Preksha meditation
Encyclopedia
Preksha meditation [Preksha Dhyana] is a popular meditation technique of Jainism
. It was formulated by the tenth Spiritual head of Terapanth
Shvetambara Jain Acharya Mahaprajna
in the middle of the 20th century on the guidance of Acharya Tulsi
. It is the combination of knowledge from ancient religious books, modern science and experience.
Acharya Mahaprajna
practised the technique on himself for nearly 30 years before presenting it to the general mass in modern languages. With his editorial team consisting of ascetics of the Terapanth order, he matched it with modern science and began to present it in public in the 1970s.
Since then, the aim of Preksha Meditation is to continue serving humanity.
Sampikkhae Appagamappaenam. This aphorism from the Jain canon Dasavealiyam forms the basic principle for this system of meditation. It simply means:'See you thyself'-Perceive and realize the most subtle aspects of consciousness by conscious mind. Hence, "to see" is the fundamental principle of meditation.
One commences the practice of this technique with the perception of the body. Body contains the soul. Therefore, one must pierce the wall of the container to reach the content, the soul. Again, 'breathing' is a part of the body and essence of life. To breathe is to live; and so breath is naturally qualified to be the first object of perception, while the body itself would become the next one. The vibrations, sensations and other physiological events are worthy of attention. Conscious mind becomes sharpened to perceive these internal realities in due course, and then it will be able to focus itself on the minutest and the most subtle occurrences within the body. The direct perception of emotions, urges and other psychological events will then be possible. And ultimately the envelope of karmic matter, contaminating the consciousness could be clearly recognized.
In 'preksha', perception always means experience bereft of the duality of like and dislike, pleasure and pain. Impartiality and equanimity are synonymous with Preksha. Preksha is impartial perception, where there is neither the emotion of attachment nor aversion, neither pleasure or displeasure. Both these states of emotion are closely and carefully perceived but not experienced. And because both are perceived from close quarters, it is not difficult to reject both of them and assume a neutral position.
Thus equanimity is essentially associated with preksha. One whose 'perception' and 'knowledge' are pure, does neither attract new karmic matter nor does he suffer the effect of the old accumulated karmas.
The speciality of this process is it is a holistic approach proved by scientific experiments . The main aim of Preksha meditation is to reach and purify the deeper levels of existence, thus spreading peace & harmony.
Mental:
Emotional:
Behavioural:
implies reduction or total cessation of each of these activities. Kayotsarga literally means "abandonment of the body coupled with high degree of conscious awareness". In practice, it is conscious suspension of all gross movements of the body resulting in relaxation of the skeletal muscles and drastic reduction of metabolic activities. This physical condition results in relieving mental tensions and is an essential pre-condition for meditation practice. It becomes, therefore, the first phase of Preksha Dhyana and must be practiced for a few minutes at the commencement of all types of this technique. Apart from this, Kayotsarga may be independently practiced daily for longer periods.
The practice calms the nervous system, treats psychosomatic illnesses, recharges the body and the mind and cultivates positive attitude and behavior.
. Concentration begins at the bottom tip of the spinal cord at Shakti Kendra - the Center of Energy and the conscious mind travels from Shakti Kendra to Jnana Kendra - Centre of Knowledge - top of the head through the spinal cord. Then reverse the direction of focus until it reaches the spinal cord bottom tip. It results in an increased flow of the vital energy (prana shakti) upwards. Repeated practice of this process said to assist in better generation of nervous energy.
The benefits of the practice are: reducing stress, improving the nervous system strength, rejuvenating the vital energy and overcoming negative emotions.
by the conscious mind results in the development of the controlled activity of the mind. Awareness of breathing helps to stop the restlessness of the mind and canalize its functioning. Shallow, hasty and irregular (spasmodic) breathing must first be regulated to be deep, slow and rhythmic.
Svasa Preksa can be practiced in two ways:
Very slow inhalation and complete exhalation ( by the use of diaphragm) is called - Dirgha Svasa - deep breathing or diaphragmatic breathing. Complete awareness of breathing is the basis of Svasa preksha. Attention can be kept focussed on a single point in the respiratory tract
. e.g. nostrils or it can travel the entire tract during inhalation
as well as exhalation
. Various facets of breathing such as movement of diaphragm, rate of breathing and depth of breathing can conveniently become the object of Svasa preksa. The first step in this process is to regulate the rate of breathing by reducing the number of breaths per minute. Regulation of breath, reduction in its rate, and the rhythm results in steadying the mind. Simultaneously, urges and impulses, emotions and their impelling forces -the primal drives- all become amenable to control. When the breath is shallow and its rate high, primal drives and passions are aroused, strengthening the urges and emotions. One can easily pacify the primal drives by regulating the breath. If one slows down the breath rate and commences rhythmic breathing, the passion forces would at once be retarded.
