An
enlightened mind can free oneself from the materialistic world and help realize
the true potential of oneself. Undoubtedly, a calm and composed mind helps surf
through the ebbs and tides of life with utmost equanimity. An equanimous
mind helps in having a clear vision, one that is not obscured by wavering
thoughts. Yoga and Meditation are two different tools to attain spiritual
freedom.
To the
uninitiated, Yoga is akin to yogic postures. But Yoga, in real sense, goes
beyond the postures. The discipline of Yoga is meant to master the mind and not
just the body. Patanjali, known as the father of Modern Yoga and the author of
Yoga Sutra, a classical guide of verses, defines Yoga as a practice that helps
still the fluctuations of mind, enabling the practitioner to rest in a state of
essential true nature.
Most people
take to Yogasana practice because they are drawn (until they realize the other
aspect) to its physical benefits. Several studies and scientific researches
indicate that Yogasanas improves flexibility, sense of balance, strength and
endurance. It also brings down stress and stress-induced negative impacts on
the body.
Asana (yogic
posture) is defined in Yoga Sutra as Sukhamsthiramasanam, a posture which is
stable and at ease. Sukha means a sense of sweet comfort and sthira means firm
and unwavering.
When a
posture is held with awareness for an extended period of time one can easily
develop strength and steadiness. Its regular practice will gradually strengthen
the muscles that are engaged in the process. The breath tends to be even,
smooth and rhythmic when the effort is minimal.
As one begins
to cultivate this inner connection between the body and the breath, asana
practice can be an extraordinary discipline to bring oneself back to the
natural stillness which the ancient yogis so extolled.
Meditation
too is in continuum with the internal journey but the emphasis is directly on
controlling the mind. Meditation helps to explore truth, distinguish false
impressions from real ones and see things for what they really are.
“When
meditation is mastered, the mind is unwavering like the flame of a candle in a
windless place.”– Bhagavad Gita
The usual
nature of the mind is to wander, to be caught up in all sensory inputs. During
meditation, the mind drifts but one can gently guide the awareness back to the
object of meditation. Awareness is the richest part of such a practice. Through
training, one can strengthen the ability to detach from distractions and abide
in the present. As the meditation practice deepens it enables an inner
unfolding, where one’s awareness begins to expand from conscious state to
super-consciousness and ultimately remain in a state of pure joy and serenity.
There are
several meditation techniques taught by different schools of spiritual
practice. These could be mindfulness breathing, chanting of the mantra or
focusing on an object of meditation, all meant to train the mind to settle into
stillness.
The goal of
both, Yogic posture and Meditation, is to stabilize the mind and find oneness
with the divine. It is inappropriate to separate both the practices. Asanas
form the preliminary level to get started and progress towards Meditation. The
basic difference lies in the method of the practice. Yogic postures involve
movement of the body aligned with a particular breathing pattern.
In
Meditation, one just sits over for an extended period of time mindfully focusing
on the object of meditation. When the Meditation intensifies it enables one to
enter a state of consciousness that expands into a thoughtless awareness. The
beauty of regular practice of Meditation, even if for just a few minutes daily,
is on how its effect percolates into each and every aspect of day-to-day
living. It builds a commendable emotional resilience by being open to new
perspective on stressful situations, superior patience and tolerance, increased
self-awareness and focus besides inspiring creativity.
(The author is Dr Sumitra Bentur, BAMS,
Diploma in Yoga Therapy)
