Do you ever feel like your life is stuck on fast-forward, and you’re desperately searching for the pause button to catch a breather? Well, guess what? You’re not alone. The ancient scriptures might just have the answer on how to meditate according to Vedas and help you discover that long-craved pause button.
“Why should I care about these ancient scrolls?” you might ask. Fair question! The Vedas, those ancient, wise scrolls have been around for quite some time perhaps longer than the times of your great-great-great-grandparents. These timeless guides provide profound insights about life, meditation, and everything that lies in between. Rather than gathering dust in a museum, these age-old scrolls are buzzing with insights that can zap our modern stress and offer us deep knowledge of the very essence of our existence.
So, in this post, I am going to dive into the heart of Vedic meditation and share with you the ancient art of finding your chill in the cosmic storm. Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned practitioner get ready to dive into the treasures the Vedas have and rewire your connection with the universe. This isn’t just about meditation, it’s much more, let’s begin.
1. The Essence of Vedic Meditation
Think of the Vedas as a sort of cosmic guidebook that points the way to discovering your true self – a deeper, more authentic version of yourself. Let’s dive into the heart of the matter: meditation in the Vedas. By exploring this central concept, we can unlock insights into both our inner selves and the vast cosmic consciousness that surrounds us.
(i) Journey to Your True Self & Cosmic Consciousness
Vedas act as your secret recipe for discovering your genuine self. It’s like peeling away those labels – your name, job, and daily stresses – to uncover the ‘you’ that’s way deeper. You know, the one that exists beyond just ‘I like this’ or ‘I don’t like that’. The Vedas are like a guide to tapping into that real, unmasked you!
Wondering how to make it happen? It’s actually quite simple. Just close your eyes, tune out the noise around you, and take a journey within yourself. And don’t worry, this isn’t about escaping reality; it’s more like diving into its depths. By stepping back from the whirlwind of thoughts, you’ll stumble upon a peaceful space within you, a place where you’ll truly get to know yourself.
(ii) How Vedic Meditation differs from modern meditation practices
Wait, aren’t all types of meditation pretty much the same? Well, Vedic meditation isn’t just about soothing your nerves or boosting focus for that important presentation. It’s like taking meditation to the next level. Imagine syncing up with the cosmic rhythm, moving to the universe’s own beat.
Now, here’s a practical tip: Forget about trekking to mountain tops and spending hours meditating like a monk. A few minutes each day can kick-start something awesome. Seek out a cozy corner in your room, let your eyes rest, and dive into the present moment. No need to wrestle with your thoughts; let them float by like passing clouds. That’s the essence of Vedic meditation – it’s not about control, but about letting go in the easiest way.
2. Creating the Ideal Environment
Let’s get ready to create your very own meditation haven. So, what could this haven look like? It’s all about you and what brings you peace. Remember, this is more than just a physical space – it’s an atmosphere you are crafting that resonates with your soul and comfort.
(i) Let’s set the stage right
The Vedas say it is crucial to find a quiet corner. Think of your mind like a radio – it needs a clear channel to tune into. Just like you would not listen to your favorite song in the middle of a busy street, likewise, your mind needs a quiet space to catch the cosmic frequencies. So ensure your sacred space for meditation is free from all the distractions and the outside world’s noise.
(ii) Significance of cleanliness & purity in the meditation space
The Vedas say that the outside world reflects the inside – in other words, a tidy space makes a tidy mind. So ensure your chosen spot for meditation is clutter-free.
In Vedic philosophy, cleanliness isn’t just about the physical – it’s symbolic. It’s a way of telling your mind, “Hey, we’re about to embark on something special here.” It aligns with the idea of purity, which goes beyond just dirt – it’s about purifying your thoughts, your intentions, and your energy.
Now here’s a practical tip: You don’t need a spotless mansion to set the stage for meditation. Even a cozy quiet corner in your hall or bedroom will do. Just ensure the place is peaceful and tidy. It should not just be visually pleasing, but the place should be energetically aligned too.
3. The Proper Posture & Alignment
When it comes to meditation posture, it’s not about finding the perfect posture, it is instead finding a posture that aligns with your body and mind. So get ready to sit, to align, and to dive into the universe within.
(i) Find Your Zen Zone
The Vedas suggest postures like sitting cross-legged or the famous lotus position. You may ask – Why does this matter? These postures aren’t just about tradition, they are about creating comfortable, open space for your mind to roam. Just like a guitar needs tuning, your body needs the right posture to play its serene tune.
However, if you find comfort sitting on a chair then so be it, Vedas are not rigidly opposed to the idea of meditating in a chair. Vedas, in their wisdom, emphasize the comfort and ease of your meditation practice. So if you prefer sitting on a chair and if that allows you to maintain a relaxed & focused state of mind, it’s in line with the spirit of meditation as envisioned by the Vedas.
(ii) Straight Spine, Bright Mind
Your spine is like the superhighway that connects your body and mind. The Vedas knew this and have always suggested holding your spine upright to keep the energy flowing like a river. But hey, we’re not aiming for a rigid spine like a robot. Your spine should be erect yet relaxed. Let it settle into a natural, comfy position.
When you slump, it is like throwing rocks on the energy highway. The traffic slows, the cosmic GPS gets wonky and your mind is like, “Uh, where’s that inner peace hiding”? A straight spine means the energy flows smoothly, the mind gets sharper, and you’re poised to explore the depths within.
Now here’s a practical tip: Start by finding a cushion or a folded blanket to sit on. This raises your hips slightly and helps your spine align comfortably. Feel your sit bones on the ground, lengthen your spine like a proud giraffe, and let your shoulders relax. That’s it…you have found the sweet spot.
