Meditation
What is meditation?
Intense contemplation on God is Dhyana-Yogank Gita press p. 320.
तत्र प्रत्ययैकतानता ध्यानम् -A steady, continuous flow of attention directed towards the same point or region is meditation. Patanjali yoga Sutra 3.2
An unbroken flow of knowledge in that object is Dhyana- Swami Vivekananda- Raja yoga p.218
Suitable time -
Preferably sunrise and sunset. If not possible, do it anytime you find convenient.
Place-
Quite airy and sunlit, free from disturbances and distractions. Ideally, same place and same time every day.
Asana-
While ancient texts recommend using grass and deerskin for yoga asanas, this may not be practical nowadays. Instead, you can improvise by using a folded woolen blanket or sheet. If these are not accessible, you can also use multiple folded bedsheets (2 or 3) as a substitute. The support should be of moderate height, neither too high nor too low.
Posture-
To maintain proper energy flow in the body, sit in a meditative posture with head, neck, and spine aligned in a straight line, avoiding any crooked positions.
Prerequisite-
Concentration of will against obstacles such as wandering of the mind, forgetfulness, sleep, physical and nervous impatience, and restlessness is the initial internal condition required.
The next aspect involves a growing purity and tranquility of the inner consciousness (Chitta) from which thoughts and emotions originate - a state free from any disruptive responses like anger, sorrow, and anxiety concerning worldly events.
We discussed how purity is a vital requirement for Dhyana. Purity and concentration are essentially two sides of the same coin - purity being the feminine and passive aspect, while concentration represents the masculine and active side. Concentration can only become fully effective and powerful when rooted in purity. Conversely, purity can only manifest its effects through concentration; without it, it would cause mere peaceful stillness and eternal rest. Similarly, without purity, achieving complete, balanced, and adaptable concentration of the mind in right thought, will, and emotion is not attainable.
Focus your attention on the higher soul, or the discerning intellect that judges, rather than on the restless, erratic, easily fatigued, and easily distracted lower mind, which poses the greatest obstacle to our advancement.
Therefore, the two (purity and concentration)must proceed together, says Maharshi Aurobindo.
But we must also remember
Just as sleep doesn't come when we ask for it, meditation also doesn't happen when we ask for it. Sleep and meditation both occur spontaneously. Yogank - Gita Press, Gorakhpur-P. 321.
Technique
While there are many meditation techniques available, beginners can opt for either of the following two.
Concentration meditation
To practice concentration meditation, direct your mind towards a single point, such as the breath, an object, a flame, a chosen deity, or ishta devta. Start with short sessions, maybe 3 to 5 minutes, to familiarize yourself with the practice before extending the duration gradually. This approach will enhance your concentration skills.
Mindfulness meditation
The seeker should allow thoughts to flow freely without obstruction. He should simply observe them as a neutral observer. Avoid getting involved in any thoughts. Refrain from trying to control or reject any thought - just observe whatever arises. Picture yourself at a crossroads with a crowd of people passing by. You don't pay attention to each individual moving on the street. Similarly, let thoughts come and go - you have no connection to these thoughts - just observe them come and go. Avoid analyzing, judging, or getting caught up in any thought. Consistent practice contributes to the cultivation of internal harmony and equilibrium.
Power of Dhyana
To unveil the world's secrets, we must understand how to approach and strike it with the required force, which is fueled by concentration. The human mind has limitless power, and its strength is magnified through focus on a single point. This is the essence of S. Vivekananda's teachings in Raja Yoga, page 9.
Concentration is a crucial element for achieving anything in life. By focusing attention and consciousness on a single point with unwavering determination, one can overcome any obstacle. The Mother- Growing Within p. 70.
Most importantly, no spiritual barrier or obstacle can withstand the power of intense concentration. “If your power of concentration is complete, then there is not a problem you cannot solve".
But people would say where is the time to do all these things?
If someone desires to excel, it is not necessary to have more time. The key to success in all endeavors - studying, playing, working - lies in enhancing one's ability to concentrate. By improving concentration, one can achieve better and faster results. This approach allows work to be utilized as a tool for personal development. - The Mother-Powers Within, p. 42
Many people who are familiar with it acknowledge that it is a necessary remedy for our current mindset, which is overwhelmed by external matters and disconnected from the genuine spiritual essence because of mundane responsibilities, materialistic desires, and sensory stimulation. - S Radhakrishnan, Indian Philosophy Volume 2 by SRK p.309
But then the point is how to concentrate?
To begin concentration, you must focus your wandering and restless mind on a single object, issue, or thought without being distracted by other temptations or distractions. We often experience this kind of concentration in our daily lives when we are engrossed in something that interests us, losing track of time. However, achieving this level of concentration becomes challenging when we need to do it internally, without any external stimuli to focus on. Yet, this internal concentration is essential for those seeking knowledge.
In order for it to be impactful and significant, you must, if you can, direct all your energy, willpower, and aspirations solely towards the Divine, towards God, and His complete manifestation in our consciousness.
M Aurobindo emphasizes that maintaining a focused and inward attitude consistently is more crucial than adhering to specific meditation schedules.
By concentrating again, one can gather the whole will.
Through concentration, we can focus our entire will on attaining something that is still out of reach. With a well-trained, single-minded, sincere, and self-assured power, we can achieve any goal. However, it is important to use this power not to chase after the various worldly objects available, but to grasp spirituality - a pursuit that is truly valuable and worthy of knowledge. By concentrating our whole being on a specific aspect, we have the ability to transform ourselves into whatever we desire. For example, we can change from a state of weakness and fear into one of strength and courage, or we can embody purity, holiness, and peace for the sake of love. The Mother - Powers Within p.45.
Benefits of meditation
Cool, calm, relaxed state of mind
Increased focus and attention, strong will power
Concentrating on the present
Change in attitudes and perspective towards life
Increased self awareness
Reduced stress
Researchers have found that meditation helps in managing symptoms in the following diseases:
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Cancer
Asthma
Depression
Pain
Insomnia
Anxiety disorder
Practice Point
Although meditation has fantastic advantages, it can be quite challenging at first. In the Indian system, it serves as a path to spiritual growth, focusing solely on thoughts of the Divine. If you find yourself stuck and not advancing, simply pray for guidance and the removal of obstacles, and continue your practice with dedication. Be genuine and open your heart to God. Ultimately, He will guide you. Sincerity is crucial, as per author's personal experience.
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