Meditation from Tantras and Vedas

Yoga Sutras, Upanishads, Vijnana Bhairava Tantra—all wisdom texts point toward the value of single-mindedness, mindfulness, and eventually mind-freeness. To attain this state, several internal and external concentration practices are suggested, like focus on the breath, mantra, mudra, emptiness, fullness, yantra, flame, point, etc. In these three sessions, we begin from the very basics of meditation and finish with the deep Tantric practice of Bhuta Shuddhi-Laya Krama.

In this 3 Class Series, you will learn about:

Session 1: Meditation Basics

Session 2: Antarayaga from the Vedas

Session 3: Bhuta Shuddhi-Laya Krama from the Tantras

DETAILS

Session 1: Meditation Basics, May 10 (4 pm to 7 pm Central)

What really is meditation? Is the concept, meaning, and purpose of meditation the same in Vedic and Tantric texts? If not, what is the difference? Is there a formula to meditate, to reach a place where the mind can stay calm and focused without being distracted? What are meditation essentials? What are the signs of success in meditation? How do we measure the meditative state and progress on this path? Is there a difference between dharana and dhyana? What do the Patanjali Sutras say about meditation? What are the various dharanas mentioned by Patanjali?

Practices: Two Meditation Practices from Yoga Sutras (Sutra 1.34 - 1.39)

Required Tools: YOGA Ancient Heritage Tomorrow’ Vision Book

Session 2: Antarayaga (inner offering ritual) from the Vedas, May 17 (4 pm to 7 pm Central)

When all external practices become internal processes, it is Yoga. Antarayaga, often translated as internal worship or inner offering from Tantrik texts, is a step-by-step practice of visualizations of the external rituals to reinforce the ultimate connection of and realization of the real Self. It is practiced removing the distance between the practitioner, practice, and the process. This practice is often called supreme or the ultimate Yoga.

Practice: Antarayaga Meditation

Required Tools: Meditation seat and any props needed to maintain a comfortable seat

Session 3: Bhuta Shuddhi from the Tantra, May 24 (4 pm to 7 pm Central)

Bhuta Shuddhi is a foundational step in meditation in tantrika texts. In this practice, one meditates upon the five formative elements that constitute the subtle and physical body. Various sonic tools like the bija mantras, pranayama, and visual tools, like the mandalas and colors are utilized to establish a connection to the subtle and the physical, as well as between the subtle and physical body. In a series of steps from corporeal to subtle, one purifies the bhutas sequentially to finally merge the mind into the causal.

Practices: Bhuta Shuddhi-Laya Krama

Required Tools: Meditation seat and any props needed for maintain a comfortable seat.

Dates: May 10, 17 and 24, 2023

Times: 4 pm to 7 pm (CT)

Cost: $250

Video Replay: Cost includes access to video replays of the training for 14 days once the training is complete.

Required Tools: YOGA: Ancient Heritage, Tomorrow’s Vision (book), Japa Mala

Preparation: Practice Third Eye Meditation, Kundalini Meditation, and Body Yantra Meditation

POLICIES FOR ALL STUDENTS

• “No shows” will receive no refund and forfeit full payment
• Fees, once paid (in partial or full), can neither be refunded nor transferred
• No verbal commitments will hold your spot

Cancellation and refund policy: No refunds