The breath is exhaled through one (say left) nostril and inhaled through the other (right). Then exhaling through the right, it is inhaled through the left. Throughout the process, the perceptive mind is closely linked with the breath. As in Dirgha Svasa Preksa, breath is regulated to be rhythmic. In due course by the practice, one can develop the inherent capacities of the subconscious mind such as extrasensory perception, clairvoyance etc.
Deep breathing helps procurement of sufficient oxygen for body. It helps in respiratory process and thereby increases energy. One can get rid of tension. Breath is a reality of the present moment. The practice leads to live equanimously and impartially and in present moment. With regular practice one would notice conception vanishing, leaving behind pure perception.
The process of Sarira preksa is centripetal i.e. from outside to inside, thus reversing one's usual direction of the flow of consciousness which is from inside to outside. Commencing with the outermost layers of consciousness one has to penetrate more and more deeply. Thus the successive stages of sharira preksha would be perception and awareness of:
Process of sharira preksha aims at the development of totally impartial perception of pleasure and pain. This is practically achievable because there is a remarkable distinction between sensation and perception. The sharira preksha changes one's perception so that the sensation signals of pain are experienced without suffering. Same is the case with the signals of the sensations of pleasure.
The extension of the psyche is on par with that of the body and the spiritual self is on par with the psyche. In other words each and every one of the billions of cells which constitute the body is permeated by the spiritual self, and that is why each cell is sensitive and capable of carrying out metabolic functions through biochemical and bioelectrical actions. In short, a totally impartial perception of the mass of sensations within the body is direct perception of the psyche and the spiritual self.
On the physical level, it helps each cell to revitalize itself, it helps digestion
, improves quality and circulation of blood and increases the efficiency of the nervous system
and bio-electric activities. On mental level, it is a methodology for training the mind to concentration internal phenomenon instead of wandering about externally. On the spiritual level, impartial perception of ever changing biological functions of the body is a means of experiencing the substratum of consciousness through its modes and attributes.
Human glandular systems consist of two types of glands- exocrine and endocrine, the latter being ductless. Their products (called hormones) flow directly into the blood stream and are distributed by it. The complex of endocrine system includes pineal, pituitary, thyroid
, parathyroids, thymus
, adrenals, gonads and pancreatic islets. They participate in every bodily function and have profound influence upon the mental states, and tendencies, attitudes, emotions and behavioural patterns of every individual. The endocrines are aptly named psychic centres.
Endocrine and the nervous systems are two very important systems of our body. Close collaboration between the two systems governs mental states, behaviour and habits. The functional interlocking between both qualify them to be regarded as constituting a single integrated system called neuro-endocrine system. It is this system which comprises the subconscious mind and profoundly influences psychological behaviour and tendencies of the conscious mind.
Constant triggering and overreaction of the lower endocrines viz. adrenals and gonads result in pernicious bad habits affecting our physical and mental health. Development of the upper endocrines alone can modify the synthesization of the endocrine output, and weaken the intensities of the primal drives, thus making them controllable. Constant and regular practice of Chaitanya Kendras preksha results in establishing firm control of the reasoning mind over all actions and would ultimately bring about the desirable transformation in mental behaviour and habits.
Svasa preksa, Sharira preksha and Chaitanya Kendras preksha are tools for developing the power of reasoning mind. Once the authority of the fully developed reasoning mind is established, it would prevent the recurrence of the old injurious habits.
On the eternal spiritual level, one shall be able to gain self-mastery and attain infinite compassion, bliss and happiness.
On the basis of their intensities lesya is divided into two categories:
When one is under the influence of the evil trinity of Malevolent class, the force of the instinctive drives is so powerful that the reasoning mind surrenders to it. On the other hand, with the conversion of lesyas, the rational mind is able to countermand the insistence of the carnal desires. The spiritual progress will depend upon the degree of transformation of the malevolent trinity into the benevolent one. To bring about the desired transformation, perception of psychic color - lesya-meditation has proved to be a practical means of transformation.
The body is constantly surrounded by an envelope of colors called Aura
, which is an effect of lesya. Change in lesya will bring about a corresponding change in the color of aura. Any change in lesya would result in the change in the color of aura, the change in the aura by the influence of the colors of the external environment would bring about a change in the lesya. This principle has been utilized in the "perception of the psychic colors" (lesya-dhyana) to transform the malevolent lesya into benevolent ones.
