Stressful times

In these stressful times, one really needs a relaxed mind.

Meditation through yoga can play a vital role in such situations.

Many people sit down, close their eyes and believe they have already meditated. Well, maybe they have, but there are those who still brood over their problems while in this so-called state of meditation. This is definitely not meditation.

When the mind is silent and peaceful, it becomes very powerful.

All the noise of thoughts and emotions has to be removed before one can really experience inner silence (antar mouna).

Antar Mouna

Antar means ‘inner' and mouna means ‘silence'. It is a meditative technique that leads to inner tranquillity and silence. It comprises many stages with different experiences.

Technique

• Sit in a comfortable and steady pose with a straight spine. Relax the whole body
• Close your eyes. Be aware of your senses (i.e. touch, smell, sound)
• Concentrate on the different sounds around you. Pick one and try to make a picture of it
• Extend your awareness to the flow of your breath. Feel the cool air coming into your nostrils and warm air going out
• Switch your attention to the various thoughts in your mind. Let the thoughts flow freely without any restriction. Remind yourself that these thoughts are separate from you