Meditation or Dhyana is the seventh limb of Patanjali’s Ashtang yoga. The sixth is Dharana (concentration) and eighth is Samadhi (liberation). These three together are termed as ‘Antar-sadhana’ (inner meditation). Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi together are also called Smayam.
Objectives
- To take the individual (Jeev) closer to its source (Brahma)
- To awaken the Kundalini that lies dormant/coiled at Mooladhar
- To live in the moment of divine bliss realizing unity with the source of boundless energy
- To effectively counter negative emotions with resolute positivity and attain joy and peace
- To train the body to relax and strengthen the immune system
- To improve physical, mental and emotional health
- To purify individual at every level – physical, emotional and spiritual taking him closer to the ultimate truth
- To inculcate attitudinal change, behavioral modification and integrated development of personality
- To promote a satvic and simple lifestyle in tune with nature with love and respect for others and all beings!
Metaphysical basis
- Breathing is natural. A healthy person breaths 21600 times in 24 hours
- Just become aware of this natural process
- Tie it with a higher goal –identification with Soul
- Keep mind occupied with an attribute of Brahma
- Mind has one limitation –it can cling to only one thought at a time
Scientific basis
- Neuro-endocrine system regulates and governs human body and psyche
- Hormones are responsible for mood swings that trigger thoughts and actions
- Subconscious mind impacts human behavior
- Innate mechanism defines human personality
- Stillness of body calms senses including mind
- Matter (body) responds positively to repetition
Benefits Physical
- Unobstructed and rhythmic breathing
- Improved respiration and flow of vital energy
- Carrying more oxygen into the lungs and more CO2 out of it
- Inducing flow of oxygen into alveoli where actually gas exchange takes place
- More revitalized body cells
- Biochemical changes to give a feeling of wellness
- Strengthened immune system
- Enhanced positivity and strength
- More agility resulting in better health and longevity
Mental
- Improved mental capacity and balance
- Increased memory, concentration and decision power
- Greater patience and tolerance capacity
- Calm, tranquil and relaxed mind
- Enhanced willpower and self-confidence
- Less of tension, depression, stress and worry
Emotional
- Ability to operate on higher spiritual plane
- Less prone to mood swings
- Better psychic control
- Greater discerning ability
- Enhanced ability to transform a negative emotion into positive
- Better control over psychological disorders
Behavioural
- Ability to change attitudes and habits
- Control over basic human afflictions – desire, anger, greed and delusion
- Inner repulsion to habits like addiction, violence and indulgence
- Higher degree of detachment towards material things and circumstances
- Increased efficiency, creativity, and respect for finer values
- More active and least reactive
