Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi

We did it!

We've reached the final limbs of the eight-fold path of Yoga, and we're going to look at them in one go because of how closely related they are and because they often merge into each other.

The sixth limb is Dharana, meaning concentration is the process of holding or fixing the attention of the mind onto one object or place.

The object you focus on can be a physical object or a mantra. How do we practice Dharana?

1. Start with Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses trains us for concentration. (see previous practice)
2. Find a comfortable position to sit in. Support your legs, hips, and maybe even your back. It will be extra challenging to concentrate if you're in discomfort, so if any part of the body is expressing strong opinions and distracting you, move.
3. Choose an object to concentrate on. If your eyes are closed, focus on the breath or a mantra. Or, you could keep your eyes open and concentrate on a physical item, like a candle or a statue of a deity that has meaning for you.
4. If this is new to you and you’ve chosen to keep your eyes open, start with a large area around the object of concentration. Eventually, as you practice this more, perhaps the area of focus becomes smaller. If you’re choosing a mantra to concentrate on, it doesn’t have to be the sound OM - If you have a mantra that has meaning, use that. You’re more likely to stick to your practice if you choose something familiar. Repeat the mantra silently in your or out loud.
5. Practice Dharana regularly. Concentration is essential to practice - and in life generally.

Each of the limbs of Yoga builds upon the techniques of the previous ones. This means the practice of Dharana is the foundation of our seventh limb, Dhyana. Dhyana is meditation or sustained focus. At first glance, these two limbs may seem like the same thing, but here are the differences:

Dharana requires concentration on a specific object or mantra.

Dhyana is a more immersive and broader meditative state.

Dharana is often moments of concentration - broken up by moments of the mind wandering.

Dhyana is a steady flow concentration. This flow can allow for tapping more deeply into self-awareness.

Often Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (enlightenment) are practiced at the same time, leading to a state referred to as Samyama. Samyama is a state of bliss with complete control over the mind.

Samadhi - Deep absorption where only the essence of the object, place, or point is held in the forefront of the mind as if the mind was devoid of even its own form. Considered to be spiritual enlightenment, this is the state where the mind, self, and object (that you’re meditating on) merge into one.

Does this all seem a little lofty?

Yeah, I get it. Concentration is challenging for most people. I often think of my mind as just a couple of kittens running around with several balls of wool. Always practice self-compassion, and don't take yourself too seriously. We can be sincere in our practice and still have a sense of humour.

Stay silly. Laugh at yourself when your balance is wobbly. Be kind when your mind wanders - that is literally how the mind works. Your mind is amazing, and can conjur everything that exists, and anything that doesn't exist in the form of thought. That's a super power. It's also a super power  to calm all those thoughts - even for the smallest of moments. Celebrate every one of those moments.

You are all amazing. I appreciate you being here, and I am deeply grateful for your trust. This month's physical practice is coming next week, and will include some mobility tips for your hips, low back, and shoulders. If you have some specific questions, or body parts that could use some attention be welcome to comment here or send me a message if you prefer to keep it private.

Until then - remember to breathe.

OM

Kim

Also - Have you joined the Discord yet? C'mon into the Kimmaginarium for chats, sharing photos, thoughts, hopes, dreams...  https://discord.gg/zG86gvrj