What is the meaning of Sadhana ?

When we read on the subject of worship and spirituality - we  often come across the word Sadhana and are encouraged by all illumined spiritual Masters to engage in Sadhana. But what exactly is Sadhana? and how do we apply it practically in our lives ?

Enclosed here is a simple definition of Sadhana in Hindi , followed by a translation in  English. These two definitions are by two spiritual giants of the modern era - Acharya Shriram Sharma and his Life consort - Vandaniya Mataji Bhagwati Devi Sharma .

Acharya Shriram Sharma on Sadhana  :

Translation :

"However bad a person maybe, one ray of Righteous Knowledge is sufficient  enough to get the person  back onto the right path. The only thing required from the person is the resolve to do so . Unlike glass and stone which when once shaped cannot be changed, our mind however can be changed, reshaped  and reformed.

Repeated efforts made by us to reshape our minds by reducing  our weakness's and increasing  our strengths and virtues is called Sadhana.

 Vandaniya Mataji on Sadhana :

English Translation :

"Sadhana means - Making truthful efforts at self improvement while fighting relentlessly with difficulties ".

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Additional reading on the subject of Upasana, Sadhana and Aradhana:

How Do You Pray (2) -The Three Requirements and Benefits of Meaningful Worship