What Is Dhyana and How to Practice It
Probably, almost everyone heard the phrase “belief makes things happen” at least once in their life in this or any other form. Many people are skeptical about this proverb; however, daily affirmations can change things for the better. Tell yourself that you are beautiful, and your mirror reflection will change. Say more to yourself that you are incredibly clever, and you will gain more confidence. That’s simple as it is.For those, who genuinely believe in the power of positive thoughts, dhyana may become an essential spiritual exercise. Learn more about this type of meditation and start practicing it today.
What Is Dhyana?
Dhyana is the seventh out of eight limbs of yoga. It is a limb, the function of which is meditation. All of them serve different purposes. For example, the asana limb focuses on posture, while the practice of pratyahara supposes withdrawal of all senses. While practicing dhyana, you concentrate on a particular thought or concept, associating yourself with it, trying to become one with it in your mind. In addition, this practice helps bring something you desire into your life through affirmations and calms your soul.
Focusing on your desires may sound easy, but you need to follow a few important steps during the dhyana session. Let’s take a look at them.
How to Practice Dhyana?
- Find a comfortable position. To fully engage in this exercise, you must reduce all distractions to a minimum. An uncomfortable position may be one of them. You can pick one of the asanas or sit as you like – as long as your pose doesn’t disturb you. Making a light stretch or short yoga session before meditation is also advisable. Physical activity will relax your body so you won’t feel stiff while practicing dhyana.
- Take mindful breaths. Conscious breathing is a good way to help your mind focus on the meditative process. Take a few deep breaths and slowly breath out. If you want to learn some advanced breathing techniques, you can search for pranayama yoga practices.
- Focus on the image. Dhyana requires a strong association with some ideas, objects, or passions. Think about the thing that you want to meditate on. It may be some happy memory, a special place that reminds you of good times, a picture of your successful future – indeed, anything. Imagine as you become one with this concept. Feel the flow of positive energy and concentrate on it.
- Clear your mind from unimportant elements. While focusing on the object of your meditation, it is also important not to be sidetracked by other thoughts. Put all your worries aside. Now it’s time for you to relax and for your soul to rest.
- Don’t force it. Remember that the primary purpose of meditation is to put your mind at ease. Forcing yourself to concentrate on spiritual practice will only cause harm: you will feel more tired and stressed than before. For dhyana, you must pick a good moment and place where you can actually calm down and peacefully reflect on your thoughts.
You may not be successful in your first session since some factors may distract you, and it’s totally okay. Try again, change your place, position, or object of meditation, turn binaural sounds on, and burn some incense. Eventually, you will establish your own special dhyana routine to help your spiritual growth.
Final thoughts
Dhyana is an incredible yoga exercise that significantly reduces the number of negative thoughts, lowering anxiety and boosting one’s confidence. It’s a great way to spend your pastime, and by practicing it, you can decrease your stress levels and become the person you always wanted to be.
