Meditation
Dhyāna
ध्यान
It refers to the practice of focusing the mind on a single point, quieting the fluctuations of thought, and attaining inner stillness and clarity.
Dhyāna means "contemplation," "concentration," or "meditation" in Sanskrit. It refers to the practice of focusing the mind on a single point, quieting the fluctuations of thought, and attaining inner stillness and clarity.
It is the seventh limb of Yoga's Eight Limbs, representing a deeper mental state that follows Dharana (concentration). Through meditation, the aim is to realize one's true nature and attain liberation from mental suffering.
Practiced at the end of Yoga classes or during specific meditation sessions. Students are guided to focus on objects like breath, mantras, body sensations, or visualizations. Instructors explain the mental calmness, stress reduction, and deepening of self-awareness that meditation brings.
Emphasize that "meditation is not about trying to stop thoughts, but about noticing thoughts and letting them go." For beginners, stress the importance of starting with short durations and maintaining consistency.