Var?aprastha is a stage of life in the Vedic tradition often considered as the third stage in the four stages of life (asrama) outlined in the ancient Vedas. Var?aprastha, which means "retiring into the woods," is characterized by a gradual withdrawal from worldly affairs and a focus on spiritual pursuits. The stage of Var?aprastha is typically undertaken by people in their fifties or sixties after they have completed their duties as householders and raised their children. In this stage, individuals are encouraged to devote themselves to spiritual pursuits, including meditation, prayer, and the study of religious texts, and detach themselves from material possessions and desires.
During Var?aprastha, individuals are expected to detach themselves from their families and communities gradually and to live an ascetic lifestyle. They may choose to live in seclusion in the forest or in a hermitage, or they may continue to live with their families in a more detached and spiritually-focused manner. The purpose of this stage is to prepare individuals for the final stage of life, sannyasa, in which they renounce all material possessions and dedicate themselves fully to spiritual pursuits. The stage of Var?aprastha is considered an important part of the spiritual journey, allowing individuals to focus on their spiritual growth and prepare themselves for the eventual goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
As baby boomers retire and enter their later years, many are turning to spirituality and religion as a source of comfort and guidance. Some are seeking a deeper connection to a higher power, while others are looking for a sense of community and purpose in their lives. This trend has led to an increase in the popularity of yoga, meditation, and other spiritual practices among this generation.
Narrated by author, Emmy-nominated actor, and lifelong Bhakti yogi Sripad Jagannatha Das.