There are two working tools of the Dhyana process – An imagery to focus upon and a mantra related to the image – as has been explained in the previous issue. Mantra is usually a set of syllables placed in a logical sequence to create a particular sound effect. It could be just a seed letter, syllable, word, or a set of words, which as a sequel to stress created and uttered by mouth, is {…}
Read MoreWe have so far had insight into the first 4 steps of eightfold path suggested by sage Patanjali. That prepares the ground to begin the Dhyāna process. The four steps to follow here onwards need to be seen in a running sequence, as progressively succeeding stages of a singular process. For, the first step Pratyāhāra, which implies interiorising the mind, is the mode in which the whole dhyāna process is carried on. Dhāranā, dhyāna, and {…}
Read MoreSo long as the indwelling soul is there, one is alive, which when withdrawn, the gross body turns into a dead matter. Here again, but for the very platform being in shape, mind and the element of consciousness shall not be outplaying in full strength, nor would it be possible to effortlessly follow the process. Accordingly, it would, be desirable to subject oneself to Yoga-asana, which is a set of physical exercises set in tune {…}
Read MoreDhyana does not warrant trying to forcefully stop our thoughts immediately when the process is taken up. Remember, mind is invariably loaded with a bundle full of thoughts, difficult to be stifled to one’s asking. The inlaid thoughts will continue to knock us from within. So, one is bound to be confronted with distraction, and all the more during meditation. Following withdrawal of senses from the outer world, the indwelling thought impressions come into active {…}
Read MoreMan is a thinking being. They keep breeding and entertaining thoughts nonstop. They may be in response to external stimuli, or the ones arising out of in-store impressions. Mind even flirts around with assumed thoughts and keeps entertaining them for long. During the 24 hours in a day, it is barely for 45 to 50 minutes of deep slumber that mind is at rest. Even during dream stage, mind keeps entertaining thoughts picked up during {…}
Read MoreHaving gone through the previous issue, a good number of valued readers have requested to explain the Dhyana process as propounded by sage Patanjali in detail. To meet their demand, I am sharing my write-up on the above subject as detailed in my book titled: “God or No God. Awareness enriches life.” Dhyana, going by its literal meaning implies paying attention. To what? It is on none other than one’s own self, which holds the {…}
Read MoreNo sooner I get into the process suggested to calm my overtaxed mind, I get into sleep mode. Obviously, when I get up, I feel temporarily relaxed. But soon after my monkey mind comes into active play. Tell me where I am going wrong. Asked a disciple, who is serious about getting over the limitations of his mind. “Getting into sleep mode during the process is not desirable”. I answered. “Why then is it happening?” {…}
Read MoreIf you wish to enjoy a game you are playing, in the first place, you need to be conversant with rules driving it, and the art of playing. Second, you need to learn from an experienced coach, the techniques necessary to play the game proficiently. Third, you need to team up well with the co-players, but for which, it will not be possible to make it a success. And finally, you need to be on {…}
Read MorePicking up threads from the previous issue, let us first have a look into the construct and chemistry of mind. For, it defines and drives through the functional mandate of a being. There are three functional tools of mind – Buddhi, Ahamkara and Manasa. They don’t have separate identity by themselves. They are rather interwoven into an integrated mechanism, all working in support of each other. Coming to individual attributes of the three, Buddhi is {…}
Read More“How much control we have on our destiny?” Asked a student during my astrology class. Well, the answer is ‘no and yes’. Should you leave yourself to the usual run of life, you have no control. For, you have yourself scripted your destiny, as it is a carryover effect of your own doing and undoing in the past. If, however, should you turn your attention inwards, reflect upon and identify own desire and mental trends {…}
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