In ShivaPurana (Lingan Purana and Vayu Porana), Shivji gave
discourses on Ashtanga Yoga (8 phases of Yoga) to Mata Parvati. The seventh phase
of Ashtanga Yoga is described as Dhyana or meditation. For a true seeker, it is
vital to understand the importance of meditation in order to progress to the
higher stages of spiritual experiences. The spiritual knowledge and practices of
a true seeker should be deep rooted in experiences during meditation.
The
scientists of the yore, our Rishis and Yogis, categorized meditation broadly
into two categories. One is the concentrative meditation where the emphasis is
given to fixing the attention or concentration. And the second is contemplative
meditation which involves analytical investigation. A true seeker is skilled
with both of these types of meditations. Meditation is an art that can be
learned with determination and can be mastered by persistence. So, practice is
the key, like learning any other art. Just like with any other art, the
importance of an experienced teacher cannot be undermined. When it comes to all
the phases of Ashtanga Yoga, guided practice is very helpful for the beginners.
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