| . | |
 |
|
| . | |
|
|
|
| . |
|
Dhyana - Swami Rama |
|
Part I |
|
Preparing for Concentration and Meditation |
|
All life comes under the influence of certain cycles. In practicing concentration it is best to adjust one’s practice to certain times in the rhythm of nature. The best periods for concentration and meditation are dawn, dusk, and midnight. The early morning hours between 4 and 6 am are especially favorable for intense concentration. At this time, the mind and body have been completely rested and all nature is calm. It is at this time that self-unfoldment is best attained. Preparation for meditation consists of bringing the mind to perfect calmness. Never attempt to practice concentration or meditation when under emotional stress or when the breath is disturbed. Do not meditate during the daytime when the right breath, pingala, is flowing, or at night when the left breath, ida, is flowing. During meditation it is important to apply sushumna. Complete silence of the mind is necessary for meditation; the mind should be one-pointed and inward. One should not be sleepy, restless, or in any sort of mental turmoil. |
|
The mind itself can only work well within certain limits of temperature. The greatest mental efficiency occurs at a temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The mind cannot be clear and centered when the stomach is filled with food, or when the bloodstream is full of nutrients. Food makes the breath heavy and the mind in turn becomes inert. For serious students of meditation, two meals a day is the best routine in the beginning. The student should take only water, juice, or milk in between. Overdoing one’s practice is certain to bring about mental dullness and tiredness, and will prevent true progress. Therefore one should be moderate, both in habits and in the practice of meditation. |
|
© "Path of Fire and Light" Vol. I, Advanced Practices of Yoga by Swami Rama, published (1986) by The Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy of the USA, RR 1, Box 400, Honesdale, PA 18431 |
|
Click here to view the full content of the article. |
|
<< Back |