Leshya Dhyana takes the Chaitanya Kendra Preksha exercise further by specifying a color to visualize on the chosen psychic center. Five bright colors known for their positive qualities are used in this technique. As steadiness of meditation increases, visualization of colors intensifies. Today scientific evidence confirms that long exposure to specific colors has an influence on a person's emotions and personality. Leshya Dhyana results in purification of the aura.
Some important themes of contemplation are outlined to as:
Anupreksha is also about revising and thinking about what was concentrated upon and felt during meditation and analyzing it after the exercise. It is a practice of deep contemplation and understanding. The exercise is practiced for two purposes: to contemplate on that which is eternal, true and real and to bring about attitudinal changes through autosuggestion. This technique can be used for reinforcement of positive qualities or reversing negative traits.
This is threefold:
1. Present mindedness
2. Complete awareness of one's actions.
3. Uninterrupted (spiritual) vigilance.
Habitually we react to external stimuli, that is we are generally overwhelmed by retaliatory emotional forces within us demanding appropriate action. But surely this cannot be called 'action' it is in fact ' re-action' Discipline of the reasoning mind controls the reactive forces and results in appropriate 'action' rather than 're-action', one should endeavour to establish control and avoid retaliatory behaviour.
Behavior of a sadhaka should radiate friendliness, compassion and sympathy. This is possible only when one is able to countermand one's reactive tendencies by reasoning and avoiding retaliatory thoughts and actions. Subjugation of retaliatory impulse results in friendly and compassionate behavior. The sadhaka should be ever vigilant in this respect and cultivate amity.
Dietetics is an important facet of meditation practice. Intake of food deeply influences not only our physical health, but also mental tendencies and emotional states. Habitually we eat too much. This overloads our digestive system and results in indigestion etc. This in turn further weakens not only the digestive organs but vitiates the entire organism including mental tendencies and emotional states. Sadhaka should be vigilant towards his diet, avoid over eating. He should particularly abstain from such foods and drinks as are unsalutary to one's health, physical as well as mental.
The last discipline of the initiation is - controlled speech or complete silence. We speak in order to communicate with one another. However, habitually we speak too much or too long. Sadhaka should be careful to effect full control over his speaking mechanism. It should be used only when necessary. His speech should be modulated and measured.
in India. It consists of comprehensive meditative techniques to bring about attitudinal change, behavioral modification and integrated development of personality. Some major permanent meditation centers are Tulsi Adhyatma Needam Ladnun, Adhyatma Saadhana Kendra Delhi
, Preksha Vishva Bharati Ahemedabad, Jain Vishva Bharati Orlando USA, JVB Preksha Meditation Center Houston, Jain Vishva Bharati New Jersey
, Jain Vishva Bharati London
UK.
It's formal study courses are available at Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, Ladnun
, Rajasthan.
Jainism
Jainism is an Indian religion that prescribes a path of non-violence towards all living beings. Its philosophy and practice emphasize the necessity of self-effort to move the soul towards divine consciousness and liberation. Any soul that has conquered its own inner enemies and achieved the state...
. It was formulated by the tenth Spiritual head of Terapanth
Terapanth
Terapanth or Tera Panth may refer to:* Digambar Terapanth, a sect of the Digambara tradition of Jainism* Svetambar Terapanth, a sect of Svetambara Jainism-See also:Taran Panth, also a Digambar Jain sect, should not be confused with Terapanth...
Shvetambara Jain Acharya Mahaprajna
Acharya Mahaprajna
Acharya Shri Mahapragya was the tenth Acharya, supreme head of the Svetambar Terapanth sect of Jainism. Mahapragya was a highly venerable saint, yogi, spiritual leader, philosopher, author, orator, poet....
in the middle of the 20th century on the guidance of Acharya Tulsi
Acharya Tulsi
Acharya Tulsi was a Jainist Acharya . He was the founder of the Anuvrata and the Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, Ladnun and the author of over one-hundred books. Dr. Radhakrishnan in his "Living with Purpose" included him in the world's 15 great persons. He was given the title "Yuga-Pradhan" in a...
. It is the combination of knowledge from ancient religious books, modern science and experience.
Acharya Mahaprajna
Acharya Mahaprajna
Acharya Shri Mahapragya was the tenth Acharya, supreme head of the Svetambar Terapanth sect of Jainism. Mahapragya was a highly venerable saint, yogi, spiritual leader, philosopher, author, orator, poet....
practised the technique on himself for nearly 30 years before presenting it to the general mass in modern languages. With his editorial team consisting of ascetics of the Terapanth order, he matched it with modern science and began to present it in public in the 1970s.