4. Breath Awareness & Pranayama
You might be wondering, what’s the big deal with something as natural as breathing? Well, my friend, the act of breathing goes far beyond just keeping us alive. It’s a gateway to mindfulness, relaxation, and a profound connection with ourselves and the universe around us. Let’s embark on the meditative adventure through the art of breath.
(i) The Dance of Breath & Mind
Breath is like the dance partner of your mind. In the Vedas, they say that mastering the dance of breath leads to mastering the dance of thoughts. It is like having a remote control for your mind – and the remote is your breath.
Breath awareness is a potent tool to quiet your monkey mind and find your zen zone. As you focus on each inhale and exhale, thoughts slow down. It is like turning down the volume of your mental chatter and creating space for clarity and calm.
(ii) Pranayama: The Breath Symphony
Pranayam is all about the art of breath control. The Vedas adore Pranayama and two stars of the Pranayama show endorsed by the Vedas are Anulom Vilom and Ujjayi. Anulom Vilom is all about balance – you inhale through one nostril, exhale through the other, and switch sides.
Ujjayi, on the other hand, is like the Darth Vader breath – but way cooler. You gently tighten the back of your throat and start making a soothing sound, almost like the gentle waves of the ocean. As you breathe, it’s like you’re riding those waves into a deeper state of meditation. And guess what? This trick can even make you feel all warm inside, like having your own cozy cosmic heater. Cool, right?
Now here’s a practical tip: Find a comfy seat, straighten that cosmic spine, and close your eyes. Start by just observing your breath – no need to change anything. As you get comfy, you can dive into Anulom Vilom and Ujjayi. Remember, no rush. Start with a few minutes and work your way up.
5. Mantra Meditation
Mantra meditation isn’t just about reciting a mantra or sounds, it is about the vibrations that connect you to the universe’s heartbeat. Get ready to chant, resonate, and align with the cosmic energies that surround you.
(i) The Mantra Magic
Mantra meditation is like focusing a magnifying glass on your mind. As you chant or repeat a mantra, your mind calms down, like a wild horse tamed by soothing music. In the Vedas, mantras are celebrated as the keys to unlock deeper states of meditation.
Mantras aren’t just random words. They are carefully chosen groups of sounds and patterns that are believed to carry a specific vibrational energy that connects you to the higher consciousness.
(ii) The Cosmic Chants
So you might be thinking, “How do I pick the right mantra?” Great question! It is like choosing the perfect song to match your mood. Some people choose a mantra that has a personal connection or resonance with them. It could be a word that holds special significance in your life or reflects a quality, virtue, or spiritual belief.
Some choose a mantra from traditional sources such as Vedic or Hindu traditions. Common examples include “Om”, “So Hum”, or “Om Namah Shivaya”. These mantras have been used for centuries and are believed to have a specific spiritual significance.
Now here’s a practical tip: Start by researching different mantras or consulting with a meditation teacher to find one that resonates with you. A classic example is “Om,” the universal sound. Find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, and chant your chosen mantra. Let it flow naturally, like a gentle stream.
6. Cultivating Stillness & Witness Consciousness
It is not about battling thoughts, it is about becoming a calm observer of them. Let us see how to watch the cosmic drama of your mind unfold as you find peace within the storm of thoughts.
(i) The Path to Inner Silence
In Vedas, this is called “witness consciousness”. It is like stepping back and watching the movie of your thoughts, without getting tangled up in the plot. It is not about forcefully silencing the mind; that’s like trying to stop the wind. Instead, it is about finding that quiet space within which the mind can settle naturally.
(ii) Techniques for Witness Consciousness
Two beautiful techniques endorsed by the Vedas are Trataka & Antar Mouna.
Trataka is like meditation’s gentle cousin. You sit comfortably and gaze at a focal point – it could be a candle flame or a serene image. As you fix your gaze, your mind naturally quiets down. It’s a bit like the eye of the storm – amidst the flickering flame or the serene image, you find stillness.
Antar Mouna, on the other hand, is inner silence meditation. You close your eyes and silently observe your thoughts without getting involved. You watch them come and go, like clouds drifting across the sky. As you become the observer, you transcend thought and enter a state of serene stillness.
7. Gratitude & Surrender in Meditation
You are about to explore the final two powerful ingredients that can transform your meditation practice – gratitude and surrender. These are like the secret spices that turn your meditation into a feast for the soul.
(i) The Power of Gratitude & Surrender
In Vedas, gratitude is not just a polite “thank you” it is a profound recognition of the gifts life offers. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in your life. When you sit down to meditate with a heart full of gratitude you are saying, “Hey Universe, I see and appreciate the blessings you have showered upon me”.
Surrender, on the other hand, is like opening your hands and letting go. It’s not about giving up; it’s about releasing the tight grip you have on life’s steering wheel. You are simply trusting the creator who put you on this planet, that it knows, what’s best for you, even when you don’t.
(ii) Aligning with the Cosmic Order
So, why are gratitude and surrender such a big deal in the Vedic tradition? Because they are like the cosmic glue that connects or aligns you to the cosmic order. When you are grateful, you are in some sense acknowledging your interconnectedness with all of its existence. And when you surrender you are recognizing that sometimes life knows better than we do.
This combination of gratitude and surrendering to life often leads to unexpected miracles that truly transform your life.
Conclusion
The Vedas have been whispering their cosmic secrets through the ages, guiding you back to your true self. It’s time to answer that cosmic call, step into the realm of Vedic meditation, and discover the universe that’s been written in the stars all along.
If you have been on a meditation roller coaster ride, where you start strong but can’t quite keep the momentum going? I get it, and I am here to help. Check the below meditation program, designed to establish a strong foundation, overcome your meditation obstacles, and transform it into a daily habit.