the Divine

Travel often begins as a desire to explore the outer world—but sometimes, it quietly becomes a pilgrimage inward. Our Iceland trip, framed by raw landscapes and elemental beauty, turned out to be just that. I had set out to witness volcanoes, glaciers, and lava fields, but what I found was a doorway to the sacred, hidden in the heart of the Earth.

Vatnshellir Cave was not just a geological wonder—it became a temple, a womb, and a messenger. The silence, the darkness, the whisper of Tara, and the presence of Saraswati all pointed to something profound: the Earth is not just rock and mineral; it is alive with memory and meaning, waiting to speak to those who listen.

As I returned to everyday life, I realized that some journeys never really end. They continue as subtle transformations, as sacred objects finding their place, and as the quiet return of ancient goddesses who remind us of who we are.

Iceland gave me far more than I had asked for. It gave me stone and story, stillness and spirit—and for that, I carry deep gratitude.

 

References:

https://www.iceland-highlights.com/tour/vatnshellir-cave-admission/

A Feather for Confirmation

 

A Spiritual Ritual for a New Home

I was spending a few days in Denmark at the home of a dear Danish friend whom I had met years ago during a spiritual retreat in Tiruvannamalai. She was in the process of moving into a new house and wanted to mark the occasion with a spiritual ritual and meditation, calling upon her Guardian spirits to bless the space. Though my elder daughter wasn’t physically present, we made sure to include her in spirit.

The Abundance Course

My daughter had just conducted a 21-day Abundance course, with the third guided meditation having taken place the previous Friday. Our house ritual was scheduled for Saturday. I asked her to send us the meditation so we could include it in our ceremony. As the five of us sat in a circle and began playing the recording, her voice echoed through the space: “Let us imagine our Guardian spirits around us.”

A wave of goosebumps ran through me. This meditation had been recorded a day before, and yet it perfectly aligned with her intention to invoke the Guardian spirits during our ritual. The synchronicity was undeniable.

A Sign, As Always

I proceeded to fill the entire house with Reiki energy and placed a protective shield around it, setting a clear intention for peace, happiness, and well-being for my friend and her family. After the meditation, I shared the intuitive messages I had received with her.

As is my regular practice, I asked the Universe for a sign to confirm that our prayers had been heard and blessings bestowed—specifically, a feather.

After the ritual, I walked around the house, silently searching, but no feather appeared. A tinge of disappointment crept in. Then, as I approached the window and looked out, there it was: a single, pristine white feather resting gently on the grass.

I called out to my friend, excitement bubbling in my voice, and showed her the feather, explaining its significance. In that moment, I felt deeply grateful—to Reiki, to the Universe, and to the unseen forces that had affirmed their presence and support so gracefully.

 

Whispers in the Tunnel

 

A trumpet in my oleander flower

Gifts from past karmas

I feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude that I was born with a spiritual inclination and have been able to lead a disciplined life, continually guided by messages from beyond that have illuminated my path and shaped my actions. Having seen some of my past lives, I know how much of dedication and hard work had gone to reach this stage. Even though these practices keep me grounded and in a state of inner peace and bliss, there are times when my mind is in total turmoil and I doubt whether my advice for others to follow spiritual path is right.

Sacred Passages

On the spiritual path, there are sacred seasons known as the dark nights of the soul, periods when the light seems distant, and the inner world feels shadowed and uncertain, and my soul writhes in agony. During these times, I feel disconnected, lost, or even abandoned by the very forces I once trusted. I start doubting whether I‘ll ever see light at the end of the tunnel that I am passing thorough.

Celestial Signs

That is when I ask for signals from the Universe so that I can imbibe courage to hang on. And I did exactly that during my recent experience. And look at what all sacred signals I got.

A leaf coming from the sponge gourd in our garden

A sapling peeping out from the marigold

Anchored Again in Grace

I realized these experiences are not signs of failure, but sacred thresholds of transformation. In these moments, it may seem as though Grace has withdrawn—but in truth, God is closer than ever, working quietly in the depths. It is in this profound emptiness that the soul is silently shedding old patterns and illusions. The darkness invites introspection, surrender, and deep trust in the unseen. Like the moon hidden behind clouds, the light has not disappeared—it is merely preparing to shine anew with greater clarity. These nights are necessary, for they carve space within for divine grace to enter. When dawn finally breaks, it brings with it a deeper wisdom, a softer heart, and a stronger spirit. The heart knows it has been held all along. The silence breaks, the light returns, and the soul sings again—not with the voice of self, but with the quiet power of divine union.

