JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY Ankita Manjunath's path to confidence through meditation

Ankita Manjunath, a 30-year-old interior designer, hailing from India but raised in the Middle East, reminisces about her journey from a timid child to a confident professional. "I grew up in Sharjah, UAE, where I completed my high school education before pursuing further studies in India," she recounted. "At 17, I ventured into the world of architecture, a decision influenced by the pressures and expectations of my family yet aligned with my own interests."

Reflecting on her childhood, Ankita described it as "easy going," focused on academics and family time. However, her father's insistence on a robust career path during her crucial high school years nudged her towards architecture, a field that intrigued her. "I wasn't one for the limelight, public speaking, challenging others," she

It (Raja Yoga Meditation) targets

admitted, "but architecture seemed to strike a chord with

Ankita's introduction to Raja Yoga came through her mother's practice when she was just nine. "I remember being fascinated by the concept of focusing on a point of light without blinking," she shared. "Though I didn't grasp its significance fully until I was older, it became an integral part of my life by the time I turned 24."

From being a shy kid growing up, to hosting large-scale gatherings for Raja Yoga Center in Dubai, Ankita has come a long way. When asked about the benefits of this meditation practice, Ankita emphasised its simplicity and the value on keeping one's eyes open. "It targets the root cause of stress and pain - our thoughts," she explained. The impact of meditation on Ankita's life has been profound. "I used to buckle under pressure easily," she admitted. "But through practising Raja Yoga, especially incorporating Seva (service), I learned to deal with pressure more effectively."

“I would recommend those who have just taken the meditation course which is free, to definitely volunteer your time, expertise or effort for the center in some way or the other. It brings you closer to the Supreme and centre as well,” says Ankita, who regularly contributed in organising Virtue Café, one of the center’s monthly events which brings youth together for sessions on spiritual rejuvenation.

Drawing on the changes she experienced, Ankita highlighted heightened self-awareness, clearer communication, and improved confidence and self-respect. "It's like having a dialogue with oneself, which guides my interactions throughout the day."

Ankita also vouches for the importance of consistency in meditation practice and the power of giving back with positive intentions. "Always maintain the bhawna (sentiment) of benevolence," she concluded, "no matter the circumstances."