Patanjali: Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi

Yoga is a big term that these days is used in many different ways. However, many practitioners today look for answers in Patanjali’s teachings – a sage that taught the essence of yoga in what is now known as the yoga sutras. It is a book with 196 short texts explaining the wisdom and philosophy behind the practice.

The most known of these teachings are the Ashtanga – the eight limbs of yoga. In the video below, Doron explains the last three limbs of Ashtanga –  Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. In addition being a physical practice, yoga is above all when we become the masters of our mind, instead of the mind mastering us. When we practice meditation and concentration we will reach the state of understanding how to stop the fluctuations of the mind – yogacitta vrtti nirodha. This is the true practice and the way to liberation from the mind.

The practice of the three limbs

The practice for these limbs is based on finding present moment instead of trying and pushing. See if you can ground yourself for the practice, concentrate on your breathing and slowly deepen the practice, with time. Surrender and allow it happen on it’s own.

• • Dharana  – An easy practice for every day concentration is to be present in what ever actions you are doing. Be present to observe your breath. Concentration can be practiced in meditation with an object, like a candle, that you direct the concentration towards. You can count your breaths from 1-10, repeatingly, to keep the focus in the object.
  • Dhyana – With time the concentration will shift into contemplation. You don’t need to concentrate anymore on your breaths, and you will observe what ever is happening. Maintain your awareness in that state, without labeling or judging. This state is to observe the mind becoming still.
  • Samadhi – From the state of Dhyana, you will be dissolving into samadhi, a complete state of concentration. The term is used also to describe the enlightenment.

Don’t give up if you feel frustrated! It will take time and patience to train the mind. But as everything that is new for you, this also gets easier with further practice. You can try this practice for example to relieve stress symptoms. It will help you to attain more bliss and joy in your life. Enjoy!

What is Yoga?

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Join us for a yoga retreat or yoga teacher training at Doron Yoga & Zen Center in Guatemala.

If you are interested to learn more of philosophy terms and simple explanations, check out the Doron Yoga Manual – one the most practical ways to master yoga. It is written clearly and simply for every one in mind.

Blissful living,

Doron