Yoga: The Path to Enlightenment

Additionally, I have found that holotropic breathwork which, utilizes the principles of pranayam can greatly enhance memory to uncover past life memories and memory of the knowledge of Self.

The next limb of yog(a) is Pratyahaar, control of the senses. When the mind is not drawn outward by the senses for pleasure or stimulation, pratyahaar has been achieved. This practice in our addiction-oriented society is quite difficult. Our constant cravings to do and have the latest and the best, to be the first one on the block, and to experience pleasurable sensations is difficult to calm. Yet, when the inner peace and contentment is realized and the joy and bliss of feeling the love of God permeate your being, outward needs quickly lose strength and fade. This is one of the achievements when Lent is practiced by Christians at Easter.

The 6th limb of yog(a) is Dhaarna causing the mind to remain in one place. This is the first of the 3 limbs that internalize ones practice. Dhaarna is the ability to concentrate without deviation or distraction at any place outside or inside the body. This practice alone enables one to experience deep altered states of consciousness as the full capacity of the mind is put into focus. This is, in fact, how hypnosis works as through one pointed concentration one is relieved of the agitating and distracting waves of scattered thinking and worry and can experience a deep sense of relaxation. This is why the use of a mantra (a word or phrase to focus the mind and tune in the nervous system to a higher vibration) is so effective as it is a tool that enables greater concentration.

The 7th limb is Dhyaan or commonly called meditation. By the concentrated efforts of Dhyaan on the space of pure consciousness, the wave of the mind, the thinking, slowly comes to a rest and the mind knows that is perceiving what is. This is known as the turiya state, a transcendence of the “I am” mind into the state of the oneness of all existence.

The 8th state, Samaadhi, when one dissolves into that state of oneness where only the pure space of life is and there no longer lingers an idea of separation. Samaadhi, is an indescribable state as there is no you, or any other, just oneness, pure dissolution of the ego, intellect and separate mind as the light of knowledge, the experience of being in God’s presence, as one with Him is realized.

Samaadhi is an amazing experience and one that I have always enjoyed watching my meditation students achieve as much as I love experiencing it myself. Some samaadhi experiences are short-lived and fleeting. Others last for hours, days or even years. There are many stages of samaadhi which, a seeker will go through, becoming more established in this state until it is permanent and unwavering. It is indeed a fun journey and worthy of anyone’s aspirations.

The quest for enlightenment in yoga is a multifaceted approach that becomes part of every aspect of your life, like a gourmet seven course meal, it is quite delicious, fulfilling and satisfying. To know yourself most always as joyous and peaceful is our reward.