Preparing for a puja

The preparations we require before puja are:

1) Sattvic quality (feeling) - The greater the predominance of the sattvic feelings, the more effectively can the vehicles serve as an instrument of the higher consciousness.
2) Attunement of mind - The mind should be full of right attitude and aspirations.
3) High degree of self-surrender.
4) Heart to yearn - for union with Divinity.

Thus the development of aspirant's character along the right lines and preparatory and purificatory practices form an integral part of upasna or worship.