Beginning of a Spiritual Journey: Nine Days of Devotion & Wisdom

Special classes of Gita & Dhyaan are organized in Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar during the most auspicious nine days of Navratri. The classes are taken by respected Chancellor sir of the University, Dr. Pranav Pandya ji. This Aashwin Navratri, 'Shraddhey' described Yog & Saadhna from the perspective of Lord Krishna as mentioned in Shrimad Bhagavad Geeta. 

Sixth chapter Gita briefly explains that Yog and Saadhna give the realization of Brahmavidya in true spiritual sense. The pursuit of Yog, as emphasized in ancient texts like the holy Bhagavad Gita, underscores the importance of seclusion, meditation, self-control, and detachment from desires, possessions and distractions (6/10). 

Seclusion serves as a means to remove external distractions, allowing individuals to turn their focus inward. In this quietude, one can delve deeper into meditation, a practice that not only calms the mind but also unveils profound insights and spiritual truths. Meditation, when undertaken with dedication, helps individuals establish a deep connection with their inner selves and, in turn, with the divine.

Control of the mind and body is fundamental in this journey. It involves disciplining one's thoughts and actions. By cultivating mindfulness and restraint, individuals can harmonize their physical and mental aspects, making them more receptive to the spiritual realm. Crucially, the process requires letting go of desires and possessions that cater to sensory and material enjoyment. This detachment doesn't imply renouncing the world but rather freeing oneself from the chains of attachment. It is a means to liberate the soul from the burdens of ego and materialism.

Those who seek the state of Yog are called to reside in seclusion, practice unwavering meditation, exercise control over their mind and body, and shed desires and possessions for enjoyment. These principles are central to the path of self-realization and spiritual awakening, offering a profound way to attain a higher state of consciousness.

In the practice of Yog, creating an Asana (seat) is of paramount importance. This āsan is a sacred space where individuals can engage in meditation, contemplation, and other spiritual practices. According to traditional guidelines, it should be prepared by layering Kuśh grass, deer skin, and a cloth one over the other (6/11).

Each element of this āsan has symbolic significance. Kuśh grass is believed to have purifying qualities and is often used to create a connection between the practitioner and the Earth. Deer skin represents a connection with nature and is considered a comfortable and natural surface for meditation. The cloth is a symbol of purity and is used to provide additional comfort during long meditation sessions.

Shree Krishna in the 11th verse explains the external practice for Saadhna. In the initial stages, the external environment does not impact the mind. In the later stages of Saadhna, one is able to achieve integral purity even in dirty & unclean places. But for neophytes, clean surroundings help in keeping the mind clean as well. A mat of Kush grass provides temperature insulation from the ground, akin to the yoga mats of today. Some instructions regarding external seating given in this verse may be of somewhat anachronous to modern times, in which case the spirit of the instruction is to be absorbed in the thought of God, while the internal practice should remain same.

It's essential for the āsan to be neither too high nor too low. This balance ensures that the practitioner maintains a comfortable and stable posture, allowing for extended periods of meditation without physical discomfort. 

By following all the right practices and paths, one can establish a deep connection with the inner self and the divine, making it an integral part of the spiritual journey of a human. These principles described in Geeta are central to the Yogic path, fostering inner transformation & connection with the divine.

- Adarsh Agarwal