Principle of Meditation

Meditation is a profound practice that allows individuals to connect with their inner selves and achieve spiritual Enlightenment. At its core, meditation focuses the mind on a single thought, gradually leading to the stilling of all thoughts and ultimately experiencing pure Consciousness.

The Nature of Meditation

The essence of meditation is about discipline and focus. It is not merely a mechanical repetition of phrases or sounds; rather, it's an art that requires the mind to remain steady and concentrated. Meditation leads to the extinction of the mind and intellect, allowing one to experience the absolute Reality, referred to as Brahman.

Remember: Meditation is not about emptying the mind; it’s about directing it towards the highest ideals, and through sustained practice, achieving stillness.

The Process of Meditation

Meditation involves a systematic approach to quieting the mind. The process can be broken down into several key phases:

Preparation

To successfully meditate, you must prepare both physically and mentally:

1. Choose a Quiet Space:

   • Select a place that is free from distractions where you can sit comfortably.

2. Assume the Right Posture:

   • Sit cross-legged or in a position that keeps your spine straight. Focus on maintaining balance.

3. Calm Your Body:

   • Relax your muscles by mentally scanning your body from head to toe, releasing tension as you go.

4. Regulate Breathing:

   • Engage in pranayama techniques that involve controlled breathing to calm the body and mind.

Chanting the Mantra

The heart of meditation often lies in the use of a mantra – a word or phrase repeated silently or audibly to focus the mind.

• Choose a Mantra:

  • A widely used mantra in Vedanta is “Om,” which symbolically represents the essence of the universe.

• Practice Japa:

  • Japa, or the repetition of the mantra, can help anchor your thoughts. This should be done using a mala (rosary) to keep track.

Focus and Concentration

While chanting the mantra, your mind may tend to wander. Refocusing is crucial:

• Observation:
  • Allow the intellect to observe the chant. If the mind strays into other thoughts, gently bring it back to the mantra.

Transition to Silence

As you progress in your practice:

1. Gradual Softening:
   • Shift from vocal chant to a mental whisper of the mantra.
2. Achieve Silence:
   • After a period, allow the mantra to fade, leading to a moment of pure Silence, where the thoughts cease entirely.

The silence experienced is transformative. At this moment, both the mantra and the intellect dissolve, allowing the meditator to experience pure Awareness.

The Dynamics of Thought in Meditation

Meditation fosters a disciplined thought-flow. Unlike mere mental indulgence, it requires an active engagement by the intellect. Here’s how:

• Controlled Thought Flow:
  • Engage in positive and uplifting thoughts that lead towards Self-knowledge, avoiding distractions.

The Benefits of Meditation

Regular practice of meditation yields numerous benefits:

• Stress Reduction:
  • Helps manage anxiety and removes mental clutter.
• Increased Awareness:
  • Fosters a deeper understanding of the self and reality.
• Emotional Stability:
  • Develops resilience against external enhancements and cultivates inner peace.

Visualization

This diagram illustrates how focused thought nurtures intelligence and tranquility, ultimately leading to Self-realization.

In summary, the principle of meditation is not merely about seeking silence but involves a structured approach to cultivate deeper awareness and connection with oneself. The essence lies in practice, patience, and dedication to the Self.

For a deeper understanding and practical implications, explore Technique of Meditation and discover the transformative journey awaiting you.