Since then, the aim of Preksha Meditation is to continue serving humanity.
Etymology
The word Preksa is derived from the root ‘iksa’, which means 'to see'. When the prefix 'pra' is added, it becomes pra + iksa = preksa, which means to 'perceive carefully and profoundly.' Here, 'seeing' does not mean external vision, but careful concentration on subtle consciousness by mental insight. Preksa Dhyana is the system of meditation engaging one's mind fully in the perception of subtle internal and innate phenomena of consciousness.Sampikkhae Appagamappaenam. This aphorism from the Jain canon Dasavealiyam forms the basic principle for this system of meditation. It simply means:'See you thyself'-Perceive and realize the most subtle aspects of consciousness by conscious mind. Hence, "to see" is the fundamental principle of meditation.
Philosophy
The main aim of the practice of preksa dhyana is purification of emotions, psyche, consciousness and realization of the self. When the mind is cleansed peace of mind automatically surfaces. Balance of mind, equanimity and the state of well-being are also experienced simultaneously.One commences the practice of this technique with the perception of the body. Body contains the soul. Therefore, one must pierce the wall of the container to reach the content, the soul. Again, 'breathing' is a part of the body and essence of life. To breathe is to live; and so breath is naturally qualified to be the first object of perception, while the body itself would become the next one. The vibrations, sensations and other physiological events are worthy of attention. Conscious mind becomes sharpened to perceive these internal realities in due course, and then it will be able to focus itself on the minutest and the most subtle occurrences within the body. The direct perception of emotions, urges and other psychological events will then be possible. And ultimately the envelope of karmic matter, contaminating the consciousness could be clearly recognized.
In 'preksha', perception always means experience bereft of the duality of like and dislike, pleasure and pain. Impartiality and equanimity are synonymous with Preksha. Preksha is impartial perception, where there is neither the emotion of attachment nor aversion, neither pleasure or displeasure. Both these states of emotion are closely and carefully perceived but not experienced. And because both are perceived from close quarters, it is not difficult to reject both of them and assume a neutral position.
Thus equanimity is essentially associated with preksha. One whose 'perception' and 'knowledge' are pure, does neither attract new karmic matter nor does he suffer the effect of the old accumulated karmas.
The speciality of this process is it is a holistic approach proved by scientific experiments . The main aim of Preksha meditation is to reach and purify the deeper levels of existence, thus spreading peace & harmony.
Objectives
- To live in the moment of divine bliss realizing boundless energy
- To pacify negative emotions and attain peace
- Reduce physical stress and strengthen the immune system
- To improve physical, mental and emotional health
- Purification of consciousness to know the ultimate truth
- Attitudinal change, behavioral modification and integrated development of personality
- Transforming and transmuting the nature and behaviour towards non-violent way of living
Metaphysical basis
- There is bondage
- There are causes of bondage
- There is freedom
- There are ways of attaining freedom
Scientific basis
- Neuro-endocrine system regulates and governs human's actions
- Emotions and hormones responsible for good and bad activities
- Subconscious mind controls human behaviour
- Innate mechanism describes human personality
Benefits and outcome
Physical:- Biochemical changes
- Strengthens immune system
- Sustains optimal health
- Removes tension
- Revitalizes body cells
- Improves respiration and flow of vital energy
Mental:
- Improves mental balance
- Increases memory, concentration and decision power
- Develops patience and tolerance power
- Cleans and relaxes the mind
- Enhances will power and builds self confidence
Emotional:
- Transformation of negative emotions into positive
- Removal of psychological distortions
Behavioural:
- Change of attitudes and habits. One can get rid of habits like addiction, violence.
- Increases working efficiency, creativity, detachment and good qualities
Complete relaxation with self awareness - Kayotsarga
Bodily movements, speech and mental functions are threefold activities of our organism. KayotsargaKayotsarga
Kayotsarga is a yogic meditative posture that is also part of the Preksha meditation. Most of the Tirthankaras of Jainism are depicted in Kayotsarga posture. Kayotsarga means to give up one's physical comfort and body movements, thus staying steady, either in a standing or other posture, and...
implies reduction or total cessation of each of these activities. Kayotsarga literally means "abandonment of the body coupled with high degree of conscious awareness". In practice, it is conscious suspension of all gross movements of the body resulting in relaxation of the skeletal muscles and drastic reduction of metabolic activities. This physical condition results in relieving mental tensions and is an essential pre-condition for meditation practice. It becomes, therefore, the first phase of Preksha Dhyana and must be practiced for a few minutes at the commencement of all types of this technique. Apart from this, Kayotsarga may be independently practiced daily for longer periods.
