Difference between revisions of "Dhyana (ध्यानम्)"
(Editing) |
(Adding content with reference) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
| − | Dhyana (Samskrit: ध्यानम्) refers to meditation<ref name=":0" />, the 7th step in the path of Ashtanga Yoga expounded by Maharshi Patanjali. | + | Dhyana (Samskrit: ध्यानम्) refers to meditation<ref name=":0" />, the 7th step in the path of Ashtanga Yoga expounded by Maharshi Patanjali. In fact, this path systematically developed and described by Maharshi Patanjali to enable union of the empirical self with the universal transcendental self in the Yoga Sutras is also known as 'Dhyana Yoga'.<ref>K. Ramakrishna Rao & Anand C. Paranjpe (2016), Psychology in the Indian Tradition, India: Springer.</ref> |
== परिचयः ॥ Introduction == | == परिचयः ॥ Introduction == | ||
Revision as of 14:34, 6 February 2023
Dhyana (Samskrit: ध्यानम्) refers to meditation[1], the 7th step in the path of Ashtanga Yoga expounded by Maharshi Patanjali. In fact, this path systematically developed and described by Maharshi Patanjali to enable union of the empirical self with the universal transcendental self in the Yoga Sutras is also known as 'Dhyana Yoga'.[2]
परिचयः ॥ Introduction
The word 'Dhyana' is derived from the root words, 'dhi' meaning ‘receptacle’ or ‘the mind’ and 'yana' meaning ‘moving’ or ‘going’. An alternate etymology is from the root word, 'dhyai' meaning ‘to think of’. Dhyana is usually translated as meditation, implying a state of calm.
The practice of Dhyana follows the practice of the earlier steps of Ashtanga Yoga, namely, Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara and Dharana. In fact, Dhyana is a continuation of Dharana. For, meditation is nothing but a more mature state of concentration. The continuous practice of Dharana on Breath or Omkara eventually leads to Dhyana.[1]
ध्यानस्य लक्ष्णानि ॥ Features of Dhyana
The features of Dhyana include,
- Slowness of breath
- One focus point awareness
- Effortlessness
- Wakefulness[1]
ध्यानस्य प्रयोजनम् ॥ Benefits of Dhyana
The benefits of practising Dhyana are manifold.
- It helps one to get rid of negative emotions like fear, anger and helps one to develop positive emotions like love, compassion, friendliness and cheerfulness.
- It keeps the mind calm and quiet.
- It increases concentration, memory, clarity of thought and will power.
- It rejuvenates body and mind.[1]