By PANKHURI SRIVASTAVA
Health and Wellness Coach
तत्र प्रत्ययैकतानता ध्यानम् ।। 3.2 ।।
tatra pratyayaikatānatā dhyānam॥
Undisturbed, the unbroken stream-like flow of concentration towards an object or a thought or a point is called dhyānam.
(Patanjali yog sutra 3.2)
At the first glance of this sūtra itappears dhāraṇā and dhyānam are one and the same. But closer observation reveals the difference: dhāraṇā is an initial effort of sādhaka to stop the wavering thoughts in the mind so that the mind dwells upon an object or point. Once the mind stops on the desired object or point, the mind of sādhaka assumes the shape of an unbroken stream and flows uninterruptedly towards the object or point selected effortlessly. This second phase is termed as dhyānam by Patañjali Maharṣi. Thus, in dhyānam, there is ease and effortlessness on the part of sādhaka, as there is free flow rather than an effortful gathering of scattered minds to dwell upon the desired object or point. That is the reason many commentators have given a pretty nice analogy and comparison to pouring of thick oil from one container to another vessel to describe dhyānam.
Modern world comes with its own set of demands. With continuous and constant connectivity to work and overwhelming digital input in our lives, we face more stress, fatigue and pressure than ever before. The Fight ,flight or freeze response, which is designed originally for dangerous and life threatening situations ,is triggered quite frequently due to everyday challenges faced by the human race today, affecting a large number of populations throughout the world. Upon encountering stress, our body requires nearly an hour to restore equilibrium.
According to WHO disease related to stress is going to be a global pandemic within a decade .Meditation is the biggest natural remedy to combat stress and stress related diseases like hypertension, depression, anxiety, heart issues, low immunity, digestive issues and the list goes on. There are innumerable Psychological benefits combined with immense physical improvement of Meditation.
SAMYAMA: THE MEDITATION
Samyama derives from the “Yoga Sutras of Patanjali,” an ancient manuscript that codifies the principles and practices of yoga. The “Yoga Sutras” comprises 196 sutras, grouped into four chapters, with Samyama present in the third chapter, “Vibhuti Pada.” Patanjali describes the relationship between Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption), culminating in Samyama practice. It is a deep level of undivided concentration in which the meditator is completely absorbed in their object of concentration. By connecting the mind with the chosen point of concentration, this technique tries to achieve profound insights and spiritual experiences. It is frequently seen as an advanced practice and is usually recommended after acquiring an adequate meditation foundation.
THE TECHNIQUE
The uninterrupted flow of Samyama can be broken down into the following phases ….
1. Dharana (attention): Throughout this phase, the mind concentrates completely on a single point of attention, such as a mantra, an image, the breath, or a thought. The practitioner practices uninterrupted focus, avoiding distractions, and retaining mental calm.
2. Dhyana (Meditation): After reaching a state of focused concentration, the meditator naturally enters a state of meditation. During this phase, the practitioner’s concentration increases and an intimate connection with the chosen object of focus develops.
3. Samadhi (Absorption): At this stage in the practice, the meditator becomes one with the object of attention. The meditator, the object, and the act of meditation dissolve, leading to an experience of profound unity and insight.
