Meditation according to the Yoga in Daily Life System
Weekend Seminar on 'Meditation according to Yoga in Daily Life' with MM Swami Vivekpuri
To raise awareness about meditation and its benefits, the United Nations General Assembly have proclaimed 21 December each year as 'World Meditation Day', and recently, from 29 November to 1 December 2024, the serene Mahaprabhudip Ashram in Strilky, Czechia, welcomed nearly 100 participants from the Czech Republic, Slovakia and other European countries, for a transformative weekend meditation seminar led by Mahamandaleshwar Swami Vivekpuri.
Centred on the theme of Meditation according to the Yoga in Daily Life System, this gathering provided profound insights and practical guidance for both beginners and experienced meditators.
A Step-by-Step Path to Self-Inquiry
Self-Inquiry Meditation is a fundamental aspect of the Yoga in Daily Life system. Just as the practice of asanas and pranayamas is systematically developed, concentration and meditation techniques are also introduced in a structured, progressive manner.
MM Swami Vivekpuri gave the participants advice in a simple, and at the same time, profound way, on how to prepare for meditation; and guided them during the practical practice of Self-Inquiry Meditation, according to the Yoga in Daily Life System.
Self-Inquiry Meditation begins with the question: “How am I?” in order to eventually discover the answer to life’s most fundamental question: “Who am I?”
The Stages of Self-Inquiry Meditation
In Self-Inquiry Meditation, the practice begins with achieving complete physical and mental relaxation. This is followed by enhancing one’s ability to concentrate through techniques such as visualisation and imagination.
Subsequently, the mind is guided to explore the content of one's own consciousness, including personal qualities, perceptions and habitual patterns of thought. Throughout this process, it is essential to detach from preconceived notions and opinions.
This introspective process encourages practitioners to adopt an unbiased perspective, enabling a profound understanding of their own consciousness.
Discovering Inner Qualities
As the practice deepens, participants uncover aspects of themselves they may not have previously recognised. Many are surprised by discovering positive inner qualities such as compassion, humility, patience, love, and inner bliss. These qualities not only aid in personal spiritual growth but also enhance relationships and interactions with others.
Benefits of Self-Inquiry Meditation
Self-Inquiry Meditation offers a holistic approach to understanding and improving oneself. It teaches practitioners to forgive, let go of inhibitions, and purify the subconscious. Over time, it brings clarity to one’s thoughts, enabling individuals to navigate and overcome life’s challenges more effectively.
Ultimately, the technique of Self-Inquiry Meditation helps practitioners to attain Self-knowledge through self-control and self-development. The goal is to experience and realise the Divine Self (Atma) within. Such a supreme goal cannot be achieved overnight but requires self-discipline, consistent practice, and guidance from a Self-realised Master.
An Atmosphere of Peace and Unity
Participants were deeply moved by the peace and positivity that filled the ashram throughout the seminar. The guidance of MM Swami Vivekpuri created an environment of deep reflection and inspiration, encouraging the continued practice of meditation every day at home. Many expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to engage in such an enriching program and shared their hopes for similar events in the future.
This seminar was a reminder of the transformative power of meditation and the timeless wisdom within the Yoga in Daily Life system.
