Meditation as a therapy is an advice freely distributed as the antidote for all issues - particularly for mental and psychological wellness. The origin is Latin 'Meditatum' meaning 'to ponder'.Of course, doing 'Dhyana' regularly - correctly and appropriately - improves awareness of how our minds work and how thoughts are processed. There is but a serious catch - 'one size does Not fit all.' The effect of various techniques varies and often, can be counter-productive. Personally, I have seen this occur during my sessions. Whether to and how to meditate is individualistic. The preparation is often given a go-by, a primary reason why we are unable to get the purchase of this exalted practise.The Shrutis themselves emerged and manifested though deep contemplation and reflection. Meditation is seen as a path to uncover the true nature of the self, described in the Upanishads as immortal and beyond limitations.
In the Vedic tradition, dhyanais considered an imperative tool for spiritual growth, self-discovery, and achieving inner balance andpeace. It is acknowledged that meditation may not suit everyone due to various factors deeply rooted in the individual's disposition, mindset, and importantly -Emotional and Spiritual Readiness.
Each individual has a unique disposition, mindset,constitutional fabric (Prakrit) comprisinggenetic, physical, mental, and spiritual attributes - influencinga person's response system and agreeability to different practices, including meditation. Generically, while a calm and introspective nature, makes meditation more welcomingand beneficial, a restless or extroverteddisposition, can find it challenging to quieten the mind and experience the deeper states. The key here is a deep desire and intent to be learn and absorb, making it a nature.
The state of mind andemotional balancearesignificant. It can beparadoxical. While emotional turmoil&stresscalls for calming, reflective practises, it can obliterate the ability to convergethoughts and reach quietness. The preparation - preparing the soil for plantingis crucial. Pranayama (breath regulating) or relevant mantra chanting assitsto bring stability.
Getting into meditation is preparing to start a long Spiritual journey. A Spiritual readiness and backgroundgreatly help. Dhyana in the Vedic tradition is an important part of evolving to next levels of learning and growth -which involves contemplation on spiritual principles, self-inquiry, and connecting with higher states of consciousness. For individuals who are not spiritually inclined, meditation practices may seem abstract or lack context.
Krishna teaches in the Bhagavat Gita …
;ksx;qäks fo'kq)kRek foftrkRek ftrsfUæ;: |
loZHkwrkReHkwrkRek dqoZUufi u fyI;rs ||
yoga-yuktovis´huddhÀtmÀvijitÀtmÀjitendriya?
sarva-bhÂtÀtma-bhÂtÀtmÀkurvannapinalipyate Bh Gita 5.7
The Karma yogis, of purified intellect, who control the mind and senses, see the Soul of all souls in every living being, the self who acts but is not attached. Though performing all kinds of actions, they are never entangled.
This verse highlights the qualities cultivated through Dhyaana Sadhna- purification of the vishuddha-atma purified (intellect & mind) jitendriya (conquering the senses), leadto self-realization and non-attachment.
The body and mind are interwoven as one. One disturbs the other. Imbalances in nadis subtle energy channels or chakrasenergy centres affect the flow of Prana vital energy - essential for a comforting and real experience.
The Vedas elaborate on how our current life is totally influenced by karmas past actions and samskarasimpressions stored in the mindthat travel with us from birth to birth. These play a central role in spiritual growth like meditative practises. They can highly supportive. However negative impressions and carry-overs like unresolved conflicts or deep-seated fears may surface causing inner discomfort or resistance.
A commitment and resolveis essential - to cultivate and nurture into a habit.A responsibility to the self and an experience that cannot be described. Erraticism or a mundane effort is a waste of time.Practises like dhyana are deeply entwined with spiritual beliefs and ritualswith specific purposes. Proper guidancefrom experienced Gurusor mentorsare imperative - customized to one's nature andpurpose to navigate correctly.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outlinesdhyana as a critical practice for achieving mental and emotional stability.
rnk æ"Vq%Lo:is·oLFkkuEk~
Then the seer abides in its own nature.
Through meditation, the practitioner transcends the fluctuations of the mind and attains a state of pure awareness.
In the Vedic tradition meditation is a transformative practice for spiritual evolution andself-fulfilment. It offers profound benefits. Its suitability varies among individuals due to diverse factors. Recognizing these factors allows individuals to approach meditation with greater awareness, to resonate with their unique needs for positive results. Ultimately, it is journey within into our self.
— The writer is a versatile professional with 3 decades in corporate experience & leadership roles, exceling in several areas as a ICF Certified Mentor Life Coach, Corporate Coach, Spiritual Intelligence Coach & CXO Coach. Spiritual counselor, Astro & Vastu consultant (25+ years of grounding in Vedanta philosophy) and a Motivational speaker. He is a Dale Carnegie’s T3 graduate