The practice calms the nervous system, treats psychosomatic illnesses, recharges the body and the mind and cultivates positive attitude and behavior.
Internal trip - Antaryatra
Antaryatra requires the mind to be focused along the spinal cordSpinal cord
The spinal cord is a long, thin, tubular bundle of nervous tissue and support cells that extends from the brain . The brain and spinal cord together make up the central nervous system...
. Concentration begins at the bottom tip of the spinal cord at Shakti Kendra - the Center of Energy and the conscious mind travels from Shakti Kendra to Jnana Kendra - Centre of Knowledge - top of the head through the spinal cord. Then reverse the direction of focus until it reaches the spinal cord bottom tip. It results in an increased flow of the vital energy (prana shakti) upwards. Repeated practice of this process said to assist in better generation of nervous energy.
The benefits of the practice are: reducing stress, improving the nervous system strength, rejuvenating the vital energy and overcoming negative emotions.
Perception of Deep Breathing - Dirgha Svasa Preksha
Svasa Preksha is the powerful technique of observing breath with complete awareness as a means to traverse from the gross to subtle levels of consciousness. An efficient and easy way to control mental activity is concentrated perception of breath. Proper regulation of respirationBreathing
Breathing is the process that moves air in and out of the lungs. Aerobic organisms require oxygen to release energy via respiration, in the form of the metabolism of energy-rich molecules such as glucose. Breathing is only one process that delivers oxygen to where it is needed in the body and...
by the conscious mind results in the development of the controlled activity of the mind. Awareness of breathing helps to stop the restlessness of the mind and canalize its functioning. Shallow, hasty and irregular (spasmodic) breathing must first be regulated to be deep, slow and rhythmic.
Svasa Preksa can be practiced in two ways:
- Dirgha Svasa Preksa
Very slow inhalation and complete exhalation ( by the use of diaphragm) is called - Dirgha Svasa - deep breathing or diaphragmatic breathing. Complete awareness of breathing is the basis of Svasa preksha. Attention can be kept focussed on a single point in the respiratory tract
Respiratory tract
In humans the respiratory tract is the part of the anatomy involved with the process of respiration.The respiratory tract is divided into 3 segments:*Upper respiratory tract: nose and nasal passages, paranasal sinuses, and throat or pharynx...
. e.g. nostrils or it can travel the entire tract during inhalation
Inhalation
Inhalation is the movement of air from the external environment, through the air ways, and into the alveoli....
as well as exhalation
Exhalation
Exhalation is the movement of air out of the bronchial tubes, through the airways, to the external environment during breathing....
. Various facets of breathing such as movement of diaphragm, rate of breathing and depth of breathing can conveniently become the object of Svasa preksa. The first step in this process is to regulate the rate of breathing by reducing the number of breaths per minute. Regulation of breath, reduction in its rate, and the rhythm results in steadying the mind. Simultaneously, urges and impulses, emotions and their impelling forces -the primal drives- all become amenable to control. When the breath is shallow and its rate high, primal drives and passions are aroused, strengthening the urges and emotions. One can easily pacify the primal drives by regulating the breath. If one slows down the breath rate and commences rhythmic breathing, the passion forces would at once be retarded.
- Samavritti Svasa Preksa - Alternate breathing
The breath is exhaled through one (say left) nostril and inhaled through the other (right). Then exhaling through the right, it is inhaled through the left. Throughout the process, the perceptive mind is closely linked with the breath. As in Dirgha Svasa Preksa, breath is regulated to be rhythmic. In due course by the practice, one can develop the inherent capacities of the subconscious mind such as extrasensory perception, clairvoyance etc.
Deep breathing helps procurement of sufficient oxygen for body. It helps in respiratory process and thereby increases energy. One can get rid of tension. Breath is a reality of the present moment. The practice leads to live equanimously and impartially and in present moment. With regular practice one would notice conception vanishing, leaving behind pure perception.
Perception of body - Sharir Preksha
The subtle spiritual self works within the gross physical body. It must have a physical body to function and perform in. Thus, the body alone can be the medium of exercising the power and authority of the consciousness to control and subdue one's primal drives, animal impulses and carnal desires.The process of Sarira preksa is centripetal i.e. from outside to inside, thus reversing one's usual direction of the flow of consciousness which is from inside to outside. Commencing with the outermost layers of consciousness one has to penetrate more and more deeply. Thus the successive stages of sharira preksha would be perception and awareness of:
- The superficial sensation of the skinSkin-Dermis:The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain. The dermis is tightly connected to the epidermis by a basement membrane. It also harbors many Mechanoreceptors that provide the sense of touch and heat...
such as contact with cloth, warmth, perspiration, itching etc. - The sensation produced by the muscular movements.
