Adhyatma - the field of knowledge and experiments of spirituality, is a systematic science based on realizations, reasoned thoughts and logically established and verified principles. Though, its principal focus lies in the domains of Cosmic and Individual Consciousness and deeper cores of Human Psychology, it is as scientific in its methods as Physics or any other branch of material based Natural Sciences. The philosophy and science of Adhyatma was developed by the rishis - ancient Indian experts of every aspect of life and nature - with a major objective of deriving practical modes of refinement and culmination of personality up to divine heights. This on the one hand teaches the art of living to the masses and helps ideal development of the society and culture and, on the other hand, provides adept guidance and methods of experimentation to the aspirants of awakening the otherwise dormant divine virtues and potentials hidden in the individual self.

The 'edifice' of Adhyatma stands on the two strong 'pillars' of tapa and yoga. Understanding the meaning and adopting the practices of tapa and yoga in every dimension of life - make possible the transmutation of an ordinary mortal being into a refined, glorious, great personality, equivalent to a divine being in human body. Adhyatma deals with evolution of consciousness and hence has intimate relationship with inner sentiments and spirituality. It has been the center of attraction of the thinkers of all eras.

The scientific approach to spirituality practiced and propagated by Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya since past few decades has offered new and comprehensive ways of - (a) in depth understanding of human psychology and culture vis-a-vis the evolution of consciousness; (b) integrating modern sciences with the science of spirituality in a creative manner. He successfully endeavored eliminate the smudge of doubts, misconceptions, superstitions and fears associated with Adhyatma and presented it in new light for enlightenment of the human society today.

The present volume is a compilation of his deliberations on the principles and practical implementation of Adhyatma derived from his in-depth studies of scriptures and his experiments and experiences with the spiritual endeavors (Sadhana) of tapa and yoga. It is said that the Sadhana of Adhyatma lead to Kayakalpa. The word "Kayakalpa" literally means - transformation of an old body into a new one. But, that is only an allegoric description. The true meaning in the context of Adhyatma corresponds to - activation and elevation of the vital force, illumination of the intellect and the inner self and hence an overall refinement and sublime transformation of personality. The tapa sadhana deals with ascetic disciplines, penance and determined self-restrain to diminish the influence of existing evil tendencies, habits and the misdeeds of the past. Progress in tapa gradually results in purification of the inner self and activation of the intrinsic strength of the soul. The yoga sadhana plays supportive role in removing the weaknesses and deficiencies of the body and in controlling the agility of mind. Its sincere practice successively improves one’s physical and mental potentials and helps realization of the immense power of consciousness.

If tapa is like washing the 'cloth' of the individual self, yoga may be likened to 'coloring and ironing' it. The present volume describes most of the important Sadhanas - ranging from Chandrayana Vrata to Prana Pratyavartana - which can be performed under adept guidance by every aspirant of righteous development of personality, refinement of talents and overall improvement of life. These Sadhanas, if practised sincerely, can effectively materialize into Kayakalpa. Increased glow of the aura around the body, good health, impressive personality and eminence are some of the easily visible attainments of initial success in these Sadhanas...