Hour 91 Meditation – Sahaj Yoga Meditation – Shri Nirmala Devi
Sahaj Yoga Meditation – Shri Nirmala Devi
Introduction
Sahaj Yoga Meditation, presented by Shri Nirmala Devi (better known as Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi), is a revolutionary and innovative meditation style aimed at developing self-realization and peace. The word Sahaj in the Sanskrit language means “natural” or “spontaneous,” which can very aptly summarize the beauty of this method of meditation. In the views of Shri Mataji, Sahaj Yoga is the most simple and straightforward way of spiritual awakening.
The practice of Sahaj Yoga Meditation provides the opportunity to feel the direct connection with the divine power called the Shakti or Kundalini. It is described as an effortless, natural process that doesn’t need discipline, effort, or rituals. In this lesson, we are going to study the basic principles of Sahaj Yoga Meditation, its practices, the science involved, and how it brings spiritual transformation.
The Fundamental Principles of Sahaj Yoga Meditation
Sahaj Yoga Meditation is based on a few fundamental principles that set it apart from meditation methods:
Self-Realization: Sahaj Yoga’s final aim is self-realization — the awareness of one’s divine nature as a part of the universal consciousness. This is done by awakening the Kundalini energy, which is present within the base of the spine. When the Kundalini is awakened, it ascends through the chakras and unites the practitioner with the collective consciousness or divine energy.
The Awakening of the Kundalini: The Kundalini is characterized as a latent spiritual energy that is coiled at the base of the spine. In Sahaj Yoga, the awakening of the Kundalini is seen as a spontaneous and natural process which occurs without pressure. Through a non-effort and easy process of meditation, the Kundalini ascends through the chakra system, purifying and cleansing the energy centers, resulting in mental, emotional, and physical equilibrium.
Spontaneity: Sahaj is the word used for spontaneous or natural. In contrast to most other types of meditation that need extreme discipline, Sahaj Yoga targets the natural course of energy movement within the body. Spontaneity here enables the practitioner to have an effortless relationship with his inner being, beyond control or mental efforts.
Connection to the Divine: In Sahaj Yoga, the practitioner gets connected with the Divine Power or Universal Consciousness by awakening the Kundalini. The connection is purported to be a new experience that leads to peace, happiness, spiritual evolution, and illumination.
The Significance of the Subtle System: A fundamental premise of Sahaj Yoga is an acceptance of the Subtle System, such as the chakras (subtle centers) and nadi channels (strands of energy). The subtle centers are attributed to be controlling physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Sahaj Yoga engages directly with the subtle system, opening, balancing, and purifying the chakras to bring the practitioner to harmony and inner peace.
The Practice of Sahaj Yoga Meditation
Sahaj Yoga Meditation is a effortless, effortless practice that is accessible to everybody, whether it be someone of any background or experience with meditation. The practice consists of three main aspects:
Awakening the Kundalini:
The first step in Sahaj Yoga is to awaken Kundalini energy. This is achieved by keeping the hands over certain points on the body and concentrating on breathing. With these easy methods, the Kundalini starts ascending through the chakras, opening up energies and freeing obstructions in the system.
The awakening is usually preceded by a feeling of cool breeze or vibrations on the hands or the crown of the head, which is a sign of the rising Kundalini. This feeling is referred to as cool vibrations and signifies that the spiritual energy is moving freely.
Meditation on the Chakras:
After raising the Kundalini, the yogi is to meditate upon the chakras, beginning at the base of the spine and rising. The chakras are to be imagined as centers of energy which must be balanced and purified for spiritual development.
Meditation on each of the chakras consists of concentration on its related attributes and affirmations. For instance, the Mooladhara (Root Chakra) deals with security and stability, and the Sahasrara (Crown Chakra) helps connect the practitioner to the divine consciousness.
Integration with the Collective Consciousness
One of the distinguishing aspects of Sahaj Yoga is its focus on collective consciousness. Through the rising of the Kundalini and balancing of the chakras, the practitioner increasingly resonates with the collective energy and feels a connection with other practitioners and the universe. This union gives rise to unity, oneness, and love for the universe.
Practice Every Day and No Effort
Sahaj Yoga advocates for a routine practice but on the premise that meditation must not be forced or excessively structured. The aim is to feel a natural flow of energy, free from expectation and effort. Practitioners learn to just be in the here and now, with the Kundalini being the guide of their spiritual practice.
The exercise may be practiced anytime during the day, preferably in a peaceful and quiet area where the energy will flow freely.
The Advantages of Sahaj Yoga Meditation
Sahaj Yoga provides several advantages, both physical and spiritual:
Physical Wellness:
Reduces Stress: With the awakening of the Kundalini and alignment of the chakras, Sahaj Yoga greatly minimizes stress and enhances relaxation.
Better Sleep: Practitioners experience improved sleep patterns as a result of the relaxing nature of the practice.
Increased Energy: As the Kundalini awakens and travels around the body, energy levels become higher, and the practitioner feels more energetic and refreshed.
Emotional and Mental Well-being:
Inner Peace and Tranquility: Practitioners tend to feel a deep sense of tranquility and peace, even in difficult circumstances.
Emotional Balance: Sahaj Yoga resolves blockages at the emotional level, resulting in a balanced and harmonious emotional life.
Mental Clarity: Regular practice of Sahaj Yoga improves mental clarity, concentration, and a better understanding of thoughts and actions.
Spiritual Growth:
Self-Realization: The ultimate aim of Sahaj Yoga is self-realization, a profound knowledge of one’s true nature as a soul, separate from the body and mind.
Divine Connection: By using meditation, practitioners feel a deeper connection with the Divine, which provides a feeling of completeness, tranquility, and spiritual evolution.
Heightened Intuition: With increasing practice, practitioners gain a better intuition and spiritual consciousness that directs their behavior in daily life.
Collective Growth and Unity
Global Impact: The practice of Sahaj Yoga creates a unity among practitioners from around the globe, building a global community of like-minded people who support one another on the path of spirituality.
Harmony in Relationships: As a person gets more balanced and connected with their higher self, they enjoy better relationships, founded on mutual respect, love, and understanding.
Reflective Questions
How has Sahaj Yoga Meditation practice assisted you in becoming attuned to your real self and realizing your inner potential?
How have you benefited from the free flow of energy in your life through the practice of Kundalini awakening?
Consider the term self-realization in Sahaj Yoga. How does it influence your everyday life and decision-making process?
How do you feel after doing Sahaj Yoga Meditation in a group environment, where collective consciousness comes into play?