A look into the concept of meditation will throw light on why writing about the modes of meditation could prove misleading to ignorant minds.
Meditation is a time-tested empowerment tool. It is designed as a holistic programme for the integrated development of the self from the basal level. It embraces the energy, mind and body — the three constituents of a complete being. The primary focus, however, remains on the ‘mind’. For, it is the mind that determines the functional mandate of a person, which drives a being’s functional self. The fruition would be a sustained qualitative growth of enriched intrinsic energies, a well-coordinated thought process, and a healthy body — the three ingredients of a successful life.
How does meditation helpIJ It’s a process of mind-engineering, which:
Consequently, the faculty of discriminate intelligence unfolds to its optimum, which usually remains untapped unless consciously explored. In turn, that helps pick up the most appropriate leads, and
Why do we need to meditateIJ The power of the mind is immeasurable. It, however, mostly remains untapped because of ignorance (coming as it may with our inherent infirmities), necessitating relevant correction. And all these imperfections reflect in our day-to-day accomplishments. For, their imprints are ingrained deep in the realms of mind. And unless these infirmities are resolved and made dysfunctional, they continue chasing us from within. Meditation is the means to correct that.
But, mere intellectual awareness does not help much. For, in the first place, by itself, it cannot stop the negative imprints from coming into play. Second, it cannot find spontaneous reflection unless it sinks deep into our minds through continued auto-suggestion. This is achievable through meditation.
Tools of meditation
First, let’s have a glimpse of the premise on which the Indian system of meditation is designed. A look into the genesis of creation will reveal that a well-orchestrated nature-driven energy structure holds the key to our creation, sustenance, dynamism, recycling, and all functional aspects of our existence.
In this scheme of things, the formation and flow of a human being is primarily driven by two factors. First, the basic energy construct of a being (comprising of components, all primarily sourced to nature). That accounts for the making of the gross body, and the mind. Added to that is the thought or energy flowing through one’s mind which drives a person. Both of the above in their original arrangement vary from person to person, thus providing uniqueness to every individual. The two are set into an interdependently influencing mechanism.
Meditation techniques cover both the energy and the mind through two tools — mantra and symbolism. Mantra helps rectify the energy imbalance, if any, in the system. Symbolism (through the concept it portrays), helps self-educate, to improve one’s habits, attitudes and build a cohesive thought process. The two work in tandem invariably — symbol always tuned to the vibrations of the corresponding mantra. For optimal effect one is supposed to remain focussed on the symbol while reciting the corresponding mantra.
Mantra
Mantra is a set of syllables placed in a logical sequence to create a particular sound effect, which routed through the mind finds connect with the related source in the cosmos. The repeated recitation of the mantra brings in continued stream of energy inflow into the system to strengthen one’s energy structure.
Symbolism
The symbols relate to various concepts, and are vital to our well-reasoned conduct. Some symbols carry a philosophic message purported to make us aware about the way the world is structured and the way we ought to conduct. Following that, one could change his/ her life, in conformity with the laws of nature. Focus on these symbols during meditation serve as auto-suggestion, becoming an integral part of one’s nature. It then finds spontaneous reflection in one’s demeanour.
Here, it is important to note that every individual is born unique in terms of one’s energy-construct as well as thought process. Accordingly, individual-specific mantra and the corresponding symbol to be focussed upon need to be identified. Only a qualified guru could do justice to that. That is what calls for guided meditation suited to individual-specific needs.
The writer is an astrologer, vastu consultant and spiritual counsellor. Write to him at G-5, Basement, Jungpura Extension, New Delhi 14 Tel: 9818037273/ 24310031
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