Dharana (Concentration) and Samadhi (Absorption) in Yoga Yagnavalkya

Dharana (Concentration) and Samadhi (Absorption) in Yoga Yagnavalkya

 This chapter focuses on Dharana (concentration) and Samadhi (absorption), the sixth and seventh limbs of Ashtanga Yoga. It details various techniques for achieving these states, including focusing on the heart space and specific chakra deities. It also explores the concept of Samadhi as a merging of the individual self with universal consciousness, distinguishing between supported and unsupported forms. 

The chapter elaborates on Dharana, describing six types of concentration practices. One approach involves fixing the mind on the space within the heart. Another focuses on the five chakra deities, using specific syllables (lam, vam, ram, yam, ham) and the Om mantra to connect with them. It culminates in a discussion of Samadhi, the ultimate goal of yoga. Yajnavalkya describes it as a state of complete absorption where the individual self dissolves into the universal consciousness. He distinguishes between two types: Savikalpa Samadhi, which involves support (like a mantra or image), and Nirvikalpa Samadhi, which is without support. 

The chapter also touches upon the flow of Prana (life force) through the Nadis (energy channels), highlighting the importance of purifying these channels through yoga practice. It emphasizes that impurities in the Nadis can disrupt the flow of Prana and lead to imbalances. It suggests that by mastering the visualization of the five chakra deities, a yogi can overcome the three Doshas (faults), which are related to the Gunas of Prakriti (nature). The ultimate aim of these practices, according to Yajnavalkya, is to dissolve into Brahman-Purusha, realizing the ultimate reality. 

The practices in this chapter aim to shift the practitioner’s awareness inward, building on the previous chapter’s discussion of Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses). By focusing on internal points like the heart or elemental regions, Dharana helps the practitioner detach from external distractions and cultivate a meditative state.“The text emphasizes that Dharana is a foundational step toward Dhyana (meditation) and ultimately Samadhi (complete absorption), aligning with the goal of uniting the individual self (jivatman) with the universal consciousness (paramatman).

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