A somewhat similar technique to japa is “practicing the presence of God.” Feel that you are constantly in the company of Krishna or Yogananda, or any form of divinity that appeals to you. Bring him or her (Yogananda used to worship God in the form of Divine Mother) to mind as often as possible. Carry on a silent, inner dialogue with him. Let him be your constant companion.
When you eat, eat with him. When you walk or work or play, feel him with you. Act as if he is your closest friend. Gradually try to feel that he is not only beside you, but within you, seeing the world through your eyes. As you write, feel that it is his hand that moves. As you speak, it is his words, his thoughts that flow through you. As you walk, it is his footprints you leave behind.
If you can, try to keep your consciousness focused at the spiritual eye, between the eyebrows. This is the spiritual “doorway” through which we must pass on our journey to enlightenment. Yogananda said that the light from this source actually changes our brain cells. Keeping your consciousness here is one of the fastest ways to spiritually
evolve.
