Meditation, an ancient practice with roots in various global cultures, has been lauded for millennia as a gateway to understanding the true nature of existence and the Self. Amidst the tumult and interruptions of the modern world, more people are turning to this timeless art to find serenity and self-awareness. Let’s delve into Sri Ashish’s journey with meditation, its myriad benefits, and how you can integrate it into your daily routine.

Meditation, as Defined by Sage Patanjali

Meditation as per Step 7 in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras is an advanced state of mind to realize the Self. Here, you are completely separated from the external world and do not have any thoughts except a stream of consciousness of nothingness. There is a feeling of complete peace and happiness in this meditative state. Meditation precedes samadhi or complete absorption of the self (ego) into Self — the last stage of Patanjali’s eight-step process. With absorption, you experience your original state of existence (Silence), the ultimate Reality, and the illusory nature of this world is evident.

 

Journeying Inwards: Sri Ashish’s Experience

At the heart of meditation lies an unparalleled promise: to connect with an ethereal, transcendent realm where only the consciousness of Self remains. Sri Ashish, having treaded this path, recounts experiences of deep peace and bliss, moments when the confines of body, mind, and the external world melted away, leaving only the pure Self in focus. However, it’s vital to appreciate that these instances of enlightenment, although profound, come unbidden and cannot be manufactured.

 

The Multifaceted Rewards of Meditation

While the spiritual epiphanies might be sporadic, meditation still brings a trove of consistent benefits:

• Personal Transformation: Cultivating qualities of compassion, peace, and tolerance, while reducing negative emotions like anger.
• Mental Well-being: Serving as a salve for anxiety and depression, often outshining conventional treatments.
• Sharpened Focus: Enhancing day-to-day productivity and functionality.
• Cognitive Gains: Aiding in improved mental clarity and capacity.
• Emotional Stability: Providing a foundation for facing life’s challenges with balance and grace.
• Physical Rewards: Recent studies have shown genetic alterations leading to longer life and overall better health.
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How to Meditate Like You Mean It

Meditation and Self-inquiry serve as pathways to spiritual growth, each presenting its unique challenges and rewards. The greatest hurdle in meditation is disengaging from thoughts. Becoming engrossed in them can lead to an unending chain of interconnected thoughts. However, by observing thoughts as separate entities and refraining from fueling them with attention, they gradually dissipate. Envision yourself standing on a platform, merely observing a train of thoughts passing by, without boarding them.

Over time, this non-engagement creates expansive intervals devoid of thoughts, leading to a state of pure existence, free of thoughts, emotions, and actions. On the other hand, Self-inquiry is an intellectual exploration aiming to discern the elusive “I” that seems to be the source of each thought. Through diligent Self-inquiry, the realization emerges that this “I” is untraceable and essentially non-existent, signifying that the witnessed thoughts aren’t truly one’s own. Combining both methods, as in Sri Ashish’s practice, facilitates a profound inward journey towards Self-Realization.

 

Carving Out Your Own Path to Enlightenment

As you consider incorporating meditation into your life, it’s helpful to be acquainted with its intricacies. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras offer a comprehensive roadmap, from ethical guidelines to the pinnacle of meditation — samadhi. Though the path is layered and demands dedication, it’s a journey worth embarking on.

Starting with meditation might require discipline initially. Yet, with perseverance, the sheer joy of the practice will soon make it an indispensable part of your day. As you advance, not only will you discover an internal oasis of peace, but your external world will also mirror this tranquility. Over time, material desires will recede, making room for spiritual growth and aspirations.

 

Conclusion

Meditation is not just a practice; it’s a pathway to Self-Realization. While the journey might be demanding, the transformative rewards — both tangible and intangible — are unparalleled. So, as you stand at the crossroads of curiosity and commitment, remember that each moment spent in meditation brings you one step closer to understanding your true Self.