Vigyan Bhairava Tantra
Sutra – 51
Meditate Amidst the Rhythm of Everyday Life
Friends, in today’s world, the struggles of daily life and its accompanying challenges have drawn many towards meditation and physical yoga. Some of you may say, “I am neither troubled nor battling anything significant, yet I feel drawn to meditation or physical yoga.”
The reality is that in this era, everyone is striving in one way or another. Some seek beauty, others want to avoid illness or fear falling sick. Many pursue wealth, dream of securing a good job, or aim to reach new heights in business. These desires, whether acknowledged or not, lead to struggles that eventually guide us to meditation in search of peace.
For those who practice meditation, the initial hurdles are familiar. Finding time feels challenging. Once time is carved out, the body and mind resist sitting still. For those who persevere, mental restlessness may intensify, creating the illusion of greater disturbance. Some may find their sleep disrupted, waking in the middle of the night only to find it difficult to fall back asleep. Meditation may feel impossible in such moments, torn between drowsiness and wakefulness.
For others, the journey begins smoothly, meditation feels blissful, and the duration of their practice increases. Yet suddenly, progress seems to falter. Friends, do not be disheartened. This is a universal experience, even for seasoned practitioners. Life is dynamic; nothing remains constant. Change is as inevitable as the breath itself. To witness and embrace this flux is akin to experiencing the divine.
Why Does This Happen?
Meditation is a new endeavor for both the body and the mind. As you may have observed, the body resists new habits, favoring familiarity. Similarly, the conscious mind resists stillness or contact with the subconscious during wakefulness. Do not listen to the body’s or mind’s resistance—simply continue your practice with patience.
You may also notice that meditating once a day doesn’t feel sufficient. Increasing your meditation duration may initially amplify distractions. This happens because the mind resists control; it rebels against efforts to tame it.
Yoga and meditation are distinct yet interrelated disciplines. While physical yoga can assist in initiating meditation, it is not the ultimate goal. Meditation is not something to be taught or learned like academic subjects; it is a deeply personal mental practice that only you can cultivate. Seeking guidance from books, talks, or classes is helpful, but ultimately, the journey is yours alone.
In challenging moments, treat meditation like seeking a trusted friend’s guidance—someone who stands with you unwaveringly, rather than relying on external figures or gurus. Becoming your own guide will yield the greatest growth.
A Simple Yet Profound Method
The method described here is one of the simplest outlined in the Vigyan Bhairav Tantra. It is an initial practice to cultivate focus through awareness of the breath. It is particularly beneficial for those who struggle with concentration in meditation. This technique not only enhances spiritual focus but also improves daily life by fostering mental clarity.
In today’s fast-paced world, concentration is essential for success, and this practice can quickly enhance your focus. Whether for studies, work, or overcoming negative thoughts and habits, this method can be transformative.
How to Practice
This method can be practiced during any activity that does not require intense focus.
- Become Aware of Your Breath: Whatever task you are engaged in—be it walking, bathing, eating, or conversing—you are always breathing. The practice involves paying attention to the interval between two breaths.
- Focus on the Pause: Notice the brief pause that occurs between inhaling and exhaling. It is a fleeting moment, yet profoundly significant. Focus your awareness on this pause while continuing with your activity.
- Maintain Awareness: Gradually, cultivate the habit of being mindful of this interval throughout the day. This simple act of centering your awareness between breaths is itself meditation.
Why It Works
This practice, though simple, is powerful. Concentrating on the breath’s pause integrates mindfulness into every moment of your day. Over time, it transforms your awareness, keeping you centered and calm amidst daily activities.
Initially, identifying and focusing on the pause between breaths may feel challenging. But with regular practice, it becomes second nature. This technique not only improves your ability to meditate but also enhances your productivity and concentration in day-to-day tasks.
By practicing this method, you will naturally discard distractions, negative habits, and unproductive thoughts. It is a path to heightened awareness and self-mastery without requiring extraordinary effort.
Tips for Success
- Do Not Rush: Progress at your own pace. The more steadily you build this habit, the more profound and lasting the results will be.
- Be Persistent: Success depends on your determination. The more resolute your intentions, the sooner you will experience results.
- Practice Anytime, Anywhere: You can practice this technique anywhere—walking, eating, talking, or even while resting. Simply remain aware of the pause between breaths.
The Ultimate Impact
With consistent practice, you will begin to feel detached from the “doer” in your activities. This realization deepens your focus and paves the way for success in your endeavors. At the same time, it elevates the quality of your meditation, allowing you to reach higher states of awareness effortlessly.
By making this practice a part of your daily life, you embrace a state of meditation that persists throughout the day, infusing every moment with mindfulness and calm.