- The sensation produced by functioning of the internal organs such as liverLiverThe liver is a vital organ present in vertebrates and some other animals. It has a wide range of functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion...
, heartHeartThe heart is a myogenic muscular organ found in all animals with a circulatory system , that is responsible for pumping blood throughout the blood vessels by repeated, rhythmic contractions...
etc. and finally - Subtle vibrations produced by the electrical impulses travelling in the nervous systemNervous systemThe nervous system is an organ system containing a network of specialized cells called neurons that coordinate the actions of an animal and transmit signals between different parts of its body. In most animals the nervous system consists of two parts, central and peripheral. The central nervous...
.
Process of sharira preksha aims at the development of totally impartial perception of pleasure and pain. This is practically achievable because there is a remarkable distinction between sensation and perception. The sharira preksha changes one's perception so that the sensation signals of pain are experienced without suffering. Same is the case with the signals of the sensations of pleasure.
The extension of the psyche is on par with that of the body and the spiritual self is on par with the psyche. In other words each and every one of the billions of cells which constitute the body is permeated by the spiritual self, and that is why each cell is sensitive and capable of carrying out metabolic functions through biochemical and bioelectrical actions. In short, a totally impartial perception of the mass of sensations within the body is direct perception of the psyche and the spiritual self.
On the physical level, it helps each cell to revitalize itself, it helps digestion
Digestion
Digestion is the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food into smaller components that are more easily absorbed into a blood stream, for instance. Digestion is a form of catabolism: a breakdown of large food molecules to smaller ones....
, improves quality and circulation of blood and increases the efficiency of the nervous system
Nervous system
The nervous system is an organ system containing a network of specialized cells called neurons that coordinate the actions of an animal and transmit signals between different parts of its body. In most animals the nervous system consists of two parts, central and peripheral. The central nervous...
and bio-electric activities. On mental level, it is a methodology for training the mind to concentration internal phenomenon instead of wandering about externally. On the spiritual level, impartial perception of ever changing biological functions of the body is a means of experiencing the substratum of consciousness through its modes and attributes.
Perception of psychic centres - Chaitanya Kendra Preksha
Chaitanya Kendra Preksha is an exercise in which one concentrates on the various psychic centers in the body. The psychic centers are the key locations on the body that receive both the positive and negative energy from the universe and redistribute it through the human system. Focused flow of energy through any specific center intensifies the particular desired behavior.Human glandular systems consist of two types of glands- exocrine and endocrine, the latter being ductless. Their products (called hormones) flow directly into the blood stream and are distributed by it. The complex of endocrine system includes pineal, pituitary, thyroid
Thyroid
The thyroid gland or simply, the thyroid , in vertebrate anatomy, is one of the largest endocrine glands. The thyroid gland is found in the neck, below the thyroid cartilage...
, parathyroids, thymus
Thymus
The thymus is a specialized organ of the immune system. The thymus produces and "educates" T-lymphocytes , which are critical cells of the adaptive immune system....
, adrenals, gonads and pancreatic islets. They participate in every bodily function and have profound influence upon the mental states, and tendencies, attitudes, emotions and behavioural patterns of every individual. The endocrines are aptly named psychic centres.
Endocrine and the nervous systems are two very important systems of our body. Close collaboration between the two systems governs mental states, behaviour and habits. The functional interlocking between both qualify them to be regarded as constituting a single integrated system called neuro-endocrine system. It is this system which comprises the subconscious mind and profoundly influences psychological behaviour and tendencies of the conscious mind.
Constant triggering and overreaction of the lower endocrines viz. adrenals and gonads result in pernicious bad habits affecting our physical and mental health. Development of the upper endocrines alone can modify the synthesization of the endocrine output, and weaken the intensities of the primal drives, thus making them controllable. Constant and regular practice of Chaitanya Kendras preksha results in establishing firm control of the reasoning mind over all actions and would ultimately bring about the desirable transformation in mental behaviour and habits.
Svasa preksa, Sharira preksha and Chaitanya Kendras preksha are tools for developing the power of reasoning mind. Once the authority of the fully developed reasoning mind is established, it would prevent the recurrence of the old injurious habits.
On the eternal spiritual level, one shall be able to gain self-mastery and attain infinite compassion, bliss and happiness.
