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Chapter 17.4 Yogic Practices: Meditation

BOOK TITLE: Understanding Medical Physiology: A Textbook for Medical Students

Author
1. Bijlani R.L.
ISBN
9788180612213
DOI
10.5005/jp/books/10999_109
Edition
3/e
Publishing Year
2004
Pages
6
Author Affiliations
1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi
Chapter keywords
spiritual philosophies, meditative techniques, moral purification, superconscious stage, rational analysis, right posture, calming effect, pratyahara, transcendental process, biological response, chronological age, rectal temperature, relaxation technique, parasympathetic division, oxygen consumption, chaotic surface activity

Abstract

This chapter discusses yogic practices including meditation, where meditative technique is based on raja yoga, one of the oldest meditative practices. The goal of yoga in raja yoga is chitta vritti nirodha that is absence of the normal activities of the mind. Raja yoga has eight limbs, where first two, yama and niyama, are preparatory steps, aimed at moral purification. The next limb, asana, is the step with which meditation begins. Meditation continues with pranayama, pratyahara, dharana and dhyana. The last limb, samadhi, is not a part of the process of meditation, but its product. Meditation proper should be preceded by a proper posture, or asana. Some of the recommended postures are padmasana, sukhasana or vajrasana. By practising meditation regularly, one may reach a stage when the mind or consciousness identifies itself with the object of meditation. Meditation, to be truly effective, should facilitate bringing in the yogic attitude to everyday life.

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