Healing and Energy Alignment: Can Physical Ailments Block Spiritual Progress?

Recently, one of my Reiki students reached out with a heartfelt question that many energy healers and seekers may wonder about at some point in their journey:

 “I was recently diagnosed with Cervical Radiculopathy—my C4 to C6 discs are affected, causing a bulge and nerve compression on the right side. Since I love energy work and healing, I wanted to understand: If my spine is misaligned, will it affect my ability to absorb universal energy and activate my chakras? And if I engage in mantra sadhana, will it still be absorbed by my body and chakras?”

This thoughtful query touches on an important intersection between the physical and energetic bodies. Here’s my response, shared with love and experience, for others who may be navigating similar concerns.

The Physical Body as the Final Manifestation

It's important to understand that physical ailments are often the final expression of imbalances that begin in the subtle bodies—the mental and emotional fields. Long before discomfort appears in the body, disturbances in energy and vibration are already at play. That’s why regular Reiki practice can be so powerful—it works at the root level, helping to recalibrate the subtle bodies, which in turn can support the healing of the physical form.

Faith is the Ultimate Catalyst

Any healing modality—whether Reiki, mantra sadhana, or yoga—derives its power from the intention and belief behind it. When practices are approached with complete, unwavering faith—not 99%, but 100%—they can unlock profound transformation. A lack of full faith may point to unresolved karmic patterns, which can create blocks to healing. But remember, even acknowledging these patterns is part of the healing journey.

Mantras and Astrological Insight

Mantras are potent tools for healing and realignment. Each mantra carries its own vibrational signature, which can resonate with specific chakras or ailments. For deeper guidance, an astrological consultation can help determine which mantras may be most aligned with your personal energetic blueprint, enhancing their effectiveness.

The Body’s Remarkable Capacity to Heal

Over the years, I have witnessed remarkable cases of healing—some even beyond what medical science had anticipated. Individuals given months to live have gone on to thrive for years without incapacitating allopathy interventions, with the support of spiritual practices, energy healing, and unwavering faith. Miracles do happen, especially when the body, mind, and spirit are in alignment.

The Role of Yogasanas

Certain yogasanas, when practiced under the supervision of a qualified teacher, can help address structural issues like spinal misalignment. Yoga, like Reiki, works not just on the body but on the entire energy system, promoting flow, strength, and alignment across all layers of being.

The Individual Path of Healing

Finally, it’s essential to remember: *not every method will work for every person at every time.* Each soul is on a unique path, shaped by karma, choices, and the lessons they are here to learn. What works wonders for one person may not resonate with another—and that's perfectly okay. The journey of healing is deeply personal and often non-linear.

Finally, your ability to connect with universal energy is not determined solely by the condition of your physical body. It is guided by your intention, your inner alignment, and the depth of your faith. Even with physical limitations, the spirit remains limitless. Continue your healing journey with openness, curiosity, and trust—and know that the universe always meets us exactly where we are.

 

---

 

Food as Energy, Eating as Worship: A Deeper Understanding

It is widely known that food provides nutrition to the body and supplies energy. However, what often goes unnoticed is the profound impact food has on our thought patterns. This becomes evident when people mindlessly consume anything and everything at any time of the day. The quality of our thoughts can either uplift us to a state of calm and bliss or pull us down into negativity and depression.

The Influence of Thoughts While Cooking

The thoughts and emotions of the person preparing food are transferred to those who consume it. This is why there is a noticeable difference in how we feel after eating a meal lovingly prepared by a mother or spouse compared to one made by a hired cook or maid. The energy infused in food during its preparation plays a crucial role in our mental and emotional well-being.

How You Eat Matters

Another often-overlooked aspect of eating is whether we use our hands or cutlery. Our body is composed of the five elements (Panch Bhutas – earth, water, fire, air, and ether), and maintaining their balance is essential for overall health. Each of our fingers represents one of these elements. When we mix food with our fingers and bring it to our mouth with our hands, it helps harmonize these elements within our body, promoting balance and well-being.

Why Not Use a Spoon?

A spoon or fork does not facilitate this elemental balance. Additionally, most cutlery is made of steel (though silver may have a different effect). In spiritual practices, steel is associated with Saturn and is never used in rituals or pujas. If steel is avoided in sacred worship, should we be using it for what can be considered the "sacred worship of the stomach" (पेट पूजा)?

A Deeper Understanding

I have always believed there is a deeper reason behind eating with our hands, and I have been searching for a meaningful way to convey this to others. Yesterday, an idea struck me—to test the energy of food in both scenarios. Watch this video to see the difference for yourself.