Perception of psychic colours -
Leshya Dhyan Urges and impulses, sensualities and emotions are all endocrine expressions. These forces are primal drives emanating from the microbody (karmic body). which is intimately united with the psyche. Lesya is the agency, which transforms the imperceptible micro-vibrations of the primal drives into perceptible forces at physical level.On the basis of their intensities lesya is divided into two categories:
- Malevolent class - the darker ones: dark black, dark blue, grey
- Benevolent class - Bright red, bright yellow, bright white
When one is under the influence of the evil trinity of Malevolent class, the force of the instinctive drives is so powerful that the reasoning mind surrenders to it. On the other hand, with the conversion of lesyas, the rational mind is able to countermand the insistence of the carnal desires. The spiritual progress will depend upon the degree of transformation of the malevolent trinity into the benevolent one. To bring about the desired transformation, perception of psychic color - lesya-meditation has proved to be a practical means of transformation.
The body is constantly surrounded by an envelope of colors called Aura
Aura (paranormal)
In parapsychology and many forms of spiritual practice, an aura is a field of subtle, luminous radiation surrounding a person or object . The depiction of such an aura often connotes a person of particular power or holiness. Sometimes, however, it is said that all living things and all objects...
, which is an effect of lesya. Change in lesya will bring about a corresponding change in the color of aura. Any change in lesya would result in the change in the color of aura, the change in the aura by the influence of the colors of the external environment would bring about a change in the lesya. This principle has been utilized in the "perception of the psychic colors" (lesya-dhyana) to transform the malevolent lesya into benevolent ones.
Leshya Dhyana takes the Chaitanya Kendra Preksha exercise further by specifying a color to visualize on the chosen psychic center. Five bright colors known for their positive qualities are used in this technique. As steadiness of meditation increases, visualization of colors intensifies. Today scientific evidence confirms that long exposure to specific colors has an influence on a person's emotions and personality. Leshya Dhyana results in purification of the aura.
Contemplation and auto suggestion - Anupreksha and Bhavana
Practice of repeated reflection (bhavana) further strengthens the will and keeps it awake and alert.Some important themes of contemplation are outlined to as:
- Contemplation of
- Contemplation of anityata - "Impermanence" - Beginning with fragile and mortal nature of the body, contemplation can reveal transitional nature of the entire physical existence.
- Contemplation of asarana - "Vulnerability" - We seek security in wealth, power, production etc. But in reality none of these is capable of providing transcendental security, which is inherent in one's own "SELF". Contemplation of one's vulnerability, therefore leads to the development of one's own innate protective mechanism.
- Contemplation of samsara - "Reality" - Metaphysically nothing is absolutely permanent nor absolutely changing. Reality, by nature, is characterized by the non-absolutist principle of "permanence-through-change". Our existence also is not an exception to the universal truth. We are born and we die, and during the life's span undergo innumerable changes. Contemplation of this eternal truth immensely assists us in our meditation.
Anupreksha is also about revising and thinking about what was concentrated upon and felt during meditation and analyzing it after the exercise. It is a practice of deep contemplation and understanding. The exercise is practiced for two purposes: to contemplate on that which is eternal, true and real and to bring about attitudinal changes through autosuggestion. This technique can be used for reinforcement of positive qualities or reversing negative traits.
Perception Of Thoughts
The mind functions in many ways. At times a train of thoughts is running; at times some conceptual planning occupies it. All these activities can be perceived impartially during the meditation practice. The significance of such perception is that the "spiritual self" is distinguished from the "thought". The "Self" is the "spectator", while the mental activity is the object of the awareness. As soon as one commences the perception of thought as an impartial spectator, the train begins to slow down, (and if the perception continues), it ultimately comes to a halt.Perception of Present Moment
Bhava-kriya,, i.e. synchrony of the mental state with the physical behaviour is in itself a discipline, and steadies the mind, bringing it to meditational level. For example, when one walks, his mind should be completely occupied and be totally aware of the action of walking and it should not be engaged in other perceptual or conceptual activity of any sort. When the mind is fully associated with the vocal and physical activities, they become not only more efficient, but also more purposeful.Yoga and breathing process - Asana and Pranayam
Yoga is a science which helps to achieve good health, leads a person to harmony, peace, concentration and balance. It produces flexibility and stability in the body to practice meditation. Pranayama is an advance technique of breathing that regulates and balances the vital force pervading in the body. The regular practice in the guidance of the master helps to achieve a calm, blissful and focused mind. It provides enough oxygen to the blood, balances left and right hemispheres of the brain and keeps the body system healthy.Mantra - Healing sound
Mantra Meditation is a powerful ancient practice using sound that affects the chemistry of the body and mind. Its powerful vibrations create strong safety armor around the practitioner that protects him/her from the outer evil effects and brings desired success in life. Mantra meditation awakens spiritual consciousness.Five Disciplines in
Preksha Meditation- Bhavakriya
This is threefold:
