Dharana is the sixth limb, of the eight limbs, described by Maharishi Patanjali, within the Yoga Sutras. We also classify Dharana as a focused concentration of the mind. In this world of cell phones, lap tops, and television, the mind becomes trained to sift messages quickly - without looking at them in depth.
Unfortunately, we can miss out on valuable knowledge and relationships by skimming over everything, without really reading into it. The value of pointed thought, self-analysis, and introspection, cannot be understated. Time spent on self-observation of inner thoughts, desires, and conduct, helps guide us toward Dharana.
Many Yoga teachers, and respected Gurus, believe that the mind must be brought under control, through withdrawal of the senses (Pratyahara), before attempting Dharana. It is logical to look at the Eight Limbs as steps, but a seeker (sadhaka) could benefit from self-observation at any point in life.
Time spent on introspection is not a "short cut" to higher levels of concentrated meditation, but it serves as a measurement of progression while training one's mind. At the same time, self-analysis and introspection are good foundational practices for Dharana. To completely still the mind, and focus the mind, is not an easy task.
When viewing classical Yoga texts, some students ask: "What is the objective of Dharana?" The purpose of this practice is to train the mind, and the ego, by mentally pointing toward one single object, subject, or experience. The controlled mind then becomes an ally in all aspects of life.
How many people can say their mind is their best friend? Based upon the number of people, who seek relief from their minds, it might be safe to say that very few people can achieve mental mastery. The mind commonly wanders through the past, immersed in guilt over decisions that have already occurred.
How often do people say: "If only I could go back into the past and change that"? The past is "water under the bridge." Past deeds, experiences, and mistakes, must be put to rest in order for us to make progress at this moment. The past is also a useful tool - if we learn from our mistakes.
One of humankind's greatest mistakes is our failure to learn from the past. People and governments repeat mistakes because of the inability to learn from set backs. History does not have to repeat itself, if we learn from past experiences.
How can humanity change a cycle that never seems to end? The answer is within Dharana. Point the mind toward a single entity, and hold it there. After enough time has passed, a logical solution will be revealed.
© Copyright 2009 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. aurawellnesscenter.com aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about Yoga, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/member-offer.html yoga-teacher-training.org/member-offer.html
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