Making every moment spiritual: How devotion can uplift daily life

From household chores to office routines, small spiritual practices can bring calm, purpose and joy into everyday moments. In a world that’s always on the move, finding time to pause and connect inwardly can feel like a luxury.

Yet, many spiritual thinkers have shown us that devotion doesn’t require dramatic life changes; it can begin right where we are. Whether you're preparing a meal, sitting at your desk, or waiting in traffic, a moment of spiritual reflection can turn the ordinary into something meaningful.Simple acts, like chanting quietly in your mind, listening to devotional music or visualising a beloved divine figure, can infuse daily life with purpose.

These practices aren’t about escaping routine, but enriching it. They help us stay grounded, reduce anxiety, and bring a sense of quiet joy.What’s heartening is that this approach works for everyone, irrespective of age, profession or stage of life. With small, consistent steps, devotion can become a quiet companion on one’s journey.It is this very idea, of integrating spirituality into everyday life, that formed the cornerstone of the teachings of Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj. Revered as a profound spiritual philosopher, his approach was both inclusive and practical. In 1957, he was honoured with the title Jagadguruttam by the Kashi Vidvat Parishat - a recognition of his ability to synthesise spiritual knowledge for the modern seeker.

He reconciled all apparent contradictions in the teachings of previous Jagadgurus and offered a path that is both practical and invaluable for Bhakti seekers. Known as the ‘samanvaywadi’ Jagadguru, his central teaching, that the ultimate goal of human life is to attain the divine love of Radha Krishna, transcends age, gender and occupation.For homemakers: Finding devotion in daily choresHousewives often bear the emotional and physical burden of managing households.

Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj preached the concept of karmayoga, performing every task with the mind lovingly attached to the Divine. Even while cooking or cleaning, simply chanting mentally or visualising Radha Krishna can turn the ordinary into a sacred offering.For students: Balancing growth with groundingStudents today face high expectations and constant distractions. Maharaj Ji encouraged them to choose shreya (spiritual good) over preya (momentary pleasures).

Practices like listening to kirtans during breaks or spending a few minutes in silent remembrance before studies can boost focus and reduce stress, he teaches.For professionals: Cultivating calm through workBusy professionals often feel they must choose between career and inner growth. Maharaj Ji offered a path of integration: keep doing your job well, without expectation, and dedicate your actions to the Divine. Keeping a devotional image at your desk, chanting mentally during commutes, or offering your day's work in prayer helps infuse your career with calm and clarity, he explains.For seniors: Embracing a life of remembranceWith fewer responsibilities, elderly individuals are uniquely placed to deepen their spiritual journey. Maharaj Ji emphasised smaran bhakti, mentally recalling the names and pastimes of the Divine. Even without physical exertion, heartfelt remembrance can bring fulfilment and peace.For renunciates or Karma Sanyasis: Going beyond appearancesFor those who have chosen a life of detachment, Maharaj Ji reminded that true renunciation lies in surrendering the mind. Outer symbols mean little without inner humility and focused remembrance. Through practices like Roopdhyan meditation (visualisation of the Divine form), and sincere devotion under the guidance of a realised Guru, even the subtle ego can be dissolved.A Path Rooted in Love and SimplicityJagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj’s teachings offer more than philosophy; they offer a way of life. His central tenet was profound yet straightforward: keep your mind connected to the Divine, regardless of your worldly duties. In doing so, every moment, mundane or monumental, becomes a step closer to inner joy and spiritual growth.Disclaimer - The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content. The views/suggestions/opinions expressed in the article are the sole responsibility of the experts and the brand concerned.