Practicing Dharana
The Object of Contemplation In dharana, we choose an object of contemplation and then let go of everything that is not the object of meditation. The object of concentration can be virtually anything: an external physical object, an idea, or an internal aspect of self. Examples include the breath, a mantra, a quality one would like to develop (e.g.
lovingkindness), a person, a chakra, or the Divine within. We are advised to choose the object of contemplation wisely as it will influence our consciousness. We should like the object but not feel attachment or resistance.
In the case of the object being another person or a situation, the practice is said to energetically benefit all. CHOOSE CAREFULLY Keen discernment (viveka) is necessary for choosing carefully and wisely, since the object chosen will influence our consciousness as we spend time deliberately focusing on it… The object should have the qualities of sattva.
Key Takeaways
- The Object of Contemplation In dharana, we choose an object of contemplation and then let go of everything that is not the object of meditation.
- The object of concentration can be virtually anything: an external physical object, an idea, or an internal aspect of self.
- Examples include the breath, a mantra, a quality one would like to develop (e.g.
- lovingkindness), a person, a chakra, or the Divine within.
- We are advised to choose the object of contemplation wisely as it will influence our consciousness.
