Knowing Meditation - Part 5

Meditation serves as a bridge connecting our physical bodies to our minds, emphasizing the profound relationship between the two. Essentially, it provides a respite for the conscious mind, a tranquility usually found only in deep sleep. Even at the onset of sleep, our minds remain active at a subconscious level, where dreams take shape. When the subconscious is engaged, the conscious mind can find relaxation, and this interplay is vital. The conscious mind embodies our everyday awareness, while the subconscious retains the impressions, or vasanas, of our thoughts and actions. These impressions are paramount as they shape the karmic records within our souls, making it essential for them to remain pure. While we can navigate our conscious thoughts, taming the more formidable subconscious presents a greater challenge. This subconscious realm is where dreams are born. By mastering our conscious mind, we move closer to a divine understanding. Achieving mastery over the mind necessitates practice, which starts with tuning out sensory distractions and allowing our minds to explore the essence of existence, often referred to as Brahman or God. Knowledge plays a crucial role in this journey, as Vedanta identifies six forms of knowledge: perception, inference, description, comparison, assumption, and intuition. These forms are akin to various rivers merging into a single ocean—each unique in source and quality, yet collectively enriching our understanding of Brahman. Each type of knowledge aids in soothing the mind in its distinct manner. In the realm of spirituality, the depth of one’s consciousness is vital. Only the purest consciousness can dissolve the ego and foster genuine spiritual growth. Many of us grapple with spirituality due to our limited understanding of its true essence.

The mind is an incredibly powerful tool, reminiscent of an atom in its complexity and untapped potential. Intentionally calming the mind is no small feat. Many of us turn to meditation as our primary method for gaining control over our mental landscapes. To harness our minds, we first need to manage our myriad thoughts, which stem from our desires and actions across time—tying together our experiences of the past, present, and future and linking them to various objects. While thoughts may be more subtle than the mind itself and can't be entirely eliminated, we can carve out moments of tranquility. During these peaceful times, we can forge a connection with the divine. At the outset, quieting the mind may seem overwhelming, which is why it's crucial to foster a different way of thinking. So, how do we spark this new perspective? By envisioning a form of divinity. In the early stages of meditation, having a mental image of a deity is essential. We should visualize this chosen figure repeatedly, planting that image firmly in our subconscious. There are no strict guidelines for visualization; you don't have to stick to any specific texts. Starting with a visual representation of a deity—perhaps a painting, sculpture, or idol—can serve as a helpful focal point. Direct your attention to this object with purpose. If you can, try to look at it for an extended period without blinking. Regardless of whether you blink, maintaining your focus on the object is crucial. Study it closely, then close your eyes and recreate the image in your mind, concentrating on every detail. With ongoing practice, that image will become ingrained in your conscious mind, gradually seeping into your subconscious. Before long, you may find that you don’t need the physical object at all; the image will have transitioned from the tangible to the mental realm, enabling you to summon it whenever you wish.