1. Present mindedness
2. Complete awareness of one's actions.
3. Uninterrupted (spiritual) vigilance.
- Act - Do not 'react'
Habitually we react to external stimuli, that is we are generally overwhelmed by retaliatory emotional forces within us demanding appropriate action. But surely this cannot be called 'action' it is in fact ' re-action' Discipline of the reasoning mind controls the reactive forces and results in appropriate 'action' rather than 're-action', one should endeavour to establish control and avoid retaliatory behaviour.
- Amity
Behavior of a sadhaka should radiate friendliness, compassion and sympathy. This is possible only when one is able to countermand one's reactive tendencies by reasoning and avoiding retaliatory thoughts and actions. Subjugation of retaliatory impulse results in friendly and compassionate behavior. The sadhaka should be ever vigilant in this respect and cultivate amity.
- Diet
Dietetics is an important facet of meditation practice. Intake of food deeply influences not only our physical health, but also mental tendencies and emotional states. Habitually we eat too much. This overloads our digestive system and results in indigestion etc. This in turn further weakens not only the digestive organs but vitiates the entire organism including mental tendencies and emotional states. Sadhaka should be vigilant towards his diet, avoid over eating. He should particularly abstain from such foods and drinks as are unsalutary to one's health, physical as well as mental.
- Silence
The last discipline of the initiation is - controlled speech or complete silence. We speak in order to communicate with one another. However, habitually we speak too much or too long. Sadhaka should be careful to effect full control over his speaking mechanism. It should be used only when necessary. His speech should be modulated and measured.
Training and Centers
Every year an International Preksha Meditation Camp (IPMC) is organised under the auspicious guidance of Acharya MahaprajnaAcharya Mahaprajna
Acharya Shri Mahapragya was the tenth Acharya, supreme head of the Svetambar Terapanth sect of Jainism. Mahapragya was a highly venerable saint, yogi, spiritual leader, philosopher, author, orator, poet....
in India. It consists of comprehensive meditative techniques to bring about attitudinal change, behavioral modification and integrated development of personality. Some major permanent meditation centers are Tulsi Adhyatma Needam Ladnun, Adhyatma Saadhana Kendra Delhi
Delhi
Delhi , officially National Capital Territory of Delhi , is the largest metropolis by area and the second-largest by population in India, next to Mumbai. It is the eighth largest metropolis in the world by population with 16,753,265 inhabitants in the Territory at the 2011 Census...
, Preksha Vishva Bharati Ahemedabad, Jain Vishva Bharati Orlando USA, JVB Preksha Meditation Center Houston, Jain Vishva Bharati New Jersey
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. , its population was 8,791,894. It is bordered on the north and east by the state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania and on the southwest by Delaware...
, Jain Vishva Bharati London
London
London is the capital city of :England and the :United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. Located on the River Thames, London has been a major settlement for two millennia, its history going back to its...
UK.
It's formal study courses are available at Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, Ladnun
Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, Ladnun
Jain Vishva Bharati University, formerly Jain Vishva Bharati Institute, was established in 1991 with inspiration from His Holiness Acharya Tulsi, the Supreme Head of the Jain Terapanth religious sect. He was the first Anushasta of the Institute and Acharya Mahaprajna, his successor, is the present...
, Rajasthan.
See also
- Acharya Mahapragya
- Acharya TulsiAcharya TulsiAcharya Tulsi was a Jainist Acharya . He was the founder of the Anuvrata and the Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, Ladnun and the author of over one-hundred books. Dr. Radhakrishnan in his "Living with Purpose" included him in the world's 15 great persons. He was given the title "Yuga-Pradhan" in a...
- TerapanthTerapanthTerapanth or Tera Panth may refer to:* Digambar Terapanth, a sect of the Digambara tradition of Jainism* Svetambar Terapanth, a sect of Svetambara Jainism-See also:Taran Panth, also a Digambar Jain sect, should not be confused with Terapanth...
- Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, LadnunJain Vishva Bharti Institute, LadnunJain Vishva Bharati University, formerly Jain Vishva Bharati Institute, was established in 1991 with inspiration from His Holiness Acharya Tulsi, the Supreme Head of the Jain Terapanth religious sect. He was the first Anushasta of the Institute and Acharya Mahaprajna, his successor, is the present...