6)Dharana-strict concentration on one object or task, a state in which there are no distractions. We have used Trataka-candle gazing in our meditation.
When in this level of focus or concentration, all hindrances disappear as you deepen into that which you are concentrating upon.
Practice: Choose an object or a task, focus on this exclusively….follow you attention, when it wanders, consciously bring it back to the object or task…practice being in awareness of yourself, your body, your mind, your attention, your whole being is an art….
7)Dhyana-meditation, a state in which you experience the sacred through a deeply focused awareness
This brings us into relationship with the whole and the importance of it all. This gives us the opportunity for bliss on a higher plane.
Practice: Meditation is the foundation of consciousness, it is the practice of clearing our mind and deepening our understanding of existence…there are many paths into meditation. chanting, mantra, loving kindness practice
-Try using this metta practice-we believe what we say
May I be happy
May I be healthy
May I be safe
May I be free from suffering
First offer this to yourself, then expand to someone you love, someone who is neutral, to someone you despise and finally to all sentient beings.
8)Samadhi-the culmination of practicing all of the other limbs of of yoga which brings you to an understanding of truly knowing and feeling that everything is interconnected….the ultimate sense of being a part of the whole and experiencing BLISS.
In this state clinging disappears, and the mind construct of control, fear and over organizing diminishes.
Practice: Wake up to your life NOW, unless some planning is necessary, make a practice of bringing yourself back to now over and over aGAIN…smell, taste, see, hear the smallest of details of your movement which comprises your day…notice how your rhythm syncs with nature…with other humans…